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To begin your search, go to the alphabetical index below and click on the first letter of the word you are searching for.

historic, historical

The adjective historic should be reserved for people and things that are important, famous or memorable in history.

  • The historic Fortress of Louisbourg in Nova Scotia is a popular tourist attraction.

Historical means simply “in history,” “related to history” or “actually existing or occurring in the past.”

  • The movie Grey Owl was based in part on historical events.

In writing, use the indefinite article a before historic and historical. (In speech, the use of the article an is acceptable.)

  • July 1, 1867, was a historic day for Canada.
  • Robin Hood was a historical figure who became a legend worldwide.