06/12/2026
The 2025-2026 edition of the Quaestio History Undergraduate Journal is now available! But first, a word from the Editor-in-Chief -
To many, the study of history may seem to be filled solely with descriptions of endless facts and the tedious memorization of significant dates. In a time of monumental technological advancements, prompting a growing dependence on the usage of large language models, the role of the historian, as many may perceive it, might therefore seem to be steadily slipping away.
While pursuing my degree in history at UCLA, I have realized how this perception of the subject is far from true, and I have also recognized, first-hand, the weight of the historian’s responsibility both within academia and broader society. The study proves itself to be anything other than straightforward, and it is clear that historians function as so much more than merely its scribe. Instead, by nature, history is inherently confusing and even contradictory; convoluted records, documents, and accounts often result in conflicting facts and dates, and the lack thereof can mean entire cultures, rich traditions, or vital narratives risk becoming lost in time. Consequently, it is up to the historian to examine all available accounts, reconstruct descriptions, and synthesize narratives to preserve and recount historical data.
Not only is their work in the conservation of information absolutely necessary, but—as a result of historians’ responsibilities regarding their methods of interpretation—it is also deeply consequential. The limitless angles through which one can approach or examine any moment in time display the ever-evolving and ever-progressing role of history within society. Therefore, it is essential for the historian to be highly cognizant of the narrative they maintain and the lens they choose to highlight. And the most monumental, consequential pieces of historical work are often those that unveil and consider novel perspectives, constantly perpetuating the evolution and expansion of knowledge regarding the study.
[Read more below...]
Ellie Friederich
Quaestio Editor-in-Chief
➡️ View the full issue by clicking the link in our bio!
