National History Day in Minnesota

History has the power to transform lives.  

Each year 25,000 students across Minnesota participate in National History Day, an inter-disciplinary research project for grades 6-12.  Through History Day, these students engage in a personal dialogue with the past and learn essential skills which prepare them for the future. 

History Day supports academic achievement and college readiness for students throughout Minnesota. Staff coordinate a variety of resources including workshops, in-class visits, online support with downloadable classroom documents, and programming at university and public libraries. You can help the Minnesota Historical Society continue this important work by making a tax-deductible gift to support National History Day in Minnesota!  

History Day is more than a competition; it encourages students to identify their passions, teaches them to conduct in-depth research using both primary and secondary sources, and helps them develop the skills to analyze information and present their findings. Participating students choose a topic that relates to an annual theme, research that topic, and develop their research into one of five presentation categories: research paper, exhibit, documentary, performance, or website.  Students may then enter their projects into competitions at school, regional, state and national levels.

Although students participate in History Day during middle and high school, the positive impacts of the program extend much farther.  In the words of one high school social studies teacher:

“Because of History Day, my students understand how history and knowledge are constructed, excel in college, and are confident students who know how to learn.”

National History Day in Minnesota is a partnership between the Minnesota Historical Society and the University of Minnesota. Join us in championing history education!