History

The Department of History

History is central to our understanding of the human experience. The study of the past allows us to place our world in context, whether we want to understand international crises, the significance of a national election, or social relations within our own community. The skills of the historian – the ability to do research in original sources, to think critically, and to write clearly and persuasively – are highly valued in our changing world. 

The Wayne State Department of History maintains an international reputation for excellence in history, most notably in labor and urban history and in the history of governance and citizenship.  Our faculty has received numerous awards for cutting-edge research and excellence in teaching.  We teach undergraduate students fundamental research, analytical, and writing skills and train graduate students as professional historians, equipped with the skills to produce original, publishable research in their field of specialization.

 

 

Department News Department Events

Lanza and Retish win Faculty Recognition Awards
The Department is very pleased to announce that both Janine Lanza and Aaron Retish have won the Boar ...

Eric Ash wins Teaching Award
Prof. Eric Ash has just won the President's Award for Excellence in Teaching. Congratulations! ...

Topics Courses for Fall 2009
Don't forget to look at the topics courses when making your fall schedule! Our faculty often offer  ...

 

North American Labor History Conference
10/22/2009
Knowledge, Work and Class The 2009 North American Labor History Conference, “Knowledge,  ...