How to Become a Historian

In our fast-paced world, where the present often takes precedence, there exists a group of individuals dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of the past, piecing together the puzzle of history, and sharing stories that have shaped our world. These individuals are historians, and if you've ever wondered how to become a historian yourself, this article will guide you through the journey of stepping into the shoes of those who study and interpret history.

What does a Historian do?

Historians are essentially detectives of the past. They research, analyze, and interpret historical events, documents, and artifacts to gain insights into the past. They craft narratives and bring the past to life, making it relevant to the present. Historians work in various settings, including museums, universities, archives, and government agencies. Their responsibilities include:

Collecting Historical Data

Historians gather historical records, documents, and artifacts from different sources to construct a comprehensive view of the past.

Analyzing and Interpreting

They critically evaluate historical evidence, looking for patterns, causes, and effects to create meaningful historical narratives.

Writing and Teaching

Historians often write books, articles, and educational materials, and they teach history at schools and universities to pass on their knowledge.

Qualification Required to Become a Historian

Becoming a historian requires dedication, education, and certain qualifications:

Educational Background

A bachelor's degree in history or a related field is typically the starting point. Many historians pursue master's or doctoral degrees for advanced research and teaching positions.

Research Skills

Historians must be adept at conducting thorough research, which includes using archives, libraries, and digital resources.

Critical Thinking

Analytical skills are crucial for historians to evaluate sources and draw conclusions from historical data.

Types of Historian

Certainly, let's delve deeper into the various types of historians, each with their unique focus and expertise. Historians can specialize in different areas, allowing them to explore distinct facets of the past and contribute to our understanding of history. Here are some of the most common types of historians:

1. Political Historian

Focus: Political historians specialize in the study of political events, leaders, and policies throughout history. They analyze the political dynamics of different societies, the rise and fall of governments, and the impact of political decisions on nations and individuals.

Significance: Political historians play a crucial role in shaping our understanding of how political systems evolve and influence the course of history. They help us comprehend the complexities of governance and the factors that shape political landscapes.

2. Cultural Historian

Focus: Cultural historians examine the cultural aspects of societies, including art, music, literature, customs, and traditions. They explore how cultural expressions have evolved over time and their significance in shaping societies.

Significance: Cultural historians enrich our understanding of the diverse cultural tapestry of humanity. They reveal the connections between culture and historical events, shedding light on the values and beliefs that have guided societies.

3. Economic Historian

Focus: Economic historians delve into economic systems, trade, financial history, and the impact of economic factors on societies. They analyze economic policies, trade routes, and the role of economics in historical events.

Significance: Economic historians provide insights into the economic forces that have driven historical change. They help us understand the role of commerce, industry, and wealth distribution in shaping societies.

4. Military Historian

Focus: Military historians concentrate on military campaigns, strategies, conflicts, and the evolution of warfare throughout history. They study battles, tactics, and the individuals who played key roles in military history.

Significance: Military historians contribute to our understanding of the impact of wars and conflicts on societies. They analyze the strategies and technologies that have shaped the outcomes of historical battles.

5. Social Historian

Focus: Social historians explore the daily lives, social structures, and interactions of people in various historical periods. They examine issues such as class, gender, ethnicity, and the evolution of social norms.

Significance: Social historians offer insights into the experiences of ordinary people throughout history. They shed light on the social dynamics that have influenced individual lives and societal change.

6. Environmental Historian

Focus: Environmental historians investigate the relationship between human societies and the environment. They explore how environmental factors, such as climate, geography, and resource use, have impacted historical events and societies.

Significance: Environmental historians highlight the importance of environmental sustainability and the consequences of human activities on the planet. They inform us about the environmental challenges faced by past civilizations.

7. Oral Historian

Focus: Oral historians gather and preserve oral histories and personal narratives from individuals who have experienced historical events. They capture firsthand accounts and perspectives to create a more personal and intimate historical record.

Significance: Oral historians ensure that the voices of individuals who may not have left written records are heard. They provide valuable insights into the human experiences of the past.

These are just a few examples of the many specialized branches of history. Historians often choose their areas of expertise based on their interests, research opportunities, and the desire to contribute to our collective understanding of the past. Each type of historian plays a vital role in piecing together the intricate puzzle of history and preserving our shared heritage.

Historian Degrees and Requirements

Certainly, let's explore the degrees and requirements necessary for individuals aspiring to become historians. Becoming a historian requires dedication, education, and the acquisition of specific qualifications. Here's a breakdown of the educational journey and requirements:

1. Bachelor's Degree

Educational Background: The first step to becoming a historian is obtaining a bachelor's degree. While a degree in history is the most common path, related fields such as anthropology, archaeology, or political science can also be suitable.

