colorado history research paper topics

• Account Login
• Get a Library Account
• Checkout, Renew & Return
• Update My Account
• Text Message Notifications
• Full Catalog
• Local History Search
• Find a Great Read
• Article Databases
• Staff Picks
• eMagazines & News
• OverDrive for Kids
• OverDrive Digital Magazines
• Kanopy Streaming
• Kanopy for Kids
• New York Times Digital
• BoulderReads Literacy
• Continuing Education
• Teach yourself Tech
• ESL & Citizenship
• BVSD Student 1 Portal
• Career Online High School
• Creativebug
• Gale Courses
• Homework Help Now
• Online Job Coaching
• BLDG 61 Makerspace
• Classes & Activities
• Performances & Presentations
• One Book One Boulder
• Seed to Table
• Full Calendar
• Summer of Discovery
• Exhibitions
• Meeting & Study Rooms
• Canyon Theater
• BLDG 61: Makerspace
• Teen Spaces
• Book a Bike
• Class Visits
• Community Groups
• Computers, Internet & Printing
• Educator Resources
• Kids & Family
• Paper & Spine Used Bookstore
• Scanning & Copying
• Ask a Librarian
• Community Help Guide
• Culture Pass
• Tech Help/Apoyo Técnico Personalizado
• Home Delivery Program
• Interlibrary Loan
• Local History and Genealogy Research
• Suggest a Purchase
• National History Day
• Primary Sources & Local History
• Getting Started--Background Sources
• Citation & Bibliography
• Process Paper & Thesis
• Teacher Resources
• Research Open House

Colorado History

• Colorado Topic List Compiled by library staff for Colorado specific topics
• Carnegie Library for Local History This library hosts a wealth of archives including the complete archives of the Boulder Daily Camera on microfilm, and local history such as Rocky Flats. Contact them at 303-441-3110

• Rocky Mountain Online Archive The Rocky Mountain Online Archive (RMOA) is a source of information about archival collections in Colorado, New Mexico and Wyoming.
• Museum of Boulder Provides resources that teachers and students need to integrate local topics into NHD projects. Local topics will open doors to primary source documents and experts to interview. They also do period costume rentals.
• Maria Rogers Oral History Project Boulder A collection of audio and video interviews with long-time residents and other people knowledgeable about the history of the city and county of Boulder.
• History Colorado
• History Resources from Colorado State Library
• Colorado Chautauqua
• Colorado Encyclopedia
• Western History Subject Index The best way to search for individual newspaper articles that DPL Western History has on microfilm.
• Digital Collections at Denver PL Western History This contains all types of digitized materials including historical maps, photographs, artwork, and the like.
• Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library. Index to biographies in this Research Library.

Help with citing and analyzing

• Primary Source Analysis Tool
• Citing Primary Sources Library of Congress tips for MLA and Chicago citations.
• Reading Primary Sources
• Document Analysis Worksheet

Primary Source Portals related to theme

Google Book & Magazine Search

  What is it? : Digital copies of books and magazines.

Why use it? : Older magazines such as Time and Life for advertisements. Rare or out of copyright books can be searched at the text level.

Advertisements-Finding Aids

• Ad*Access from Duke University
• Search LIFE magazine for IMAGES only
• Search LIFE magazine for articles Be sure to select SEARCH ALL ISSUES to find articles from your keywords.

eBook Collections

Newspaper, Magazine & Image Historical Archives

Statistical Information

• Historical Statistics of the US 1789-1945
• Historical Statistics of the US Colonial Times to 1970

Primary Sources Specific Topics

These organizations provide the best information about Primary Sources:

• Children & Youth in History
• Women in History
• NHC America in Class Primary Sources The National Humanities Center presents America in Class®: primary and secondary resources, webinars, and lessons for history and literature teachers.

Research Rendezvous

Missed the live Mastering your Thesis event?  Watch the recording here, as Kayla Gabehart shows you how to form and revise your thesis. FAQs at the end answer students' questions about NHD in Colorado.

More information from  National History Day in Colorado

• << Previous: Getting Started--Background Sources
• Next: Citation & Bibliography >>
• Last Updated: Dec 7, 2023 1:07 PM
• URL: https://research.boulderlibrary.org/history

*History Research

• Getting started

Resources for history research

Background information, books and ebooks, primary sources, scholarly articles.

• Guide to primary sources This link opens in a new window
• Guide to government documents This link opens in a new window
• Poster presentations This link opens in a new window
• Research tips & tricks This link opens in a new window
• Ask for help

History books and papers are all about interpretation of primary sources. You pick a historical event or trend, and then examine the evidence of the time—newspapers, manuscripts, photographs, letters and diaries, official records, and artifacts. Your writing is an argument on how to interpret this evidence, and part of an ongoing conversation with other historians about whether your interpretation (and theirs) are correct. 

To write a history paper, you'll need to consult books , primary sources , and scholarly articles to show that you've examined the evidence, read other historians' interpretations, and that you have something new to add. You may choose to argue for a different interpretation, or present compelling new evidence that strengthens an existing argument. 

• Primary, Secondary, & Tertiary Sources This video outlines the differences among primary, secondary, and tertiary sources while seeing examples for each type of resource. Created by Suffolk County Community College Library.

Before you begin searching for articles or books on your topic, you need to identify the right keywords. Consider:

• WHO are the people? Look for specific names.
• WHERE did the events take place? Look for place names like towns, regions, or landmarks.
• WHEN did the events take place? Not just the year in which it took place, but the name of that era (e.g., Regency era).
• WHAT was the event called when it happened? WHAT is it called now? (e.g., "The Great War" vs. "World War I")

Make a list of the key names and phrases that describe your topic so you can refer back to it when searching.

Get started in one of these databases:

• Credo Reference This link opens in a new window General reference books covering a broad range of topics.
• U.S. History in Context This link opens in a new window Contextual information on hundreds of the most significant people, events and topics in U.S. History, including primary source documents.
• World History in Context This link opens in a new window Contextual information on hundreds of the most significant people, events, and topics in world history.

Books are in-depth, subject-specific writing about a particular time period, event, person, or phenomenon. They combine background information with analysis of primary and secondary sources. In short, they are a very valuable resource for history papers.

The CSU-Pueblo Library owns thousands of history books and ebooks. But if we don't have what you're looking for, you may be able to request it from another library. 

• SuperSearch This link opens in a new window Find books and ebooks on your topic here at CSU-Pueblo, or request books from CSU-Ft. Collins.
• Prospector Regional Catalog This link opens in a new window 20 million+ books, journals, DVDs, CDs, videos and other materials from libraries in and around Colorado. Materials can be requested and delivered to the CSU-Pueblo library.
• WorldCat This link opens in a new window Can't find the book you're looking for in SuperSearch or Prospector? Search and borrow books from more than 10,000 participating libraries in WorldCat.

Primary sources can be accessed in one of two ways: library databases and archives . Large publishing companies collect digitized primary sources and sell them as databases to libraries—the CSU-Pueblo Library subscribes to more than 20 of these. Archives are privately held collections, often at universities and museums. Many archives have digitized their collections and made them freely available online.

• Guide to primary sources A comprehensive guide to both library databases and useful public archives of primary sources.
• Guide to Government Documents A comprehensive guide to finding and using government documents. Browse by research area to find the most relevant agencies and publications.

Scholarly articles, unlike books, are very narrowly focused. They do not provide much background information or a comprehensive picture of an issue or event. Historians working on a single project will produce several articles as they go along. Therefore they are very useful for understanding how historians examine evidence, formulate theories, and draw conclusions.

One of the most useful elements of a scholarly article is its list of references . This shows you where to find the primary and secondary sources the historian used.

• U.S. History Collection This link opens in a new window Scholarly articles covering events and people in U.S. history.
• World History Collection This link opens in a new window Scholarly articles covering events and people in world history.
• Find more scholarly articles in history
• << Previous: Getting started
• Next: Guide to primary sources >>
• Last Updated: Feb 12, 2024 12:36 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.csupueblo.edu/history

Primary Sources

• What is a Primary Source?
• Ancient History
• Europe and the Middle Ages
• Latin America and The Caribbean
• Slavery and Abolition
• World War I and II

Colorado History

• Research Tips
• Citations Guide This link opens in a new window
• History Colorado History Colorado, the official historical society of the state of Colorado. The Stephen H. Hart Library at History Colorado is free and open to the public. You can make an appointment 303-866-2305 with a librarian at History Colorado to explore original documents and objects related to Latino history.
• Plains to Peaks Collective Libraries, archives, and museums in Colorado and Wyoming all hold pieces of our rich cultural history. This online collection brings together these unique objects and their stories, allowing visitors to freely explore photographs, manuscripts, books, audio recordings, artifacts, and videos found at a variety of cultural heritage institutions in both states.
• Denver Public Library Western History & Genealogy Department The Department has documents, photographs, and other primary source materials. You can call 720-865-1821 to make an appointment with a librarian for research help.
• Colorado State Archives: History A collection of primary resources from the Colorado State Archives including documents, records, and photos.
• Library of Congress Resources for Colorado The Library of Congress online collection of Colorado primary resources.
• Colorado Coal Field War Project Primary sources on the history of the Southern Colorado Coal Field.
• Plains to Peaks Historic Newspapers The Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection and the Wyoming Newspaper collections. Together, these collections currently include 835+ newspapers published in Colorado and Wyoming from 1849 to 2020.
• << Previous: World War I and II
• Next: Research Tips >>
• Last Updated: Apr 25, 2024 12:03 PM
• URL: https://cccs.libguides.com/accprimarysources

