135 US History Essay Topics

One of the most time-consuming essay writing assignments can be a US history essay. Assigned for a variety of reasons, including testing students’ knowledge, encouraging research skills, and determining how well students can comprehend different types of texts, a US history essay assignment provides many challenges to the student.

Another hardship of writing a US history essay is that there isn’t always an abundant or easily accessible source of new information on something that has already happened. This means that students need to work extra hard to craft a US History essay that is original, unique, and doesn’t sound like the many other essays that have already been written on the topic.

However, all of the hardships students face when attempting to write a US history essay can be eased with the help of this guide. We’ll cover the essential aspects of writing a US History essay and provide 135 US History essay topics that are ideal for any level of education.

How To Write a US History Essay?

When it comes to writing a US History essay, the first thing students will need to do is pick a topic. The topic should be relevant to the course and allow for enough credible research to back up any arguments or examples made in the essay’s body.

For example, a topic on the creation of the Declaration of Independence would offer much more opportunity for analysis and research than a topic on something less significant such as the color of George Washington’s horse.

Once students have selected their topic, they will need to start thinking about the essay’s thesis. The thesis is often referred to as the “point” of an essay and should be reflected in the introduction and conclusion. This means that students will need to think critically about their topic choice and determine what points they want to make.

Students can choose a thesis by listing the most important aspects of their topic and choosing one aspect as the main point of their essay. For example, if a student were assigned a paper on the Civil Rights movement, they might want to argue that violence was necessary or that nonviolence was more effective in the movement for equality.

Students will also need to consider what information they are expected to include in their essay. Common types of US History essays include:

  • argumentative
  • comparison/contrast
  • cause and effect
  • introspective
  • problem /solution

Each of these essay types requires a unique set of points, arguments, and examples to ensure they meet the criteria for the writing. For example, if you are writing a compare and contrast essay on US History, you’ll need to research several different aspects of your topic and compare them to each other.

If you are writing an argumentative US History essay, you’ll need to provide sufficient evidence to prove your point before explaining why the opposing side’s argument is incorrect.

Once the topic has been selected and enough information has been researched to create a thesis and provide supporting evidence, the next step of writing a US History essay is to outline your argument. An outline can help students organize their thoughts and ensure they include everything necessary to write a well-rounded paper.

Make sure your outline includes a thesis statement followed by a clear description of each point you plan to make in the body of your essay.

How To Structure a US History Essay?

Once you have completed the necessary steps to develop a thesis and outline your argument, you can move on to structuring your essay with the intro, body, and conclusion.

The introduction should start with a hook that captures the reader’s attention and provides enough information to encourage them to continue reading. After the hook, you can include your thesis statement, followed by explaining why it is important for readers to know about this topic.

For example, if you are writing an argumentative essay about the role of violence in the Civil Rights movement, you might start your introduction with a hook that asks readers to consider what they would do if they were faced with violence every day of their lives.

You then might include your thesis statement and explain that learning about civil rights activists who confronted police with violence is important to understand because it can help guide future generations about what they might need to do to achieve equality.

The body of your essay should include multiple points, each made with clear evidence and relevant examples. For example, if you were writing a thesis that argued that nonviolence was more effective than violence in the US Civil Rights movement, you might include a paragraph about how nonviolence was proven to be more effective when Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott were compared.

This may lead into a paragraph describing how Martin Luther King Jr. tried to reduce violence in the movement by promoting peaceful methods of protest such as sit-ins, boycotts, marches, etc.

The conclusion should contain a rephrase of the thesis statement and explain why it is vital for readers to understand. For example, if you wrote an argumentative essay about violence in the US Civil Rights movement, your conclusion might include your thesis statement along with the reasons why understanding whether violence is effective or not helps us understand how future generations should respond to injustice.

If you are struggling to begin writing your US History-themed essay, why not choose from any of these 135 US History essay topics to help start your writing process.

US History Essay Topics About the Civil War

  • Why were slaves treated poorly during the Civil War era?
  • Should Confederate generals have been tried for treason after the US Civil War?
  • What was daily life like for formerly enslaved Black people following the US Civil War?
  • How has Lincoln’s influence on Presidential power impacted American society today?
  • Did Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation have a negative impact on Reconstruction?
  • Why is it important to understand the social, political, and economic impacts of slavery during America’s history?
  • Describe how trade was impacted with foreign nations during the Civil War?
  • What forms of civil disobedience became commonplace during the Civil War?
  • Compare and contrast the roles of women during the Civil War and WW2.
  • What were the causes of the US Civil War?
  • Why did people support both sides of the US Civil War?
  • Why was it hard for formerly enslaved people to find employment following the Civil War?
  • Explain how racial violence increased following Reconstruction.
  • Discuss what you believe caused Confederate Generals to order their men to wear gray uniforms at the Battle of Bull Run.
  • How did the Emancipation Proclamation impact foreign relations in the 1860s?
  • What were some causes for fighting during the Reconstruction Era?
  • How was President Lincoln able to pass legislation that helped win the US Civil War?
  • Discuss the most significant battle during the Civil War.
  • Compare and contrast modern-day war strategies to those used during the Civil War.
  • Explain how technological advancements were made during the Civil War.
  • What was the role of Native Americans during the Civil War?
  • How has history made a lot of the same mistakes as it did during the Civil War?

US History Essay Topics About the Native Americans

  • What was life like for Native Americans following their defeat in the US-Indian War?
  • What factors led to violence between whites and indigenous peoples after the Indian Removal Act of 1830?
  • What were some effects of Manifest Destiny on Native Americans?
  • How has the Dawes Act impacted modern-day Native American communities?
  • Why is it important to learn about the Trail of Tears during US history?
  • What were some causes for violence between Indians and settlers in the 1800s?
  • How does modern-day Native American culture resemble indigenous communities during the 1800s?
  • How were treaties formed and broken between whites and Native Americans in North America?
  • What was life like for Natives after they were forced onto reservations?
  • How did President Jackson impact relations between Indigenous peoples and white settlers in the 1800s?
  • Discuss what occurred when European immigrants settled on Native American land.
  • What were some causes for Native American uprisings during the 1800s?
  • Why are there not more Native Americans today compared to during the early years of North America?
  • Discuss the ideologies of Native Americans and how they may have impacted Indian-European relationships.
  • Why was the Battle of Wounded Knee significant?
  • What factors led to corruption within tribal governments following US-Indian wars?
  • What historical stereotypes are still represented in modern day depictions of Native Americans?
  • How can Native Americans use history to correct the ideologies of those who harbor America First sentiments?

US History Essay Topics About the Great Depression

  • Explain how life changed for African Americans during the Great Depression.
  • What factors led to the Great Depression?
  • How was President Roosevelt able to influence Congress to act in favor of his New Deal programs?
  • How did WWII impact Americans following the Great Depression?
  • What were significant turning points that allowed the US to improve its economy during the Great Depression?
  • What were some effects of the Great Depression on race relations in the US?
  • What attitudes about free trade capitalism led to the Great Depression?
  • How did the Great Depression influence art, music, and culture?
  • What other economic solutions could have been implemented to end the Great Depression sooner?
  • How did the Great Depression influence the size and scope of the federal government in the US?
  • How did African Americans help lessen America’s dependency on foreign goods during the Great Depression?
  • What were some causes for poverty during the Great Depression?
  • Discuss things that became illegal during the Great Depression.
  • Explain how the Great Depression led to increased or reduced population growth.
  • Why do historians consider the Great Depression a critical moment in US history?

US History Essay Topics About WW1 & WW2

  • What caused the eruption of violence during WW1?
  • How did President Wilson’s Fourteen Points impact WW2?
  • What was life like for African Americans and Native Americans during WWII?
  • How have civil liberties changed since WWII?
  • What are some parallels between WWII propaganda posters and modern-day media advertisements?
  • What were some positive and negative factors during US involvement in WWII?
  • How did the US economy change as a result of WWII?
  • What events led to the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
  • In what ways has European history been heavily impacted by WW1 and WW2?
  • What were some causes for the US entering WW2?
  • How has US foreign policy changed as a result of WWII?
  • In what ways has WWII impacted modern-day conflicts?
  • Who was President Truman, and why is he important to remember during US history?
  • Why is it important to study both World Wars in detail?
  • Who was Joseph Stalin, and what was his role during WW2?
  • How have wars led to the formation of the UN and NATO?
  • How did military alliances impact WWII?
  • What was President Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms, and how did it influence US soldiers’ morale overseas?
  • What economic impacts of WW2 still be seen in today’s modern economy?
  • How did technological advancements made during WW1 assist with battle strategies during WW2?
  • What is the significance of D-Day?
  • How did the US become involved in WW1 after the sinking of the Lusitania?
  • Why were women viewed as socially disadvantaged during WW1?
  • What are some positive outcomes of WW1 and WWII on American society today?

US History Essay Topics About Women’s Rights

  • What significant roles have women played in US history and not received credit for?
  • What were some causes of the first and second waves for women’s rights?
  • How did each wave of feminism impact US history differently?
  • How have women influenced US history through their actions in non-traditional fields?
  • What are some positive impacts of women becoming involved with social reform efforts such as abolition, temperance, and labor movements?
  • What were some negative impacts of women gaining more legal rights?
  • Who was Susan B. Anthony, and why is she important to remember during US history?
  • How has popular culture influenced how society views feminism today compared to the past?
  • How did government restrictions such as coverture laws impact women’s daily lives in America?
  • What were some positive and negative impacts of the Lowell Mill Girls?
  • Who was Sojourner Truth, and what did she accomplish for women’s rights?
  • How did Susan B. Anthony influence how society treats women today?
  • How has Western Expansion impacted the lives of American women?
  • Who was Victoria Woodhull, and what were some of her goals in the early feminist movement?
  • What historical issues still affect women’s rights in society today?
  • Why does it matter to study US history and women’s rights?
  • Would the USA have been as successful during WW2 without contributions made by women?
  • Is life for women easier or harder now than it was at other points in US history?
  • How can women obtain better equality by examining the past?

US History Essay Topics About Immigration

  • What is the history of immigration in America?
  • Who were some influential immigrants who have changed society through their actions and contributions?
  • How have immigrants influenced art, architecture, government policy, and popular culture in America?
  • How did nativism influence how Americans viewed immigration during different time periods throughout US history?
  • How have immigrants been treated by US law and society during different time periods throughout American history?
  • Why was the Chinese Exclusion Act significant for immigration policy in America?
  • In what ways have recent immigration movements changed the nation’s identity, economy, and workforce today compared to the past?
  • What causes of the Great Depression led to more immigrants moving to America?
  • What are some positive impacts of immigration on American society today?
  • Who was Giovanni da Verrazano and why is he important to remember during US history?
  • What role did African Americans play in immigration during slavery?
  • What were some differences in the immigrant experiences of different races?
  • How has immigration changed American society today compared to the past?
  • What are some adverse effects of immigration on American society today?
  • What are some positive impacts of immigration on US history and national identity today?
  • How is the process for immigration in modern times different from previous periods in US history?
  • How can the USA learn from their past immigration reform mistakes to correct current issues surrounding immigration reform?

US History Essay Topics About Labor and Strikes

  • What were some causes of the early labor movement in America?
  • In what ways have unions been influential for Americans today?
  • Who was Eugene V. Debs, and how has he influenced the labor movement?
  • What impact did strikes have during different time periods throughout US history?
  • What were some negative consequences of child labor in America, and how did reform movements attempt to change it?
  • How has technology impacted the American workforce today compared to the past?
  • Who was Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and what impact did she have on the labor movement?
  • What were some differences between strikes in the past and today?
  • What were some positive effects of the labor movement on American society today?
  • Why is it essential to study US history about labor unions and strikes?
  • Who was Mother Jones, and how has she influenced the labor movement in America?
  • How did the Great Depression and New Deal change labor in America?
  • What were some causes of the Haymarket Affair, and how did it influence labor policy?
  • How has technology shaped labor unions today compared to when they first began?
  • Why is it essential to understand labor unions in America?
  • What are some differences between strikes today compared to the past?
  • Who was John L. Lewis, and what is his legacy on unionization in America?
  • How did Franklin D. Roosevelt’s policies impact labor unions in America during the Great Depression?
  • What were some causes of the 1934 West Coast waterfront strike?
  • What are some causes of the Grand Bargain, and how has it influenced unions today?

With these 135 US History essay topics, students of all grade levels can find an interesting topic to write about that will have plenty of research to back it up.

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118 US History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Studying US history is an important part of understanding the development of the United States as a nation. From the founding fathers to major events such as the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement, there is a wealth of topics to explore.

Here are 118 US history essay topic ideas and examples to help you get started:

  • The founding fathers and the creation of the Constitution
  • The impact of the Louisiana Purchase on US expansion
  • The causes and consequences of the Civil War
  • The role of women in the abolitionist movement
  • The impact of the Industrial Revolution on American society
  • The rise of the labor movement in the late 19th century
  • The causes and consequences of the Spanish-American War
  • The impact of World War I on American society and politics
  • The Roaring Twenties and the rise of consumer culture
  • The Great Depression and the New Deal
  • The causes and consequences of World War II
  • The Civil Rights Movement and the fight for equality
  • The Vietnam War and its impact on American society
  • The rise of the conservative movement in the 1980s
  • The impact of globalization on the US economy
  • The role of the United States in the Cold War
  • The Watergate scandal and its impact on American politics
  • The War on Terror and the impact of 9/11
  • The rise of social media and its impact on American society
  • The Black Lives Matter movement and the fight against police brutality
  • The impact of climate change on US policy and politics
  • The history of immigration in the United States
  • The role of Native Americans in US history
  • The impact of the Gold Rush on US expansion
  • The history of slavery in the United States
  • The impact of the automobile on American society
  • The rise of organized crime in the 1920s
  • The impact of the Great Migration on American cities
  • The history of the US space program
  • The impact of the internet on American society
  • The role of religion in US history
  • The impact of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
  • The history of the US healthcare system
  • The impact of the AIDS epidemic on American society
  • The history of the US prison system
  • The impact of the women's suffrage movement
  • The history of US foreign policy
  • The impact of the Cuban Missile Crisis
  • The history of the US military
  • The impact of the Korean War
  • The history of US intelligence agencies
  • The impact of the Great Society programs
  • The history of US presidential elections
  • The impact of the Watergate scandal
  • The history of US political parties
  • The impact of the Reagan Revolution
  • The history of US economic policy
  • The impact of the Wall Street Crash of 1929
  • The history of US labor unions
  • The impact of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire
  • The history of US immigration policy
  • The impact of the Chinese Exclusion Act
  • The history of US civil liberties
  • The impact of the Patriot Act
  • The history of US education policy
  • The impact of the Brown v. Board of Education decision
  • The history of US environmental policy
  • The impact of the Clean Air Act
  • The history of US healthcare policy
  • The impact of the Affordable Care Act
  • The history of US agricultural policy
  • The impact of the Dust Bowl
  • The history of US energy policy
  • The impact of the oil crisis of the 1970s
  • The history of US trade policy
  • The impact of the North American Free Trade Agreement
  • The impact of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965
  • The history of US social welfare policy
  • The impact of the Social Security Act
  • The history of US housing policy
  • The impact of the Fair Housing Act
  • The history of US transportation policy
  • The impact of the Interstate Highway System
  • The history of US infrastructure policy
  • The impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
  • The history of US foreign aid policy
  • The impact of the Marshall Plan
  • The history of US defense policy
  • The impact of the Strategic Defense Initiative
  • The history of US intelligence policy
  • The impact of the National Security Agency
  • The history of US arms control policy
  • The impact of the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks
  • The history of US nuclear policy
  • The impact of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty
  • The history of US space policy
  • The impact of the Apollo program
  • The history of US cybersecurity policy
  • The impact of the Cybersecurity Act
  • The impact of the Clean Water Act
  • The impact of the Energy Policy Act
  • The history of US natural resource policy
  • The impact of the National Environmental Policy Act
  • The history of US climate policy
  • The impact of the Paris Agreement
  • The history of US health policy
  • The impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
  • The impact of the No Child Left Behind Act
  • The history of US criminal justice policy
  • The impact of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act
  • The history of US welfare policy
  • The impact of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act
  • The impact of the Housing and Community Development Act
  • The impact of the Immigration Reform and Control Act
  • The history of US labor policy
  • The impact of the National Labor Relations Act
  • The impact of the Federal-Aid Highway Act

These 118 US history essay topic ideas and examples are just a starting point for exploring the rich and complex history of the United States. Whether you are interested in political history, social history, economic history, or cultural history, there is a wealth of topics to explore. Happy writing!

