Undergraduate Catalog 2008-2009

David Gerber
Chair

Erik R. Seeman
Director of Undergraduate Studies

History explores how people have lived, thought, and tried to make sense of their worlds. It is cross-cultural and multidimensional, addressing the breadth of human experience and uncovering patterns that are essential in situating ourselves in the present and in preparing ourselves for the future. History deals with both continuity and change, examining, for example, what is novel and what is recurrent in human efforts to deal with such enduring matters as religion, ethnicity, class, and gender. The History department offers a wide array of courses, and stresses the development of research and communication skills, which are vital for many different careers. History graduates work in such fields as business, law, government, and journalism, as well as in librarianship, archival and museum management, and teaching at all levels. They are trained to serve wherever careful reading, critical thinking, and clear writing are recognized assets.