Junior Division – Grades 6-8
Senior Division – Grades 9‑12
15-20
Historical, analytical
1,500-2,500 words
History
April-May (based on location)
The National History Day (NHD) Contest is an annual academic competition that encourages students to engage in historical research and write based on a yearly theme.
The contest was started in 1974 at Case Western University by a group of history-loving individuals who wanted to inspire students to explore history through research, critical thinking, and creative expression.
The team at J&B Education supports students participating in NHD by guiding them through the process of researching, analyzing, and thinking critically about compelling historical topics.
2026 Contest Theme: Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History
To coincide with the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, NHD’s 2026 theme is Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History. The distinctions among revolutions, reactions, and reforms are sometimes blurred. Revolutions and reforms are often reactions to ideas, actions, or events. In turn, revolutions and reforms inspire reactions. Think of it as a domino effect—knock one down, which knocks the next one down, which knocks . . .
The first question that comes to mind is, “Do students have to focus on all three words—revolution, reaction, reform?” No, students do not have to focus on all three aspects of the theme. It depends on the topic. If the topic involves all three, then students should be sure to include all three.
Categories – Paper, Performance, Documentary, Exhibit, Website