• Portal History

Recommended Primary Source Databases

• Getting Started
• 20th & 21st Century
• 19th Century
• Pre-19th Century
• Adam Matthew Explorer (Adam Matthew)
• Gale Primary Sources
• History Vault
• ProQuest News and Newspapers
• NewspaperArchive
• Newspaper Source Plus (EBSCO)
• African-American Biographical Database (ProQuest)
• American Memory
• American West (Adam Matthew)
• AP Newsroom (EBSCO)
• Alexander Street (Alexander Street)
• British Periodicals Collection (ProQuest)
• Colorado Historic Newspaper Collection
• Country Life Archive (ProQuest)
• Digital National Security Archive (DNSA) (ProQuest)
• Digital Public Library of America
• Documents on British Policy Overseas (ProQuest)
• Global Commodities: Trade, Exploration and Cultural Exchange (Adam Matthew)
• Hein Online
• Historical Statistics of the United States
• Index to Early American Periodicals
• International Historical Statistics
• John Johnson Collection (C19)
• Military Database (ProQuest)
• New York Times (ProQuest)
• Oxford African American Studies Center
• Periodicals Index Online (ProQuest)
• ProQuest Congressional Legislative & Executive Publications
• ProQuest Historical Newspapers
• Proquest Indian Claims Insight
• Readers' Guide (EBSCO)
• New Mexico Archives Online
• Trench Journals and Unit Magazines of the First World War (ProQuest)
• U.K. Parliamentary Papers
• African American Newspapers (Accessible Archives)
• America's Historical Newspapers (Readex)
• American Periodicals (ProQuest)
• American State Papers
• Archive Finder (including ArchivesUSA and NIDS UK/Ireland) (ProQuest)
• Black Abolitionist Papers (ProQuest)
• C19: Nineteenth Century Index (ProQuest)
• Early American Imprints, Series II: Shaw-Shoemaker, 1801-1819
• Everyday Life and Women in America Online, c.1820-1900 (Adam Matthew)
• Making of America (Michigan)
• Making of America Journals (Cornell)
• ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Civil War Era
• Poole's Index to Periodical Literature (C19)
• Queen Victoria's Journals (C19)
• Acta Sanctorum (ProQuest)
• Colonial State Papers (ProQuest)
• Early American Imprints, Series I: Evans, 1639-1800
• North American Women's Letters and Diaries (Alexander Street)
• Papers of the War Department, 1784-1800

Recommended Secondary Source Databases

• North America
• Other World Areas
• Dictionaries, Encyclopedias, Biographies
• America: History & Life with Full Text (EBSCO)
• American National Biography Online
• Arts & Humanities Citation Index (Web of Science)
• Bibliography of Indigenous Peoples in North America (EBSCO)
• Humanities Full Text (EBSCO)
• Women's Studies International (EBSCO)
• WorldCat (OCLC FirstSearch)
• ABSEEES Online (EBSCO)
• L'Année Philologique
• Bibliography of British and Irish History
• Dictionary of Irish Biography
• Historical Abstracts with Full Text (EBSCO)
• Iter: Gateway to the Middle Ages and Renaissance
• Brepolis Medieval & Early Modern Bibliographies
• Medieval Studies (Oxford Bibliographies Online)
• Asia-Studies Humanities
• Bibliography of Asian Studies (BAS) (EBSCO)
• Hispanic-American Periodicals Index (HAPI)
• HLAS Online: Handbook of Latin American Studies
• Middle Eastern & Central Asian Studies (EBSCO)
• Chicago Manual of Style Online
• Dictionary of American Regional English (DARE)
• Encyclopaedia Britannica Online
• Gale eBooks
• Historical Thesaurus of the OED
• Oxford Bibliographies Online
• Oxford Dictionary of National Biography
• Oxford English Dictionary (OED)
• Oxford Language Dictionaries Online
• Oxford Reference Online
• Reference Universe
• Subject Guides
• Course Guides

Norlin Library

Location Hours 303-492-8705 [email protected]

 History Class​ (Photo by Casey A. Cass/University of Colorado)

• University of Colorado Boulder Libraries
• Research Guides
• Site: Research By Subject
• Last Updated: Apr 25, 2024 11:07 AM
• URL: https://libguides.colorado.edu/portal/history

Best History Research Paper Topics

Dive into the world of historical scholarship with our comprehensive guide to the best history research paper topics . Primarily designed for students tasked with writing history research papers, this guide presents a curated list of 100 exceptional topics, divided into 10 distinct categories, each with a unique historical focus. The guide offers clear and practical advice on how to choose the most compelling history research paper topics, and provides 10 handy tips on crafting an outstanding research paper. In addition to academic guidance, the guide introduces the superior writing services of iResearchNet, a reliable option for students needing customized history research papers.

Comprehensive List of Best History Research Paper Topics

The following comprehensive list of the best history research paper topics is crafted to stimulate your curiosity and ignite your passion for historical study. These topics cover a range of historical periods and geographical locations to cater to the diverse interests of history students.

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

Ancient History Topics

• The Causes and Effects of the Fall of the Roman Empire
• Daily Life in Ancient Egypt
• The Influence of Alexander the Great’s Conquests on the Hellenistic World
• The Role of Women in Spartan Society
• The Construction and Significance of the Great Wall of China
• The Impact of Confucianism on Ancient Chinese Society
• Trade Routes and their Role in the Expansion of Ancient Civilizations
• The Cultural and Political Influence of the Phoenician Civilization
• Comparing Democracy in Ancient Greece to Modern Democracy
• The Religious Practices and Beliefs of the Mayans

Medieval History Topics

• The Role of the Catholic Church in Medieval Europe
• The Impact of the Black Death on Medieval Society
• The Cultural Significance of the Knights Templar
• Gender Roles and Family Structure in Medieval Japan
• The Causes and Consequences of the Hundred Years War
• The Political Structure of the Byzantine Empire
• The Influence of the Carolingian Renaissance on Europe
• The Role of Vikings in European Trade and Exploration
• The Crusades: Causes, Events, and Consequences
• The Architecture and Symbolism of Gothic Cathedrals

Early Modern History Topics

• The Causes and Effects of the Protestant Reformation
• The Role of the Enlightenment in the French Revolution
• The Impact of the Scientific Revolution on European Society
• The Socioeconomic Consequences of the Industrial Revolution
• The Influence of the Ottoman Empire on Southeast Europe
• The Role of Slavery in the Colonial Economies
• The Politics and Culture of the Renaissance in Italy
• European Imperialism in Africa and Asia
• The Cultural and Political Impacts of the Mughal Empire
• The American Revolution: Causes, Events, and Legacy

Modern History Topics

• The Causes and Global Consequences of World War I
• The Great Depression: Causes and Effects
• The Role of Propaganda in World War II
• The Impact of the Cold War on International Relations
• The Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall and the End of the Cold War
• The Effects of Decolonization in the 20th Century
• The Role of Women in the World Wars
• The Formation and Impact of the European Union
• The Causes and Consequences of the Arab Spring

Asian History Topics

• The Cultural Impact of the Silk Road in Asia
• The Effects of Colonial Rule in India
• The Legacy of the Mongol Empire in Asia
• The Cultural and Political Changes in China’s Cultural Revolution
• The Korean War: Causes, Events, and Consequences
• The Role of Samurai in Feudal Japan
• The Impact of the Opium Wars on China
• The Influence of Buddhism on Asian Cultures
• The Cambodian Genocide under the Khmer Rouge
• The Role of Gandhi in India’s Independence

American History Topics

• The Impact of the New Deal on the American Economy
• The Vietnam War: Causes, Events, and Legacy
• The Influence of the Beat Generation on American Culture
• The Role of Manifest Destiny in Westward Expansion
• The Cuban Missile Crisis and Its Effects on the Cold War
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement in the United States
• The Native American Civil Rights Movement
• The Role of the Transcontinental Railroad in American Expansion
• The Civil War: Causes, Events, and Aftermath
• The Immigration Wave at Ellis Island: Causes and Effects

European History Topics

• The Impacts of the Russian Revolution
• The Influence of Martin Luther’s Theses on Europe
• The British Empire: Rise, Dominance, and Fall
• The Role of Art in the French Revolution
• The Impact of the Spanish Inquisition on Spain and its Colonies
• The Rise and Influence of Fascism in Europe
• The Role of the Catholic Church in the Middle Ages
• The Consequences of the Treaty of Versailles
• The Formation and Impact of NATO
• The Role of the Media in the Fall of the Berlin Wall

African History Topics

• The Effects of Apartheid in South Africa
• The Influence of the Trans-Saharan Trade on West African Societies
• The Role of Nelson Mandela in Ending Apartheid
• The Scramble for Africa and its Effects on the Continent
• The Impact of the Atlantic Slave Trade on West Africa
• The Rwandan Genocide: Causes and Consequences
• The Role of the African Union in Continental Politics
• The Impact of Islam on North Africa
• The Decolonization of Africa in the 20th Century
• The Role of Women in Pre-Colonial African Societies

Military History Topics

• The Influence of Technological Innovations on Warfare
• The Role of the French Foreign Legion in Global Conflicts
• The Impact of the Manhattan Project on World War II and Beyond
• The Role of the Spartans in Ancient Greek Warfare
• The Impact of Drones on Modern Warfare
• The Influence of the English Longbow on Medieval Warfare
• The Role of the Maginot Line in World War II
• The Impact of Naval Power on the British Empire
• The Influence of Nuclear Weapons on International Politics
• The Role of Propaganda in World War I

This expansive list of best history research paper topics offers a comprehensive exploration of the past, crossing different eras, regions, and themes. They form a rich tapestry of human experience and a foundation for understanding our present and future. Choose a topic that piques your interest, ignites your curiosity, and promises a journey of intellectual discovery. Remember that the exploration of history is a journey into the roots of our shared humanity and an exploration of the forces that shape our world.

