For Teachers - History Day

Click to see the 2011 winners! (pdf)

See the press release

For over 25 years the New York State Historical Association has sponsored National History Day in New York State.

National History Day, a year-long educational program, encourages students in grades six through twelve to explore local, state, national, and world history through research projects that relate to an annual theme.

During their research, students investigate primary and secondary source documents at libraries, museums, and historical societies. After analyzing and interpreting their findings and drawing conclusions about their topics’ significance in history, students present a final project in one of five ways:
- a multimedia documentary,
- an imaginative exhibit,
- an interactive web site,
- a scholarly research paper,
- a dramatic performance.

Students have the opportunity to enter their final projects in a series of competitions from the local to the national level.

Each year, the New York State History Day program helps students develop positive attributes that are necessary for their future success, including:
- critical thinking skills,
- problem-solving skills,
- research and reading skills,
- oral and written communication skills.

Moreover, participation in History Day often boosts students’ self-esteem and confidence, while instilling a sense of responsibility for and involvement in the democratic process.

Learn more about History Day