History is a study of the vast record of human experience. It serves as the collective memory of humankind. As memory defines the self and guides behavior, so history teaches about social identity and responsibility. Just as one's memory changes and matures, so the collective understanding of the past changes as new evidence is discovered and new perspectives are developed. Hence college level history is much more a detective hunt than a memorization game. The task is to ferret out the facts, weigh interpretations and draw conclusions. It requires wide reading, deep thinking and clear communication.