Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is World History Encyclopedia?

World History Encyclopedia is the world's most-read history encyclopedia, published by the British non-profit organization World History Publishing Ltd. Our mission is to engage people with cultural heritage and to improve history education worldwide. The organization is run by a small remote team of employees and many volunteers from all over the world. You can find out more about our organization, our mission and our team.

Who uses World History Encyclopedia?

Millions of people from all over the world use World History Encyclopedia every month. Roughly half of our readers are in education (students and teachers) and the other half is the general public.

Is World History Encyclopedia reliable?

Yes. Every submission is written by a single scholar and carefully reviewed by World History Encyclopedia's editorial team for accuracy as well as readability, before publication. Articles must be thoroughly sourced and the bibliography must include printed works of leading scholars on the subject. Even though the encyclopedia adheres to highest academic standards, articles must be written for the general public and be easy to read and understand.

World History Encyclopedia has been recommended by many schools and universities (including Oxford University), the School Library Journal, Common Sense Education and the peer-reviewed MERLOT II database. It has won the .eu Web Award for education.

Who funds World History Encyclopedia?

World History Encyclopedia is an independent organization without any significant funding from governments, foundations or trusts. We are funded through advertising on our website, membership subscription fees and generous donations from the public.

Can I use World History Encyclopedia in class?

Yes! Please do. We are a leading open education resource designed to be used in an educational setting. The vast majority of our content is published under a Creative Commons license, allowing you to use and share our content freely, as long as the source is indicated and a backlink is included (in digital publishing). If you are in doubt, check the License section at the bottom of each of our pages.

How can I cite World History Encyclopedia?

Look near the bottom of each of our pages for information on how to cite that page using APA, Chicago and MLA citation styles.

Why do you use CE instead of AD?

We use the Common Era dating system as it is more accurate and therefore the standard in academic publishing. We know that Jesus Christ was born either several years "before Christ" or several years "after Christ", which is why the before Christ / Anno Domini dating system is misleading. The CE system originally referred to "the common era of Christ" and has since been shortened to just "Common Era". If you want to learn more about the subject, we invite you to read our article The Origin & History of the BCE/CE Dating System. Additionally, we are an international organization and work to be inclusive of all cultures and beliefs around the world, including those who do not share the Western dating system.

How can I volunteer?

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds to help us with our mission. If you are knowledgeable about a subject in history, please head to our submissions page to write about it. We are also always looking for help with other things, such as graphic design, translation, narration, marketing and administration. Please email us at [email protected] if you want to get in touch.

How can I read in other languages?

Many articles on the encyclopedia have been translated into other languages. Please head to our translations page and select the language you want to read in. We're also always looking for volunteer translators.

How else can I learn about history?

If reading articles isn't your thing, we also have a fantastic Youtube Channel, audio articles and the Experts on History podcast.

Membership