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

John Cull, Rev. Thomas Worcester, S.J., and Suzanne Kirschner
Three Beloved Faculty Members Reminisce Before Retirement
With the end of the academic year comes the departure of three faculty members who announced their retirement: John Cull, professor of Spanish; Rev. Thomas Worcester, S.J., professor of history; and Suzanne Kirschner, professor of psychology. The three faculty members …
Cynthia Hooper, associate professor of history and director of Russian and Eastern European Studies. Photo by Tom Rettig
Professor and Russia Expert on Upcoming Trump-Putin Summit: ‘Trump is Playing Putin’s Game’
On July 16 President Donald Trump is scheduled to participate in a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki, Finland, a meeting generating media buzz worldwide. In an article for The Conversation, Cynthia Hooper, associate professor of history and director …
Food history summer class taught by visiting lecturer Christopher Staysniak visits Cotyledon Farm in Leicester, MA. Photo by Tom Rettig
‘Holy Cross Summer Course Explores Realities of Food Production’
“Meal time will never be the same again!” That’s how Christopher Staysniak, visiting lecturer of history at the College of the Holy Cross, started the six-week summer course titled “Food and Power” back in June. According to Staysniak, a key …