What Does a Historian Do? Day in the Life & Career

Unearthing the past through meticulous research, a historian interprets artifacts and documents much like a detective examining clues, piecing together narratives that shape our understanding of civilization. The American Historical Association, as a professional organization, offers guidance and resources that define the ethical and methodological standards for historians across various specialties. Primary sources, such as letters and official records, are critical tools used by historians to construct compelling arguments and support their scholarly publications. Furthermore, institutions like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History often employ historians to ensure accurate and contextually rich exhibits, raising the question of what does a historian do daily and throughout their career to contribute to our collective knowledge.

Unveiling the World of Historical Study and Practice

History is far more than a collection of dates and names. It's a vast and dynamic field encompassing the study, interpretation, and preservation of the human experience across time.

From the meticulous work of academic historians to the captivating exhibits in museums, history shapes our understanding of the present and informs our aspirations for the future.

The Expansive Scope of Historical Inquiry

The scope of historical study is remarkably broad. It spans diverse geographies, cultures, and eras. No facet of human endeavor is exempt from historical scrutiny.

Political history examines the evolution of governments and power structures. Social history delves into the lives of ordinary people. Cultural history explores artistic expression, beliefs, and traditions. Economic history analyzes the forces that have shaped production, distribution, and consumption.

This multifaceted approach reveals the complex tapestry of the past.

Key Players in Preserving and Interpreting History

Many individuals and institutions dedicate themselves to preserving and interpreting history.

Historians conduct research, analyze sources, and construct narratives that illuminate past events. Archivists safeguard historical documents and ensure their accessibility to researchers. Museums curate exhibits that bring history to life for the public. Historical societies foster appreciation for local and regional history.

Each plays a crucial, distinct role in shaping our understanding of the past.

History as a Foundation for Informed Citizenship

Understanding history is essential for informed citizenship. History provides context for understanding current events.

It reveals the roots of contemporary social, political, and economic challenges. By studying the past, we can learn from successes and failures, fostering more responsible and effective decision-making.

History helps us recognize patterns, understand the consequences of actions, and appreciate the complexities of the human condition.

In an age of rapid change and increasing polarization, historical literacy is more important than ever. It equips us with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate a complex world and contribute meaningfully to the democratic process. History is not just about the past; it is a vital tool for shaping a better future.

The Core of Historical Inquiry: Historians, Subjects, and Foundational Concepts

Building upon the broad landscape of historical study, it’s crucial to understand the individuals driving historical inquiry and the core concepts that underpin their work. This section delves into the diverse roles historians play, the subjects they explore, and the fundamental tools and principles they employ to construct our understanding of the past.

Historians: Architects of the Past

The term "historian" encompasses a wide range of professionals, each contributing uniquely to the field.

Academic Historians form the bedrock of historical scholarship. Typically based in universities and colleges, they dedicate their careers to researching, writing, and teaching history.

Their work often involves deep dives into specific periods, regions, or themes, producing books and articles that advance our knowledge of the past.

Public Historians bridge the gap between academic research and public engagement.

These professionals work in museums, archives, historical societies, and government agencies, interpreting and presenting history to a broader audience.

Their roles are vital in shaping public perceptions and understanding of the past.

Independent Historians are self-employed scholars who pursue historical research and writing outside of traditional academic settings.

They may work on contract for institutions, publish independently, or contribute to popular history publications. Their independence allows for diverse perspectives and specialized projects.

Oral Historians specialize in collecting historical accounts through interviews.

They seek to capture the voices and experiences of individuals who may not be represented in traditional written sources.

Their work is crucial for preserving personal narratives and broadening the historical record.

Biographers focus on the lives of individuals, examining their actions, motivations, and impact within their historical context.

Biographies provide intimate portraits of historical figures and offer insights into broader social and political trends.

Historical Figures: Shaping Our Understanding

History isn't just about dates and events; it's about the individuals who shaped those events. Consider figures like Abraham Lincoln, whose leadership guided the United States through a tumultuous period.

Or Marie Curie, whose pioneering research revolutionized science. Or Nelson Mandela, who symbolized the fight against apartheid and inspired global movements for social justice.

Understanding these individuals requires examining the historical context in which they lived and acted. What challenges did they face? What opportunities did they seize? What were the prevailing social, political, and economic conditions that influenced their decisions?

By analyzing these factors, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of their lives and the lasting impact they had on the world.

