The New York Times for Sunday, April 24, 2011, carries several stories of interest to historians. We draw particular attention to the editorial pages, where two of our colleagues have entered the conversation on the federal budget.

Jill Lepore and Richard White draw on their historical research to offer perspectives on current debates. One criticizes proposed cuts to education and family planning. The other argues against subsidies for high-speed rail. As the year goes on, we hope to see more historians follow their example, and that of William Cronon, and enter the public square.

For more on the federal budget, see Lee White’s report on history programs facing cuts from earlier this month at the National Coalition for History web site.

This post first appeared on AHA Today.