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
When asked about their 2021 Sanctae Crucis Award ahead of the virtual celebration on May 4, 2021, each honoree offered a variation of the above. In every interview, they expressed surprise and humility, citing the family, friends, colleagues and fellow …
(left to right) Kenneth Mills, Ellen Perry and Stephanie Yuhl
Three Holy Cross Faculty Appointed to Endowed Professorships
Kenneth Mills, of the department of chemistry, Ellen Perry, of the department of classics and Stephanie Yuhl, of the department of history, have been appointed to endowed positions at the College, which they will hold through June 2024.
Alicia Molt-West takes her oath of office via computer, with her twin daughters seated on her lap
Alicia Molt-West ’09 Traces Her Path from Mount St. James to the White House