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It’s no secret that the internet is a notorious meme-making machine. Everything is turned into a meta joke here – from politics to celebrity gossip, from mishaps to… history. And when it comes to the latter one, the History Memes community on Reddit needs no introduction. Created in 2012, ten years later, it has turned into an impressive internet powerhouse with a whopping 5.3 million members.
And while there’s no doubt that history aficionados are not just aware, but most likely engage in this community by sharing history-related memes and jokes, the question remains if academics are just as excited. After all, memes are always on the verge of not being taken too seriously, and history is one hell of a serious nut to crack.
So to find out an expert’s take on history memes, we reached out to Darren R. Reid, a historian and lecturer at Coventry University, the Department of International Studies and Social Science. Reid not only didn’t condemn history memes but even praised them for being a great way to learn about the past. “They help communicate complex ideas in a really compelling and interesting way. And like all memes, they are also great fun!” he said.
When asked if he has noticed any changes in the ways lecturers and teachers teach their students history these days, Reid confirmed that’s absolutely the case. “At Coventry University, where I work, we even integrate content creation into the degree. Students can stage exhibitions, they can make documentaries,” Reid said.
He added that “it's a really exciting way of exploring the past - and sharing your ideas about history with the world.”
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And for those children who are thinking of starting a history degree, Reid assures that it is one of the best subjects you can study. “It gives you access to a nearly limitless body of knowledge and stories. There is literally something for everyone in the past. And studying it is a great and exciting honor.”
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Meanwhile, Reid’s advice for prospective history students is to always think critically. “There is a lot of false information on the internet today. A lot of groups have tried to politicize the study of the past and that, I think, reflects how fundamentally important history is to our society,” he said.
“So to any potential student, get reading and start exploring the evidence in a critical and open way,” Reid concluded.
