Wielding history 🏹

If someone asked me, “What do you want to accomplish as a historian?” my answer would be simple: I want to make history appealing, cool, intriguing, and deeply emotive—not just for people who already love it, but for those who feel disconnected from it.

That’s exactly why I chose to pursue a Master’s in Public History. To me, public history isn’t limited to textbooks or academic essays—it can thrive through digital history projects, interactive exhibits, documentaries, podcasts, short films, and even puppet shows. The challenge (and the joy) lies in finding creative ways to connect people with the past in spaces where they least expect it.

My husband captures me at the Cliffs of Moher 💚

Here are three examples of how history is being made engaging, interactive, and fun:

1. Video Games as Interactive History

Want to experience life as a warrior in the Holy Roman Empire? Learn to pickpocket for survival, distill alcohol, or craft medicine? You can do all of this while playing Kingdom Come: Deliverance I & II.

Video games are powerful tools for digital public history. They immerse players in historical settings while also entertaining them, acting as both a game and a kind of virtual exhibit. For more than thirty years, historical video gameshave sparked curiosity about the past for kids, teens, and adults.

Even fictionalized games like Assassin’s Creed have inspired many (myself included!) to dive deeper into the real history behind the story. It’s proof that history doesn’t have to feel like homework—it can feel like an adventure.

2. Trivia Nights: History Meets Competition

Do you thrive on a little friendly competition? I certainly do. In my family, trivia games are a staple on game nights, and the 2022 History Channel trivia board game has led to more than a few gasps, laughs, and debates in our living room.

What I love most about trivia is that it highlights gaps in our knowledge—even for history majors! It pushes us to think critically, laugh at our wrong answers, and learn something new along the way. Trivia proves that history education can happen anywhere—even at your kitchen table.

3. Museums That Bring History to Life

For those who want to go beyond the digital realm and step into history itself, immersive museums are the way to go. One of the most powerful I’ve visited is the Titanic Belfast Museum in Northern Ireland.

This isn’t your average exhibit. Visitors can step onto a reconstructed White Star Line ship and imagine sipping tea in first class. The museum even features a ride that takes you through the Titanic’s construction, complete with the blistering heat of the hull where workers shoveled coal day and night.

With interactive exhibits, short films, and authentic artifacts, the museum makes visitors reflect on the 1912 disaster in ways that spark awe, empathy, and even tears. It’s a prime example of how public history exhibits can move people emotionally while teaching them something unforgettable.

Looking Ahead

In future posts, I’ll be sharing photos and stories from my 2023 backpacking trip across Europe. My husband and I set out to visit every historical site that has inspired us—from world-famous landmarks to local gems—and each stop came with its own incredible story.

Stay tuned for more updates as I continue to explore, experiment with digital public history projects, and find new ways to make history exciting for everyone.

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