Importance: A bachelor's degree provides a foundational understanding of history and historical research methods. It introduces students to various historical periods and events, helping them develop critical thinking and research skills.

2. Master's Degree

Educational Background: Many historians pursue a master's degree to enhance their knowledge and research skills further. A Master of Arts (M.A.) or a Master of History degree is common in this stage.

Importance: A master's degree allows historians to specialize in a particular area of history. It often involves intensive research and the completion of a thesis. This advanced education helps historians prepare for more specialized roles and research positions.

3. Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.)

Educational Background: For those aspiring to reach the highest levels in the field of history, a Ph.D. in history is often necessary. This represents the pinnacle of academic achievement in the discipline.

Importance: A doctoral program involves in-depth research, the writing of a dissertation, and the defense of one's research. It prepares historians for advanced research positions, university teaching roles, and leadership roles in historical organizations. A Ph.D. also establishes credibility in the field.

4. Research Skills

Requirement: Historians must be proficient in conducting thorough research. This includes accessing and analyzing historical documents, manuscripts, archives, and other primary sources. Proficiency in digital research tools and databases is also crucial in the modern era.

Importance: Research skills are the backbone of historical work. Historians must be able to locate, evaluate, and interpret historical evidence to construct accurate narratives and draw conclusions.

5. Critical Thinking

Requirement: Historians need strong analytical and critical thinking skills. They must critically evaluate sources, question assumptions, and make reasoned judgments about historical events and interpretations.

Importance: Critical thinking allows historians to discern bias, identify patterns, and offer fresh insights into historical events. It's a fundamental skill for producing accurate and meaningful historical narratives.

6. Communication Skills

Requirement: Effective written and verbal communication skills are essential for historians. They need to articulate their research findings, theories, and interpretations to both academic and non-academic audiences.

Importance: Historians often write books, articles, and research papers to share their knowledge. They may also teach history at schools and universities, requiring the ability to engage and educate students.

In summary, the path to becoming a historian involves a progression of educational milestones, from a bachelor's degree to a master's degree and potentially a Ph.D. These qualifications, along with strong research, critical thinking, and communication skills, are essential for success in the field. Historians play a vital role in unraveling the mysteries of the past and preserving our shared heritage for future generations.

How Long Does it take to Become a Historian?

The time it takes to become a historian can vary based on your chosen educational path:

Bachelor's Degree

Typically takes 3-4 years.

Master's Degree

An additional 1-2 years.

Doctoral Degree

A Ph.D. program usually takes 5-7 years to complete.

Pros & Cons of Becoming a Historian

As with any career, there are both advantages and disadvantages to becoming a historian:

Pros:

• Fulfilling Work: Historians contribute to preserving and sharing our collective past.
• Research Opportunities: They have the chance to delve into fascinating historical mysteries.
• Teaching and Writing: Historians often get to teach and write about their passion.

Cons:

• Competitive Field: Job opportunities can be competitive.
• Extensive Education: The path to becoming a historian requires a significant investment in education.
• Limited Job Security: Tenured positions can be scarce in academia.

Tips for Getting a Work as a Historian

To kickstart your career as a historian, consider these valuable tips:

Network

Build connections with professors, fellow historians, and professionals in your field.

Gain Experience

Internships, volunteer work, and research assistant positions can provide valuable hands-on experience.

Publish Your Work

Start publishing articles or research papers to showcase your expertise.

Stay Informed

Keep up with the latest developments in your field through conferences and seminars.

In conclusion, becoming a historian is a journey that combines passion, education, and dedication. If you are intrigued by the past and desire to uncover its hidden stories, this path may be the perfect fit for you.

FAQs

1. Is it necessary to have a Ph.D. to become a historian?

While a Ph.D. can open up advanced career opportunities, some historians with master's degrees find fulfilling careers in research, teaching, and writing.

2. What are the employment prospects for historians?

Job opportunities for historians can be competitive, but those with strong research and communication skills can find positions in academia, museums, government agencies, and more.

3. Can I specialize in more than one area of history?

Yes, some historians choose to specialize in multiple areas, allowing them to explore different facets of the past.

4. What is the role of technology in historical research?

Technology has revolutionized historical research, making it easier to access and analyze historical documents and data.

5. Are there any famous historians whose work I can explore for inspiration?

Certainly! Some renowned historians include Herodotus, Edward Gibbon, and Fernand Braudel. Exploring their works can provide insights into the world of historical writing.