Why History Matters | Karen Cox | TEDxUNCCharlotte

"History is H.O.T. right now," Dr. Karen Cox explains. When looking at recent events, like the Unite the Right rally that took place in August 2017 in Charlottesville, VA, history helps shape our understanding. History can explain the importance that impacts current events and provide meaning beyond facts and dates that influence events today. Karen was born in West Virginia and grew up in Greensboro, NC and is a professor of history at UNC Charlotte. Karen is also an award-winning historian and author, having written three books, in addition to numerous essays and articles on southern history and culture. Karen is a national expert on Confederate monuments and uses her her historical expertise to write on contemporary issues and share her knowledge with the broader public. Karen is a first generation college graduate. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx