Why does history traditionally divide the past among national, continental, and oceanic lines? Understanding some of the methodshistorians have used to analyze the past, and understanding theparticular relationship between history and nation, seems crucial atthis time of not only increasing globalization but also of fragmentationand of new notions of nation building. Examining the role historianshave played in these processes is also crucial at this time of changingboundaries within the historical profession itself. The essays in thisvolume reflect upon historians' considerations of the relationshipbetween history and nation, and explore the ways in which earlymodern and modern historians have envisioned and theorized their ownactions and impact