National History Day's impact goes well beyond the students who participate. Thousands of parents also get involved, making it a family affair. It also provides teachers with a unique alternative to what can be accomplished in the traditional classroom. Since 1974, National History Day has grown from a Cleveland, Ohio competition with about 100 students to a national academic program. It is funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities, corporations, foundations, and individuals.
Judges are university professors, high school teachers, museum curators and other public historians.