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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Holy Cross Bestows 2021 Sanctae Crucis Awards
The awards recognized seven Crusaders who made a difference during the pandemic
(left to right) Kenneth Mills, Ellen Perry and Stephanie Yuhl
Three Holy Cross Faculty Appointed to Endowed Professorships
The professors of chemistry, classics and history will serve their terms through 2024
Paul Brueggemann '84
Holy Cross Alumnus and Genealogy Enthusiast Honors Local Veterans
As a longtime genealogy enthusiast, Paul Brueggemann ’84 is always looking for his next research project. Last spring, long days at home amidst the pandemic inspired him to tackle something he’d been thinking about for years. He and his wife, …