History and What Range of Best Research Paper Topics it Offers

As a subject of study, history is more than a chronological list of events, dates, and prominent figures. History is the exploration of human experiences, societal changes, political upheavals, cultural transformations, economic shifts, and technological advancements across different periods and regions. This exploration allows us to understand how the past has shaped our present and how it can potentially shape our future. It teaches us to appreciate the complexities and nuances of human nature and society, making history a rich field for research paper topics.

History is an interdisciplinary field, interweaving elements from various areas of study, including politics, sociology, economics, anthropology, geography, and literature. This interdisciplinary nature provides a wide array of best history research paper topics. Moreover, the global scope of history further broadens the pool of topics, as it encompasses every region of the world and every period from the dawn of human civilization to the present day.

Exploring Different Periods

Historical research often focuses on specific periods, each offering unique topics for exploration. For instance, Ancient History provides topics related to ancient civilizations like Rome, Greece, Egypt, China, and India, and key events such as Alexander the Great’s conquests or the fall of the Roman Empire.

The Medieval Period offers topics related to the socio-political structure of societies, the influence of religion, the impact of plagues, and the role of significant historical figures. Researching the Renaissance can focus on cultural, artistic, and scientific revolutions that have shaped the modern world.

The Modern History category contains topics related to significant events and transformations, such as world wars, the Great Depression, the Cold War, decolonization, and various national and international movements.

Geographical Perspectives

Geographical focus is another common approach in historical research. Asian history encompasses topics ranging from the influence of Confucianism in China to the impact of colonial rule in India. European history explores events such as the Enlightenment, the French and Russian revolutions, and the formation of the European Union. American history topics can cover everything from Manifest Destiny to the Civil Rights Movement. African history can delve into the effects of the Atlantic Slave Trade, the apartheid era, and decolonization.

Thematic Approaches

In addition to period- and region-based topics, history offers an extensive range of thematic topics. These themes often intersect with other disciplines, leading to exciting interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Social and cultural history, for instance, covers diverse topics such as the influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African American culture, the counterculture movement of the 1960s, the role of film and television in shaping societies, or the impacts of the Internet on global culture.

Military history provides a wide range of topics related to warfare, strategy, technological developments, and the influence of military conflicts on societies and politics. From the use of the English longbow in medieval warfare to the impact of drones on modern warfare, this field offers a variety of fascinating topics.

Making the Right Choice

The choice of a research paper topic in history should ideally be guided by your interest, the available resources, and the requirements of your assignment. With such a wide range of topics, it can be challenging to make a choice. But remember, a good history research paper topic is not just about the past; it should also engage with the present and potentially shed light on the future. The best research paper topics are those that not only delve deep into the annals of history but also resonate with current issues and debates.

The study of history is a gateway into the vast narrative of human civilization. With an extensive range of periods, regions, and themes to choose from, history offers a rich reservoir of research paper topics. As we delve into the past, we discover the forces that have shaped our world, gain insights into the human experience, and glean lessons for our future. This journey of exploration makes history an incredibly exciting field for research papers.

How to Choose Best History Research Paper Topics

Choosing the best history research paper topic can be the first step towards a rewarding intellectual journey. It’s not just about meeting academic requirements; it’s about uncovering facets of the past that intrigue you and may potentially contribute to the broader understanding of history. Here are twenty in-depth tips that will guide you through the process and help you select the best topic for your history research paper.

• Understand the Assignment: Understanding your assignment’s requirements is the primary and most critical step in selecting a topic. Take time to carefully read the guidelines given by your instructor. Are there any specific historical periods, geographical regions, or themes you are required to focus on? Do the instructions indicate the scope or complexity level of the topic? Comprehending the parameters set by your instructor will significantly narrow down your options.
• Choose a Time Period: One way to approach the topic selection is by focusing on a particular time period that sparks your interest. It could be anything from the Bronze Age, to the Renaissance, to World War II. The more interested you are in the chosen time period, the more engaged you will be in the research process.
• Pick a Region: Similar to choosing a time period, selecting a particular region or country can also help narrow down potential topics. Are you fascinated by the history of East Asia, intrigued by ancient Egypt, or drawn to the socio-political history of Europe? Starting with a geographic focus can provide a strong foundation for your research.
• Identify a Theme: In addition to or instead of a time period or region, you might want to choose a theme that you wish to explore. Themes can range from political history, cultural history, history of science and technology, to gender history, among others. A thematic approach can offer a unique perspective and can even allow you to cross over different time periods or regions.
• Conduct Preliminary Research: Even before you have a firm topic in hand, engage in some preliminary research. This could involve reviewing textbooks, scholarly articles, or reputable online resources related to your chosen period, region, or theme. Preliminary research can give you a general sense of the historical context and inspire potential topics.
• Seek Inspiration from Existing Works: As part of your preliminary research, look at other research papers, theses, or dissertations in your area of interest. This can give you a good idea of what has been done, what gaps exist in the research, and where your research could potentially fit in.
• Scope Your Topic: The scope of your topic should be proportionate to the length and depth of your paper. If your paper is relatively short, a narrow, focused topic would be more suitable. For a longer and more complex paper, a broader topic that explores multiple facets or perspectives would be more appropriate.
• Consider the Relevance: Another aspect to consider when selecting a topic is its relevance. Does the topic have any relation to the course you are undertaking? Does it reflect on current historical or social debates? A topic that connects your historical research to broader academic or social issues can make your paper more impactful and engaging.
• Look for Unique Angles: While not every research paper can revolutionize the field, striving for some degree of originality in your work is always a good practice. Look for unique angles, underexplored areas, or new perspectives on a well-trodden topic. Presenting a fresh approach can make your paper more interesting for both you and your readers.
• Assess the Availability of Sources: Your research paper is only as good as your sources. Before finalizing your topic, make sure there are enough primary and secondary sources available to you. This could be in the form of books, academic articles, documentary films, archives, databases, or digital resources.
• Evaluate the Feasibility: Beyond the availability of sources, consider other practical aspects of your chosen topic. Is it feasible to conduct the research within the given time frame? Is the topic too complex or too simplistic for your current academic level? A realistic evaluation of these factors at an early stage can save you a lot of time and effort down the line.
• Reflect on Your Interests: Above all, select a topic that genuinely piques your curiosity. A research paper is a significant undertaking, and your interest in the topic will sustain you through potential challenges. If you are passionate about the topic, it will reflect in your writing and make your paper more compelling.
• Solicit Feedback: Seek advice from your instructor, classmates, or any other knowledgeable individuals. They may be able to provide valuable feedback, point out potential pitfalls, or suggest different perspectives that can enrich your research.
• Be Flexible: Be prepared to tweak, adjust, or even overhaul your topic as you delve deeper into the research process. New information or insights may emerge that shift your focus or challenge your initial assumptions.
• Bridge the Past and Present: Try to find topics that allow you to connect historical events or phenomena with contemporary issues. This can provide additional depth to your paper and may also appeal to a broader audience.
• Consult Specialized Encyclopedias and Guides: These can provide overviews of various topics and can often suggest areas for research. They also offer bibliographies which can serve as a starting point for your research.
• Draft a Preliminary Thesis Statement: Once you have a potential topic, try drafting a preliminary thesis statement. This can help you focus your ideas and give you a clear direction for your research.
• Ensure Your Topic Meets the Assignment Goals: Check back with your assignment guidelines to make sure your chosen topic meets all the requirements. It’s a good idea to do this before you start your in-depth research.
• Be Ready to Invest Time and Effort: Choose a topic that you are ready to spend time on. Remember, you will be working on this topic for an extended period, so choose something that you find interesting and engaging.
• Enjoy the Process: Finally, remember that the process of researching and writing a history paper can be a source of enjoyment and intellectual satisfaction. Choose a topic that not only meets academic requirements but also gives you a sense of accomplishment and discovery.

Choosing the best history research paper topic is not merely about fulfilling an academic requirement. It’s about setting the stage for a journey into the past, an exploration of humanity’s collective memory. The right topic will not only make this journey enjoyable but also deeply enlightening. By considering these tips, you can select a topic that resonates with you and holds the potential for a meaningful scholarly contribution.