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543 American History Essay Topics & Good Ideas

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  • Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
  • Icon Page 4964 words
  • Icon Clock 22 min read

Exploring the multifaceted nature of American history provides a wide range of thought-provoking essay topics. Basically, there are many subjects that can be analyzed, studying the country’s indigenous origins, its struggle for independence, its participation in world wars, the civil rights movement, technological advancements, ongoing sociopolitical discourse, and others. In the United States (US), some themes can focus on significant events, like the Revolutionary War or the Space Race, important figures, such as Abraham Lincoln, Rosa Parks, or Martin Luther King Jr., or major periods, including the Great Depression or the Cold War era. The examination of how historical influences have shaped current American society, issues of racial and gender equality, immigration policy, and foreign affairs, offers rich perspectives. Thus, American history essay topics cover a deep understanding of the evolution of the nation built on diverse ethnicities and ideologies.

Cool American History Essay Topics

  • Examination of Manifest Destiny’s Influence on Territorial Expansion
  • Colonial Era’s Impact on Modern American Democracy
  • Evaluating the Emancipation Proclamation’s Consequences
  • Prohibition Era: Analysis of Society and Law
  • Understanding the Trail of Tears: Native American Displacement
  • Civil War’s Effects on American Industrialization
  • Abolition Movement’s Roles in Shaping American Values
  • Vietnam War: Implications for Foreign Policy
  • Exploring Women’s Suffrage Movement: A Milestone in Gender Equality
  • Apollo Program’s Influence on Science and Technology
  • Examining the Harlem Renaissance’s Impact on African American Culture
  • McCarthyism’s Consequences on Freedom of Expression
  • Revolutionary War: Analysis of the Birth of a Nation
  • Influence of Immigration on the Cultural Landscape of America
  • Civil Rights Movement’s Impact on Legislation and Society
  • Japanese Internment during World War II: An Examination
  • Investigation of the Cuban Missile Crisis’ Effect on Cold War Tensions
  • Roles of Transcontinental Railroad in Westward Expansion
  • Impacts of the Great Awakening on American Religious Practices
  • Watergate Scandal: A Study in Political Ethics
  • Exploration of the Roaring Twenties’ Societal Shifts
  • Revolutionary Figures: Contributions of the Founding Fathers

American History Essay Topics & Good Ideas

Easy American History Research Topics

  • American Exceptionalism: Origins and Influence on Global Policy
  • Analysis of the Louisiana Purchase’s Impact on Expansion
  • Jazz Age: Implications for American Music and Culture
  • Evaluating the Space Race: National Pride and Technological Advancement
  • Consequences of the Teapot Dome Scandal in the Roaring Twenties
  • Federalist Papers: Shaping American Governance
  • Westward Expansion: Effect on Native American Communities
  • Impacts of the Dred Scott Decision on Slavery Debates
  • Cold War: Ramifications for American Society
  • Influence of Thomas Paine’s ‘Common Sense’ on Revolutionary Sentiment
  • Exploration of American Neutrality in World War I
  • Bay of Pigs Invasion: An Examination of Failed Foreign Policy
  • The Dust Bowl: Environmental Impact and Migration
  • Roles of Television in the Nixon-Kennedy Debates
  • The Stonewall Riots: Catalyst for the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement
  • Populist Movement: Impact on American Politics
  • Influence of the Gold Rush on California’s Development
  • Ratification of the Bill of Rights: Impact on Citizen Liberties
  • Rise of Labor Unions: Influencing Workers’ Rights
  • Civil War Reconstruction: Successes and Failures
  • The Zenger Trial: A Landmark for Freedom of the Press

Interesting US History Topics

  • Exploration of the Battle of Gettysburg’s Significance in the Civil War
  • Implications of the Monroe Doctrine on American Foreign Policy
  • Marbury vs. Madison: Analysis of Judicial Review
  • Unraveling the Causes and Consequences of the Iran-Contra Affair
  • The American Red Scare: Effects on Society and Politics
  • Causes and Implications of the 1929 Wall Street Crash
  • Underground Railroad: Role in Abolitionist Movement
  • Analysis of the Three-Fifths Compromise’s Impact on Representation
  • Significance of the Missouri Compromise in Slavery Debates
  • The Pentagon Papers: A Study in Government Transparency
  • Roles of Susan B. Anthony in the Women’s Suffrage Movement
  • Influence of the Scopes Trial on the Teaching of Evolution
  • Understanding the Impact of the GI Bill on Post-War America
  • Tracing the Development of American Modernism in the 20th Century
  • Federal Indian Policy: An Examination of Treaties and Legislation
  • Impacts of the Homestead Act on Westward Expansion
  • Analysis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s Contribution to Scientific Discovery
  • Analysis of the Pentagon Papers’ Effect on Public Trust
  • Exploration of the Boston Tea Party’s Impact on Revolutionary Sentiment
  • Vietnam War Protest Movement: Influence on Public Policy
  • Mexican-American War: Causes and Consequences
  • Repercussions of the Atomic Bomb on Global Politics
  • The Gilded Age: Scrutinizing Wealth and Inequality

US History Topics for High School

  • Impacts of the Gold Rush on California’s Development
  • Significance of the Monroe Doctrine in US Foreign Policy
  • Manifest Destiny and Expansion of the American West
  • Examination of The Great Depression’s Socioeconomic Effects
  • Role of Women in the American Revolution
  • Native American Resistance: Case Study of the Sioux Nation
  • Influence of Jazz Music on the Harlem Renaissance
  • Abolitionism’s Effect on Pre-Civil War Politics
  • Reconstruction Era: Assessing its Success and Failures
  • Impact of Immigration Waves on American Culture and Economy
  • Evolution of US Foreign Policy During the Cold War
  • Transformation of American Society During the Roaring Twenties
  • Examination of The Civil Rights Movement’s Major Milestones
  • Roles of Labor Unions in the Industrial Revolution
  • Influence of The Second Amendment on Gun Control Debates
  • Native American Assimilation Policy: The Carlisle Indian School
  • Cuban Missile Crisis: A Pivotal Moment in Cold War History
  • Women’s Suffrage Movement and the 19th Amendment
  • Exploration of the Gilded Age’s Economic Disparities
  • Significance of the Federalist Papers in Constitutional Interpretation
  • Analysis of the Patriot Act’s Impact on Civil Liberties
  • Effects of the Vietnam War on Domestic Social Movements
  • Roles of New Deal Programs in America’s Economic Recovery

US History Topics for College Students

  • Exploration and Impact of the Louisiana Purchase
  • Evolution of the American Civil Rights Movement
  • Native American Resistance to European Colonization
  • Establishment and Influence of the Federal Reserve System
  • Impacts of Industrialization on American Society
  • Consequences of Prohibition: The 18th and 21st Amendments
  • Influential Innovations During the Second Industrial Revolution
  • Manifest Destiny and Its Sociopolitical Implications
  • African-American Soldiers in the American Civil War
  • Formation and Legacy of the Hudson Bay Company
  • Roles of Religion in the Founding of American Colonies
  • American Policy and the Vietnam War: An Analysis
  • Development of the Transcontinental Railroad
  • Expansion of American Pop Culture During the Cold War
  • Key Legal Cases in the Fight for Desegregation
  • LGBTQ+ Rights: The Stonewall Riots and Beyond
  • Role of the American Media During the Gulf War
  • Technological Advances and the American Space Race
  • Examination of the US Immigration Policies Throughout History
  • Rise of American Suburbia in the Post-WWII Era
  • Development of the American Healthcare System: Legislation and Impact

US History Topics for University

  • Watergate Scandal and Its Influence on American Politics
  • Native American Civil Rights Movement in the 20th Century
  • Cuban Missile Crisis: Cold War Diplomacy and Consequences
  • Influence of the American Labor Movement on Working Conditions
  • Mexican-American War: Causes, Progress, and Consequences
  • Women’s Suffrage: From Seneca Falls to the 19th Amendment
  • Role of American Inventors in the Age of Enlightenment
  • Effects of the US Interstate Highway System on American Society
  • Examination of the US Intervention in Latin America
  • Impacts of the Baby Boomer Generation on American Culture
  • California Gold Rush and its Influence on Westward Expansion
  • Abolition Movement: Influential Figures and Strategies
  • Development and Impact of the US Postal Service
  • Key Economic Policies of the Roosevelt Administration
  • Influence of the Harlem Renaissance on American Literature
  • Technological Shifts and the Digital Age in America
  • Evolution of Gun Control Legislation in the United States
  • Exploration of the Oregon Trail: Migration and Hardship
  • Rise and Fall of the American Temperance Movement
  • Impacts of the GI Bill on Post-War American Society
  • American Imperialism: From the Philippines to Puerto Rico
  • Cultural Significance of the American Beat Generation
  • Causes and Outcomes of the American Housing Bubble in 2008

American History Essay Topics on Revolution Battles and Key Events

  • The Battle of Saratoga and Its Influence on the American Revolution
  • African Americans’ Roles in Revolutionary War
  • Impacts of the Battle of Yorktown on American Independence
  • Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” and Its Revolutionary Ideals
  • Women’s Contributions to the American Revolution
  • The Battle of Trenton: Pivotal Point in Revolutionary War
  • Boston Massacre: Instigator of Colonial Dissent
  • French Alliance: A Game-Changer in American Victory
  • Constitutional Convention: Shaping the American Government
  • The Battle of Bunker Hill: Boosting Revolutionary Morale
  • Declaration of Independence: Foundation of American Nationhood
  • Lexington and Concord: Sparking the Revolutionary War
  • Native Americans’ Impacts on the American Revolution
  • Treaty of Paris (1783): Securing American Independence
  • Battle of Cowpens: Key Turning Point in Southern Campaign
  • George Washington’s Influence on Revolutionary Leadership
  • Valley Forge: Endurance and Transformation During the Revolution
  • Guilford Courthouse: Decisive Battle in the Southern Campaign
  • Stamp Act Crisis: Prelude to Revolutionary Resistance
  • Militia’s Roles in the Revolutionary War

American Essay History Topics Before 1865

  • Founding Fathers’ Vision for a Democratic Republic
  • Revolutionary War: Catalyst for American Independence
  • Slavery and the Abolitionist Movement
  • Louisiana Purchase: Expanding National Borders
  • Manifest Destiny and Westward Expansion
  • Underground Railroad: Resistance against Slavery
  • Boston Tea Party: Igniting the American Revolution
  • Emancipation Proclamation: Eliminating Slavery in the Confederacy
  • Declaration of Independence: Establishing American Nationhood
  • Constitutional Convention: Framing the US Constitution
  • Dred Scott Case: Impact on African Americans’ Rights
  • Lewis and Clark Expedition: Exploring the Western Frontier
  • Industrialization: Transforming American Society
  • Battle of Yorktown: British Surrender and American Victory
  • Women’s Suffrage Movement: Achieving Voting Rights for Women
  • Mexican-American War: Annexing Texas and Western Territories
  • Great Awakening: Religious Revival in Colonial America
  • Missouri Compromise: Balancing Free and Slave States
  • Marbury vs. Madison: Establishing Judicial Review
  • War of 1812: Forging American National Identity

US Research Paper Topics on Black History

  • Struggles and Triumphs: The Impact of the Underground Railroad on Black History
  • The Legacy of Harriet Tubman: A Trailblazer for Freedom and Equality
  • Examining the Abolitionist Movement: From Slavery to Liberation
  • African American Soldiers in the Civil War: Their Role and Contribution
  • Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott: Igniting Change for Civil Rights
  • Martin Luther King Jr.: A Visionary Leader for Equality
  • The Black Panthers: Revolutionizing Racial Empowerment
  • Celebrating Black Culture and Artistic Expression: The Harlem Renaissance
  • Pioneers of African American Military Aviation: The Tuskegee Airmen
  • Desegregation in Schools: Brown vs. Board of Education’s Impact
  • The March on Washington: A Milestone for Civil Rights Advancement
  • Malcolm X: A Voice for Black Nationalism and Self-Determination
  • Rebuilding After the Civil War: The Era of Reconstruction
  • Breaking Down Legal Barriers: The Civil Rights Act of 1964
  • The Great Migration: Black Americans’ Journey Northward
  • Integration of New Orleans Schools: Ruby Bridges’ Courageous Stand
  • Tragedy and Resilience in Tulsa: The Black Wall Street Massacre
  • The Vital Role of Black Women in the Civil Rights Movement
  • Redefining Black Identity and Empowerment: The Black Power Movement
  • Frederick Douglass: From Escaping Slavery to Becoming a Leader

US History Essay Topics on Civil Rights Movement Topics Beyond the 20th Century

  • Women’s Roles in the Civil Rights Struggle Beyond the 20th Century
  • LGBTQ+ Activism’s Impacts on Contemporary Civil Rights
  • Addressing Police Brutality in the Fight for Civil Rights Today
  • Progress and Challenges of the Voting Rights Act in Post-Civil Rights America
  • Intersections of Race and Immigration in the Struggle for Equal Rights
  • Environmental Justice: Linking It to the Civil Rights Movement Today
  • Reparations Debate: Remedying Historical Injustices for Civil Rights
  • Disability Rights Movement: Achievements and Ongoing Struggles
  • Indigenous Rights Movements: Continuing the Fight for Civil Liberties
  • The Battle for Educational Equality in the Post-Civil Rights Era
  • Affirmative Action: Equalizing Opportunities or Reverse Discrimination?
  • Asian American Civil Rights Activism in the 21st Century
  • Criminal Justice System and Civil Rights: Reforming for Equality
  • Reproductive Rights as Fundamental Civil Liberties: Progress and Challenges
  • Native American Tribal Sovereignty: Preserving Civil Rights in Modern America
  • Nonviolent Resistance: A Powerful Tool in Modern Civil Rights Movements
  • Addressing Racial Disparities: Civil Rights and the Mass Incarceration Crisis
  • Immigrant Rights Movements: Upholding Civil Liberties in America
  • Islamophobia and Civil Rights: Combating Discrimination in the 21st Century
  • LGBTQ+ Rights: Fighting for Equality and Marriage Freedom
  • Balancing Second Amendment Rights and Public Safety: The Gun Control Debate

