History Major (BA)

First, pursuing fundamental historical knowledge empowers and enlightens the learner while historical ignorance gradually results in a “clueless” citizenry. Thomas Jefferson, the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and the third US President, argued for vigilance in safeguarding knowledge because “being [both] free and ignorant”^[1]  is not possible — we are either one or the other. Thus, knowing the human story and delving into the nation’s archives helps “inoculate” us from the twin dangers of cultural illiteracy and historical amnesia.

In addition, history’s focus on real people facing authentic life experiences compels us to consider how an individual’s character qualities (values, virtues and moral compass), along with other cultural mores of bygone eras, influenced his or her actions. Assessing the ways past personalities handled unexpected power, juggled ethical issues, and wrestled with difficult decisions while facing private or known crises, can still help shape our own attitudes, judgments and reactions toward personal or public modern-day dilemmas. America’s record is replete with notable leaders and less-famous figures who lived well and wisely by making crucial choices based on their “sacred honor” rather than fame or personal gain.

And finally, historical chronicles often highlight individual human and national achievements. Learning more about those who lived before us and admiring their nation-building deeds should instill within us a deeper respect for them and greater gratitude for their feats. It should also encourage us to keep moving forward through our own times of difficulties. By noting how their perseverance and selfless sense of duty to community and country helped them overcome great obstacles and grim circumstances, we pay homage to their memory by being diligent and vigilant in the here and now. The study of history isn’t to learn about the past. We study these things to understand the present, offer solutions and change the world.

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In learning how the past is always present (history is everywhere and everything has a history), our majors gain valuable life skills in information-gathering, data-sequencing, fact-checking, and problem-solving, along with a renewed sense of personal fulfillment and accomplishment. This equips them for successful careers in education, law, business, communications and numerous other professions.

Here are some testimonials from HCU graduates about the ongoing popularity and versatility of earning a BA in History:

For non-History majors looking to supplement their with historical reasoning and research skills, we offer a 12-hour minor in History. A combination of historical knowledge and analytical ability proves particularly valuable for students majoring in law, business, education, journalism and other disciplines where understanding human behavior and societal development is beneficial.

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