How to Write a Best History Research Paper

Writing a history research paper can be a rewarding experience, providing an opportunity to delve into the past and explore the events, ideas, and personalities that have shaped our world. However, crafting a high-quality paper requires more than just an interest in the subject matter. It involves thorough research, analytical thinking, and clear, persuasive writing. Here are twenty comprehensive tips on how to write a best history research paper.

• Understand the Assignment: Begin by thoroughly understanding the assignment. Ensure you grasp the requirements, the scope of the paper, the format, and the deadline. Clear any doubts with your professor or peers before you start.
• Select a Suitable Topic: As discussed earlier, choosing an appropriate topic is crucial. It should be engaging, manageable, and meet the assignment’s requirements. Consider your interests, the available resources, and the paper’s scope when choosing the topic.
• Conduct In-Depth Research: Once the topic is decided, embark on thorough research. Use a variety of sources, such as books, academic journals, credible online sources, primary sources, and documentaries. Remember to take notes and record the sources for citation purposes.
• Formulate a Thesis Statement: The thesis statement is the central argument or point of your paper. It should be clear, concise, and debatable, providing a roadmap for your entire paper. The thesis statement should guide your research and each main point you make in your paper should support this central idea.
• Create an Outline: An outline helps organize your thoughts and arguments. Typically, it should include an introduction (with the thesis statement), body paragraphs (with topic sentences), and a conclusion. Each point in your outline should be a reflection of your thesis statement.
• Start with a Strong Introduction: The introduction should be engaging, provide some background on the topic, and include the thesis statement. It sets the tone for the rest of your paper, so make it compelling and informative.
• Develop Body Paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea that supports your thesis. Begin with a topic sentence, provide evidence or arguments, and then conclude the paragraph by linking it back to your thesis. Be clear and concise in your arguments.
• Use Evidence Effectively: Support your arguments with evidence from your research. This could include quotations, statistics, or primary source materials. Remember to interpret the evidence and explain its relevance to your argument.
• Maintain a Logical Flow: The ideas in your paper should flow logically from one point to the next. Use transitional words and phrases to maintain continuity and help guide your reader through your paper.
• Write a Compelling Conclusion: Your conclusion should sum up your main points, restate the thesis in light of the evidence provided, and possibly offer areas for further research or a concluding insight. It should leave the reader with something to think about.
• Cite Your Sources: Always cite your sources properly. This not only gives credit where it’s due but also strengthens your argument by indicating the breadth of your research. Ensure you follow the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
• Revise for Clarity and Coherence: After finishing your initial draft, revise your work. Check for clarity, coherence, and consistency of argument. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus, and that the paragraphs flow smoothly from one idea to the next.
• Proofread: Proofread your paper for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Such errors can distract from the content and undermine your credibility as a writer. Reading your paper aloud or having someone else read it can help catch errors you might have missed.
• Seek Feedback: Before finalizing your paper, consider seeking feedback from your professor, peers, or a writing center tutor. They can provide valuable perspectives and suggestions for improvement that you might not have considered.
• Write in a Formal Academic Style: Your paper should be written in a formal academic style. Avoid slang, colloquialisms, and overly complex language. Be clear, concise, and precise in your expression.
• Avoid Plagiarism: Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. Ensure that all ideas and words that are not your own are properly cited. When in doubt, it’s better to over-cite than to under-cite.
• Stay Objective: A good history paper is objective and does not include personal opinions or biases. It relies on facts and evidence, and presents balanced arguments. Stick to the evidence and avoid emotional language.
• Be Original: Strive for originality in your argument and interpretation. While your topic might not be entirely new, your perspective on it can be. Don’t be afraid to challenge established interpretations if you have evidence to support your argument.
• Use Primary Sources Wisely: Primary sources are invaluable in historical research. However, remember that they should be used to support your argument, not to construct it. Your analysis and interpretation of the sources are what matters.
• Enjoy the Process: Finally, remember to enjoy the process. Writing a research paper is not just an academic exercise, but a journey into the past. It’s a chance to learn, explore, and contribute to our understanding of history.

In conclusion, writing a best history research paper requires careful planning, thorough research, clear writing, and detailed revision. However, the process can be highly rewarding, leading to new insights and a deeper understanding of history. These tips provide a comprehensive guide to help you craft a top-notch history research paper. Remember, history is a continually evolving dialogue, and your paper is your chance to join the conversation.

Custom Writing Services

When it comes to academic writing, particularly in the realm of history, the challenges are manifold. Selecting a suitable topic, conducting thorough research, forming persuasive arguments, and structuring your thoughts in a coherent and scholarly manner can often be a daunting task. This is where iResearchNet comes to your aid. As a premier academic writing service, iResearchNet provides students with the opportunity to order a custom history research paper on any topic. The goal is to alleviate your academic stress while ensuring that you meet your educational goals.

Key features of iResearchNet’s services include:

• Expert Degree-Holding Writers: Our team consists of professionals who are not just well-versed in various historical topics, but also have extensive experience in academic writing.
• Custom Written Works: Every paper we deliver is created from scratch, tailored to your specific requirements and instructions, ensuring originality and uniqueness.
• In-Depth Research: Our writers are committed to conducting meticulous and comprehensive research to gather relevant information and provide insightful perspectives for your paper.
• Custom Formatting: Whether your paper requires APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard style, our team is proficient in all these citation formats.
• Top Quality: Quality is not negotiable for us. We strive to provide superior writing services that align with the highest academic standards.
• Customized Solutions: Every student is unique, and so are our solutions. We customize our approach based on your individual needs and the demands of your project.
• Flexible Pricing: We understand the financial constraints students may face, and therefore, we offer a variety of pricing plans to suit different budgets.
• Short Deadlines: We accept orders with deadlines as short as 3 hours, always delivering on time without compromising the quality of work.
• Timely Delivery: We understand the importance of meeting deadlines in academia and ensure timely delivery of all assignments.
• 24/7 Support: Our customer service team is available round the clock to assist you with any queries or issues you may have.
• Absolute Privacy: We maintain strict confidentiality and privacy policies to protect your personal information.
• Easy Order Tracking: With our seamless order tracking system, you can easily monitor the progress of your paper.
• Money Back Guarantee: We offer a money-back guarantee if our work does not meet the agreed-upon standards, giving you peace of mind when using our services.

In conclusion, iResearchNet offers a comprehensive suite of academic writing services designed to support students in their academic journey. From expert writers and custom written works to in-depth research and timely delivery, iResearchNet is equipped to handle any history research paper with excellence and dedication. We believe in delivering high-quality, original, and impactful research papers that can elevate your academic experience and success. So why wait? Avail of iResearchNet’s services today and experience the relief and satisfaction of handing in a top-quality history research paper.

You’re One Step Away From Your Perfect History Research Paper!

Students often find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to writing a history research paper. With so many topics to explore and limited time to do so, this can seem like an insurmountable challenge. But it doesn’t have to be. iResearchNet is here to transform this challenge into a remarkable academic journey.

Imagine handing in a meticulously researched and perfectly structured history research paper, crafted by an expert writer with a deep understanding of your topic. Picture the relief as you submit a top-quality assignment, knowing that you’ve fulfilled all the requirements to the highest standard. And visualize the sense of achievement when you receive the grade you’ve been striving for.

This is more than a possibility – it’s a reality with iResearchNet. Our expert writing services provide a path to academic success that’s both straightforward and stress-free. You can say goodbye to the anxiety of looming deadlines and the stress of achieving the perfect balance in your paper.

Why waste precious time and energy struggling with complex historical data, grappling with the perfect argument, or wrestling with formatting guidelines? Instead, invest in your future with iResearchNet, where we turn your academic challenges into milestones of success.

So, are you ready to excel in your history research paper and make a lasting impression on your professors? Click on the order button, provide your paper details, and let our expert writers do the rest. Success in your history class is just a click away with iResearchNet!

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

Skip to Content

Other ways to search:

• Events Calendar

Paper Guidelines

Descriptive writing vs. an analytic or critical approach.

• Descriptive  writing merely says what happened or what another author has discussed; it provides an account of the topic.
• An  analytic  (or  critical ) approach asks and answers questions, makes comparisons, and presents and defends a thesis or argument. Rather than just stating the facts, this approach explains and interprets them. Why did events take place, what were their consequences, how did they relate to other developments? Why did the authors you read take differing stands? What is your own interpretation of the issues?
• Few assignments in history courses will be simply descriptive. Rather than just summarizing what happened or what you read, you will usually be asked to provide your own analysis of the topic or issue about which you are writing and to argue a thesis or conclusion. Be sure that you understand what each assignment requires, in terms of the balance between description, analysis, and argument.
• You must provide evidence and examples to buttress your analysis and arguments.
• If you encounter material that does not agree with your position, you cannot just ignore it; instead you need to explain why you think that evidence is less important or persuasive.