American History Essay Topics on Cold War and McCarthyism

  • Impacts of the Korean Conflict on Cold War Politics
  • Red Scare and the Hollywood Blacklist
  • Space Race and Significance in Cold War Dynamics
  • Eisenhower’s “New Look” Policy and Nuclear Arms Race
  • Berlin Crisis and Construction of the Wall
  • McCarthyism and Suppression of Civil Liberties
  • Bay of Pigs Invasion: Failed US Intervention in Cuba
  • Vietnam Conflict as Proxy War in Cold Era
  • Marshall Plan and American Economic Aid in Cold War
  • Suez Crisis: Cold War Politics in the Middle East
  • U-2 Spy Plane Incident and Escalating Tensions
  • Hungarian Revolution and Soviet Repression
  • Cultural Impacts of the Beat Generation During the Cold War
  • Arms Control Negotiations: SALT and START Treaties
  • Domino Theory and US Involvement in Southeast Asia
  • CIA’s Roles in Covert Operations During Cold Conflict
  • Influence of Korean Conflict on US Military Strategy
  • Space Exploration: Cold War Competition for Technological Superiority
  • Nuclear Test Ban Treaty: A Step Toward DĂŠtente
  • Brinkmanship Strategy and Cuban Missile Crisis

American History Topics on Civil Rights Movement

  • The Impact of Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott
  • The Influence of Brown vs. Board of Education on Desegregation
  • The March on Washington: Pursuing Equality
  • Nonviolent Resistance: Catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement
  • The Voting Rights Act: Expanding Ballot Access
  • Freedom Riders: Challenging Segregation in Transportation
  • Sit-In Movement: Breaking the Chains of Racial Segregation
  • Birmingham Campaign: A Turning Point in the Struggle for Civil Rights
  • Formation and Significance of the Black Panther Party
  • Assassination of Malcolm X: Impact on the Civil Rights Movement
  • Selma to Montgomery March: Milestone for Voting Rights
  • Mississippi Freedom Summer: Empowering African American Voters
  • Women’s Contributions to the Civil Rights Movement
  • Black Power Movement: Revolutionizing Activism
  • Civil Rights Act of 1964: Banning Discrimination
  • Integration of Little Rock Central High School: Breaking Barriers
  • Chicago Freedom Movement: Urban Segregation and Activism
  • Medgar Evers’ Assassination: Tragic Loss for the Civil Rights Movement
  • Fair Housing Act of 1968: Combating Housing Discrimination
  • Albany Movement: Lessons From an Unsuccessful Campaign
  • Impacts of the 24th Amendment: Eliminating Poll Taxes

US History Essay Topics on Immigration & Ethnic

  • The Impact of Irish Immigration on American Society
  • Chinese Exclusion Act: Origins and Ramifications
  • Mexican Migration and the Bracero Program
  • Italian Americans: Assimilation and Cultural Heritage
  • The Great Migration: African American Movement to the North
  • Japanese Internment: World War II Consequences
  • Ellis Island: Gateway to the American Dream
  • The Harlem Renaissance: Cultural Expression and Immigrants
  • Irish Americans: Famine, Resilience, and Success
  • Puerto Rican Migration and Nuyorican Culture
  • Angel Island: The West Coast Immigration Center
  • Immigration’s Impacts on Industrialization in the United States
  • Polish Americans: Traditions and Integration
  • The Bracero Program and Agricultural Labor
  • Jewish Immigration and American Zionism
  • Chinese Exclusion Act’s Influence on Immigration Policy
  • Mexican Americans: Struggles and Achievements in the Southwest
  • Immigration and the California Gold Rush
  • German Americans: Contributions and Integration in American Society
  • The Immigration Act of 1924: Restricting National Origins

American Industrial Revolution History Topics

  • Roles of Eli Whitney’s Cotton Gin in Industrial Transformation
  • Evolution of Transportation: Railroad’s Influence on American Industry
  • The Rise of Urbanization during the Industrial Era
  • Women’s Participation in the Industrial Workforce: Challenges and Achievements
  • Native American Communities: Industrialization’s Impact
  • Labor Movements and Worker Rights in the Industrial Age
  • Technological Advancements and the Birth of the American Industrial Revolution
  • Development of Factory System: Transition From Artisanal to Mass Production
  • Immigration and Workforce Transformation in the Industrial Revolution
  • Agricultural Practices: Industrialization’s Impact on American Farms
  • American Markets: Industrial Revolution’s Role in Expansion
  • The Growth of Urban Centers: Industrialization’s Effect on Cities
  • Child Labor and the Industrial Revolution in America
  • Changing Roles of Women in American Society during Industrialization
  • Industrialization and American Trade and Commerce
  • Government Regulation and Control in American Industrialization
  • Impacts of the Industrial Revolution on American Education and Literacy
  • Technological Advances in Communication during Industrialization
  • Environmental Consequences of American Industrialization
  • Industrial Revolution’s Influence on American Architecture
  • Effects of Industrialization on American Art and Cultural Trends

Latin American History Essay Topics

  • Conquest and Resistance in Latin America
  • Economic Exploitation in Colonial Latin America
  • Independence Movements in Latin America
  • The Impact of European Immigration on Latin American Societies
  • The Role of Women in Latin American Independence Movements
  • Indigenous Cultures and Their Contributions to Latin American History
  • Latin American Revolutions: Comparing Mexico and South America
  • The Influence of African Slavery in Latin American Societies
  • Dictatorships and Authoritarian Regimes in Latin America
  • The Mexican Revolution: Causes and Consequences
  • Cultural Identity and Nationalism in Latin America
  • The Falklands War: Britain and Argentina in Latin America
  • The Zapatista Movement: Indigenous Rights in Mexico
  • Latin American Literature and the Boom of the 1960s
  • Neoliberalism and Economic Crisis in Latin America
  • Drug Trafficking and Its Impact on Latin American Societies
  • Environmental Movements in Latin America
  • Indigenous Land Rights and Conflicts in Latin America
  • The Sandinista Revolution in Nicaragua
  • Chilean Dictatorship: Pinochet’s Rule and Its Legacy

American History Topics on Progressive Era

  • Reforming the American Education System During the Progressive Era
  • Industrialization and Urbanization: Impact on Progressive Era Society
  • Regulating Big Business: Anti-Trust Reforms in the Progressive Era
  • Political Transformations: From Municipal to National Level in the Progressive Era
  • Progressive Era Leaders: Teddy Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson
  • Investigating Corruption: Muckrakers and Journalism in the Progressive Era
  • Preserving America’s Natural Resources: The Conservation Movement in the Progressive Era
  • Labor Rights and Social Justice: Workers’ Struggles in the Progressive Era
  • Progressive Era Initiatives: Social Welfare Reforms and Their Impact
  • Temperance and Prohibition: The Progressive Era’s Crusade Against Alcohol
  • Suffrage and Equality: Women’s Fight for Political Rights in the Progressive Era
  • Progressive Era Policies: Immigration Regulations and Nativism
  • Ensuring Consumer Safety: Consumer Protection Reforms in the Progressive Era
  • Science and Social Control: Eugenics and Social Darwinism in the Progressive Era
  • Public Health and Sanitation: Reforms During the Progressive Era
  • African Americans and Civil Rights: Challenges in the Progressive Era
  • Expanding Federal Power: Progressive Era and the Growth of Government Authority
  • Intellectual Movements of the Progressive Era: Pragmatism and Social Gospel
  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: A Turning Point for Labor Reforms
  • Child Labor and Reform Efforts: Progressive Era’s Fight Against Exploitation
  • Diversity and Assimilation: Progressive Era Immigration Policies

American History Essay Topics on Roaring Twenties

  • Economic Prosperity and Consumerism in the Roaring Twenties
  • Impacts of Prohibition on American Society During the Jazz Age
  • Women’s Empowerment Movement in the Roaring Twenties
  • Jazz Age: Cultural Revolution of the 1920s
  • Harlem Renaissance: African-American Art and Culture in the Jazz Age
  • Technological Advancements and Their Influence in the Roaring Twenties
  • Red Scare and Fear of Communism in 1920s America
  • The Great Gatsby: Symbolism and Critique of the Jazz Age
  • Flappers and the Evolution of Gender Roles in the Roaring Twenties
  • Scopes Trial: Clash of Evolution and Creationism in the 1920s
  • Mass Media and Popular Culture in the Roaring Twenties
  • Wall Street Crash of 1929: The End of an Era
  • Political and Social Movements in the Jazz Age
  • Prohibition Enforcement: Bootlegging and Hidden Bars in the 1920s
  • Fashion Transformations in the Roaring Twenties
  • Impact of Radio and Movies on American Culture in the Roaring Twenties
  • Women’s Suffrage Movement and the 19th Amendment in the 1920s
  • Race Relations and the KKK in the Roaring Twenties
  • Art Deco: Architectural and Design Trends of the Jazz Age
  • Automobile Industry’s Influence on American Society in the 1920s

American Reconstruction History Essay Topics

  • The Evolution of Freedmen’s Rights in American Reconstruction
  • Political Reforms and Transformation in Post-Civil War America
  • Economic Shifts and Development During the Reconstruction Era
  • The Influence of the Thirteenth Amendment on American Society
  • Reconstruction Policies and Their Impact on Southern States
  • Women’s Suffrage Movement: A Catalyst in Reconstruction
  • African American Political Leadership in the Reconstruction Era
  • The Struggle for Civil Rights in the Reconstruction Period
  • The Establishment and Impact of the Freedmen’s Bureau
  • African Americans’ Changing Roles in Post-Civil War America
  • The Reconstruction Amendments: Expanding the Notions of Citizenship
  • Education Reforms: Empowering the Disenfranchised During Reconstruction
  • The Ku Klux Klan’s Opposition to Reconstruction
  • The Reconstruction Act of 1867: Restructuring the South
  • The Debate on Land Redistribution in the Reconstruction Era
  • Reconstruction’s Enduring Influence on American Identity
  • The Compromise of 1877: An End to Reconstruction
  • Radical Republicans and Their Influence on the Reconstruction Era
  • Shifting Political Dynamics: Southern Power During Reconstruction
  • The Legacy of Reconstruction: Shaping American History
  • The Supreme Court’s Role in Shaping Reconstruction Policies

LGBTQ+ American History Research Paper Topics

  • Historical Milestones of LGBTQ+ Rights in America
  • The Stonewall Riots: Catalyst for LGBTQ+ Activism
  • Impacts of Harvey Milk on American LGBTQ+ Politics
  • Transgender Rights Movement in the United States
  • The AIDS Crisis and Its Effects on the LGBTQ+ Community
  • Intersectionality: Race and Activism in LGBTQ+ History
  • Lesbian Feminism in America: Past and Present
  • Homophobia and Its Roots in American Society
  • Evolution of LGBTQ+ Representation in Media and Entertainment
  • LGBTQ+ Veterans: Advocacy on the Battlefield
  • Significance of LGBTQ+ Landmarks in American History
  • Religious Perspectives on LGBTQ+ Rights in America
  • LGBTQ+ Activism in the Civil Rights Movement
  • Impacts of Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)
  • Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Youth in American Society
  • LGBTQ+ Resistance and Resilience in Conservative States
  • Role of LGBTQ+ Activism in Shaping Employment Discrimination Laws
  • Pioneering Transgender Individuals in American History
  • Queer Literature’s Contribution to LGBTQ+ Identity
  • Roles of LGBTQ+ Community Centers in Promoting Equality

Native American History Essay Topics

  • Native American Resistance During Early Colonial Encounters
  • Impacts of European Diseases on Indigenous Populations
  • Tribal Governance Structures and Political Systems of Native Nations
  • Contributions of Native Americans to the American Revolution
  • Forced Removal of Indigenous Tribes: The Trail of Tears
  • Significance of Native American Diplomacy in the 19th Century
  • Assimilation Policies and the Dawes Act: Effects on Indigenous Communities
  • Native American Women in History: Leaders, Activists, and Guardians
  • The Wounded Knee Massacre: Causes and Consequences
  • Indigenous Art, Literature, and Music: Cultural Contributions
  • Native American Tribes’ Role in the Civil War
  • The Indian Reorganization Act: Impact on Tribal Sovereignty
  • Land Rights and Legal Challenges Faced by Indigenous Peoples
  • Native American Religion and Spiritual Practices: Continuity and Adaptation
  • Native American Code Talkers in World Wars I and II
  • Boarding Schools and Cultural Suppression: Indigenous Experiences
  • The American Indian Movement (AIM): Impact on Indigenous Activism
  • Indigenous Trade Networks and Economic Systems
  • Reservation Policies and Tribal Self-Governance Among Indigenous Peoples
  • Hunting, Gathering, and Agricultural Practices of Native Nations
  • Indigenous Languages: Preservation and Revitalization Efforts

American History Research Paper Topics About World War I & II

  • The Impact of Propaganda on American Society During World War I
  • Women’s Roles in the American Homefront During World War II
  • The Aftermath of World War I: Treaty of Versailles and Its Consequences
  • America’s Race to Build the Atomic Bomb: The Manhattan Project
  • African Americans’ Contribution to World War II
  • The Great Depression’s Influence on American Entry Into World War II
  • America’s Aid to Allied Forces: The Lend-Lease Act During World War II
  • Racial Tensions in America During World War II: The Zoot Suit Riots
  • The GI Bill: Impact on Post-World War II America
  • America’s Shift in Foreign Policy After World War I: The Interwar Period
  • The Battle of Midway: A Decisive Moment in the Pacific Theater of World War II
  • Cold War Paranoia in America: The Red Scare and McCarthyism
  • Japanese Americans’ Internment During World War II
  • The Marshall Plan: American Aid for Post-World War II European Reconstruction
  • Unsung Heroes of World War II: The Navajo Code Talkers
  • Veterans’ Struggles During the Great Depression: The Bonus Army March
  • American Nurses’ Role in World War I and II
  • Tragedy in the Pacific Theater of World War II: The Bataan Death March
  • Mexican Laborers in the American War Effort: The Bracero Program
  • America’s Involvement in a Cold War Proxy Conflict: The Korean War

American History Essay Topics About Founding Fathers and the Constitution

  • The Revolutionary Vision: Exploring the Ideals of America’s Founding Fathers
  • Jefferson’s Influence on American Democracy
  • Hamilton’s Economic Policies and Their Impact on the Constitution
  • James Madison: Shaping the Foundation of the Constitution
  • The Delicate Balance: Compromises at the Constitutional Convention
  • Analyzing the Federalist Papers: Arguments for Ratifying the Constitution
  • Safeguarding Individual Liberties: The Significance of the Bill of Rights
  • John Adams: Statesman and Advocate for Independence
  • Thomas Paine’s Impact: Common Sense and Revolutionary Ideas
  • Benjamin Franklin: Influencing American Diplomacy
  • Abigail Adams: Trailblazing Woman and Her Role in Nation-Building
  • Opposition to the Constitution: Examining the Anti-Federalist Movement
  • Alexander Hamilton’s Economic Policies: A Federalist Approach
  • Shaping American Jurisprudence: The Contributions of John Jay
  • The Articles of Confederation: Weaknesses and the Call for a New Constitution
  • Crafting American Government: The Constitutional Convention
  • Slavery and the Constitution: Debate Over the Three-Fifths Compromise
  • Samuel Adams: Revolutionary Catalyst and Political Figure
  • Patrick Henry’s Inspiring Speeches: Fanning the Flames of Independence
  • The Northwest Ordinance: Guiding Principles for Westward Expansion
  • Challenging Free Speech: The Alien and Sedition Acts

