This paper contends that the debate over multiculturalism in the university is best understood from a broadened historical perspective. The experiences of educational reformers in Germany and the impact of fascism and communism are explored. Based on a historical approach to the multiculturalism debate, three areas of particular concern are identified: the first is a struggle about access and who belongs to the profession; the second is a conflict about the canon that revolves around what the profession does; and third is a clash about advocacy that involves how the profession relates to politics. In the debate over access to the university, the Central European record suggests broadening opportunities without restricting outcomes. In curricular questions, the German evidence points to widening the scope without mandating new orthodoxies. In politics, the Nazi and Stalinist experiences indicate that commitment needs to be tempered by professional restraint. The paper concludes with thoughts about the kind of profession for which historians might strive. (DB)