Bringing history back in: A network of nursing history in chile has started life

Abstract

Objetive: this article narrates the process of institutionalisation of history as a worthy subject for nursing in Chile. Method: this is a discussion paper that reflects on the characteristics, resources and potential of the network as well as the future agenda to achieve its consolidation. Results: there is an increasing interest in learning history in Chile. Although recent and somewhat disconnected from larger contemporary debates, this initiative can fruitfully contribute to the nursing curriculum in the country. Likewise, the growing interest in social and cultural history becomes apparent, seeking to understand different social realities that inform nursing. Conclusion: the Chilean Network of Nursing History has come to put history forward as a transformative approach for the nursing community. Its short-term contribution to identity-building and professional empowerment can further enlighten the understanding of broader societal processes such as the differentiation of women’s work in the public sphere. It is important to strengthen its institutionalization in academe and connect research topics with local, national and global histories as well as history collaborations elsewhere, so as to develop agendas, epistemic communities and methods. Nonetheless, this process is marking a turning point in nursing discourses and scholarship in the country.