American History Topics About Space Race and NASA’s Contributions

  • NASA’s Roles in the Space Race: A Historical Perspective
  • The Mercury Seven: Trailblazers of American Space Exploration
  • Apollo 11: A Monumental Leap for Mankind
  • The Impact of Sputnik on US Space Programs
  • Lunar Exploration: NASA’s Quest to Unravel the Moon’s Mysteries
  • Revolutionizing Space Travel: The Legacy of the Space Shuttle Program
  • Unsung Heroes: The Hidden Figures of NASA’s Early Years
  • The Cold War Context and the Space Race
  • Advancements in Weather Forecasting and Earth Observation by NASA
  • Beyond Our Solar System: NASA’s Voyager and Pioneer Missions
  • Skylab: America’s First Orbital Space Station
  • Robotic Pioneers: NASA’s Missions to Explore the Solar System
  • Lessons Learned From the Challenger Disaster for Space Exploration
  • Expanding Horizons: The Hubble Space Telescope’s Contributions
  • International Collaborations in Space Exploration: NASA’s Global Impact
  • Revealing Mars’ Secrets: NASA’s Robotic Rovers
  • Trailblazing With the X-15 Program: Advancing Spaceplane Technology
  • Enabling Satellite Communications: NASA’s Contributions
  • Apollo-Soyuz Test Project: A Symbol of US-Soviet Space Cooperation
  • The Space Shuttle Challenger Tragedy: Aftermath and Reforms

US Civil War Research Paper Topics

  • Causes and Consequences of the Battle of Gettysburg
  • Reconstruction Policies and Their Impact on Post-Civil War America
  • Women’s Roles in the Civil War: From Nurses to Spies
  • Abraham Lincoln’s Leadership and the Emancipation Proclamation
  • The Underground Railroad: Freedom Heroes and Heroines
  • Battle of Antietam: Decisive Turning Point
  • African American Soldiers in the Union Army
  • Sherman’s March to the Sea: Total Warfare Strategy
  • The Battle of Bull Run: A Shocking Wake-Up Call
  • Significance of the Vicksburg Campaign in the Civil War
  • Election of 1860 and the Secession Crisis
  • Civil War Photography’s Impact on Public Perception
  • Formation and Ideals of the Confederate States of America
  • Fort Sumter: Prelude to War
  • Clara Barton and the Red Cross: Humanitarian Aid during the Civil War
  • Draft Riots of 1863: Social Unrest in New York City
  • Robert E. Lee’s Military Strategies and Leadership
  • Emancipation Proclamation: Freedom for the Enslaved
  • Battle of Shiloh: Bloodiest Conflict in the Western Theater
  • Jefferson Davis and the Confederate Government’s Formation

American History Research Paper Topics on Vietnam War

  • The Nixon Doctrine: America’s Foreign Policy Approach During the Vietnam War
  • Women’s Role and Contributions in the Vietnam War Effort
  • The My Lai Tragedy: Atrocity and Its Consequences in the Vietnam Conflict
  • Draft Resistance Movements: Opposition to the Vietnam War
  • Negotiating Peace: The Paris Accords and the End of the Vietnam Conflict
  • The Ho Chi Minh Trail: North Vietnam’s Strategic Supply Route
  • Agent Orange: Environmental and Health Impacts of Chemical Warfare
  • The Fall of Saigon: The Final Chapter of the Vietnam War
  • The Gulf of Tonkin Incident: Escalation and Justification of the Vietnam Conflict
  • Battle of Khe Sanh: Symbolism and Significance in the Vietnam War
  • Anti-War Movement: Activism and Protests Against the Vietnam Conflict
  • The Phoenix Program: Counterinsurgency Tactics in the Vietnam War
  • Operation Rolling Thunder: Aerial Bombing Campaign During the Vietnam Conflict
  • Hamburger Hill: Intense Combat and Sacrifice in the Vietnam War
  • Kent State Shootings: Tragedy and Student Demonstrations in the Vietnam War
  • The Siege of Khe Sanh: A Crucial Moment in the Vietnam Conflict
  • Congressional Response: The War Powers Act and Its Impact on the Vietnam War
  • African American Soldiers: Contributions and Challenges in the Vietnam War
  • Strategic Hamlet Program: Counterinsurgency Strategy in the Vietnam Conflict
  • Laotian Civil War: Regional Dynamics and Their Influence on the Vietnam War

American History Essay Topics on Women’s Suffrage and Feminist Movement

  • The Evolution of Women’s Suffrage in American History
  • Key Leaders in the American Feminist Movement
  • Seneca Falls Convention: Catalyst for Change
  • Abolitionism’s Influence on Women’s Suffrage
  • Progressive Era: Intersection With Women’s Rights
  • Susan B. Anthony’s Impact on the Suffrage Movement
  • National American Woman Suffrage Association: Formation and Impact
  • Alice Paul and the National Women’s Party’s Influence
  • Women’s Suffrage and World War I: Shifting Perspectives
  • Battle for the 19th Amendment: Triumphs and Challenges
  • Suffragettes’ Strategies: Methods and Successes
  • African American Women’s Contributions to Suffrage Movement
  • Native American Women’s Role in the Fight for Suffrage
  • Women’s Suffrage in the Western States: Trailblazers of Progress
  • Feminist Movement and World War II’s Impact
  • Second Wave Feminism: Objectives and Accomplishments
  • Feminist Literature: Catalyst for Social Change
  • Betty Friedan’s “The Feminine Mystique” and Its Influence
  • Women’s Liberation Movement: Birth of NOW
  • Roe vs. Wade: Women’s Reproductive Rights Examined
  • Title IX: Transforming Women’s Sports and Education

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300+ American History Research Paper Topics

American History Research Paper Topics

American history is a vast and complex subject that encompasses a wide range of events, movements, and individuals who have shaped the country’s past and present. From the struggles for independence and civil rights to the exploration and settlement of the continent, American history provides an abundance of topics for research papers . Whether you’re interested in politics, social issues, cultural trends, or military history, there are numerous topics to choose from that will help you delve deeper into the fascinating story of the United States. In this arcticle, we will explore some of the most compelling and thought-provoking American history topics that you can choose to explore in your own research .

American History Research Paper Topics

American History Research Paper Topics are as follows:

