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Abstract
This thesis examines the evolution and relationship between history and historic preservation in the United States. Over the past 150 years, history has broadened in perspective and specialty, interpreting the past and reflecting key efforts of historic preservation. Historiography reveals contemporary responses to past issues and the associated trends that influence historic preservation. While history has determined significance in federal, state and local legislation, the applications of preservation are more varied. Currently, history has a minor role in preservation practice; expressions of the past relate more closely to heritage. Heritage is a conceptual aspect of history based on identity and legacy that guides historic preservation today. This thesis considers historiography as well as historic significance and heritage in current historic preservation practice.