History as meaningful narrative
Who
The Hebrew Bible and Jewish tradition; historians such as Thomas Cahill and Paul Johnson credit the ancient Hebrews with a linear, purposeful view of history
When
1st millennium BCE
Where
Ancient Israel / the Levant
Where many ancient cultures saw time as an endless cycle, the Hebrew Bible presented history as a linear story moving toward meaning and moral purpose. Historians such as Thomas Cahill ('The Gifts of the Jews') and Paul Johnson credit this Jewish conception with shaping the Western sense that events carry direction and significance.
Sources
Part of “The Gifts of the Jews” — verified Jewish contributions to the world, with sources.