  • The Salem witch trials: religious hysteria and persecution.
  • The California Gold Rush: immigration and economic boom.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: cultural movements and African American creativity.
  • The Stonewall riots: LGBTQ+ rights and activism.
  • The Underground Railroad: abolitionist movement and escape from slavery.
  • The New York City Draft Riots: racial tensions and class conflict during the Civil War.
  • The Battle of Little Bighorn: Native American resistance and US expansionism.
  • The Scopes Monkey Trial: evolution and religion in the public school system.
  • The assassination of Abraham Lincoln: political upheaval and the aftermath.
  • The Bracero Program: labor migration and Mexican American relations.
  • The Japanese American internment: civil liberties and government policies during WWII.
  • The Black Panthers: civil rights and revolutionary politics.
  • The Montgomery bus boycott: racial segregation and nonviolent protest.
  • The War of 1812: US-British relations and national identity.
  • The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution: US involvement in Vietnam and presidential power.
  • The Trail of Tears: forced relocation of Native Americans and government policy.
  • The Louisiana Purchase: westward expansion and territorial acquisition.
  • The Emancipation Proclamation: Abraham Lincoln and the end of slavery.
  • The Boston Tea Party: colonial resistance and the American Revolution.
  • The Haymarket Riot: labor movements and the struggle for workers’ rights.
  • The Sacco and Vanzetti trial: political prejudice and the justice system.
  • The Nixon administration and Watergate: political corruption and media coverage.
  • The Battle of Gettysburg: turning point in the Civil War and military strategy.
  • The United States’ entry into WWI: neutrality and international relations.
  • The assassination of JFK: conspiracy theories and the impact on American politics.
  • The Montgomery GI Bill: post-WWII veterans’ benefits and education.
  • The 1968 Democratic National Convention: anti-war protests and police brutality.
  • The Space Shuttle Challenger disaster: NASA and government accountability.
  • The Wounded Knee Massacre: Native American activism and government response.
  • The Oklahoma City bombing: domestic terrorism and extremism.
  • The Pentagon Papers: government secrecy and media freedom.
  • The American eugenics movement: racial science and government policy.
  • The Zoot Suit Riots: racial tensions and discrimination in WWII-era Los Angeles.
  • The Tet Offensive: turning point in the Vietnam War and media coverage.
  • The 1920s: flappers, jazz music, and cultural transformation.
  • The Seneca Falls Convention: women’s suffrage and gender equality.
  • The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: civil rights and the struggle for racial justice.
  • The Tea Party movement: conservative populism and political polarization.
  • The space race and the moon landing: US-Soviet competition and national pride.
  • The Gulf War: US military action in the Middle East and international relations.
  • The Hurricane Katrina disaster: government response and racial inequality.
  • The Rodney King verdict and LA riots: police brutality and racial justice.
  • The Iran-Contra scandal: government corruption and foreign policy.
  • The civil rights movement and the Freedom Riders: nonviolent protest and desegregation.
  • The Flint water crisis: environmental racism and government negligence.
  • The Occupy Wall Street movement: economic inequality and social justice.
  • The AIDS epidemic: public health crisis and societal attitudes.
  • The American Revolution: causes and consequences.
  • The impact of slavery on the development of the United States.
  • The Reconstruction Era: successes and failures.
  • The Civil War: social, political, and economic impacts.
  • The women’s suffrage movement: progress and setbacks.
  • The rise of industrialization and its impact on society.
  • The Progressive Era: reforms and political changes.
  • The New Deal: success or failure?
  • The impact of the Great Depression on American society.
  • The Second World War: America’s involvement and impact.
  • The Cold War: the US and Soviet Union’s global influence.
  • The civil rights movement: leaders and strategies.
  • The Vietnam War: political, social, and cultural impacts.
  • The Watergate scandal: corruption and the presidency.
  • The Reagan Revolution: conservatism and change.
  • The Gulf War: America’s role in international conflict.
  • The 9/11 terrorist attacks: effects on domestic and foreign policy.
  • The Obama presidency: achievements and controversies.
  • The rise of Silicon Valley: technology and innovation.
  • The labor movement: unionization and workers’ rights.
  • The Trail of Tears: the forced relocation of Native Americans.
  • The Mormon migration: religious freedom and settlement.
  • The gold rush: economic and social impacts.
  • The women’s liberation movement: progress and setbacks.
  • The rise of the suburbs: lifestyle changes and the American Dream.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: cultural and artistic movements.
  • The Dust Bowl: environmental disasters and migration.
  • The Ku Klux Klan: racism and terror in America.
  • The rise of the Christian Right: religion and politics.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis: America and the Soviet Union on the brink of war.
  • The Manhattan Project: the development of nuclear weapons.
  • The Bay of Pigs invasion: US foreign policy in Latin America.
  • The Space Race: America’s competition with the Soviet Union.
  • The Black Power movement: self-determination and political activism.
  • The Stonewall riots: the birth of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
  • The War on Drugs: the impact on minority communities.
  • The rise of hip hop: cultural expression and social commentary.
  • The Iraq War: America’s intervention in the Middle East.
  • The Tea Party movement: populism and conservative politics.
  • The Dakota Access Pipeline protests: Indigenous rights and environmentalism.
  • The #MeToo movement: sexual harassment and assault in the workplace.
  • The 2020 presidential election: controversies and historical significance.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic: social, economic, and political impacts.
  • The climate crisis: America’s role in mitigating global warming.
  • The opioid epidemic: public health crisis and government response.
  • The gig economy: labor rights and the changing nature of work.
  • The immigration debate: policies and social attitudes towards immigrants.
  • The Black Lives Matter movement: racial justice and police reform.
  • The Battle of Antietam: bloodiest day in American history and its impact on the Civil War.
  • The Salem Witch Trials: causes and consequences of the infamous witch hunt.
  • The Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment: examining the unethical medical study conducted on African American men.
  • The Stonewall Riots: analyzing the LGBTQ+ rights movement and the impact of the Stonewall uprising.
  • The Bay of Pigs Invasion: evaluating the failed US attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro’s regime in Cuba.
  • The Battle of Little Bighorn: examining the conflict between the US Army and Native American tribes.
  • The Red Scare: analyzing the fear of communism in the US during the Cold War.
  • The Manhattan Project: evaluating the development of the atomic bomb during World War II.
  • The Seneca Falls Convention: examining the first women’s rights convention and its impact on American society.
  • The My Lai Massacre: analyzing the massacre of Vietnamese civilians by US soldiers during the Vietnam War.
  • The Treaty of Versailles: evaluating the impact of the treaty that ended World War I.
  • The Dust Bowl Migration: examining the migration of farmers from the Great Plains to California during the Great Depression.
  • The Black Lives Matter Movement: analyzing the movement for racial justice and police reform in the US.
  • The Oregon Trail: examining the westward expansion of the US and the impact of the Oregon Trail.
  • The 1968 Democratic National Convention: evaluating the protests and violence that occurred during the convention.
  • The Indian Removal Act: examining the forced relocation of Native American tribes in the 1830s.
  • The Great Society: evaluating the social and economic reforms of President Lyndon B. Johnson.
  • The Wounded Knee Massacre: analyzing the US Army’s killing of Native American men, women, and children in 1890.
  • The Ku Klux Klan: examining the rise and fall of the white supremacist group.
  • The Gadsden Purchase: evaluating the US acquisition of land from Mexico in 1853.
  • The Second Great Awakening: analyzing the religious revival of the early 19th century and its impact on American society.
  • The Haymarket Riot: examining the labor unrest and violence that occurred during the 1886 Chicago labor rally.
  • The Dust Bowl Art: analyzing the art and literature inspired by the Great Plains drought.
  • The Roe v. Wade Decision: evaluating the impact of the landmark Supreme Court decision on abortion rights.
  • The Salem Customs House: examining the significance of the customs house in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel “The Scarlet Letter.”
  • The Homestead Strike: analyzing the violent labor dispute that occurred at the Carnegie Steel Company in 1892.
  • The War of 1812: evaluating the US conflict with Great Britain and its impact on American society.
  • The Sacco and Vanzetti Trial: examining the controversial trial of two Italian immigrants in the 1920s.
  • The Scopes Monkey Trial: evaluating the trial that pitted science against religion in the 1920s.
  • The Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty: examining the US treaty with Panama that led to the construction of the Panama Canal.
  • The Bonus Army: analyzing the World War I veterans who marched on Washington, D.C. to demand government benefits.
  • The O.J. Simpson Trial: evaluating the impact of the high-profile murder trial on American culture.
  • The Iran-Contra Affair: examining the political scandal that involved the US selling weapons to Iran and using the profits to fund anti-communist rebels in Nicaragua.
  • The Buffalo Soldiers: analyzing the history of the African American soldiers who served in the western frontier.
  • The American Civil War: examining the factors that led to the conflict.
  • The New Deal: evaluating the impact of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s economic policies.
  • The Space Race: the competition between the US and Soviet Union to explore space.
  • The Vietnam War: analyzing the US involvement in the conflict.
  • The American Revolution: evaluating the role of key figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
  • The Civil Rights Movement: examining the fight for racial equality in the US.
  • The Gold Rush: exploring the impact of the California Gold Rush on American society.
  • The Watergate Scandal: the political scandal that brought down President Nixon.
  • The Great Migration: analyzing the movement of African Americans from the South to Northern cities.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: examining the cultural and artistic movement of the 1920s.
  • The Trail of Tears: evaluating the forced removal of Native American tribes from their lands.
  • The Cold War: analyzing the political and economic tensions between the US and Soviet Union.
  • The Industrial Revolution: examining the changes brought about by industrialization in the US.
  • The Boston Tea Party: evaluating the impact of the colonial protest against British taxation.
  • The Underground Railroad: analyzing the network that helped slaves escape to freedom.
  • The Women’s Suffrage Movement: examining the fight for women’s right to vote.
  • The Dust Bowl: evaluating the environmental and economic impact of the Great Plains drought.
  • The Emancipation Proclamation: analyzing Lincoln’s decision to free slaves in Confederate states.
  • The Transatlantic Slave Trade: examining the forced migration of Africans to the US.
  • The Louisiana Purchase: analyzing the impact of the US acquisition of Louisiana from France.
  • The Spanish Flu Pandemic: examining the global pandemic that killed millions.
  • The Attack on Pearl Harbor: evaluating the impact of the Japanese attack on the US.
  • The Montgomery Bus Boycott: analyzing the nonviolent protest against segregated public transportation.
  • The Panama Canal: examining the construction of the canal and its impact on international trade.
  • The Salem Maritime Trade: analyzing the economic and social impact of maritime trade in the colonial period.
  • The Cuban Revolution: examining the overthrow of Batista and the rise of Fidel Castro.
  • The Iraq War: analyzing the US invasion of Iraq in 2003.
  • The New York City Draft Riots: evaluating the racial and class tensions that led to the riots.
  • The Black Panther Party: examining the political and social impact of the Black Panther movement.
  • The American West: analyzing the expansion and settlement of the American West.
  • The Berlin Wall: examining the construction and fall of the Berlin Wall.
  • The 19th Amendment: evaluating the impact of women’s right to vote on American society.
  • The United States and the United Nations: analyzing the US involvement in the UN.
  • The Jim Crow Laws: examining the laws that enforced racial segregation in the US.
  • The Bracero Program: analyzing the US-Mexico labor agreement during World War II.
  • The Korean War: evaluating the US involvement in the conflict.
  • The Alamo: examining the battle that became a symbol of Texas independence.
  • The Assassination of JFK: analyzing the impact of the assassination on American politics and society.
  • The Great Chicago Fire: evaluating the impact of the fire that destroyed much of Chicago in 1871.
  • The Americanization Movement: examining the movement that sought to assimilate immigrants into American culture.
  • The Spanish American War: US imperialism and expansion in the late 19th century.
  • The Red Scare: political repression and the fear of communism in the 20th century.
  • The National Parks system: conservation and environmentalism in the US.
  • The Women’s Liberation Movement: feminism and gender equality in the 1960s and 1970s.
  • The Brown v. Board of Education decision: landmark ruling on desegregation in public schools.
  • The Gulf of Mexico oil spill: environmental disaster and corporate responsibility.
  • The American Revolution: causes, major events, and legacy.
  • The Great Depression: economic crisis and government response in the 1930s.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964: legislative landmark in the struggle for racial justice.
  • The Dust Bowl: ecological disaster and its impact on American agriculture.
  • The Waco Siege: government overreach and religious extremism.
  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire: workplace safety and labor reform.
  • The Black Lives Matter movement: police brutality and racial justice in the 21st century.
  • The Homestead Strike: labor dispute and the fight for workers’ rights.
  • The Panama Canal: engineering marvel and US influence in Central America.
  • The Marshall Plan: US aid to Europe after World War II and the Cold War.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis: nuclear brinksmanship and US-Soviet relations.
  • The Montgomery Improvement Association: nonviolent resistance and the bus boycott.
  • The Roe v. Wade decision: reproductive rights and the women’s movement.
  • The My Lai Massacre: war crimes and US military conduct in Vietnam.
  • The Salem-Keizer school desegregation case: busing and the limits of integration.
  • The Flint sit-down strike: labor unrest and unionization in the auto industry.
  • The transcontinental railroad: westward expansion and economic growth.
  • The Iranian Hostage Crisis: US foreign policy and Middle East tensions.
  • The Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty: US control of the Panama Canal and sovereignty issues.
  • The Black Sox Scandal: corruption and gambling in Major League Baseball.
  • The Freedom Summer: civil rights activism and voter registration in the South.
  • The Salem maritime trade: piracy and international commerce in the colonial period.
  • The Stono Rebellion: slave rebellion and resistance in South Carolina.
  • The Alaska Purchase: US acquisition of Alaska and its impact on Native Alaskans.
  • The United States and the League of Nations: US foreign policy and internationalism.
  • The Chicago Seven trial: political dissent and government repression during the Vietnam War.
  • The Reagan Revolution: conservative politics and the changing face of American politics.
  • The American Indian Movement: Native American rights and activism.
  • The Battle of Bull Run: first major battle of the Civil War and its impact.
  • The Wounded Knee Occupation: Native American sovereignty and government response.
  • The Whiskey Rebellion: taxation and the limits of federal authority in the early US.
  • The Iran-Iraq War: US involvement and Middle East politics.
  • The United States and the Cold War: US-Soviet relations and the arms race.
  • The Ku Klux Klan: white supremacy and domestic terrorism in American history.
  • The Battle of Midway: turning point in World War II and military strategy.
  • The Montgomery Bus Boycott: analyzing the civil rights movement and its impact on segregation in the South.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis: evaluating the US and Soviet Union’s tense standoff in 1962.
  • The Trail of Tears: examining the forced removal of Native American tribes from their lands in the 1830s.
  • The Space Race: analyzing the competition between the US and Soviet Union to explore space.
  • The Emancipation Proclamation: evaluating the impact of President Lincoln’s proclamation on slavery during the Civil War.
  • The Black Panthers: examining the rise and fall of the Black Panther Party in the 1960s and 1970s.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: analyzing the cultural movement that celebrated African American art, literature, and music in the 1920s and 1930s.
  • The Korean War: evaluating the US and UN’s conflict with North Korea and China in the 1950s.
  • The Boston Tea Party: examining the protest that sparked the American Revolution.
  • The National Parks System: analyzing the history and impact of the National Parks System in the US.
  • The New Deal: evaluating President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s economic reforms during the Great Depression.
  • The Black Codes: examining the laws passed in Southern states after the Civil War to restrict the rights of African Americans.
  • The Watergate Scandal: analyzing the political scandal that led to the resignation of President Nixon.
  • The War on Drugs: evaluating the US government’s policies and actions to combat drug use and trafficking.
  • The McCarthy Hearings: examining the anti-communist hearings led by Senator Joseph McCarthy in the 1950s.
  • The 1906 San Francisco Earthquake: analyzing the disaster and its impact on the city and American society.
  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: examining the tragedy that led to significant labor reforms in the early 20th century.
  • The Rodney King Riots: analyzing the 1992 riots in Los Angeles following the acquittal of police officers in the beating of Rodney King.
  • The Transcontinental Railroad: evaluating the construction of the railroad and its impact on American transportation and commerce.
  • The New York Draft Riots: examining the violent protests against the Civil War draft in New York City in 1863.
  • The Tulsa Race Massacre: analyzing the 1921 race massacre in Tulsa, Oklahoma and its aftermath.
  • The 1918 Influenza Pandemic: examining the deadly global pandemic and its impact on American society.
  • The Battle of Gettysburg: evaluating the pivotal Civil War battle and its impact on the war and American history.
  • The Mexican-American War: analyzing the US conflict with Mexico and its impact on American expansion.
  • The American Indian Movement: examining the Native American organization and its activism for Indigenous rights.
  • The War in Iraq: evaluating the US-led war in Iraq and its impact on US foreign policy.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964: analyzing the landmark legislation that prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
  • The Jim Crow Laws: examining the laws that enforced racial segregation in the South after the Civil War.
  • The Women’s Suffrage Movement: evaluating the fight for women’s right to vote in the US.
  • The Anti-Vietnam War Movement: analyzing the protests and activism against the US involvement in the Vietnam War.
  • The Donner Party: examining the ill-fated wagon train journey and its impact on westward expansion.
  • The Great Migration: analyzing the mass movement of African Americans from the South to the North and West in the early 20th century.
  • The Red Scare: examining the anti-communist hysteria in the US during the Cold War era.
  • The Alamo: evaluating the 1836 battle in Texas and its significance in American history.
  • The Cuban Revolution: analyzing the revolution led by Fidel Castro and its impact on US-Cuban relations.
  • The Dust Bowl: examining the environmental disaster that devastated the Great Plains in the 1930s.
  • The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: analyzing the impact of the civil rights leader’s death on American society.
  • The California Gold Rush: evaluating the rush of people to California in search of gold in 1849.
  • The Salem Witch Trials: examining the 1692 witch hunt and its impact on American society.
  • The Reconstruction Era: analyzing the period of US history following the Civil War that aimed to rebuild the South and integrate newly freed slaves into society.
  • The Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster: evaluating the tragic 1986 event that claimed the lives of seven astronauts.
  • The Great Society: examining President Lyndon B. Johnson’s domestic policies in the 1960s and their impact on American society.
  • The Bataan Death March: analyzing the brutal forced march of American and Filipino prisoners of war by the Japanese in World War II.
  • The Detroit Race Riot: examining the violent 1967 riots in Detroit and their impact on American race relations.
  • The Wounded Knee Massacre: analyzing the 1890 massacre of Sioux Indians by US troops and its impact on Native American relations with the US government.
  • The Spanish-American War: evaluating the US conflict with Spain in 1898 and its impact on American imperialism.
  • The Cold War: examining the geopolitical tensions between the US and Soviet Union from 1945-1991.
  • The Underground Railroad: evaluating the network of secret routes and safe houses used to help enslaved people escape to freedom in the 19th century.
  • The Tuskegee Airmen: examining the all-Black fighter squadron that served in World War II and their impact on American history.
  • The Boston Massacre: analyzing the 1770 event in which British soldiers killed five colonists and its impact on American revolutionary sentiment.
  • The 1968 Democratic National Convention: examining the protests and clashes between police and anti-war demonstrators during the convention.
  • The Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision: evaluating the landmark decision legalizing abortion in the US in 1973.
  • The Louisiana Territory: analyzing the US acquisition of the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803.
  • The Stock Market Crash of 1929: examining the causes and impact of the crash that led to the Great Depression.
  • The Lusitania sinking: analyzing the 1915 sinking of a British passenger ship by a German submarine and its impact on American entry into World War I.
  • The Second Great Awakening: evaluating the religious revival movement in the US in the early 19th century and its impact on American society.
  • The Black Panthers: analyzing the impact of the Black Panther Party on the civil rights movement and American society in the 1960s.
  • The Mexican-American War: examining the US conflict with Mexico in the 1840s and its impact on US expansionism.
  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: analyzing the 1911 tragedy and its impact on workplace safety regulations.
  • The Transcontinental Railroad: evaluating the building of the railroad in the late 19th century and its impact on American transportation and economy.
  • The Stono Rebellion: examining the 1739 slave uprising in South Carolina and its impact on American slavery laws.
  • The Battle of Gettysburg: analyzing the 1863 battle and its significance in the Civil War.
  • The Black Sox Scandal: evaluating the 1919 scandal in which members of the Chicago White Sox baseball team were accused of throwing the World Series.
  • The Oregon Trail: examining the westward expansion of American settlers to the Pacific Northwest in the 19th century.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964: analyzing the landmark legislation outlawing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
  • The Indian Removal Act: evaluating the 1830 law that authorized the forced removal of Native American tribes from their lands in the Southeastern US.
  • The Battle of Antietam: analyzing the 1862 battle and its impact on the Civil War.
  • The Iran-Contra Affair: examining the political scandal involving the Reagan administration’s secret arms sales to Iran and illegal funding of Contra rebels in Nicaragua.
  • The Pullman Strike: analyzing the 1894 labor strike by railway workers and its impact on American labor laws.
  • The 1920s: examining the cultural, social, and political changes that occurred during the “Roaring Twenties.”
  • The Battle of Little Bighorn: analyzing the 1876 battle between US forces and Sioux and Cheyenne warriors and its impact on Native American relations with the US government.
  • The Montgomery GI Bill: evaluating the legislation that provided education and training benefits to US veterans after World War II.
  • The Black Codes: examining the laws enacted in the South after the Civil War that restricted the rights and freedoms of newly freed slaves.
  • The Korean War: analyzing the US involvement in the conflict and its impact on American foreign policy.
  • The Seneca Falls Convention: evaluating the 1848 convention advocating for women’s suffrage and its impact on the women’s rights movement.
  • The Bay of Pigs Invasion: examining the failed 1961 US attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro’s government in Cuba.
  • The Homestead Strike: analyzing the 1892 labor strike by steelworkers and its impact on American labor relations.
  • The Gadsden Purchase: evaluating the US acquisition of land from Mexico in 1853 and its impact on American territorial expansion.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: examining the cultural and artistic movement in the 1920s and 1930s that celebrated Black creativity and identity.
  • The Fourteenth Amendment: analyzing the constitutional amendment that granted citizenship and equal protection under the law to all persons born or naturalized in the US.
  • The Battle of New Orleans: evaluating the 1815 battle in which American forces led by Andrew Jackson defeated British troops and its impact on American nationalism.
  • The Birmingham Campaign: analyzing the 1963 civil rights campaign in Alabama and its impact on the movement.
  • The Pullman Palace Car Company: examining the company’s history and impact on American railroad travel and labor relations.

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520 Excellent American History Topics & Tips for an A+ Paper

How can you define America? If you’ve ever asked yourself this question, studying US history will help you find the answer.

This article will help you dive deeper into this versatile subject. Here, you will find:

  • Early and modern US history topics to write about. We’ve also got topics for DBQ essays for students taking an AP US history class.
  • Tips on how to create a great history paper.

Have you checked out our custom writing service yet? Our experts are always ready to help you with your assignments.

🔝 Top 10 American History Topics

✅ how to write a history paper, ⭐ top 10 us history topics to research.

  • 🦅 Topics Before 1865
  • ⚔️ Civil War Topics
  • 🛠️ Reconstruction & Industrialization
  • 🗽 20th Century Topics
  • 🔫 Topics on WWI & II
  • ☮️ Civil Rights Movement Topics
  • 💬 Debatable Topics
  • ✊🏿 Black History Topics
  • 🏞️ Native American Topics
  • ⭐ Topics on Famous People

🔍 References

  • The ideology of the Black Panthers
  • How did tenements affect America?
  • Why was Wilmot Proviso so controversial?
  • What characterizes the Roaring Twenties?
  • Cause and effect of the Missouri Compromise
  • The role of women during the Great Depression
  • Did anyone profit from the 1929 Stock Market Crash?
  • Michael Collins’ contribution to the space exploration
  • How did the US benefit from the Bracero Program?
  • Brigham Young’s contribution to the development of the West

History writing is controversial by nature. Selecting questions and topics is already a subjective process. On top of that, you need to interpret the sources. So, there is much to think about when it comes to history papers.

