Whether you have been creating NHDI projects for a while or are looking at creating your very first project, we have all the tools you need for success. We will guide you through the steps of creating a project, from learning about the annual theme, to research, to designing your project and presenting at a regional contest.

You can also take a look at some example projects from the 2017-2018 contest year. See what Indiana students have created in exhibits, performances, documentaries, websites and papers. Use them for inspiration, explore your interests, then begin your own project!

Annual Theme

Each year, the National History Day offices select a theme to guide project creation. The annual theme is broad enough for you to pick a topic from any time period of place. The theme helps guide you to look for the impact and significance of your topic in history.

The 2018-2019 theme is Triumph and Tragedy in History. As you look at topics, consider multiple viewpoints. Can a triumph for one person be a tragedy for another person? Can a triumph eventually be considered a tragedy?

Take a look at people, places, inventions, politics, music, art, literature, law, science and more! The sky is the limit as you look at selecting a topic. Don’t forget to look at topics that are at least 20 years old; you want to have a topic where there is enough time to gain some historical context. You also want to choose a topic where you can find enough information through primary and secondary sources to adequately explore your topic.

You can explore just triumph, or just tragedy, or both. The strongest projects will explore how triumph and tragedy play into one another.

For more information regarding the annual theme, visit the NHD website.