THE CONCEPT OF DIGITAL HISTORY: FOUNDATIONS, METHODS, AND PROSPECTS.

Digital history has emerged as one of the most transformative methodological shifts in the historical discipline over the past three decades. This article examines the conceptual foundations, theoretical frameworks, methodological approaches, and institutional developments that define digital history as a distinct scholarly practice. Drawing on peer-reviewed literature, foundational texts, and empirical case studies, the article traces the evolution of digital history from its early computational roots to its current manifestations in data-driven research, digital archives, spatial history, and public engagement. The article further addresses critiques, limitations, and the epistemological challenges posed by digitization and algorithmic analysis of historical sources. Special attention is given to developments in Central Asia and Uzbekistan, where digital historical scholarship is gaining institutional momentum.