Purpose: The aim of this research is to provide information about the lives and activities of Lucy Maynard Salmon (1853-1927),the history educator of America and Abdurrahman Şeref Efendi (1853-1925), the history educator and politician of the OttomanEmpire, who lived in the same periods, and to compare the understanding of history education in the light of the American and Turkish social structure of the period. Methodology: In this study, which used the document review technique from qualitative research methods, books and articleswritten by scientists, as well as books, articles and dissertations written about them, were interpreted by subjecting them todescriptive analysis. Findings: It is expected that two scientists who grew up and received education in two different societies will also differ in theirunderstanding of history and education. Although there are differences in the educational understandings of the twointellectuals who are light in the societies in which they live, they have something in common in terms of bringing manyinnovations to the understanding of history of the society in which they live. Salmon develops students critical thinking and creativity skills through extracurricular practices, exams and assignments, while Şeref improves their professional competenceby having graduate students teach courses at school. Highlights: Although Şeref's understanding of education is more traditional than Salmon's, it can be considered innovativecompared to the Ottoman education system of the period. They both tried to break down the taboos in the field of educationthat society had created over time, brought innovations to history education with their practices and thoughts, and laid thefoundation for today's understanding of social studies and history education. The success of both scientists in the field ofeducation led them to serve in different fields. Salmon worked as a manager in non-governmental organizations andassociations, while Şeref served as a minister and deputy in the political field.