Essential Skills and Concepts for Historical Analysis

Effective historical analysis hinges on a set of essential skills and concepts.

Historical Research is the systematic investigation of the past, involving the careful gathering, evaluation, and interpretation of evidence.

Primary Sources are original materials created during the time period under study. These include documents, artifacts, letters, diaries, photographs, and other firsthand accounts.

Secondary Sources are interpretations of the past based on primary sources. These include books, articles, and documentaries that analyze and synthesize historical information.

Historiography is the study of how history has been written over time. Understanding historiography involves examining the different perspectives, biases, and methodologies that have shaped historical interpretations.

Source Criticism is the process of evaluating the reliability and credibility of historical sources. This involves examining the author's biases, the context in which the source was created, and the evidence it presents.

Historical Interpretation is the process of constructing meaning from historical evidence. This involves analyzing sources, identifying patterns, and developing arguments that explain the significance of past events.

Archival Research involves conducting research within archives, which are repositories of historical documents and records.

Oral History involves collecting and preserving historical information through interviews with individuals who have firsthand knowledge of past events.

Historical Writing is the art of communicating historical findings in a clear, concise, and engaging manner.

Critical Thinking is essential for analyzing information, evaluating arguments, and forming reasoned judgments about the past.

Communication Skills are crucial for conveying historical knowledge effectively through writing, presentations, and other forms of communication.

Historical Empathy involves understanding and appreciating the perspectives of people who lived in the past, even if their beliefs and values differ from our own.

Causation involves analyzing the cause-and-effect relationships that shaped historical events. Understanding causation helps us to identify the factors that led to particular outcomes and to avoid simplistic explanations.

Chronology is the establishment of the sequence of events in time. Creating a timeline helps to organize historical information and to understand the relationships between different events.

Bias refers to prejudice or partiality that may influence the interpretation of historical events. Recognizing bias in sources is crucial for evaluating their reliability.

Historical Significance involves determining the importance of events in the past. What events had a lasting impact? What events shaped the course of history?

Digital History is the use of digital tools and technologies for historical research, analysis, and presentation. This includes online databases, digital archives, and interactive maps.

Guardians of the Past: Institutions Dedicated to Preservation

After historians meticulously research, analyze, and interpret the past, the crucial task of preservation falls to a network of dedicated institutions. These organizations act as guardians of our collective memory, ensuring that historical records and artifacts are not lost to time. This section explores the vital roles played by archives, libraries, museums, and historical societies in preserving and providing access to the materials that shape our understanding of history.

Archives: Sanctuaries of Historical Documents

Archives are the heart of historical research, serving as repositories for primary source materials. These materials encompass a wide range of documents, from government records and personal letters to photographs, maps, and audiovisual recordings. Unlike libraries, archives primarily focus on preserving unique, often unpublished materials.

The National Archives: A Nation's Memory

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) stands as the federal repository for the United States. It safeguards documents dating back to the founding of the nation. NARA's holdings include the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and countless other records that chronicle the American experience.

State, Local, and University Archives

Beyond the national level, state archives preserve the history of individual states, offering valuable insights into regional developments. Local archives delve even deeper, documenting the stories of communities, families, and local institutions. University archives play a vital role in preserving the history of academic institutions, including records of faculty, students, and research activities.

Libraries: Gateways to Historical Knowledge

Libraries are essential hubs for historical research. They offer access to a vast collection of published materials.

Public and University Libraries

Public libraries provide resources for general audiences, while university libraries cater to the needs of scholars and researchers. Both types of libraries offer access to books, journals, newspapers, and other materials that shed light on the past.

Special Collections: Treasures of the Past

Many libraries also house special collections. These contain rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and other unique materials that are not typically found in general circulation. Special collections offer invaluable resources for in-depth historical research.

Museums: Bringing History to Life

Museums offer a different approach to historical preservation and interpretation. They bring history to life through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.

History, Art, and Cultural Museums

History museums focus specifically on historical events, figures, and periods. Art museums often showcase art within its historical context. Cultural museums preserve and celebrate the heritage of different groups. These museums provide tangible connections to the past.

Museums play a critical role in engaging the public with history. They offer interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours. They make the past accessible and relevant to a wide audience.