We’ve compiled several tips to make it easier for you. Check it out:

  • Don’t be afraid to disagree . People explain many issues by conventional wisdom. Be skeptical and examine your own bias.
  • Explore new terrains . Not all historical events get the attention they deserve. Writing about generally neglected topics can yield fascinating results.
  • Consider how situations change over time . Frame your subject with a start- and endpoint.
  • Wonder . History is not just descriptions of what happened—it also questions how and why specific events took place.
  • Avoid relating everything to the present . Examine the past on its own terms. In doing so, keep the chronological order straight.
  • Don’t judge your subject . Your goal is to understand the past. Remember: moral norms might have been different in the period you’re studying.
  • Give context . It’s crucial to engage with and interpret your sources. Pinpoint their place in the grand scheme of events.

Finally, you might want to write in the present tense. While this works for other social sciences, it’s not advisable for history. It’s best to keep the past in the past! Also, if you need to construct a MLA title page , there’s nothing wrong in using a specialized tool to do that, as long as it allows you to concentrate on the more important part—writing.

  • What caused the Red Scare?
  • What did the Loyalists fight for?
  • Literacy rates during Puritan times
  • The effects of the Great Awakening
  • Why was the Boston Tea Party justified?
  • The aftermath of the Battle of Bunker Hill
  • Why was presidential Reconstruction a failure?
  • The causes of the economic recession of the 1780s
  • Railroads development role in the Industrial Revolution
  • Frederick Douglass’s contribution to the abolition of slavery

🦅 Essay Topics on US History before 1865

The period of colonial America is packed with turmoil. Think of the Boston Tea Party or the American Revolution. And these are only two of that era’s most notable events. In this rubric, you’ll find colonial American history essay topics. The period in question starts with the British arrival in the New World and ends with the Civil War.

  • The origins of Thanksgiving. One idea is to find out why the Pilgrims started celebrating it in the first place. Alternatively, you could examine how it became a national holiday.
  • Why did the British begin settling in the New World? This topic allows you to explore the rivalry with Spain. Or you could investigate England’s problem with poverty.
  • Discuss the emergence of joint-stock companies. Who profited from them? What is their legacy? You might also want to study their role in early settling attempts.
  • Compare and contrast the Jamestown and Plymouth settlements. You can concentrate on areas such as religion and government.

Barack Obama quote.

  • Why did Americans start revolting? An excellent place to begin might be America’s position in global power struggles. The impact of the European Enlightenment movement is also something to consider.
  • The history of African American culture. Ask yourself these questions: How does it differ from the way it is now? What factors influenced its development?
  • What problems arose during the drafting of the Constitution? You might want to write about the economic crisis. Other important factors include different interest groups and their expectations.
  • How did the American Revolution influence society? Your essay can be concerned with its immediate or long-term impact. Find out how women, slaves, and other groups reacted to the revolutionary spirit.
  • Consequences of the Royal Proclamation of 1783. American settlers didn’t obey the proclamation, but it still proved to be influential. Your paper could discuss why. Perhaps you’d also like to ponder if it was a good idea.
  • The role of nationalism in the westward expansion. Explore how Americans justified their belief in Manifest Destiny.

Don’t forget to check out these essay topics on early American history:

  • Why did the settlers start importing slaves?
  • How did Texas become a sovereign republic?
  • Why was the American Revolution successful?
  • Discuss the significance of the Louisiana Purchase.
  • What events led to the war of 1812 ?
  • How did the French Revolution impact America?
  • Describe the changes the American Revolution brought to the states.
  • What did “American” mean in the 18 th century?
  • The role of the Sons and Daughters of Liberty in achieving unity.
  • Why was the right to bear arms included in the Bill of Rights?
  • The first President of the United States.
  • Investigate the origins of the two-party system.
  • Alexander Hamilton’s financial policies: opposition and political consequences.
  • How did Washington, DC become the national capital?
  • Trace the Lewis and Clark expedition.
  • Analyze the importance of cotton for the South’s economy in the 1800s.
  • How did the relations between the settlers and Native Americans develop over time?
  • Who formed the abolitionist movement, and why?
  • How did Kansas become a battleground for proponents and opponents of slavery?
  • Who were the Border Ruffians?
  • What was the Compromise of 1850?
  • Consequences of the Mexican-American war.
  • Long-term influences of Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin .
  • Compare the real Underground Railroad with the Underground Femaleroad in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale .
  • The Declaration of Independence and its legacy.
  • What did the philosophy of transcendentalism entail?
  • Abigail Adams and the fight for women’s rights in the new republic.
  • Who was Daniel Shays?
  • Trace the ratification process of the United States’ Constitution.
  • What problems arose with the Missouri Compromise ?
  • The revival of religion in the US after achieving independence.
  • How did the mass immigration of Germans and Irish people impact the US?
  • Nativism in the US: riots and the politics of the Know-Nothings.
  • How did the South and the North respectively argue for and against slavery?
  • Investigate the emergence of the “Old American West.”
  • Study the connection of the blue jeans’ invention with the California gold rush .
  • Describe a day in a life of a slave.
  • Why was the Dred Scott Decision significant?
  • How does the 1860 election relate to the southern states seceding from the Union?
  • Explain the term “popular sovereignty.”

⚔️ Civil War Topics for Your Paper

In the pre-war period, tensions in the US over state rights and slavery were high. The differences seemed impossible to overcome. Eventually, this led to several southern states seceding from the Union. What followed was the bloodiest war ever to take place on American ground. In writing about the Civil War, you can explore military, political, and social issues.

  • Did the South ever have a chance to win? The conflict seemed to be heavily in favor of the more industrialized North. Still, it took four years of fighting to get the South to surrender. Your essay could examine the South’s underestimated strengths.
  • Compare and contrast the South’s and North’s economic situation on the eve of the Civil War. You might want to investigate the following questions: What did they produce? How did this influence the decision to wage war?
  • How did the Emancipation Proclamation affect the war? You could focus on the contributions of African American soldiers.
  • Discuss the fatal mistakes made on the battlefields of the Civil War. What decisive moments impacted its results the most? Your paper might explore what the generals could have done differently.
  • Was the Civil War inevitable ? It may be interesting to contemplate a possible compromise. In doing so, think about whether this would have merely delayed the war.
  • The general public’s position on the Civil War. It might be compelling to analyze who supported the effort and why. One focal point could be on differences between social classes.
  • The role of beliefs during the Civil War. You could investigate what the South and the North respectively held sacred. Were religious beliefs a crucial motivator for one or both sides?
  • The “Angel of the Battlefield”: Clara Barton. An essay could analyze how she contributed to the recognition of women’s war participation. It could also examine how it forwarded the struggle for women’s rights.

Clara Barton.

  • What were the political reasons to fight the Civil War? Investigating this question might yield surprising insights.
  • Contrasting Stonewall Jackson and Ulysses Grant might be engaging for those who are interested in military strategies.

Do you want more? Have a look at the following topic samples for high and middle school students:

  • Analyze why Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address became a critical moment in American history.
  • Was the Civil War justified?
  • Why was Fort Sumter relevant?
  • How did the Civil War battles impact the American social sphere?
  • What does the notion of the “Lost Cause” mean?
  • Would the election of a different man other than Abraham Lincoln as president have prevented the Civil War?
  • Why did many former slaves enlist in the Union army after the Emancipation Proclamation?
  • Describe the consequences of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination .
  • Why was slavery essential for the South?
  • Foreign US policy during the 1860s.
  • European reactions on the American Civil War.
  • How did Jefferson Davis’ government differ from Abraham Lincoln’s ?
  • Analyze the notion “A rich man’s war and a poor man’s fight.” Why was this especially true in the South?
  • Why did the Union rely heavily on blockades to weaken the Confederation?
  • Examine how Mary Boykin Chesnut’s A Diary from Dixie reflects on the war.
  • How did the war affect life in the South vs. the North?
  • Investigate the events that led to the Union victory in 1864-65.
  • Was the abolitionist movement the catalyst for the war?
  • The impact of industrialization on the battlefield.
  • What technologies emerged during the Civil War?
  • Discuss the societal effects of war photography.
  • How did the Civil War affect the many immigrants who recently entered the United States?
  • Did the American Civil War impact the rest of the globe? If so, how?
  • Can one consider Abraham Lincoln one of the best presidents in American history? If so, why?
  • Compare and contrast the most important generals and their tactics.
  • Debate the influence of Manifest Destiny on exacerbating tensions.
  • What states were devastated the most after the war, and why?
  • Describe the South’s and North’s goals during the Civil War.
  • What does the term “Bleeding Kansas” mean?
  • Newspaper coverage of the Civil War in the South vs. the North.
  • Analyze various letters to understand how people from different backgrounds perceived the Civil War.
  • Art and theater in 1860s America.
  • Debate how sectionalism and protectionism contributed to pre-war tensions in the US.
  • Why did the Crittenden Compromise fail?
  • How did the border states perceive the battles of the Civil War?
  • Explore the war contributions and legacy of Mary Edwards Walker.
  • The importance of the US navy in leading the Union to victory.
  • What happened on the West Coast during the Civil War?
  • Trace a timeline of the Civil War’s key battles.
  • Nation-building and national identity: how did the Civil War shape the idea of “Americanness”?

🛠️ Essay Topics on Reconstruction & Industrialization

After the war, industrialization was rapidly changing the American landscape. Additionally, restoring the order after years of fighting proved a challenge. In abolishing slavery, Republicans took the first step to ensure constitutional rights for African Americans. But not everyone shared the same viewpoints. Dive deeper into these confusing times with one of our topics on American history before 1877:

  • Why did scholars initially view the Reconstruction Era in a bad light? When answering this question, you can focus on the idea of “Black Supremacism.” You also might want to analyze what compelled them to shift their perspective.
  • Another option is investigating what caused Reconstruction to fail . You can further argue where it succeeded and perhaps offer a new interpretation.
  • Maybe you’d prefer an essay on why the Reconstruction Era mattered . This topic allows you to highlight crucial contemporary debates still relevant today.
  • Tracing the origins of the Ku-Klux-Klan has much to offer. You can link this topic to today and question if handling them has changed.
  • Why did President Johnson veto the enactment of the Civil Rights Act in 1866? It might be interesting to contrast his political reasoning and his personal beliefs.
  • Compare the phases of Reconstruction. How did the concept change from Lincoln’s initial plans to President Johnson’s execution?
  • How did urbanization affect American life? Your paper could contrast life in the city and the countryside. You can take economic, social, and health factors into account.
  • How did the American landscape change during industrialization? You might want to examine city growth and architecture.
  • The invention of electricity was one of the most important events in human history. It might be compelling to wonder what side effects its implementation had.
  • Why not investigate the symbolism of skyscrapers? Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead is a fascinating source for this subject.

But wait, that’s not all of it. We’ve got more, including topics on American history since 1877:

  • Did the situation for freedmen improve after Reconstruction?
  • How did industrialization affect African Americans?
  • Discuss what consequences the Compromise of 1877 had.
  • The role of transportation during industrialization.
  • How does an assembly line work?

The first ever assembly line was installed by Henry Ford.

  • The invention of the automobile.
  • Describe in what ways mass production affected American society.
  • What was the Panic of 1873?
  • Long-term effects of Plessy v. Ferguson.
  • How did the Freedmen’s Bureau help former slaves?
  • Why did rebuilding the South prove so difficult?
  • Debate the effects of the print revolution on American society.
  • What was the primary goal of Reconstruction?
  • How did the Reconstruction Act affect politics in the South?
  • What caused the formation of Radical Republicans?
  • The transformation of leisure in late 19 th century America.
  • Analyze why landownership was a crucial issue in establishing African American equality.
  • Was President Johnson’s attempted impeachment in 1868 justified?
  • How did the US government help exacerbate the wealth gap in the late 19 th century?
  • What changes did transcontinental railroad transportation bring?
  • How did John D. Rockefeller influence the American economy?
  • The role of oil in industrializing America.
  • Discuss the relevance of the Great Upheaval.
  • Changing gender roles in times of urbanization.
  • Industrialization and Education: obstacles and opportunities for women and African Americans.
  • Analyze how industrialization and urbanization in the USA challenged old values.
  • How did the American newspaper business change in the 19 th century?
  • The impact of sensationalism on the American public.
  • Why did steel become such a crucial material during the late 1800s?
  • What caused the Reconstruction Era to come to an end?
  • How did contemporary cartoons attempt to depict the mood during Reconstruction?
  • What problems did Ulysses S. Grant have to face with his administration?
  • Compare and contrast reconstruction measures in various states.
  • Why did cities become increasingly attractive for America’s rural population in the 19 th century?
  • Examine the significance of the Slaughterhouse Cases.
  • Determine the difference between Presidential Reconstruction and Radical Reconstruction?
  • From the black code to Jim Crow: institutionalized racism in the southern states.
  • The combined rise of populism and imperialism in the 1800s.
  • Discuss the significance of regional differences during industrialization .
  • The impact of labor unions on the American work environment.

🗽 20th Century US History Topics to Write About

By the turn of the century, the US was a significant global player. Events such as the Great Depression affected the whole world. In addition, American contributions to the arts changed the cultural sphere forever. If you’re looking for modern US history thematic essay topics, this section is for you.

  • Why did the “final frontier” gain such importance in the 20 th century? Your essay could examine if the space race was an extension of Manifest Destiny.
  • How did the Titanic’s sinking influence innovation and safety regulations ? The ship was the biggest and most technologically advanced ocean liner at the time. Carrying over 2000 passengers, it sank on its maiden voyage. Investigating its legacy might yield fascinating results.
  • How did progressivism shape the political landscape in America at the turn of the century? In the early 1900s, the USA was almost a different country than it was 50 years prior. How did this happen? And who were the leading figures of this process?
  • Are you curious about the development of American workplace laws? Write about the consequences of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire.
  • If you’re into corporate history, look into the rise and fall of America’s formerly largest retailer, Sears.
  • The real William Randolph Hearst vs. his portrayal in David Fincher’s Mank . This topic allows you to combine film theory and the history of American journalism.
  • The impact of Citizen Kane on movies around the globe. To this day, Citizen Kane is considered one of the most influential films ever made. In a paper on the 1941 masterpiece, you can focus on what made it special. Which features are still prominent in cinema today?
  • How did the eugenics movement affect American society? You might want to investigate marriage laws or forced sterilizations.
  • Consequences of the Spanish-American War. The brief battle didn’t last long, but its impact was immense. Your essay could highlight the war as a stepping stone to making the US a global power.
  • Escalating racial violence: The Rosewood Massacre. In 1923, the entire town of Rosewood, Florida, was wiped out by white aggressors. How did racial tensions get so far?

