National History Day / Texas History Day Research Resources

The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) offers this annual National History Day guide for educators and students seeking information and primary sources at the State Archives.

The Texas State Historical Association (TSHA) coordinates the Texas History Day educational program each year as part of National History Day, with a state-level contest held in April and culminating in a national fair for winners from state affiliates. Throughout the school year, students work individually or in groups on a project requiring historical research on a topic related to the theme. As they write papers, produce documentaries, or construct exhibits, students acquire essential research skills and a more in-depth understanding of what primary sources are and where to find them.

Libraries and archives provide the essential building blocks participants need to achieve their goals, and we are pleased to support students’ efforts. In addition, we are associated with the Texas Historical Records Advisory Board (THRAB), who offers a competitive award for both junior and senior divisions.

The next Texas History Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 20, 2024

For more information on the state and national contests:

Texas History Day: https://texashistoryday.com (Texas State Historical Association)
National History Day: https://www.nhd.org

Logo with the text Texas History Day and a stylized blue armadillo on top



 

 Download 2023 - 2024 Flyer (PDF)
 

Sample Topics and Related Collections at the State Archives

Our curated list of topics connected to the current National History Day theme offers a starting point for delving into the extensive collections at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. As the central repository for the archives of the Texas government, our materials naturally support researchers interested in the history of the state. (Note: Texas History Day topics do not necessarily have to relate to Texas history, but students researching Texas history should find our collections worth investigating.) Many of our original documents are already available for viewing online and available to download for research purposes. Download the flyer for links to a range of access points and list of the links below.

Check with our reference staff for details on how to find out more about your topics of interest.

Online Exhibits and Digital Collections related to this year’s topic: 

Research Guides and Finding Aids for State Archives Collections related to this year’s topic:

Reference and Research Assistance from the State Archives

Help with Research Methods and Primary Sources

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Page last modified: September 13, 2023