Historical Societies: Champions of Local and Regional History

Historical societies are grassroots organizations. They are dedicated to preserving and promoting local and regional history. These societies often maintain museums, archives, and libraries. They conduct research, publish historical articles, and organize events.

Historical societies play a vital role in preserving the stories of communities. Often these stories are overlooked by larger institutions.

Key Professionals: Custodians of History

Behind these institutions are dedicated professionals who work to preserve and interpret history. Archivists manage and preserve archival materials, ensuring their accessibility for future generations. Librarians curate collections, assist researchers, and provide access to information resources. Museum curators research, acquire, and exhibit artifacts. These custodians safeguard our cultural heritage. Their expertise is critical for making history accessible and engaging.

Connecting History to the Present: Relevance and Modern Applications

After historians meticulously research, analyze, and interpret the past, the crucial task of preservation falls to a network of dedicated institutions. These organizations act as guardians of our collective memory, ensuring that historical records and artifacts are not lost to time. This foundation allows for history to be not merely a subject of academic study but a vibrant and relevant force shaping our present and future. How then, does this carefully curated past resonate within the complexities of modern society?

The answer lies in the diverse avenues through which historical knowledge is disseminated and applied, influencing everything from journalistic narratives to government policies.

The Journalist as Historian: Contextualizing the Present

Journalism, at its best, is more than just reporting the who, what, when, where, and why of immediate events. It also requires a deep understanding of historical context. Journalists who possess this understanding can provide audiences with a more nuanced and insightful perspective on current affairs.

By drawing parallels to past events, identifying recurring patterns, and illuminating the historical roots of contemporary issues, journalists act as crucial interpreters of history for the general public.

For example, reporting on a contemporary political conflict might benefit from an analysis of similar conflicts in the past, exploring the underlying causes, the strategies employed, and the long-term consequences. This historical lens allows readers to move beyond simplistic narratives and engage with the complexities of the present.

Documentary Filmmakers: Illuminating Historical Narratives

Documentary films offer a powerful medium for bringing history to life.

Unlike traditional historical texts, documentaries can engage audiences on an emotional level through compelling visuals, personal narratives, and expert interviews.

The best historical documentaries go beyond simply recounting events; they explore the human dimensions of the past, revealing the motivations, struggles, and triumphs of individuals and communities.

They challenge conventional interpretations, raise critical questions, and spark public dialogue about the meaning and relevance of history. The use of primary source footage, photographs, and artifacts further enhances the authenticity and impact of these films, creating immersive experiences that resonate long after the credits roll.

Historical Sites and Landmarks: Tangible Connections to the Past

Historical sites and landmarks provide tangible connections to the past, offering visitors the opportunity to experience history firsthand. Walking through the streets of ancient Rome, exploring the battlefields of the American Civil War, or visiting the homes of famous historical figures can evoke a powerful sense of connection to previous generations.

These sites are not merely static monuments; they are dynamic spaces where history is interpreted, debated, and reimagined. Museums, guided tours, and interactive exhibits enhance the visitor experience, providing context and encouraging critical engagement with the past.

The preservation and interpretation of historical sites are crucial for fostering a sense of collective identity, promoting cultural understanding, and inspiring future generations.

Government Agencies: Stewards of Historical Preservation

Government agencies play a vital role in preserving and promoting historical knowledge.

National park services manage historical sites, protecting them from deterioration and providing educational resources for visitors. Archives and libraries preserve historical documents, making them accessible to researchers and the public.

Government funding supports historical research, preservation projects, and educational initiatives.

Moreover, government policies often draw upon historical precedents, informing decisions related to everything from foreign policy to domestic affairs.

By recognizing the importance of history, government agencies contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry, ensuring that the lessons of the past are not forgotten. The careful consideration of historical context is crucial for effective policy-making and responsible governance.

Organizations and Resources: Essential Tools for Historical Study

Connecting History to the Present: Relevance and Modern Applications. After historians meticulously research, analyze, and interpret the past, the crucial task of preservation falls to a network of dedicated institutions. These organizations act as guardians of our collective memory, ensuring that historical records and artifacts are not lost to time. But equally important is the network of professional organizations and resources that support these historians in their work.

From providing a forum for scholarly exchange to offering access to invaluable primary sources, these organizations and resources are indispensable tools for anyone seeking to understand the past. Navigating the labyrinth of historical research requires a compass, and these are it.

