Why did Wikipedia transform amateur historical research?

Wikipedia made access to historical information pretty much instant for anyone with an internet connection, whereas before you really had to spend time in libraries or have the books at home. It also created this kind of collaborative database where enthusiasts can contribute and correct information, which speeds up the spread of knowledge, even if it's not always perfect. So now amateurs can actually educate themselves and debate topics without relying on universities or traditional institutions.

Have you ever tried to verify a source on Wikipedia and realized it led nowhere? The thing is, Wikipedia mainly popularized research by giving everyone an accessible starting point, but it also created this false impression that it's enough. Real history enthusiasts always end up checking the cited sources, archives, books - Wikipedia is just the beginning of the journey, not the destination. It's less of a revolution than a gateway, you know.