History asks fundamental questions about the nature of change over time. History is our collective memory; studying the past reveals the enormous complexity of the human experience and highlights the contingency of our contemporary world. Because no contemporary political, cultural, or economic issue can be understood outside of its historical context, History offers an ideal foundation for students interested in law, medicine, international relations, public policy, and women’s studies, as well as an intellectual complement for students pursuing science and engineering. Indeed, the history major at CWRU, as nationally, is traditionally one of the preferred preparatory paths for admission to law school. Thinking historically means learning how to frame complex problems, sift through multifaceted evidence, and develop carefully argued writing. Our students carry these skills far beyond graduation, pursuing careers in the professions, business, government, as well as advanced doctoral study.

Our department has a long and prestigious tradition that stretches back to the origins of Western Reserve University in 1826. Today, our faculty specialize in a range of thematic and regional subjects. We have a strong tradition in the study of social, cultural, legal, policy, and political history, which together constitutes a major component of our graduate program. Our other focus of graduate study—the history of science, technology, the environment, and medicine (STEM)—has its roots in Case’s pioneering graduate program in the history of technology in the late 1950s (the first of its kind in the United States), as well as its role in founding the Society for the History of Technology. Our department also maintains a strong international focus with faculty who specialize in European, Asian, African, and Latin American history.

photo of John Grabowski

John Grabowski Quoted on cleveland.com

Professor Grabowski spoke to cleveland.com about how Whiskey Island got its name. Read more here.

photo of John Grabowski

John Grabowski Interviewed by the Defector

Professor Grabowski spoke to the Defector about the history and memory of Balloonfest. Read more here.

Gillian Weiss Quoted in Vox

Professor Weiss was quoted in a Vox article speaking about Napoleon Bonaparte’s reinstatement of Haitian slavery.

John Bickers Interviewed by The Daily

Professor John Bickers was interviewed by The Daily for Native American History Month. Read more here.

Ted Steinberg Featured on NPR

Professor Steinberg spoke to NPR about the changing cultural relationship that Americans have with their lawns. Listen or read more here.