General Format and Presentation

• The paper’s title, your name, the course number, and the date should appear on a separate first page for long papers and at the top of the first page of text for short papers.
• The  introduction  lays out your topic, states what your particular thesis or argument will be, and tells your reader how the paper will be structured—what points you will consider. You may also need to provide some background or context in the introduction.
• The  middle section  presents your information and develops your analysis and argument.
• The  conclusion  pulls together the main points, reasserts the thesis, and may relate the topic back to wider historical issues
• Number the pages so your instructor can refer to them.
• Depending on the nature of the assignment, your paper may need footnotes (at the bottom of the page) or endnotes (at the back of the paper). It will almost certainly need at the end a bibliography of the works you used for the project. See the  Referencing Guidelines .
• Unless your instructor has given you other instructions, type your papers double-spaced, with margins of standard width (usually 1 inch on the sides and bottom and 1 1/2 inch on the top). Use standard fonts. Professors are fully aware that different fonts may be used to make a paper seem larger or smaller than it really is. Also, exotic fonts may be hard to read and grade.
• Indent the start of each paragraph 5 spaces from the left margin.
• Proofread your paper carefully for spelling and typing mistakes. A sloppy paper distracts attention from what you are saying and makes the reader wonder if your preparation for the paper and your thinking were careless too. If your word-processor has a spell-checker, use it, but remember that it will not catch typos that happen to be words (e.g., “marital” vs. “martial”). Correct any last-minute changes neatly in ink.
• Staple your paper together (not paper clips or folded at one corner).
• Keep a copy of your paper, either on disk or photocopied.
• If your instructor has given any special instructions about the format of the paper, be sure to follow them.

Clarity of Organization and Paragraph Structure

• The body of your paper should be organized into several main sections, each of which deals with a given sub-topic, issue, or question within your general subject. In each section, you will have one or more paragraphs focusing on individual aspects of that topic.
• A paragraph consists of a block of material about a particular subject or about a specific point, one of the issues that contributes to the development of the analysis or argument of the paper.
• Each paragraph should begin with a general topic sentence that indicates what subject the rest of the paragraph will discuss, what issue it will explore, or what point it will make. By reading just the topic sentences of the paper, your reader should be able to get a summary of the subjects you are addressing and the position you are defending.
• If your paragraph talks about several different subjects, it must either be divided up, so you can develop each point separately and effectively in its own paragraph, or be opened by a topic sentence that makes it clear that you want to mention briefly a variety of lesser points.
• The remaining sentences in each paragraph provide more detail or evidence about the main topic. A paragraph should develop the subject or point it is making; hence it normally contains at least three sentences in addition to the topic sentence and may have a concluding sentence as well. (Here formal writing differs from journalistic style, which often uses shorter paragraphs.)
• Between sections you will need a transition or linking statement, indicating that you are moving on to a new topic.
• Each paragraph within a section should also be clearly related to the one before and the one after, creating an even, logical flow. If the link is not readily apparent, you should include a sentence, which describes the transition.

Acknowledging Your Sources (Referencing) and Academic Honesty

• You must acknowledge the sources of all your information and any ideas or interpretations you have taken from other works. These references are usually placed into notes, with a bibliography at the end of the paper that lists all works used. See the  Referencing Guidelines . For more information related to how to cite History papers, the  Chicago Manual of Style website  has specific examples of how to cite sources.
• Plagiarism.  This serious academic offense can take many forms, including using another writer’s phrase without putting it into quotation marks, not giving the source for a quotation, taking information from other works without acknowledgment, presenting other people’s ideas as if they were your own, or submitting a paper that you did not write.
• You may not use a paper you wrote for one course to fill an assignment in another class.

Primary Sources vs. Secondary Works

• A  primary source  is a record left by a person (or group) who participated in or witnessed the events you are studying or who provided a contemporary expression of the ideas or values of the period under examination. Letters, autobiographies, diaries, government documents, minutes of meetings, newspapers, or books written about your topic at that time are examples; non-written sources include interviews, films, photos, recordings of music, and clothing, buildings, or tools from the period.
• Secondary works  are accounts written by people who were not themselves involved in the events or in the original expression of the ideas under study. Written after the events/ideas they describe, they are based upon primary sources and/or other secondary works. Thus, an early 20th-century historian could prepare a secondary study of the American Civil War through her reading of documents from that period, interviews with veterans, examination of weapons, and so on.

Use of Direct Quotations

• When working with  secondary accounts , limit your use of direct quotations. In general, your paper will flow better if you paraphrase the statement, putting it into your own words. Quote only when you wish to call attention to the author’s precise phrasing.
• When using  primary sources , you may want to use a few more direct quotations, to illustrate the mood, language, or “flavor” of your sources. But even here, be sparing. A good rule of thumb is to quote only when you plan to analyze or interpret the passage; otherwise, paraphrase.
• Do not use a direct quotation as the topic sentence of a paragraph.
• Every direct quotation must be put into quotation marks and given its own individual reference, normally in a note.
• An  indirect quotation  is when you present a direct quotation of the words of person A that you found in a book written by author B (that is, author B was himself quoting person A). In such cases, you must give both sources in the reference that accompanies the quotation.
• Quotations of five or more lines need to be indented 5-8 spaces on each side and single spaced. When you use this format, do not use quotation marks (but do still give the reference in a note). Shorter quotations should be typed as part of the regular paragraph.
• Punctuation with quotation marks. When ending a quotation in the text, a final comma or period always precedes the closing quotation marks, whether or not it is part of the quoted matter. Question marks and exclamation marks precede the quotation marks if they are part of the quoted matter but follow the quotation marks if they are part of the entire sentence of which the quotation is a part. Thus: The newspaper reported that “150,000 young people gathered in Denver.” Should we accept its account of “a stupendous congregation”?
• If you leave out words from a quotation, to shorten it or to make it fit into the grammar of your own sentence, indicate the omission by using periods with a space between each one. For gaps in the middle of a sentence, use three periods; for omissions at the end of the sentence, use four periods. E.g., “History can be fantastic . . . .”
• If you insert a word into a quotation, to increase clarity or adjust it to your own presentation, put the insertion into square brackets. E.g.: She commented that “by January . . . [the trees] looked sickly.”

Writing in Formal English

While most of us speak in casual or colloquial English, it is important to learn how to write formal English too. Our normal conversational style differs in many respects from formal written English. Your ability to write effectively will be one of the most critical factors in getting a job or being accepted for further training. Hence it is worth working on your formal writing skills while you are in college.

Common Problems in Writing Mechanics and Style

• Misspelled words: Use dictionary (and/or spelling checker) and correct.
• Typing error(s): Proofread more carefully and correct.
• Contraction: Do not use contractions (e.g., “wasn’t” or “isn’t”) in formal writing.
• Set off every parenthetical phrase (one that could be put into parentheses or removed from the sentence) by a pair of commas, one before and one after it.
• Use a comma after each item in a sequence of three or more items, including the next-to-last. (E.g., “The Velociraptor likes apples, oranges, and pears.”)
• The word marked with a single underline on your paper should start with a lower-case letter, not a capital.
• The word marked with a double-underline should be spelled with a capital letter
• Insert an apostrophe when a noun is used as a possessive. (E.g., “the dog’s ear,” or “the girls’ running shoes.”)
• Do not use an apostrophe for “its” as a possessive. (E.g., “The dog shook its head.”) “It’s” with an apostrophe is a contraction of “it is” and hence should not be used in formal writing.
• Check the phrase marked for an incorrect preposition.
• Reword to avoid a preposition at the end of the sentence. (Wrong: “That is an idea I have never thought about.” Better: “That is an idea I have never considered,” or “I have never thought about that idea.”)
• Dangling participle: Reword to eliminate an opening or closing phrase with no subject or the wrong one. When a sentence starts with a participle, the (understood) subject of the participle must be the same as the first word (subject) of the main clause that follows. (Wrong: “Flying through the trees, John watched the lovely bird.” [This means that John was flying.] Correct usage: “Checking through her notes, Laquita decided to focus on the problem of deforestation.”)
• Adverbs vs. adjectives: Use an adverb, not an adjective, to modify a verb. (Wrong: “Mary plays squash good.” Right: “She plays it well.”)
• Pronoun: Use “who/whom” when referring to people, “that/which” for others.
• Hyphen with century: Insert a hyphen when you use a century term to modify a noun. (E.g., “important to seventeenth-century science.”) If the century term stands alone, do not use a hyphen. (E.g., “in the fifth century.”)
• Wrong word or nonexistent word: Check a dictionary to be sure this word exists and what its meaning is.
• Use the past tense, not the present, for historical descriptions.
• Stay in the same tense throughout a given discussion.
• Subject and verb. (E.g., “He and his dog walk,” not “He and his dog walks.”)
• Noun and pronoun. (Wrong: “The country went to war when an enemy attacked them.” Right: “. . . when an enemy attacked it.”)
• Parallel wording: When using the constructions “both . . . and” or “not only . . . also,” use the same grammatical form after each of those terms. That is, the word or phrase immediately following both terms must be a subject, a verb, or a prepositional phrase. (Wrong: “Naboru likes both dancing and a quiet evening at home.” Right: “Naboru likes both dancing and having a quiet evening at home.”)
• Run-on sentence: Do not join two separate sentences by a comma. To solve this problem, either: (1) add a conjunction (e.g., “and,” “but,” “or”); (2) substitute a semi-colon for the comma; or (3) divide it into two sentences using a period in the middle.
• Incomplete sentence: Reword this phrase so that it becomes a full sentence, with a subject and a main verb.
• Undefined term. Make clear to your reader what exact definition you intend when using this term, which can be used in a variety of different ways.
• Unclear reference. Re-write to indicate to whom or what this word refers. Be especially careful with “this” and “that.”
• Confusing wording. Re-write so as to communicate a clear point to your reader, so that no one can misunderstand you.
• Idea cannot be followed because it is undeveloped. Explain and discuss this point more fully.
• Wordiness. Eliminate unnecessary language; see how briefly you can express this point.
• Awkward phrasing. Re-write to convert this lumpy, uncomfortable wording into a smoother statement.
• Repetitious wording. Vary your wording to add interest, rather than using the same terms or phrases several times within a few paragraphs, as you have done here.
• Passive voice. Re-write to avoid passive wordings, which are often imprecise, wordy, and/or wimpy; further, they seldom say who committed the action. (E.g., “Many orders were issued.”) Use the active voice to achieve a more direct and forceful statement. (E.g., “The Queen Mother of Benin issued many orders.”)
• Indirect opening phrase. Re-word for a more vigorous effect, eliminating roundabout or vague opening phrases like “there is/are/was/were” or “it seems that”.
• Repetition of ideas/information. Do not state the same point twice. Discuss each idea or topic fully in one part of your paper, then move on; delete unnecessary repetition.
• Overly broad generalization. Stick to the evidence you have before you, that you can defend effectively.
• Gender-specific (or sexist) language. In contemporary American usage, we no longer follow the traditional but biased practice of using masculine nouns and pronouns to refer to everyone. Instead, we try to use “gender-neutral” language, finding wordings that are inclusive or introduce both male and female terms. (Biased: “Every student is responsible for his own schedule.” Recast: “Every student is responsible for his or her own schedule,” or, better, “Students are responsible for their own schedules.”)
• For more explanation about writing mechanics and grammar, see Diana Hacker's  A Pocket Style Manual . For help with your style, consult William Strunk and E. B. White's  Elements of Style .
• Major Requirements
• Minor Requirements
• Scholarships & Awards
• Internships
• Independent Study
• Course Auditing
• Internet Tips
• Referencing
• Requesting a Letter of Recommendation
• The Colorado Historian Undergraduate Journal