Professional Organizations: Connecting Historians

The historical profession thrives on collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Professional organizations serve as vital hubs, connecting historians with shared interests, providing platforms for disseminating research, and advocating for the importance of historical inquiry. They are also instrumental in setting standards for ethical conduct and promoting best practices in the field.

American Historical Association (AHA)

The American Historical Association (AHA) stands as the preeminent organization for historians in the United States. With a diverse membership spanning all fields of history, the AHA plays a crucial role in promoting historical scholarship, teaching, and preservation.

Its annual meeting is a major event, drawing thousands of historians from around the globe to present their research, attend workshops, and network with colleagues. The AHA also publishes the American Historical Review, one of the leading journals in the field. Beyond these core functions, the AHA advocates for the importance of history education and historical preservation at the national level.

Organization of American Historians (OAH)

While the AHA encompasses all fields of history, the Organization of American Historians (OAH) focuses specifically on the history of the United States. The OAH is committed to fostering excellence in American historical scholarship and teaching, and it serves as a vital voice for historians working on American topics. Its annual meeting is another significant event for scholars of American history. The Journal of American History, published by the OAH, is a highly respected scholarly journal.

National Council on Public History (NCPH)

Recognizing that history extends beyond the walls of academia, the National Council on Public History (NCPH) is dedicated to promoting the practice of history in the public sphere. Public historians work in museums, archives, historical societies, government agencies, and a variety of other settings, engaging diverse audiences with the past.

The NCPH provides resources, training, and networking opportunities for public historians, advocating for the importance of making history accessible and relevant to the broader community. Their annual meeting provides excellent professional development opportunities for historians working outside of traditional academic roles.

Society of American Archivists (SAA)

While historians rely on the work of archivists, the Society of American Archivists (SAA) is the primary organization for these crucial custodians of the past. Archivists are responsible for preserving and making accessible historical records, ensuring that future generations can learn from the past.

The SAA provides training, resources, and advocacy for archivists, promoting best practices in archival management and preservation. Without the dedication and expertise of archivists, the raw materials of history would be lost to time.

State Historical Societies

Supplementing national organizations are a network of State Historical Societies. These groups play a vital role in preserving and promoting the history of individual states, often operating museums, archives, and publishing journals dedicated to state and local history.

These societies are essential resources for anyone interested in understanding the unique history of a particular region. Their localized focus provides an invaluable perspective often overlooked by national narratives.

Essential Tools and Resources: Conducting Historical Research

Beyond professional organizations, historians rely on a wide array of tools and resources to conduct their research. From online databases to archival finding aids, these resources provide access to the primary and secondary sources that form the foundation of historical scholarship.

Online Databases

The digital revolution has transformed historical research, with online databases providing access to vast collections of digitized primary and secondary sources. Platforms like JSTOR offer access to a wide range of scholarly articles and books, while databases like ProQuest and LexisNexis provide access to newspapers, magazines, and other periodicals. Genealogical databases such as Ancestry.com can be invaluable for tracing family histories and uncovering personal narratives.

Library Catalogs

Despite the rise of digital resources, library catalogs remain essential tools for locating books, journals, and other materials held by libraries around the world. Library catalogs allow researchers to search for materials by author, title, subject, and keyword, providing a comprehensive overview of a library's holdings. Learning to effectively utilize library catalogs is a fundamental skill for any historian.

Archival Finding Aids

Archives are treasure troves of primary sources, but navigating these collections can be challenging. Archival finding aids are guides that describe the contents of archival collections, providing information about the scope, arrangement, and contents of the materials. Finding aids are essential tools for researchers seeking to locate specific documents or information within an archive.

Primary Source Repositories

While many primary sources are now available online through databases, some of the most valuable materials remain housed in primary source repositories such as the National Archives, the Library of Congress, and university special collections. These repositories offer access to original documents, photographs, maps, and other materials that provide firsthand accounts of the past. Websites such as the Avalon Project also offer access to a diverse range of digitized primary source materials.

Mastering the use of these organizations and resources is critical for anyone undertaking serious historical research. They are the pathways to uncovering new insights, challenging existing interpretations, and building a more complete and nuanced understanding of the past.

So, that's a peek into the world of a historian. Hopefully, this gave you a better understanding of what does a historian do and the diverse paths you can take in this field. Whether you're passionate about digging through archives or sharing stories with the world, a career as a historian offers a unique blend of intellectual curiosity and impactful work.