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

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Blog: Academics, Community, Faith Make Holy Cross a Perfect Fit for Uliano ’21
NAME Serena Mary Uliano ’21 HOMETOWN Salem, New Hampshire STUDIES SHE’S CONSIDERING History major WHY SHE CHOSE HOLY CROSS “During the college process, I considered three factors: rigorous academics, a tight-knit community, and a place to grow spiritually. First, I …
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Blog: Griffin ’21 Chose Holy Cross for Its Emphasis on Personalized Education
NAME Elizabeth Griffin ’21 HOMETOWN Cohasset, Massachusetts STUDIES SHE’S CONSIDERING English, history, music WHY SHE CHOSE HOLY CROSS “The college decision process was a long and hard one for me. I knew I wanted a small liberal arts school with …
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Holy Cross Conference on ‘Rethinking the Afropolitan,’ Photography Show and Concert to Explore Black Atlantic Culture
The College of the Holy Cross will host an academic conference, a photography exhibition and a concert Oct. 18-21 to explore the intersection of history, ethics and visual culture in the performance and display of black masculinities in Africa, the …