What are some of the changes and progress made for women and african americans?

Basic human rights have increased for both; at one point African American individuals were enslaved, at one point they were even only counted as 3/5's of a person while determining a state's population. Now, of course, they have the right to vote and are generally respected as much as any other person. Women also face less discrimination and have more career opportunities and less things blocking their path. The gender pay gap has decreased and generally women have the same opportunities as men. Of course, racism and sexism still exists, but the strides that we've made are extraordinary. I hope that helps!

the answer to your question is a because laws act as guidelines as to what is accepted in society. without it there would be conflicts between social groups and communities. it serves as a norm of conduct for citizens.

i believe it would influence their own way of understanding things. it shall be a foundation where they can draw or start an argument.   historians are also  scientists that  have their tools of analysis and expertise to unlock a variety of difficulties such as relationships of man, origin, politics, economy, and culture. based on facts and understanding on these areas, they may shade light to extract ideas and develop options to validate a hypothesis or debunk it.