Haven’t found anything yet? Here are some other American history thesis topics for you to explore:

  • The impact of the Cold War on the American economy.
  • What caused the Great Depression?
  • Ellis Island as a beacon of hope for immigrants and refugees.
  • The transformation of the American school system in the 1920s.
  • What were pop art’s main concepts?
  • Moral vs. political considerations during the annexation of Hawaii.
  • Who were the Social Gospel preachers?
  • John Dewey’s role in advancing education.
  • What sources fueled American progressivism?
  • Trace the timeline of Theodore Roosevelt’s presidency.
  • What was laissez-faire capitalism?
  • How did President Woodrow Wilson reform businesses?
  • A dive into the speakeasy culture.
  • How did the widespread availability of cars impact American dating life?
  • Prohibition: reasons and consequences.
  • Connecting arts and civil rights: The Harlem Renaissance.
  • Al Capone and the rise of organized crime in the 1920s.
  • What was the New Deal, and why was it necessary?
  • How did FDR’s “Alphabet Agencies” help the economy after the Great Depression?
  • Explore the funding of the UN.
  • Discuss the significance of the Berlin Airlift.
  • Screen rebels: how James Dean and Marlon Brando changed American cinema forever.
  • Find a connection between McCarthyism and the Salem Witch Trials.
  • How did affordable television perpetuate the idea of the ideal American family?
  • Analyze the political consequences of the Watergate scandal.
  • A new American culture: variety shows in the 1950s.
  • The origins of Rock’n’roll.
  • What caused the US to slide into inflation in the 1970s?
  • Counterculture literature in the middle of the century: The Beat Generation.
  • The aftermath of the Vietnam War.
  • What made John F. Kennedy a popular president?
  • The development of Hippie culture in the 1960s.
  • Reproductive rights and the rise of American feminism in the late 20 th century.
  • Intertwining show-business and government: Ronald Reagan’s presidency.
  • Outline the tactical maneuvers of Operation Desert Storm.
  • How did MTV revolutionize the music industry ?
  • Why did drug use become an existential problem in America during the 1970s and 80s?
  • American environmental reform policies from 1960 to 1980.
  • ’70s fashion as a social and political statement in the US.
  • How did the sexual revolution redefine American social life?

🔫 Topics about America in World Wars I & II

America during the World Wars is an engaging writing prompt. But it may be too broad for an essay. That’s why it makes sense to narrow your focus. Which area do you find most interesting about the subject? For example, you can choose between culture, economy, technology, and, of course, the military.

  • Repressions and progress went hand in hand in the postwar US. Writing about the impact of WWI on domestic American politics would give you various directions to research.
  • President Woodrow Wilson was against entering the war until 1917. What events led the US to break its neutrality?
  • Many Germans of the time called the Treaty of Versailles a “dictate of shame.” It is often considered a significant reason for World War II. What was the US’ position on the Treaty of Versailles?
  • After WWI, America followed isolationist politics. Until 1941, when they declared war on Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Could the USA have stayed out of WWII?
  • How did WWII affect the American economy? Think about military needs and rationing.
  • President Woodrow Wilson was a fierce supporter of the League of Nations. But congress coerced him not to have the USA join. Should America have become a member of this organization?

Woodrow Wilson quote.

  • How did American civilians contribute to the war effort? Your essay can focus specifically on women. Be sure to examine new arrangements in daily life.
  • If you’re more into art, why not analyze how the world wars influenced American art?
  • WWII changed all aspects of American life, including their diet. What new methods of food preservation emerged during that time?
  • Another fascinating topic to engage in is propaganda and advertisement in the US during WWII. Your focus might lie on how they targeted different members of society.

Don’t forget to read the rest of our topics on this issue:

  • Evaluate Woodrow Wilson’s 14 points program.
  • How did the American army recruitment work in WWII?
  • “Kilroy was here”: examine where the mysterious slogan comes from.
  • Outline the history of Japanese Americans in Japanese internment camps.
  • US spies: where and how did they operate?
  • The Manhattan Project: trace the making of the atomic bomb.
  • How did migration shape American society in the 1930s and ‘40s?
  • The notion of freedom in America before, during, and after the wars.
  • What role did communication play for the military in WWI vs. WWII?
  • Canadian-American relations during WWII.
  • How did the wars spur transportation developments in the US?
  • Discuss the significance of D-Day.
  • Could the allies have won WWII without the USA?
  • Why did America emerge as a “Global Policeman” after the world wars?
  • The effects of National Socialism in America.
  • In what ways does the outcome of WWII still influence American society today?
  • Compare and contrast military strategies in Europe vs. the Pacific.
  • Was the dropping of the atomic bomb necessary?
  • After the Little Boy’s devastating results, why did the American government decide to drop Fat Man?
  • What made the Zimmerman telegram such a central document for American war participation?
  • What happened to prisoner-of-war camps in the US after the fighting was over?
  • Compare the leadership styles of Franklin D. Roosevelt in WWII and Woodrow Wilson in WWI.
  • Why did the Japanese attack Pearl Harbor?
  • What methods did the American government use to conceal their operations?
  • Growing up in the ‘40s: how did the war impact the manufacture of toys?
  • Which medical advancements were helpful to American soldiers in WWII that didn’t yet exist in WWI?
  • How did the 1940s fashion in the USA reflect the global situation?
  • Did the two world wars change the civil rights situation for African Americans? If so, how?
  • How did the war affect employment in the US?
  • What was unique about the Higgins boats?
  • The role of submarines in WWI.
  • How did America cooperate with the allied forces in Europe in WWI?
  • Discuss how the American citizens reacted to being drawn into WWI vs. WWII.
  • Did anyone in the US profit from the wars? If so, who?
  • Describe how American families changed during WWII.
  • What stories do letters that soldiers sent to their families back home tell?
  • Joseph Heller’s depiction of World War II in the novel Catch-22 .
  • Compare and contrast memory culture concerning WWII in Russia vs. the USA.
  • How did the perception of America on the global stage change after World War I?
  • The role of women in the US military.

☮️ Essay Topics About the Civil Rights Movement

The struggle for African American equality finally intensified in the 1950s and 60s. Influential figures such as Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks emerged. Their resilience inspired countless others. Seventy years later, the fight is far from over. The rights of minorities and people of color are still a crucial topic in American society today.

  • Nine months before the Montgomery Bus Boycott , Claudette Colvin refused to give up her seat to a white woman. Yet, Rosa Parks is the one commonly associated with sparking the event. Why is Claudette Colvin often ignored in history?
  • Everybody knows Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr, but who were the Civil Rights Movement’s lesser-known figures? Start your research with Aurelia Browder and Susie McDonald.
  • Which concepts and themes can you find in Martin Luther King Jr. ’s I Have A Dream speech? One idea is to focus on how he expresses hope and freedom for black Americans.

Martin Luther King Jr Quote.

  • Which committees and organizations were central to the Civil Rights Movement’s success ? Discuss the roles of the SNCC, CORE, and NAACP.
  • What makes Malcolm X a controversial figure? Be sure to mention his nationalist ideas and membership in the Nation of Islam.
  • The Little Rock Nine: what made their integration into Little Rock Central High School difficult? In your research paper, you can write about harassment issues and military intervention.
  • What did the Civil Rights Act of 1957 change? On the one hand, you can talk about the history of voter rights. On the other, you might want to investigate how the public reacted to the new law.
  • If you prefer personal stories, you can trace Ruby Bridges’ experiences. She became famous as the first black person to go to an all-white school. She’s still alive today.
  • History can be ugly. If you’re not afraid to encounter violence during your research, check out the Freedom Rides. How did they help attract international attention to the Civil Rights Movement?
  • Consequences of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. Did the movement die with him? How did the government respond?

Are you curious for more? Have a look at these prompts:

  • Compare the modern Black Lives Matter movement with the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.
  • What did the Black Panthers party achieve?
  • The best way to teach about the Civil Rights Movement in 8 th grade.
  • What happened at the Greensboro sit-ins?
  • Why did the civil rights activists encounter so much violence, even though they mostly protested peacefully?
  • Compare and contrast Gandhi’s methods and those of Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Why was Bloody Sunday a crucial moment for the Civil Rights Movement
  • What was the “long, hot summer”?
  • Examine the creation of the Kerner Commission.
  • The role of students in advancing civil rights for African Americans.
  • What rights did black Americans gain through the Civil Rights Movement
  • Describe the Nation of Islam’s goals.
  • Who were the members of the Black Panther Party?
  • What distinguishes the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s from previous movements to establish more rights for African Americans?
  • Give a brief overview of the most important Supreme Court decisions concerning the struggle for equality.
  • The importance of the church for the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Compare the effects of various marches for freedom.
  • What made Martin Luther King Jr. a great leader for the movement?
  • How did the murder of Emmett Till affect the public’s view on segregation and racism?
  • How did the press support or hinder the Civil Rights Movement?
  • Loving v. Virginia: legacy and contemporary significance.
  • What did the notion of “miscegenation” entail?
  • What were the Jim Crow laws?
  • Describe the goals and achievements of Operation Breadbasket.
  • Who was Stokely Carmichael?
  • Analyze Ralph Abernathy’s autobiography And the Walls Came Tumbling Down . Why do some people consider it controversial?
  • Debate the criticism brought up against the Congress of Racial Equality.
  • Why did some civil rights activists in the 1960s radicalize?
  • Did the election of Barack Obama mark the end of the struggle for equal rights?
  • Discuss the success of the Baton Rouge bus boycott.
  • What events led to Lyndon B. Johnson’s signing of the Voting Rights Act?
  • Examine Coretta Scott King’s career after her husband’s passing.
  • Investigate conspiracy theories concerning James Earl Ray’s role in the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.
  • The publishing and writing process of Malcolm X’s autobiography.
  • How and why did the 2020 election undermine parts of the Voting Rights Act?
  • Is studying the Civil Rights Movement still relevant today? If so, why?
  • How did CORE help desegregate schools in Chicago?
  • Who is Jesse Jackson?
  • Contemporary commemoration of the Civil Rights Movement.
  • How did John F. Kennedy’s death impact the Civil Rights Movement?

💬 Debatable US History Topics to Research

Controversy has been a constant companion of American history. And it’s not only questionable segregation practices that are up for debate. Women’s and LGBT rights, as well as welfare programs, are issues still unresolved today. If you want argumentative or persuasive essay topics about American history, check out this section.

  • Memories are always socially constructed. “How do various communities around the US perceive monuments of slaveholders?” is an engaging question to explore in your essay.
  • In 1995, an exhibition at the Smithsonian centered around the Enola Gay sparked a nationwide controversy. Critics said the exhibit focused too much on the Japanese suffering the nuclear bomb dropped from the aircraft caused. Was that criticism justified?
  • In the past, Colonial Williamsburg’s issues with slavery were often overlooked. Instead, when creating and developing the historical site, the focus lay on its democratic values. Is Colonial Williamsburg still a good place to learn about American history?
  • What does the Liberty Bell stand for today? You can include recent and older controversies surrounding the location and custody of the bell.
  • Tracing the history of LGBT rights will yield many debatable insights. Which court decisions would you consider especially controversial, and why?
  • The legacy of the Centralia massacre in 1919: are the events linked to the Red Scare? How did the town try to obscure the truth?
  • In 1887, President Eisenhower supported a campaign to promote patriotism. Part of this was the addition of “under God” to the American Pledge of Allegiance. Analyze the debates surrounding the issue.
  • The history of prostitution laws in the US. Your thesis could suggest a connection between decriminalizing sex work and the workers’ wellbeing.
  • In the 2020 election, several states voted to legalize not only marijuana but also other drugs. History shows many movements to legalize recreational drug use. What was different now?
  • Many older Disney cartoons depict racist stereotypes. The question of adjusting them to modern values sparked much debate. Using this discussion to explore how America should deal with problematic media from the past might be promising.

Keep reading and discover more controversial United States history topics.

  • Did President Barack Obama deserve his Nobel Peace Prize?
  • What did the US gain from the Iraq War?
  • Would Germany have won WWII without America’s intervention?
  • Should the presidents of the previous century have done more to promote animal rights?
  • Given its historical context, should we keep celebrating Thanksgiving?
  • Why did it take so long for American women to achieve legally equal rights?
  • Find historical reasons why the US never instituted universal healthcare.
  • The necessity of cow’s milk in America: past vs. present.
  • Was the annexation of Puerto Rico justified?
  • Did the Chicano Movement achieve positive changes for Mexican Americans?
  • John F. Kennedy’s most controversial presidential actions.
  • The ratification of the 8 th amendment.
  • Was the government’s response to 9/11 justified?
  • The role of faith in American history before 1877 and after.
  • Who or what caused the US’ drug overdose epidemic?
  • HIV/AIDS denialism in America in the 1990s.
  • What should Locust Grove do to restore its deteriorating African American cemetery? Can the place be considered a historical site?
  • Why did some states introduce felon disenfranchisement in 1792? Did the new law spark any outrage?
  • Trace the historical timeline of the same-sex marriage debate.
  • The USA has always been a country of immigrants. How did this lead to immigration being a fiercely discussed topic nowadays?
  • How did the US contribute to the current instability in the Middle East?
  • Was the “Lost Generation” reckless?
  • How do US historians influence public opinion?
  • Does the Red Scare reflect on Russian-American relations today?
  • Should Bill Clinton have stayed in office ?
  • Discuss the benefits of being a hippie in the 60s.
  • Can the members of the Beat Generation serve as role models for travel enthusiasts today?
  • Roe v. Wade: what made the court case a turning point in the fight for women’s reproductive rights?
  • Did American feminism become too radical by the late 19 th century?
  • The rise and fall of DDT: Why was it allowed in the first place?
  • What should US history education for high school students look like?
  • From a historical perspective, does the reality in Watchmen seem like a likely scenario for the future?
  • Psychiatric methods in early 1900s America.
  • The role of performance-enhancing drugs in the history of American sports achievements.
  • Why do some people believe that the moon landing was staged?
  • Criticism against Ayn Rand’s objectivism and its influence.
  • Before opening America’s first women’s hospital, gynecologist J. Marion Sims experimented on slaves. Should he still be celebrated as the ‘father’ of modern gynecology?
  • Is the notion of “American Century” accurate?
  • American exceptionalism in the 20 th century vs. now.
  • Has technological innovation always been beneficial for the American public?

✊🏿 Black History Topics for an Essay

African American experiences are still very different than those of their white compatriots. That’s why it’s crucial to analyze people of color’s perspectives of and contributions to history. Black history includes thematic topics on education, society, and culture.

  • Steve McQueen’s 12 Years A Slave adapts the 1853 memoirs of Solomon Northup. Though the film doesn’t shy away from brutal images, critics argued it was too soft. Should film writers surrender accurate historical representation to make their content more accessible?
  • After the Civil War, slavery was officially banned in the US. Still, the South continued to find ways to exploit black labor. Examine the consequences of new methods such as convict leasing and sharecropping.
  • Many of those who opposed slavery complied with the system by staying silent or inactive. What did this mean for the reality of African Americans? Why didn’t these people stand up?
  • A paper on what caused the Red Summer of 1919 can focus on the South to North migration of African Americans during WWI.
  • In the 20 th century, the Great Migration relocated many African Americans. How did this event impact the development of black culture? Your paper could concentrate on art movements or political activism.
  • The GI Bill promised financial benefits to veterans. But former black soldiers didn’t profit as much as their white compatriots. To analyze a concrete example of racist inequality, you can write about how the GI Bill affected African American veterans.
  • For decades, American universities did their best to keep African Americans from receiving higher education. How is education inequality still impacting black students today?
  • After WWI, Tulsa was a prosperous city home to the so-called “ Black Wall Street .” Then the Tulsa Race Massacre happened, and the area was left in shambles. Explore the moving history of Tulsa’s Greenwood District.
  • Do you want to investigate the powerful interplay between cinema and reality? Dedicate your essay to the connection between D.W. Griffith’s 1915 picture The Birth of a Nation and the Ku Klux Klan’s revival. What did this mean for black lives in the early 20 th century?
  • Pan-Africanism in the United States: Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association. Writing about this topic, you might want to highlight African American nationalism in the 20 th century.