• Colorado State University Libraries
• Research Guides

Colorado Water History

• Topic Breakdown: Groundwater
• View Online: Colorado Water Films
• Learn More: Carpenter and Compacts
• Virtual Exhibit: Dot Carpenter
• Basin Breakdown: Arkansas River
• Basin Breakdown: Big Thompson River
• Basin Breakdown: Rio Grande
• Topic Breakdown: Drought
• Topic Breakdown: Interstate River Compacts
• Topic Breakdown: 1921 Flood
• Topic Breakdown: 2013 Floods
• Material Breakdown: Oral Histories
• Explore: Other Archives
• Women in Water
• Get Tips: Library Research
• Virtual Exhibit: CSU
• Virtual Exhibit: Ralph Parshall
• Apply: Water Scholar Award

Colorado Groundwater: Topic Breakdown

Though its use was once largely unregulated , groundwater supplies were gradually subsumed under the state's Prior Appropriation Doctrine over the course of the twentieth century. Today, Colorado's over-appropriated surface water resources and rapid population growth have caused water managers to turn their attention to groundwater as a way to meet the state's future water storage and supply needs .

On this page, find information about books and archival collections documenting Colorado groundwater history, along with a list of related organizations.

Photo : Measuring water, undated. From the Groundwater Data Collection.

Colorado Groundwater: Best Books

To get started, see these:

Citizen's Guide to Colorado Groundwater from Water Education Colorado (2020)

Citizen's Guide to Denver Basin Groundwater from Water Education Colorado (2007)

Colorado Groundwater Atlas by Peter Barkmann et al. (2020)

For additional resources, see these:

Colorado Groundwater: Relevant Collections

Papers of Morton W. Bittinger As a civil engineering professor at CSU from 1957 to 1967, Morton W. Bittinger (1927-2001) was in charge of groundwater research. The collection features articles concerning developments in groundwater analysis, management, and technology.

Papers of Ronald K. Blatchley Ronald K. Blatchley (b. 1929) was a water consultant in Colorado from the early 1960s into the 2000s. Consisting mainly of reports from his consulting firms, the collection includes augmentation plans, water rights evaluations, and groundwater studies. Blatchley's clients were mostly located in the Denver metropolitan area and the counties of Park, Teller, Douglas, Jefferson, and Clear Creek.

Records of the Central Colorado Water Conservancy District The Central Colorado Water Conservancy District (CCWCD), established in 1965, aids in the development, management, and protection of water resources within the South Platte Basin of Northeastern Colorado. This collection consists primarily of bound copies of meeting minutes from 1965-1974. Subject areas covered include surface and groundwater quality research, groundwater storage projects, irrigation well development, water rights issues, and water education efforts.

Records of the Colorado Water Resources Research Institute The Colorado Water Resources Research Institute (now the Colorado Water Institute) was created in 1965 on the CSU campus to oversee water research in the state and disseminate information to citizens. The collection includes numerous project files and reports covering groundwater research efforts conducted by the Institute and related entities.

Papers of Harold G. Evans A civil engineer, Harold G. Evans (b. 1944) served on many Colorado water-related committees, largely focused on policy and planning for Greeley Water and Sewer or the South Platte Basin. Evans' papers pertain to this service, largely on the South Platte Basin Roundtable. In 2003 he served on the Owens-Hoppe-Salazar South Platte Committee, which helped draft Senate Bill 73 dealing with agricultural groundwater well augmentation. During Summer 2007, Evans was a member of Governor Bill Ritter’s South Platte River Task Force, charged with making recommendations regarding groundwater well issues. Both are documented in the collection.

Federal Land Bank of Wichita Collection The Federal Land Bank of Wichita was created, along with twelve other banks, by the United States government to provide long-term credit to farmers by the Federal Farm Loan Act of 1916 in response to the unique credit needs of farmers. The collection contains reports and maps on groundwater used to supply irrigated agriculture.

Records of GASP The Groundwater Appropriators of the South Platte River Basin, Inc. (GASP) was a non-profit well-augmentation company, the first organization of its kind in Colorado. Founded in 1972, its purpose was to offset depletions to the South Platte River caused by pumping of the South Platte valley-fill aquifer. The collection features records of the organization's operations and membership as well as reports, maps, and graphs regarding groundwater use in the South Platte Valley.

Papers of Robert E. Glover A civil engineer with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Geological Survey, and CSU, Robert Glover (1896-1984) conducted significant research on concrete cooling, dam construction, groundwater flow, and more. He developed many mathematical equations applicable to groundwater flow analysis, including the formula bearing his name. His collection includes his studies and analysis of groundwater hydraulics and his work on groundwater problems in Colorado.

Groundwater Data Collection CSU's strength in groundwater research evolved naturally from the state's early residents needing information on irrigated agriculture. The collection is comprised of data, maps, charts, drafts, correspondence, photographs, reports, and reference materials that were produced by or collected for these groundwater studies over the years.

Irrigation Research Papers In 1911, the Irrigation Investigations Unit of the U.S. Department of Agriculture was established in Fort Collins in conjunction with Colorado Agricultural College (now CSU). Scientists within the unit, including Ralph Parshall, Carl Rohwer, Victor M. Cone, and William E. Code, conducted irrigation-related research. Documents in the collection include groundwater research and reports.

Papers of Roy C. and Ardyce L. Johnson Roy and Ardyce Johnson owned and operated a family farm near Wiggins, Colorado, between 1960 and 1986. The collection documents the struggles to keep the irrigated farm afloat, including financing with the Federal Land Bank and legal issues related to the use of groundwater. Materials include financial reports, legal documents, letters, maps, and clippings.

Papers of Arthur L. Littleworth California lawyer Arthur L. Littleworth (b. 1923) served as Special Master on the Kansas v. Colorado case from 1987 until its conclusion in 2009. Littleworth wrote five reports during the course of the case, and this collection documents the case in its entirety, through trial transcripts, exhibits, pleadings, and more. Due to the nature of the case, most aspects of the Arkansas River and some of its reservoirs and tributaries are covered, including streamflow, groundwater wells, and the Arkansas River Compact.

Papers of Robert A. Longenbaugh Robert A. Longenbaugh (1935-2020) made numerous contributions to groundwater research, education, and legislation. The collection documents Longenbaugh's career working on Colorado groundwater issues as a Colorado State University engineering professor, assistant state engineer, and consultant, as well as his continued activities during retirement. Main subjects documented include groundwater resources, modeling, recharge, law, education, wells, and irrigation pump efficiency, as well as energy. Predominant material types include correspondence, data, reports, presentations, publications, grey literature, maps, slides, and photographs.

Papers of Frank Milenski Frank Milenski (1913-1998) was a farmer and irrigator in Colorado's Arkansas River Valley. He served on the Colorado Water Conservation Board (1959-1966) and was on the board of directors of both the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District and the Catlin Canal Company for several decades. Documents in the collection related to groundwater include legislation, articles, and studies, with a focus on the Arkansas River Valley.

Papers of David J. Miller David J. Miller (1906-1993) was a Greeley attorney who practiced law for over 50 years. Many of his cases related to water law and particularly to the formation and dissolution of irrigation districts and water conservancy districts. He also worked on groundwater cases in the Greeley area and the eastern plains.

