History

History

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About the Department

The mission of the Department of History is to impart to cadets the historical knowledge, appreciation of history, and critical thinking and communication skills necessary to be successful leaders, able to understand human behavior, ideas, and actions in a global context.  

Learn more about History
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Majors

Cadets majoring in History may choose one of three stems: American History, International History, or International History.

American History Stem International History Stem Military History Stem
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Minors

History offers several minors.

General History America in the World War, Technology, and Society American Foundations (co-sponsored with the Department of Social Sciences)
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Research

Explore the many research projects conducted by our cadets and faculty.

Center for Holocaust Studies Center for Oral History Digital History Center
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Internships

Cadets have the opportunity to participate in a range of immersive activities through the Department of History. We offer summer internships through the U.S. Army War College and with the Joint Staff History Office. We also offer a variety of summer Academic Individual Advanced Development (AIAD) programs, staff rides, and local trips to bring cadets to places where history happened, at home and abroad. 

Staff Rides & AIADs
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Clubs & Programs

The Department of History sponsors the Cadet Wargames Club, the Latin Reading Club, and a local chapter of the Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society.  Each of these programs typically meets on a monthly basis.

Wargames Club Phi Alpha Theta - Honor Society

COL Gail Yoshitani

Professor & Department Head

Colonel Gail E. S. Yoshitani is the Professor and Head of the Department of History at the United States Military Academy at West Point. After earning her PhD in military history from Duke University in 2008, she became a permanent member of the West Point faculty.

Read more about COL Gail Yoshitani Meet the History Faculty & Staff

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Contact Us

UPS/ FEDEX Mailing address:
United States Military Academy
646 Swift Road
Thayer Hall, D/History, Rm 151
West Point, NY 10996

Administrative Officer
Department of History

Krista Hennen
Phone: 845-938-3221

Email History
Prospective Staff & Faculty

Instructor duty is a hugely enjoyable, rewarding, and developmental experience that prepares officers intellectually for the challenges that lie ahead in the Army.

Read our department's FAQ page.

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Helpful Links

Visit our Department Online Atlas

Read Report: West Point Undergraduate Historical Review