John Beeler will lecture Wednesday on “Why History Matters” at the annual Last Lecture event. The lecture will be held in 159 Russell Hall at 7 p.m. The Last Lecture Series features a different UA faculty member each year, nominated by students to answer the question, “If this were your last time to address a group of students, what would you say to them?” Beeler is a professor of history and teaches classes that range from the History of British Pop Culture to Western Civilization. 

“I will be emphasizing how essential an accurate understanding of the past is in trying to make sense of the world today and how vital it is to informing us as we contemplate the challenges of the future,” Beeler said. “History is also the antidote to myths or fables about the past, many of which continue to resonate today.” 

Katherine Ott, a junior majoring in history from Prattville, Alabama, nominated Beeler. Each year honorees receive a cash prize, and there will be a reception for Beeler following the event.

Compiled by Rachel Brown