While Makela studied in the design program at Cranbook, he used a digital process to create Dead History as opposed to Phototypesetting.

With his computer, he combined elements of both the VAG Rounded and Bell Centennial to create Dead History.

In 2011, The Museum of Modern Art in New York added Dead History to its architecture and design collection.

Dead history aided in paving the way for other dual typefaces and more creative approaches to the design of type.

This typeface is most often associated with postmodern ideals from the time by shifting from the idea of clear and simple to expressive and intense forms.