Being present: Witnessing landmark historical events boosts meaning in life.

= 1,945), we found that witnessing history contributes to or increases the presence of and search for meaning. Further, connectedness to history mediates the effect of witnessing history on the presence of meaning and a broadened perspective mediates its effect on the search for meaning. Our research provides a novel insight into how situating individuals within the ongoing process of history can benefit their meaningful existence and highlights the importance of cultivating a historical awareness and preserving historical heritage. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).