An industrial historian is a specialized software system used in industrial environments to collect, store, and manage time-series data generated by sensors, controllers, and other devices within operational processes. These systems capture large volumes of real-time and historical data, enabling engineers and operators to monitor performance, analyze trends, and optimize processes. Industrial historians are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and troubleshooting in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and utilities. They often integrate with SCADA and other industrial control systems, providing a centralized repository for process data and supporting advanced analytics and reporting.