Social history is a branch of history that focuses on the everyday lives, experiences, and social structures of people in the past. It examines how factors like class, gender, race, and culture influenced people's lives and interactions. By studying social history, historians aim to understand the broader context of historical events and how they affected ordinary individuals. This field often utilizes various sources, such as letters, diaries, and photographs, to gather insights into the lives of different groups. Topics like working conditions, family life, and leisure activities are commonly explored, providing a more comprehensive view of history beyond political or military events.