What does history is written by the winners mean?

"History is written by the victors" is an adage that suggests that the victors (or winners) in a conflict, social or political struggle, or competition are the ones who control the interpretation of the events that took place. In other words, they have the power to shape how history is remembered and presented to future generations.

The phrase implies that the victor's perspective is the one that becomes the dominant narrative in historical accounts, while the perspective of the defeated or marginalized groups may be suppressed or ignored. This raises questions about the objectivity of history and how historical narratives are shaped by power dynamics and political agendas.

It's important to recognize that history is complex and multifaceted, and it can be influenced by various factors beyond just the victors' perspective. Social, cultural, and economic forces also play roles in shaping historical narratives. Additionally, over time, new perspectives, interpretations, and historical sources can emerge, challenging or modifying existing historical narratives.