Meaning: This quote by Ken Burns, an acclaimed American filmmaker known for his documentary series, encapsulates the essence of historical research and storytelling. In this statement, Burns emphasizes the importance of obtaining a comprehensive understanding of historical events or figures through the process of "triangulation," which involves gathering information from multiple perspectives and sources. He specifically highlights the role of time in achieving this triangulation, suggesting that the passage of time is crucial in providing a multi-dimensional view of the subject being studied.

To fully comprehend the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the concept of triangulation in historical research. Triangulation in the context of history involves the process of corroborating information from various sources to arrive at a more accurate and nuanced understanding of a particular subject. This approach seeks to mitigate biases, errors, and omissions that may be present in individual accounts or sources, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of historical narratives.

By emphasizing the role of time in obtaining essential triangulation, Ken Burns underscores the notion that historical understanding evolves and deepens over time. As events recede into the past, new evidence, perspectives, and interpretations often come to light, enriching our understanding of the subject. This temporal dimension allows historians and storytellers to access a broader array of primary sources, witness testimonies, and scholarly analyses, thereby facilitating a more holistic and balanced portrayal of historical events or figures.

Furthermore, Burns' assertion about the necessity of triangulation speaks to the complexities inherent in historical research. Rather than relying solely on a singular account or viewpoint, historians must engage in a process of critical inquiry and comparison, drawing from diverse sources to construct a more comprehensive narrative. This multifaceted approach serves to validate and contextualize historical information, enabling a more thorough and accurate depiction of the past.

In essence, the quote underscores the dynamic nature of historical understanding and the continuous quest for triangulation – a process that is both enriched and necessitated by the passage of time. Through the lens of time, historians are afforded the opportunity to reassess, reevaluate, and reinterpret historical events, thereby refining and expanding the depth of their knowledge.

Ken Burns, through his masterful documentary work, has exemplified the principles embedded in this quote by meticulously weaving together diverse perspectives, archival materials, and expert commentary to create compelling and comprehensive historical narratives. His approach underscores the significance of incorporating multiple vantage points and temporal layers to achieve a more profound and nuanced understanding of history.

In conclusion, Ken Burns' quote encapsulates the essence of historical inquiry and storytelling, emphasizing the vital role of triangulation and the temporal dimension in enriching our understanding of the past. By acknowledging the evolving nature of historical knowledge and the imperative of gathering diverse perspectives over time, Burns underscores the complexity and depth inherent in historical research. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the dynamic and multifaceted nature of historical understanding, highlighting the ongoing pursuit of triangulation as a fundamental aspect of historical scholarship and narrative construction.