We’ve created a simple, two-stage journey.
Build a Foundation Through Story
The Curious Historian introduces students to the grand narrative of history in a way that is engaging, chronological, and meaningful—while also inviting them to consider the examples of virtue and vice found in the past, and to reflect on what it means to live wisely in the present.
Students will:
Discover the story of civilizations
Grow curious about how and why people live
Learn from the examples of virtue and vice in history
Begin to develop wisdom for their own lives
Learn History through Primary Sources
Humanitas invites students into the great conversation of history through a chronological study of original texts and primary documents.
Students will:
Read primary sources from the world's great thinkers
Contemplate & discuss historical ideas and arguments
Develop mature judgment and insight
Build a Love for History (Grades 5–8)
Engaging, story-driven history that grows virtue, understanding, and curiosity.
From Story to Source
Students begin by discovering history through engaging narrative.
Then, as they grow, they step into the past itself—reading, analyzing, and thinking through the great texts of history.
Engage the Great Texts of History (Grades 9–12)
Read, analyze, and think alongside the voices that shaped the world.
Which Program Is Right for You?
We'll guide you step-by-step from here. Younger students generally begin with Imitation and Narration but older students can start later in the series.
Narrative history
Grades: 5-8
Student Experience: Guided, engaging virtue-to-wisdom focus
Goal: Build a strong foundation and love of history
Primary Sources
Grades 9-12
Student Experience: Contemplative integration of knowledge
Goal: Develop insight through familiarity with great ideas of humanity
Truly Beautiful Books
We have taken great care not only to make these history books clear, sequenced, orderly, and engaging--we have also gone to great lengths to make them beautiful.
Both series are designed in full color and illustrated with artifacts, period art, maps, illustrations, and timelines. View a sample (on any book product page) and see for yourself.
Designed to Engage and Guide
Every text is thoughtfully designed to invite students into the study of history—not overwhelm them.
Lessons are clearly structured and carefully sequenced, helping students move step by step through new ideas with confidence. Engaging narratives, vivid illustrations, and beautiful artwork bring the past to life, while thoughtful questions throughout the text keep students actively thinking as they read.
Frequent review, guided discussion questions, and well-placed exercises reinforce learning and help students retain what they’ve studied. Whether encountering history for the first time or engaging primary sources, students are supported at every stage.
Practical Support for Every Teacher
Our curriculum is designed to support you every step of the way. The Teacher’s Editions provide clear guidance, helpful background, and answers—so you can lead each lesson with confidence.
Student texts are thoughtfully structured and do much of the teaching for you, with engaging narratives, built-in questions, maps, illustrations, and regular review that keep students on track and learning steadily.
Additional digital resources, video training, and sample lessons in action give you the support you need to prepare, teach, and adapt with ease—whether you’re new to teaching history or a seasoned educator.
With everything working together, you’re never left wondering what to do next.
