National History Day's impact is felt well beyond the more than 600,000 students entered into the competition. Thousands of parents also get involved, making it a family affair. Finally, it 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 education 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.