Through its quarterly journals and bi-annual bulletins, the WHA keeps professors informed on the latest scholarship in the field. Each journal contains high quality, well-researched articles written by scholars from around the world. Topics range from ancient trading practices to twentieth-century genocide. The Journal of World History has broad thematic and temporal coverage-and of course a global scope. Members and non-members alike are encouraged to submit articles for the journal. In addition to the articles, book reviews are an important part of the journal. Every journal contains several reviews of recent publications to help keep historians up to date on the latest research in world history. The bi-annual World History Bulletin includes official WHA business such as Executive Council Meeting minutes, news about upcoming conferences, calls for papers, paper/book/teaching prize announcements, brief articles on teaching world history, and other important notices. Besides the benefit of the journal and Bulletins, members are encouraged to get involved with WHA activities and business by joining committees (and there are many to choose from) or running for positions as elected officers. Through WHA membership, professors from around the world have developed strong professional and personal relationships that have enriched the discipline and their lives.

Everything that makes WHA membership valuable to post-secondary faculty is also true for high school teachers. Unlike many academic organizations that tend to focus entirely on university-level work, the WHA believes that world history needs to reach young people as well. Developing an understanding and appreciation for different traditions and cross-cultural interactions in history can and should begin in our childhood. Therefore, the WHA has helped to develop standard and AP world history programs in high schools, encourages high school teacher input and participation, and addresses issues that relate to the in-class experience. The Bulletin frequently prints articles about world history teaching methods and resources that can be used by college and high school teachers alike. High school teachers are also encouraged to sit on committees; indeed, some committees require high school teachers. The WHA aims to satisfy the teacher’s intellectual needs while still finding ways to make world history accessible to students.

For the historian not currently in an official position or for the university student still learning about the field, the WHA is an invaluable resource. Through our publications, conferences, and additional resources, independent scholars can stay connected to other historians and keep up with current issues in world history. The WHA is a community of thoughtful, active members who cooperate, debate, and create. Members of the WHA act as resources, leaders, and partners for one another, and may provide an independent scholar or student with a much needed network.

For those who do not fit into any of these categories, fear not. The WHA is for anyone who cares about history from a world-wide perspective. An interested, active member in any position is a welcomed addition to the association. Many of our members are not in an academic or teaching position and simply see the journals and Bulletins as part of their vacation reading or their own personal education. If you love history, you’ll love the WHA!