Water Oral Histories Collection This collection contains a variety of oral histories, but see especially Series 3: Groundwater Oral History Project, which features Robert Longenbaugh. Other series include Colorado groundwater experts such as David Robbins and Mike Shimmin.

Papers of Michael Wireman Michael Wireman, a retired hydrogeologist, focused on groundwater science, development, and management. He worked at Leonard Rice Consulting Water Engineers from 1981 to 1986 and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region VIII, from 1987 to 2014. The collection consists of reports and memoranda from when Wireman worked at Leonard Rice Consulting Water Engineers. Most reports are about groundwater in Colorado and others cover locations in Arizona, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

Records of Wright Water Engineers, Inc. A Colorado-based water resources consulting firm, Wright Water Engineers has undertaken projects concerning agricultural and irrigation engineering, water rights, and more. Their groundwater work can be found in several of the projects in the collection, primarily focused in the South Platte and Arkansas basins. Materials include data and studies.

Colorado Groundwater: Related Organizations

• American Ground Water Trust
• Colorado Geological Survey: Water Section Offers a number of publications related to groundwater
• Colorado Groundwater Association
• Colorado Ground Water Commission
• Colorado Water Knowledge: Groundwater Resources
• Colorado Water Knowledge: Groundwater Rights
• Groundwater Foundation
• GroundwaterU
• National Ground Water Association
• << Previous: Topic Breakdown: Drought
• Next: Topic Breakdown: Interstate River Compacts >>

Your Archivist

24/7 Library Help

Connect with library staff via chat, email, phone or text.

All of our museums are currently closed. Go to  Hard at Work!  for the latest information.

• Museums & Sites
• Accessibility
• Field Trips
• Educator Resources
• Hands-On History
• We Are Colorado
• Bridging Borders

The Collection

• Research Center
• History in the Making
• Museum of Memory
• Event Calendar
• Plan Your Event
• Speaker Series
• Tours & Treks
• The Colorado Magazine
• The Weekly Digest
• About the State Historic Preservation Office
• Events & Education
• Grants & Incentives
• Office of Archaeology & Historic Preservation
• Review & Compliance
• Survey & Designation
• Internships & Fellowships
• Affiliate Network
• Nuestro museos y exposiciones
• Membresía gratis para juventud
• La historia en desarrollo

Search the Collection

History Colorado's collection contains a rich array of archives, artifacts, and photographic material, all documenting the people, places, and events of Colorado.  From this page you can access and search the  Online Collection  and learn more about the types of items that are in the Collection.  To find out more about a specific item or request a image reproduction, please contact the  Stephen H. Hart Research Center . 

History Colorado is committed to continued work with Tribal partners to ensure that we are aligned with both the law and spirit of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). Learn more by clicking here .

Search Our Collection

Search the Online Collection

What's In Our Collection?

History Colorado's collection includes a wide array of artifacts reflecting more than 12,000 years of human presence in Colorado and the region. Collections include such diverse objects as furniture, gold coins, mining equipment, paintings, horse-drawn buggies, firearms, prints, toys, textiles, clothing, and the 10th Mountain Division, New Deal, and Mesa Verde collections. History Colorado holds thousands of items in trust for the people of Colorado as a means of documenting and interpreting the state's history. Curators and Collections Staff assume responsibility for the review and selection of materials, research, care, and interpretation of the nearly 200,000 artifacts in the History Colorado Collection.  Search the History Colorado Online Collection for artifacts .

Artifacts are available for research at the Stephen H. Hart Research Center .  Please email [email protected] for more information about setting up an appointment to view artifacts.  Access may be limited for fragile or otherwise sensitive material as well as extremely large or difficult to retrieve items. A fee may be assessed for requests involving direct staff time in excess of two hours at $50 per hour (non-members) or $40 per hour (members).

Learn more about the Artifacts Collection at History Colorado .  

Books The Book collection contains approximately 30,000 titles, many held only by History Colorado. The collection includes works of fiction and non-fiction by Colorado authors and Colorado publishers, as well as titles covering a wide array of Colorado history topics, including agriculture and ranching, mining, biography, railroads and transportation, American Indians, and Colorado cities and towns. Search the History Colorado Online Collection for books .

Manuscripts The Manuscripts collection, composed of more than 2,600 individual collections, includes records produced by individuals, businesses, and organizations in Colorado that document significant aspects of life throughout the state and the western region from 1830 to the present. Collection guides or finding aids are available for many of our manuscript collections and can be found in our Online Collection . A growing number of collection guides are available online. Copies of collection guides may be requested by contacting [email protected] .  

City Directories Historic city directories, usually published annually, provide an alphabetical listing of the adult residents in a city or area, and may include the individual's address, occupation, spouse's name, place of employment, and other facts. Click here to see a list of available volumes.

Business directories, published annually from 1875-1956, provide listings for businesses, individuals in business, and public office holders. View a list of business directories available  for use at the Stephen H. Hart Research Center .

Telephone directories contain alphabetical listings of individuals and businesses that have telephones. Search our Online Collection to find available volumes .

History Colorado also has association directories, mining directories, club membership directories, college student annuals, Who's Who publications, and others.  Search our online catalog to find titles and call numbers .

Census Information  History Colorado has some federal and state census data and information available for researchers to view. Census indexes are dated from 1860 to 1940. Learn more about our census holdings and general information on the census here .

Maps The Map collection contains more than 2,500 items ranging in date from about 1830 to present day. The collection includes neighborhood, city, and state maps; topographical maps; pictorial maps; railway and railroad routes; stage routes; mines and mining claims; and American Indian tribe location maps. The geographic representation of the map collection covers Colorado and the West. Sanborn Insurance Atlases, available in microfilm format, include detailed views of streets and buildings for many Colorado towns from the 1880s. In larger cities, the maps were updated periodically to show the growth of the city over time. View a collection of digitized maps in the Online Collection .

Newspapers History Colorado holds  over 22,000 reels of microfilm (and counting). It is the most extensive collection of Colorado newspapers in the world with more than 1700 microfilmed titles from across the state.  We continue to collect and film newspapers from each of Colorado’s 64 counties. Titles in the History Colorado Newspaper Collection can be found in the  History Colorado Online Collection .  Most of the titles, including the earliest runs of the  Rocky Mountain News  and the  Denver Post , as well as current issues from titles from across the state have been microfilmed and are available for viewing at the  Stephen H. Hart Research Center . To learn more about which newspapers are in the collection and to find out what dates are in our inventory, please email  [email protected]

Microfilm readers, printers, and scanners are available in the research center for public use. Duplicate positive microfilm reels may also be purchased .

Learn more about the Newspaper Collection at History Colorado .

Periodicals History Colorado holds over 1500 journals and magazines published in Colorado and nationally. Journal and magazine titles are included in the History Colorado Online Collection.  The Colorado Magazine was published by the Colorado Historical Society (now known as History Colorado) from 1923 to 1980 and contains hundreds of articles about significant Colorado and Western people and events. The Colorado Magazine was continued by Colorado Heritage. In 2020, the journal resumed publishing as Colorado Magazine.

Learn more about Colorado Magazine and browse past issues dating back to the 1920s .  

Our Oral History collection includes both audio recordings and transcripts dating as early as the 1930s. A major part of our collection is the CWA Pioneer Interviews, which were the result of a project led by the Civil Works Administration in Colorado in 1933-34. Search for oral history recordings and transcripts in the History Colorado  Online Collection .  You can find audio recordings on our SoundCloud account , or contact the Stephen H. Hart Research Center for more information.

Learn more about the Oral History Collection .  

Photographs History Colorado's photography collection contains approximately 1 million images documenting the history of Colorado and the American West from the 1840s to the present day. Key collections include the largest archive of the work of landscape photographer William Henry Jackson and the Aultman Studio collection (based in Trinidad, Colorado), containing 110 years of work from Colorado's longest-running photo studio.

You can search for photos in History Colorado's Online Collection or use the  Index to the Subject File Collection . Photographs in the index are arranged by subject such as: cities and towns; natural features; people; Native American tribes; transportation; and other topics. 

High-quality reproductions are available for personal or commercial use. Please contact us at [email protected] for more information or download the Reproduction Request Form  and return it to the email above.

Moving Pictures History Colorado holds moving image films from and about Colorado dating from about 1915 to the present. These include:

• Cinematic releases
• Home movies
• Films by the Sonochrome Pictures production company and other Colorado producers
• Promotional, industrial, and educational films on 35mm, 16mm, 8mm, Super 8, video and digital formats

Please contact us at [email protected] for more information about accessing the Moving Image Collection for research, reproduction, and licensing.

Learn More about the Photographs and Moving Images Collection.  

Search With Our Partners

Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection

Chronicling America

Denver Public Library

Digital Public Library of America

Research Resources

Genealogical Resources

Whether you're researching family members or prominent Colorado citizens, the Stephen H. Hart Research Center can provide access to useful materials for biographical research.

House History Research

 The Stephen H. Hart Research Center offers resources to help you research the history of your home or other historic properties. 

Bibliographies and Subject Guides

Our Bibliographies and Subject Guides list suggested books, manuscript collections, articles, websites, and other resources that may be helpful in researching the Colorado history topics below.

Additional Resources

The following libraries, archives, and agencies can provide additional resources for your Colorado history research.

