Why study history?
The study of history begins with questions, not answers. We seek to know what happened in the past, and we also seek to understand why.
As our present-day context raises new challenges for our communities, historians are inspired to ask new questions about the past, seeking understanding of a broad variety of human experiences. Historians explore questions about past politics and economics, intellectual developments, social concerns shaped by race, gender and class, and facets of culture ranging from arts and languages to human spaces and emotions. As a result, the study of history is dynamic, rather than static, and those trained in this discipline develop valuable skills in gathering, evaluating, connecting and interpreting factual information, and in the use of evidence to argue persuasively for their conclusions.
Learn more about what historians do and why employers value these skills.
News
Nov. 4, 2026
VCU historian’s new book navigates a pillar of Cherokee history: Water in southern Appalachia
In ‘The Water Carriers,’ history professor Gregory D. Smithers explores an overlooked but enduring element of Indigenous culture.
Oct. 30, 2026
Rethinking Who Shaped the American Revolution
Oct. 15, 2026
cRam Session: Richmond Haunts
3 questions, 2 minutes, 1 lesson with Ryan Smith, who leads an exploration of the city’s ‘darker underside’ and is documenting its ghostlore.
History Spotlight
Meet Parker
Parker Anderson knows that VCU is an incredible place to study history. Visit our 'Meet a Student' page to read more about why Parker selected VCU, and what they plan to do with their bachelor's degree in history.
