Public History

The Public History Unit at Bielefeld University examines how history is produced, communicated, and contested in contemporary societies. Our research spans a wide geographical range, from Western and East Central Europe to Russia and Turkey, and engages with topics such as political uses of history across time, heritage activism, and the role of museums and media in shaping historical narratives. We work at the intersection of academic research, public engagement, and digital innovation. In our teaching we prioritise interdisciplinary methods, critical source analysis, and the practical application of public history. Through a variety of outreach formats, we are committed to engaging broader audiences and fostering dialogue about the relevance of history in today’s world.