• History Classics
• Your Profile
• Find History on Facebook (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on Twitter (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on YouTube (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on Instagram (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on TikTok (Opens in a new window)
• This Day In History
• History Podcasts
• History Vault

By: History.com Editors

Updated: August 21, 2018 | Original: November 9, 2009

Colorado, which joined the union as the 38th state in 1876, is America’s eighth-largest state in terms of landmass. Located in the Rocky Mountain region of the western United States, the state’s abundant and varied natural resources attracted the ancient Pueblo peoples and, later, the Plains Indians. First explored by Europeans in the late 1500s (the Spanish referred to the region as “Colorado” for its red-colored earth), the area was ceded to the United States in 1848 with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo that ended the Mexican-American War (1846-48). In 1858, the discovery of gold in Colorado attracted new settlers. During the Plains Indian Wars (1860s-80s), Colorado’s wild frontier was the scene of intense fighting between Native Americans and white settlers. In the 21st century, Colorado continues to rely on its natural resources as well as agriculture and tourism to sustain its economy.

Date of Statehood: August 1, 1876

Did you know? In 1972, Colorado rejected the International Olympic Committee's invitation to serve as host for the 1976 Winter Olympic Games because its voters opposed the use of state tax revenue to finance the games. It is the only state ever to reject an Olympic invitation to host the event.

Capital: Denver

Population: 5,029,196 (2010)

Size: 104,094 square miles

Nickname(s): Centennial State; Colorful Colorado

Motto: Nil sine Numine (“Nothing without the Deity”)

Tree: Colorado Blue Spruce

Flower: White and Lavender Columbine

Bird: Lark Bunting

Interesting Facts

• Mesa Verde National Park contains more than 4,000 archaeological sites—including around 600 cliff dwellings—from the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the area from about AD 550 to 1300. By the late 13th century, they began to migrate south to New Mexico and Arizona, where their descendants continue to live today.
• Discovered by Lieutenant Zebulon Pike in 1806 during an expedition to determine the southwestern boundary of the Louisiana Purchase, Pikes Peak became a landmark to the thousands of fortune hunters who traveled west with the slogan “Pikes Peak or Bust” on their wagons after gold was found in the area in 1858.
• On November 29, 1864, more than 150 peaceful Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians—believing themselves to be under the protection of the U.S. government—were slaughtered by close to 700 Colorado volunteer soldiers under the command of Colonel John Chivington. The atrocity devastated the tribes and served as a catalyst for years of subsequent warfare between Native American Indians and the U.S. Army.
• The lyrics to “America the Beautiful” were written by Katharine Lee Bates after an awe-inspiring trip to the top of Pikes Peak in 1893. Although it is now commonly sung to the tune “Materna,” composed by Samuel Ward in 1882, the patriotic poem was often sung to “Auld Lang Syne” in the early 20th century.
• The Colorado Rockies are part of the North American Cordillera, which sweeps the western part of the continent all the way from Alaska into northern Mexico. With 58 named peaks over 14,000 feet and an average altitude of 6,800 feet, Colorado has the highest elevation of all the states.

Sign up for Inside History

Get HISTORY’s most fascinating stories delivered to your inbox three times a week.

By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Networks. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.

More details : Privacy Notice | Terms of Use | Contact Us

University of Denver

University libraries, research guides, colorado history - research for primary sources: finding primary sources.

• Finding Primary Sources
• Digital Books
• Periodicals
• Historic Images: Colorado and the West

What is a Primary Source?

Correspondence, diaries, memoires, interviews, account books, inventories, and other original documents, created at the time of an event or during the lifetime of an individual or institution, that can be used to understand people and events of the past, are considered primary source material.  Depending upon the project, newspaper and magazine articles, images, film, and so forth may also be considered primary source materials.

The University Libraries have primary source materials in Special Collections & Archives , with some of the materials scanned and available via Digital DU .

To the right are strategies for finding original, transcribed, reprinted, and surrogate versions of primary sources.  Tabs on this research guide lead to digital collections of primary sources we own. 

Paleography

• Palaeography: Reading Old Handwriting 1500 - 1800 - A Practical Online Tutorial

Archives for Individuals

Both American National Biography and Oxford Dictionary of National Biography , found under the "Biography and Genealogy" tab, list archives for individuals at the end of the essay on that individual.

Finding Archives via Google

To find archives and manuscript collections using Google, or another Web browser, type in the name of the person, event, or country, and combine with the words archives, or in the case of a country, "National Archives."

Sources to Locate Archives

The following a highly selective list sources for finding archival materials.

• ArchiveGrid A collection of nearly two million archival material descriptions, including MARC records from WorldCat and finding aids harvested from the web.

• National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) The National Archives was established in 1934 by President Franklin Roosevelt, but its major holdings date back to 1775. Use the online catalog to search NARA holdings in Washington, at regional archives, and at Presidential libraries.
• National Union Catalog of Manuscript Collections The entire collection of NUCMC from 1959 to 2009 is searchable in Archive Finder .

National Portrait Galleries

• National Portrait Gallery (US) "The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery tells the history of America through individuals who have shaped its culture. "Through the visual arts, performing arts and new media, the Portrait Gallery portrays poets and presidents, visionaries and villains, actors and activists whose lives tell the American story."
• National Portrait Gallery (UK) An art gallery in London, England, housing a collection of portraits of historically important and famous British people. It was the first portrait gallery in the world when it opened in 1856.

Images and Videos

• Google Images A wide array of images from across the disciplines, but quality can be uneven and may not include attribution of original source. If you plan to post images found via Google on the Web or use them in a publication, ensure you have permissions from the original source.
• Internet Archive Seeks to preserve and offer access, not only to born-digital content, but to digitized content in various formats (text, audio, video, and software), and to archived Web pages. Its partners for content include the Library of Congress and Smithsonian.
• Images of African Americans from the 19th Century A selection of images of 19th-century African Americans.
• DPL Digital Photograph Collection The Denver Public Library’s Western History/Genealogy Department collection of digitized photographs (formerly Photoswest) chronicles the people, places and events that shaped the settlement and growth of the Western United States. It is representative of works of many outstanding photographers. Subjects include Native Americans, pioneers, railroads, mining, Denver and Colorado towns, Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, and the 10th Mountain Division ski troops.

Strategies for Finding Primary Source Materials

The library catalog is a good place to start when searching for primary source materials such as correspondence, diaries, memoires, records, and other types of documents, either held in the library's Special Collections and Archives division, reprinted as books, or microform or digital surragates of the original.

Monographs written at the time of the event can make useful primary source material.

The terms, diaries , personal narratives , correspondence , interviews , sources , archives , manuscripts , and document* can be added to a keyword search, to locate primary sources in the library catalog, Prospector , and WorldCat . For example, if looking for primary source materials regarding Che Guevara, you can do a keyword search as follows:

        pioneers--colorado--diaries

        soldiers--colorado--correspondence

All but the last of the above terms are subheadings that appear frequently in Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH).

• Diaries and personal narratives  apply to published memoirs
• None of these terms necessarily means that the source was published specifically as a primary source, though they all can be used as such.
• These could include collections of correspondence, articles, excerpts from longer publications, or anything else that might be useful for study of the subject.
• Archives and manuscripts are often used to designate collections of materials held in original manuscript format by the library.
• Document* , truncated here to search for any word beginning with “document,” does not necessarily appear in LCSH. It is useful as a keyword, however, since compilations of primary source material, published as such, often have titles that include the terms “documents” or “documentary.”

Examples of LC Subject Headings with terms indicating primary source material underlined:

• Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad Company – Archives
• Domińguez-Escalante Expedition (1776)-- Personal narratives
• Pioneers--Colorado-- Diaries
• Cheyenne Indian--History--19th Century -- Sources
• Teachers--Colorado -- Correspondence

Read the introduction and/or preface, or look at the bibliographic citations for the individual transcriptions to discover where the documents consulted are kept.

A search in ArchiveGrid and limited to location:colorado will retrieve records for physical archives in Colorado institutions. 

For additional sources to find archival materials, consult other boxes in this section.

When searching in databases for surrogate primary sources, determine what vocabulary was used to describe the event and search using those terms.

Sources Consulted

Thanks to Michael Levine-Clark for allowing me to use his text about primary source research from his chapter, "Historical Research," in Research Within the Disciplines: Foundations for Library Reference and Library Instruction , Peggy Keeran et al *Lanham, MD: Scarecrow Press, 2007) 61-82.

Primary Source Databases

For additional primary source digital collections, see the databases listed in the Also Useful categories in the history section of Databases by Subject .

• Library of Congress Arts & Cultures These pages link to selected collection content available online at the Library of Congress, arranged by broad categories. The Library's online content represents only a small percentage of its physical holdings.

• Next: Digital Books >>
• Last Updated: Mar 8, 2024 2:00 PM
• URL: https://libguides.du.edu/coloradohistory

Write My Essay Service - Working to Help You

Do you want to have more free time for personal development and fun? Or are you confused with your professor's directions? Whatever your reason for coming to us is, you are welcome! We are a legitimate professional writing service with student-friendly prices and with an aim to help you achieve academic excellence. To get an A on your next assignment simply place an order or contact our 24/7 support team.

Finished Papers