Historians research, analyze, interpret, and present the past by studying historical documents and sources.
Duties
Historians typically do the following:
Gather historical data from various sources, including archives, books, and artifacts
Analyze and interpret historical information to determine its authenticity and significance
Trace historical developments in a particular field
Engage with the public through educational programs and presentations
Archive or preserve materials and artifacts in museums, visitor centers, and historic sites
Provide advice or guidance on historical topics and preservation issues
Write reports, articles, and books on findings and theories
Historians conduct research and analysis for governments, businesses, nonprofits, historical associations, and other organizations. They use a variety of sources in their work, including government and institutional records, newspapers, photographs, interviews, films, and unpublished manuscripts, such as personal diaries, letters, and other primary documents. They also may process, catalog, and archive these documents and artifacts.
Many historians present and interpret history in order to inform or build upon public knowledge of past events. They often trace and build a historical profile of a particular person, area, idea, organization, or event. Once their research is complete, they present their findings through articles, books, reports, exhibits, websites, and educational programs.
In government, some historians conduct research to provide historical context for current policy issues. For example, they may research the history of Social Security as background for a new bill or upcoming funding debate. Many write about the history of a particular government agency, activity, or program, such as a military operation or the space program.
In historical associations, historians preserve artifacts and explain the historical significance of a wide variety of subjects, such as historic buildings, religious groups, and battlegrounds.
Historians who work for businesses may examine historical evidence for legal cases and regulatory matters.