Introduction to Public History
Introduction to Public History
HISTORY 330, Spring 2023
Instructor: Charles August Weisenberger
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This course examined how history operates outside of the classroom and the ivory towers of academia. It introduced students to the history, ideas, and best practices that shape the world of public history. How do institutions like museums, archives, and historic sites balance the standards of formal academic scholarship with the demands of interpreting history for a larger public audience? What role do these cultural organizations play in the construction of larger historical narratives? What responsibilities do they have to their audience, stakeholders, and society? The course turned on five key concepts that shape the world of public history: history and memory, shared authority/inquiry, agendas and audiences, legal and ethical frameworks, and economics and entrepreneurship. Through class readings, discussions, and fieldwork, students developed an understanding of not only the theories and ideas behind public history, but also the practical daily concerns public historians encounter on the ground. The course helped prepare students who are considering a career in museums, archives, historic sites, historic preservation, and the nonprofit sector. Students also worked directly with local public history organizations to complete projects related to the history of Connecticut.