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How to Display Command History in Linux | history Command

Last Updated : 15 Mar, 2025

The history command in Linux is essential for terminal users, enabling them to view, search, and manipulate previously executed commands. Now, mastering this Linux command allows for efficient commands of commands, automation of repetitive tasks, and troubleshooting without the need to retype lengthy commands.

In this article, we are going to discuss how to use history commands in Linux, command examples, and more.

The history command in Linux displays a list of commands that were previously entered in the terminal. By default, it shows the last 1000 commands, but this can be configured. This feature allows users to recall, reuse, and modify commands without having to retype them. The command history is stored in a file, typically ~/.bash_history for the Bash shell.

To view the command history, simply type:

Example

history 

Here, the number (termed as event number) preceded before each command depends on the system. You may get different numbers while executing on your own system.

To show the limited number of commands that executed previously as follows:

Example

history 5 

Note: This command displays the last 5 commands from the command history.

Execute a command using its event number with the ! symbol.

Example

!1997 

Note: This will rerun the command with event number 1997.

To print a command before executing it to avoid errors, use the :p option after the event number.

Example

!1997:p

Note: This will display the command associated with event number 1997 without executing it.

Combine the history command with grep for efficient searching.

Example

history | grep chpasswd 

Note: This command filters and displays only the commands containing the term "chpasswd."

To quickly view and rerun the most recent command, use:

Example

!!

Note: This will rerun the last executed command.

If a command needs to be executed without being stored in history, unset the HISTFILE variable.

Example

echo $HISTFILE/home/user/.bash_history

Note: This ensures that the command won't be stored in the history file.

Execute a command using a part of its string.

Example

!command_starting_string

Note: This will execute the latest command starting with "command_starting_string."

Remove a specific command from history using the history -d option.

Example

history -d 1996 

Note: This command removes the command with event number 1996 from history.

Clear the entire command history using the history -c option.

Example

history -c

Note: Be cautious, as this action irreversibly removes all commands from the history.

Use history | tail to view the last 10 commands from the history:

Example

history | tail

Note: This command efficiently displays the most recent commands in the terminal.

The history command in Linux is an indispensable tool for efficient command-line operations. Whether you are looking to display, search, reuse, or clear your command history, this command offers a range of options to improve productivity. By mastering the history command, you can streamline your workflow, avoid repetitive typing, and easily access previously used commands.

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