It is revealed through accounts of people and events that come together at climatic and dramatic moments. Traditionally, historical studies have focused on political and diplomatic history, that is, the actions of governments, their leaders, and the conflicts among them. Today, though, the scope of historical studies has broadened to include the history of ideas and the patterns and trends in economic and social life that characterize or influence society as a whole.
People often assume that history students are limited to teaching careers after graduation.
History, however, provides a basis of education that prepares the graduate for many different careers. Among these, historians are needed in government work-in domestic or foreign service and in state and local positions. Many find history an appropriate supplernent to majors in literature, journalism, economics, sociology, political science, and geography. History is also excellent preparation for students who plan to enter law school or who hope to pursue careers in the care, preservation, and classification of historical documents. In addition, students entering the ministry find a history rnajor or minor useful, since many seminaries expect their students to have some knowledge of the historical aspects of Christianity.