Here are a few options for a formal rewrite, depending on the specific focus of your piece:
Option 1 (Direct and authoritative):
Historical Precedents for Contemporary Political Polarization and Disinformation
Option 2 (Academic and insightful):
The Cycle of Political Instability: A Historical Perspective on Modern Partisanship
Option 3 (Concise and sophisticated):
Resurrecting the Past: Understanding Current Political Turmoil through a Historical Lens
Recommendation: If you want the most “formal” tone that closely mirrors your original structure, Option 1 is the strongest choice.