Department of History
History provides windows to the world and to the human psyche. Clio, the muse of History, opens those windows to reveal vistas of the past that help us understand former times, places, and peoples as well as our own.
The study of History:
- enriches those who undertake it
- provides them with skills that they will find invaluable - to think critically, to write with authority, and to understand broadly
As James M. McPherson, a preeminent scholar of the Civil War, has written, history is “a continuing dialogue between the present and the past.” Because of that, History is not just one written record but also an on-going analysis of many records. It is a challenge to do History well, but it's intriguing and, yes, it can even be fun.
Our Mission
Help the History Department raise funds for the Office of Multicultural Affairs' 4th Annual Turkey Drive!
Do you love History? Want to show your support? With the colder weather just around the corner, and some of the people in our community struggling to pay for the food they so desperately need, the History Department wants to show its support.
Perhaps you'll give up your morning Starbucks and donate towards this worthwhile cause instead. Or maybe you'll donate money on behalf of a loved one's upcoming birthday or special event. Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated! We accept cash or check (made payable to Duquesne University).
Stop by 603 College Hall today to donate!
This Month in History
November 2009
Ellis Island Closes
On this day in 1954, Ellis Island, the gateway to America, shuts it doors after processing more than 12 million immigrants since opening in 1892. Today, an estimated 40 percent of all Americans can trace their roots through Ellis Island, located in New York Harbor off the New Jersey coast and named for merchant Samuel Ellis, who owned the land in the 1770s. (From The History Channel)
