Today is the Maine National History Day competition, an announcement from Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap's office said today.

This annual competition, held on the University of Maine-Augusta’s campus, is for teachers and students “interested in developing critical thinking skills and an understanding of the past through original research,” a statement from Dunlap’s office said.

Students use primary resources to research a historical topic, then create a project, which can range from research papers, live performances or exhibits, displaying their research.

First Lady Karen Baldacci and Dunlap will speak at the competition, as will National History Day Executive Director Cathy Gorn.

The top two winners in the five contest categories will qualify for the national competition in June, the statement said.