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: Andersen ’16 Ready for the Challenge of Studying in Another Country
NAME Jackson Andersen ’16 HOMETOWN Pembroke, Mass. AREAS OF STUDY History major WHERE HE’S STUDYING Univeristy of Bamberg, Germany WHY HE CHOSE GERMANY “I began studying German at Holy Cross, and really enjoyed the classes. I knew I wanted to …
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Blog: Ouellet ’16 Learns About PR, Marketing at California-Based Nonprofit
NAME Adam Ouellet ’16 HOMETOWN Hubbardston, Mass. AREAS OF STUDY Music and history double major WHERE HE’S INTERNING “I will be working on public relations and marketing at Music at Kohl Mansion, a chamber music series located in Burlingame, Calif.” …
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‘The Lingering Mysteries Of “Casey At The Bat”’
In a recent segment for NPR’s Curiosity Desk, Edward O’Donnell, associate professor of history at the College of the Holy Cross, offered some insight into the famous poem “Casey At the Bat.” The poem, written by Worcester native Ernest Thayer …