The 2026 Organization of American Historians Conference on American History will take place in the birthplace of democracy: Philadelphia.

All scholars, educators, public historians and practitioners of American history are encouraged to submit a proposal by April 29.

A variety of formats are welcome, including:

• Traditional three-paper sessions.
• Roundtables and state-of-the-field discussions.
• Lightning rounds, workshops and chat rooms.

Th 2026 conference will explore issues and questions facing historians today, including: 

• The legacy of the American Revolution.
• Censorship, identity and freedom of speech in publishing and curriculum.
• The politics of teaching American history.
• The role of AI in research and writing.
• The fate of the American public school/university system.
• Immigration, past and present.

While organizers encourage reflection on the United States’ 250th anniversary, the 2026 conference is not limited to a single theme. Proposals may embrace innovative forms of engagement and represent the full range of American history, including race, gender, sexuality, region and time period.

The Organization of American Historians, an external agency housed at IU Bloomington, brings together U.S. historians, scholars and educators for in-depth discussions, workshops and other educational activities.