Why Study History
Why Study History
Any subject of study needs justification. Read this classic essay from Peter N. Stearns about why we continue to look to the past to understand the world around us.
June 13, 2019
What I Do: Personal Narratives
October 21, 2018
Careers for History Majors
January 1, 1985
Why Study History? (1985)
Everything Has a History
History informs our understanding of everything, and historians' voices are essential in conversations about current events. The American Historical Association advocates for the crucial role of historical thinking in public life and highlights the insights that come when we recognize that everything has a history.
AHA Advocacy
September 5, 2024
AHA Sends Letter in Support of Sierra Leonean Historian Facing Threats
August 26, 2024
AHA Urges Oklahoma Retain Current Social Studies Standards
Teaching History with Integrity
The AHA’s Freedom to Learn initiative educates historians and others on how to advocate publicly for honest history education and responds directly to legislation.
Videos featuring historians describing how exploring America's past honestly in the classroom benefits the nation's students, and how the freedom to learn also strengthens our shared democracy.
AHA staff have testified before state legislatures and boards of education, published articles, and made media appearances in support of the teaching of honest history, and public education.
The AHA and our partners have developed resources and toolkits for school system leaders, parents, teachers, and school board members.
Engage With History
Learning history is crucial for students and the public to understand our world today.
AHA In the News
The staff and leadership of the AHA are frequently quoted by the media.
Support the AHA
Get the latest articles, news, and updates from the AHA by signing up for our newsletters. Stay informed about upcoming events and webinars, new resources and publications, and more.
The AHA brings together historians from all specializations and all work contexts, embracing the breadth and variety of activity in history today
Your support is vital to our efforts to promote historical work and the importance of historical thinking in public life.