History

History: Major

The study of history at Holy Cross not only seeks to understand the past; it also offers deep personal enrichment for a thoughtful, even passionate, engagement in the challenges of the present. Among the most encompassing academic disciplines, history is informed by economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, the arts and literature.

Working with innovative faculty experts, students explore a diverse range of interests and a broad selection of topics from “Traditional” East Asia to Modern Latin America, Gilded Age America to Imperial Russia. Students learn how politics, social and economic developments, and cultural life interact.

Students of all interests, passions, and goals study history at Holy Cross. Graduates use their training to pursue careers in law, medicine, government service, business, teaching and a host of other vocations. 

Program Highlights

Students enrolled in history at Holy Cross explore their major and gain depth in a particular aspect of history through a global concentration. Spanning geographic locations and time, students select from the following themes:

  • Colonialism and Empire
  • Gender in Public and Private Life
  • Race and Ethnicity
  • Resistance, Revolution, and Reaction
  • Knowledge and Belief
  • War and Memory
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Faculty

With 18 full-time professors, the department is one of the largest history departments among liberal arts colleges.

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Opportunities

Students can augment their studies through honors programs and hands-on experiences.

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After Graduation

Find out what students can do with a history major, and check out the careers of some recent alumni.

History News

Cynthia Hooper, associate professor of history and director of Russian and Eastern European Studies. Photo by Tom Rettig
Professor and Russia Expert Calls Talk of Trump Impeachment ‘the Gift That Keeps on Giving’ for Russian Media
What is Russian media’s narrative on the impeachment investigation of President Donald Trump? Apparently, the commentary in many ways “echoes the language of U.S. coverage,” according to Cynthia Hooper, associate professor of history and director of Russian and Eastern European Studies at Holy Cross. …
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Eight Holy Cross Faculty Members Promoted to Rank of Professor

They’ve spent years teaching at College of the Holy Cross and advancing research in their respective fields. Now, eight faculty members have....

Kate McLauhlin '21
Blog: McLaughlin ’21 Hopes to Broaden Perspective During Year Abroad in Spain
Name: Kate McLaughlin ‘21 Hometown: Pelham, New York Areas of study: History and Spanish double major Studying abroad at: Universidade da Coruña in A Coruña, Spain Duration: Full academic year Why Spain? “Ever since I started studying Spanish in middle school, I have been …