Are History Teachers Historians?

The distinction between history teachers and historians can be a nuanced one. Many individuals with a degree in history find themselves teaching in high schools or serving as lecturers in colleges. However, the question of whether these educators can be considered historians themselves is often debated.

Historians vs. History Teachers

The role of a historian and a history teacher, while both centered around the study of the past, can differ significantly. A person with a Master's degree in history, preferably a PhD, is often qualified to be a university lecturer. On the other hand, a history teacher, with a degree in history, can instruct at high school level. However, it is important to note that not all history teachers are historians, just as not all historians are educators.

The Role of the Historian

According to John Lukacs, a renowned historian, the work of a historian involves more than merely recording events. Historians aim to construct a truthful reconstruction of events and provide a genuine explanation of why these events took place. They are engaged in what is known as historiography, the writing or recording of history.

Historians must remain vigilant about their own biases and assumptions. Many individuals use historical facts to support their own worldviews, political beliefs, or weltanschauung (worldview). This practice is not historiography but rather propaganda. A historian's primary concern is to provide a truthful and objective account of history, free from personal biases.

The Role of History Teachers

History teachers, unlike historians, may not engage in original research or historiography. They focus on teaching students about the past based on existing historical research, theories, and texts. However, a history teacher can still be considered a student of history and can potentially engage in historical thought and analysis. Anyone can be a historian when they are actively engaging in the act of writing history, regardless of their academic status.

It is worth noting that while many history teachers may not engage in historical research or publication, some do. These educators may conduct research, publish their findings, and contribute to the academic discourse. Nevertheless, the core difference lies in the scope and nature of their roles.

The Broader Audience of History

While historians and history teachers form the academic and educational components of history education, the study and appreciation of history extend far beyond these groups. Almost everyone can be considered a student of history to some extent, whether they are reading books, watching documentaries, or engaging with historical artifacts like art, crafts, and political ideologies. The historical thought process is inherent in our daily lives and observations.

Conclusion

Thus, while history teachers and historians share a common interest in the past, they differ in their specific roles and responsibilities. A history teacher may not be a historian, but anyone can be a historian when they are actively engaged in the process of writing or interpreting history.

For further reading and a deeper understanding of the roles of historians and history teachers, consider consulting academic journals, books on historiography, and the works of historians and history educators.