National History Day Competition

National History Day in Minnesota

National History Day is an interdisciplinary research project for students in grades 6–12.

History Day teaches students to:

  • Conduct in-depth research
  • Use primary and secondary sources
  • Read a variety of texts
  • Analyze and synthesize information
  • Write and present historical content

Students choose a topic that relates to an annual theme, research that topic, and develop their research into one of five presentation categories: research paper, exhibit, documentary, performance, or website. Students may then enter their projects into History Day competitions at school, regional, state, and national levels. 

The Center for Austrian Studies wishes to encourage scholarship in public schools. We feel it is vital for the training of future college students, scholars, and citizens. To effect this, we sponsor two $100 prizes awarded through the Minnesota Historical Society to entries in either the Junior or Senior Divisions. Prizes will be awarded on the basis of:

  1. Relevance to Central Europe
  2. Quality and depth of the research
  3. Clarity of the presentation and/or writing
  4. Ability of the student(s) to explain their project
Why do we enjoy participating in History Day? Because of letters like this:

This year was my first year doing the History Day Competition in High School. Initially, I was very intimidated by the idea of such a broad topic, and such a large project. However, I'm very glad that I chose to participate. I learned so much, not only about my topic but about how to go about working on a large project. I learned about how a project can grow and change, and I learned the importance of reaching out to ask for extra help when needed. I didn't do my project for a prize, but it is a fun bonus. Thank you so much for your kind and generous prize donation.

Sincerely,

Anna Thickens