2026 Theme: Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History
To coincide with the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, NHD’s 2026 theme is Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History. The distinctions among revolutions, reactions, and reforms are sometimes blurred. Revolutions and reforms are often reactions to ideas, actions, or events. In turn, revolutions and reforms inspire reactions. Think of it as a domino effect—knock one down, which knocks the next one down, which knocks . . .
The first question that comes to mind is, “Do students have to focus on all three words—revolution, reaction, reform?” No, students do not have to focus on all three aspects of the theme. It depends on the topic. If the topic involves all three, then students should be sure to include all three.
Find more theme materials at: https://nhd.org/en/contest/theme/
Past Themes
- 2025: “Rights and Responsibilities in History”
- 2024: Turning Points in History
- 2023: Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas
- 2022: Debate and Diplomacy in History: Successes, Failures, Consequences