Many students interested in history went to Mrs Simpson’s Lion time. National History day is a project students can join who are interested deeply in history. Some topics from last year at this high school made it to nationals, winning regional and state contests. This year others are joining who are up for the challenge.
Many students may wonder what history day is? In NHD, students have a wide variety of topics and are able to choose anything in history that fits the category of the year. Last year was rights and responsibilities, topics ranged from The Uranium girls to Viola Luizzo. The students have to argue how their topic is a turning point in the contests and first and second place moves on.
After students have chosen a topic they get to choose their category, a paper, Website, Performance, A board and lastly a Documentary. Students who are more introverted often choose topics where they can do it before they get there. A lot of times boards and papers are the most popular topics making competition fierce. While bold students who choose individual performances have an easier competition.
History day is often better with friends, With all the 5 Categories you, 4 of them you can do with groups up to 5. One great example is Group performances, which are often fun to watch!
In NHD you’re the historian. You need to argue your topic, You find primary and secondary sources. Even some of the easiest categories require immense studying. Hours go into topics and a lot can come out of it.
The most hardworking of the state make it to nationals, a week long competition where you stay in Washington DC. There students from all of the country and some over the globe attend. Last year in Arkansas it went from 4000 students with topics to 50 making it to nationals.
When making it to nationals not only can it be judged in the University of Maryland, students can submit it to be shown in multiple museums. Grant Adams who made it to nationals last year with his younger brother worked on a group documentary. His topic focused on civil rights and the Selma marches.
Many new students are joining this year with the 2026 Theme being Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History. History Day is open to anyone who’s ready to argue their topic to judges and put in the hard work. Talk to or email Mrs Simpson to learn more if you’re interested!
