This article draws attention to the keyword "New Historicism" through its evolution from its antecedent "Historicism." Using the OED definition of both as a starting point, this article explains the development of New Historicism as an interpretive strategy in the study of history and literature. In keeping with the "keywords" mandate to examine conflicting and contested terms, I cite both Stephen Greenblatt's initial development of new historicism as an interpretive strategy and the subsequent critiques. In citing examples from popular culture and aspects of Canadian history, I demonstrate the utility of New Historicism and explain how it is distinct from historicism.