National History Day 2015
Theme: Leadership and
Legacy in History
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Adrienne Harkness and Lynne O’Hara
uring the 2014—2015 school year, National History Day invites students to research topics related to the theme
Leadership and Legacy in History. Examples of leadership can be found almost anywhere—in the military, politics,
government, communities, social movements, or in fields such as science, the arts, education, religion and economics.
Topics can come from any geographic area or time period. Local history and world history make equally good sources of NHD
topics, and you can explore your interests from ancient history to more recent events. Try browsing your textbooks, flipping
through TV channels, talking with teachers and parents, or even scrolling through Facebook or Twitter for topics that interest
you. Just remember, your topic must relate to Leadership and Legacy. And do not forget the “in history” part of the theme—your
topic must be historical, not a current event.
What is leadership and what is legacy? In broad terms,
leadership is the act of leading: providing motivation, guidance
or direction, usually from a position of authority. Leadership
also implies the ability to lead—possessing the skills necessary
to articulate a shared vision and inspire others to embrace and
achieve that vision. Leaders often personify other admirable
values such as courage, selflessness, ingenuity and patriotism.
Certain traits like ego and confidence are important in a
leader; however, such traits may be seen as negative qualities
if he or she becomes overzealous or too headstrong. How do
you evaluate the legacy of overzealous leaders like Saddam
Hussein or Joseph Stalin? Were they leaders or tyrants? Is
balance an important aspect to good leadership?
Leadership takes many forms. You might immediately think
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about presidents and kings as leaders, but what about local
NATIONAL HISTORY DAY 2015
community representatives and organizers? How about
religious leaders, governors, mayors, or business owners?
Some leaders a ɔ