Are none of these prompts for you? Don’t worry; we’ve got more African American history paper topics for college students:

  • Booker T. Washington vs. W. E. B. Du Bois: similarities and disagreements.
  • African American innovators who never received credit for their inventions.

The most important African American inventors.

  • From Hiram Rhodes Revels and Shirley Chisholm to Barack Obama: African Americans who paved the way for modern American democracy.
  • Should the US government pay reparations to descendants of former slaves?
  • Sojourner Truth: how did the former slave fight to end injustice?
  • How did job competition in the North intensify racial tensions in the 20 th century?
  • The accomplishments of Dorothy Johnson Vaughan.
  • Ida B. Wells’ legacy and the history of lynching in America.
  • Why do we celebrate Black History Month, and why is it important?
  • What does Juneteenth commemorate?
  • Histories of the most famous black scientists in the United States.
  • How did the geographic distribution of black people in America transform over time?
  • Key activists of the abolitionist movement.
  • How did African Americans contribute to NASA’s success?
  • African Americans in the age of Prohibition: views and effects.
  • Juxtapose the development of black rights and felon rights.
  • Analyze the significance of Marian Anderson’s show on the National Mall for the Civil Rights Movement.
  • African American women in the beauty business: the story of Madame C. J. Walker.
  • What motivated many black Americans to fight in WWI voluntarily?
  • How did enslaved people manage to escape to the Northern states?
  • Compare the origins and outcomes of the Civil Rights Movement’s various marches.
  • The New Deal’s effect on African Americans.
  • Explore the connection between black history in the US and cotton.
  • What does the term “black flight” mean, and why might the phenomenon be a problem?
  • How did white capping inhibit the development of black communities?
  • What were the goals of the Che Lumumba Club?
  • Analyze the Regents of the University of California v. Bakke case. What did its outcome mean for equality?
  • What makes Angela Davis a crucial figure in the black history discourse?
  • Analyze how Jackie Robinson broke the “color line” to pave the way for African American participation in professional sports.
  • Discuss the long-term consequences of the Tuskegee experiment.
  • How did the Watts Riots affect African American communities in California?
  • Explore the origins of Kwanzaa.
  • African American poetry before 1877: Lucy Terry’s Bars Fight .
  • Not so free after all: enactment of the Fugitive Slave Law.
  • Did the situation for American people of color improve after the implementation of Affirmative Action laws? If so, how?
  • Trailblazing black Americans in education.
  • How did sports help promote equality for African Americans in the 1900s?
  • Who were the Scottsboro boys?
  • Journalism’s fight for social justice: The Crisis magazine then and now.
  • How did Prohibition help dissolve segregation?

🏞️ Native American Topics to Write About

Much effort has gone into improving the relations between Americans and the indigenous peoples. Unfortunately, this hasn’t always been the case. The history of native Americans is tainted with cruel battles. Taking a closer look reveals the interplay of various cultures and customs.

  • Pocahontas is one of the most renowned figures in Native American history. Compare Pocahontas’ real life vs. how she is depicted in the media. Why was she often romanticized?
  • How did Andrew Jackson’s government justify the Indian Removal Act? Moral standards during that time and economic reasoning might be a compelling area to focus on.
  • Native American participation in American wars. The colonists fought many battles with each other. France, Spain, and England all competed for the new territory. Did Native Americans participate in these fights? If so, whose side were they on?
  • African peoples were not the only ones who suffered serfdom. Your research paper could cover the colonial enslavement of Native Americans.
  • In the 18 th century, settlers and natives negotiated a variety of treaties. What did they say? Were these treaties ever beneficial for the natives?
  • The Indian Appropriations Act of 1851 organized Native American lives into reservations. What did life look like for natives in these reservations? Additionally, you could examine how reservations affect their lives today.
  • Attempts to deal with Native Americans included assimilation and “civilization.” How did these methods work out? For a concrete example, investigate Henry Pratt’s Carlisle Indian Industrial school.
  • If you want to know more about Indian belief systems, research the emergence of the Ghost Dance. Originating in the late 19 th century, many native communities adapted the new tradition.
  • Geronimo escaped captivity countless times before turning himself in. How did he do that? Your essay can look at his beliefs and this geographical knowledge.
  • The Narragansett was the first tribe to encounter European settlers. What were their relations? How did they develop? Consider territorial struggles and the role of Roger Williams.

Are you looking for something else? Check out these US history essay questions and prompts:

  • Compare and contrast American and Australian historical relations to their native population.
  • What events led to the breakout of King Philip’s War?
  • Ancient Indian burial rituals and modern myths.
  • How did the Cherokees rebuild their lives after the Trail of Tears?
  • Sacagawea’s contribution to the success of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
  • Great Native American leaders: Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull.
  • What happened at the Battle of the Little Bighorn?
  • Consequences for Native American lives after the proclamation of 1763.
  • The crucial role of Navajo Code Talkers in WWII.
  • How did integration into American culture transform tribal life for different tribes?
  • Explore naming customs of various Native American tribes.
  • Is Black Elk Speaks an accurate representation of Lakota culture?
  • What did the American Indian Movement achieve?
  • What makes the Massacre of Wounded Knee significant?
  • Trace Leonard Peltier’s career in politics and activism. 
  • Chief Tecumseh and the Indian confederacy.
  • Compare and contrast the cultures of native tribes from various regions in America before colonization. 
  • How did American policies regarding the indigenous population change from the Mayflower’s arrival until now? 
  • What happened to California’s extensive Native American population after it became a state?
  • The development of Native American music.
  • Traditional Cherokee farming tools and techniques.
  • Native Americans and religion: what compelled some chiefs to convert to Christianity? 
  • How did N. Scott Momaday’s House Made of Dawn shape indigenous cultures’ image for the general public?
  • How did native spiritualism relate to the environment?
  • Gender roles of the Sioux tribe before 1900.
  • The greatest battles between First Nations and Americans.
  • Why were the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, Seminole, and Cherokee considered the “Five Civilized Tribes”? 
  • America’s first native newspaper: The Cherokee Phoenix and its modern equivalent.
  • How did many of today’s Native Americans become entangled with alcohol and gambling? 
  • Myths and speculations on the ancient origins of indigenous Americans. 
  • Economic development of Native American tribes in the 20 th century.
  • Why did Cochise and his Apache warriors raid American settlements?
  • Trace the history of indigenous feminism.
  • What were the blood quantum laws, and why were they introduced?
  • Sitting Bull and Buffalo Bill: forging an unlikely friendship.
  • The accomplishments of Oglala Lakota chief Red Cloud.
  • How did the Louisiana Purchase impact First Nations in the region? 
  • The history of Native Americans in law and politics.
  • The political aftermath of the Sand Creek Massacre
  • Cheyenne warrior societies: the emergence of Dog Soldiers as a separate band.

⭐ Topics on Famous People in American History

People shape history. Many of America’s leading historical figures made it to global importance. This section provides you with history essay topics on American artists, presidents, innovators, and more.

  • The “King of Pop” Michael Jackson died a decade ago. Why is he still one of the most debated American celebrities? Your essay could focus on the controversial allegations of child abuse towards him.
  • The social influence of Benjamin Franklin’s journalism is an enticing topic. It allows you to look at the founding father from a different angle. Make sure to include in your essay his desire to educate Americans in morality.
  • John Harvey Kellogg was a progressive healthcare leader. He was also a fierce follower of Adventism. If you endorse obscure things, write about Kellogg’s “warfare with passion.”
  • Mural made Jackson Pollock famous. Reflect on his career before and after the painting. How did the artist find his passion for drip painting? 
  • As a First Lady, Betty Ford was a strong advocate for women’s rights. But her political influence didn’t end with her husband’s career. Discuss Betty Ford’s accomplishments after her time in the White House. Mention her addiction and the subsequent establishment of the Betty Ford Center.
  • In 1935, J. Edgar Hoover founded the FBI. In his later years, he became a controversial figure due to his abuses of power . Examine Hoover’s investigations of subversion. What do you find surprising about them?
  • Before his brother’s assassination, Bobby Kennedy wasn’t particularly popular in the US. Analyze his speeches during his political career after the event. What made him a compassionate orator?
  • The Kennedy-Nixon debates provide a rich foundation for those interested in political campaigning. How did the public react to them? What did the polls say? Keep in mind that it was America’s first televised presidential debate.
  • If you seek to combine environmentalism and politics, Al Gore is your man. How did Al Gore shape America’s political discourse in the 2000s? Consider his loss against George Bush in the controversial 2000 election.
  • Literature enthusiasts know Allen Ginsberg for his explicit poem Howl . How did he express his political and social activism in his works? You could focus on his fight for free speech and the Howl trial. 

We’ve got more topics on regents and other famous Americans for you to check out:

  • Just Say No: Nancy Reagan and the failure of her anti-drug campaign.
  • Why was Abraham Lincoln such a controversial figure?
  • Kurt Cobain and Nirvana: the voice of the ‘90s youth.
  • Ronald Reagan was an actor before he became president. What drove him into politics?
  • What circumstances made Donald Trump’s presidency possible?
  • Why was Jimmy Carter such an unpopular president? 
  • Discuss what Eleanor Roosevelt achieved for women. 
  • Stanley Kubrick: was he the greatest filmmaker of the 20 th century?
  • The role of First Ladies before the Civil War.
  • Judith Butler’s influence on American feminism. 
  • Margaret Sanger: the initiator of the birth control movement. 
  • How did Oprah Winfrey get to where she is now?
  • Steve Jobs and the revolution of computer technology.
  • Research the mysterious Zodiac Killer and his ciphers. Why were many people obsessed with him?
  • How did the Wright Brothers shape the history of aviation?
  • Amelia Earhart’s disappearance: myths and facts. 
  • J. Robert Oppenheimer’s contributions to physics.
  • Bruce Lee and the transformation of martial arts.
  • How did O.J. Simpson end up in the US’ most famous car chase?
  • Charles Goodyear and the road to vulcanized rubber.
  • Creating nanotechnology : the legacy of Eric Drexler.
  • Muhammad Ali’s influence on raising awareness for Parkinson’s research.
  • Describe how Bobby Fischer impacted the world of chess.
  • What made Chuck Norris so famous?
  • How did Marilyn Monroe change the American attitude towards sexuality?
  • Truman Capote’s role in advancing LGBT rights.
  • Harper Lee’s biography after the publishing of To Kill A Mockingbird . 
  • Transforming science fiction: the legacy of Philip K. Dick. 
  • Andy Warhol as a global anti-capitalist icon.
  • Bringing quantum physics forward: the brilliance of Richard Feynman.
  • Samuel Colt and the consequences of inventing the revolver.
  • Analyze the significance of Helen Keller’s work for women’s and disabled persons’ rights.
  • How did Sam Walton become the wealthiest American in 1985?
  • Discuss the importance of Thurgood Marshall for the Civil Rights Movement.
  • What inspired Bill W. to found Alcoholics Anonymous? 
  • Paving the way for gay politicians: the activism of Harvey Milk. 
  • What was Louis B. Mayer’s management style with MGM?
  • Walt Disney: who was the person behind the chipper cartoons? 
  • Trace EstĂŠe Lauder’s success story.
  • How did Olympia Brown contribute to advance gender equality in the religious sphere?

We hope you found your ideal essay or project topic on US history. Good luck with your assignment!

Further reading:

  • Americanism Essay: Examples, Tips & Topics [2024 Update]
  • 497 Interesting History Topics to Research
  • 460 Excellent Political Topics to Write about in 2024
  • 149 Interesting History Essay Topics and Events to Write about
  • A List of 450 Powerful Social Issues Essay Topics
  • 210 Immigration Essay Topics
  • A List of 175 Interesting Cultural Topics to Write About
  • 512 Research Topics on HumSS (Humanities & Social Sciences)
  • Pre-Columbian to the New Millenium: US History
  • A Brief Guide to Writing the History Paper: Harvard
  • American Civil War: History.com
  • Reconstruction: Encyclopedia Britannica
  • Industrialization and Urbanization in the United States: Oxford Research Encyclopedias
  • The United States in WWI: Khan Academy
  • America Goes to War: The National WWII Museum
  • Controversies: National Council on Public History
  • The 100 Most Significant Americans of All Time: Smithsonian Magazine
  • American History: History Central
  • The 25 Moments From American History That Matter Right Now: Time
  • All Topics: American Historical Association
  • Native American: Library of Congress
  • African American History: National Archives
  • Civil Rights Movement: ADL
  • US 20th Century: Princeton University
  • The Progressive Era: Lumen Learning
  • Timeline: United States History: World Digital Library
  • Explore by Timeline: The New Nation (1783-1860): US General Services Administration
  • The Emergence of Modern America: Smithsonian Institution
  • What Was the Cold War?: National Geographic
  • The Story of the Atomic Bomb: The Ohio State University
  • Continental Feminism: Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
  • The Constitution: The White House
  • The US During World War I: Delaware.gov
  • America in the First World War: The British Library
  • Key Events and Figures of Reconstruction: The City University of New York
  • Reconstruction and Its Impact: IDCA
  • 400 Years since Slavery: a Timeline of American History: The Guardian
  • American Revolution Facts: American Battlefield Trust
  • The Presidents of the United States: Constitution Facts
  • What Caused the American Industrial Revolution: Investopedia
  • Reasons Behind the Revolutionary War: NCpedia
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Browse Course Material

Course info.

  • Prof. Caley Horan

Departments

As taught in.

  • American History
  • Modern History

Learning Resource Types

American history since 1865.

For Essay #2 you will choose from one of three essay prompts, each of which addresses major themes and questions from the period between the 1870s and 1930. The prompts are below - please choose only one, and respond to it as clearly and comprehensively as possible.

In his book, The Incorporation of America , historian Alan Trachtenberg argues that “the meaning of America” became “the focus of controversy and struggle” during the final decades of the nineteenth century. 1 Drawing on course lectures and readings, craft an argument that responds to Trachtenberg’s claim and its applicability to the period between 1870 and 1930. Questions to consider in your essay include: How did different groups understand the meaning of “America”? What historical contexts led to controversy and struggle? Did one particular vision for the meaning of “America” win out over others?

Between 1870 and 1930, many communities of color - former slaves, Chinese immigrants, Native Americans, Native Hawaiians, among others - found their lives disrupted and transformed by both government policy and changing understandings of ethnic and racial difference in America. Drawing on course lectures and readings, craft an argument about how American ideas about race and ethnicity changed during the period in question. What historical contexts shaped government policies like conquest, exclusion, and assimilation? How did communities of color respond to these policies and transformations?

The image on the front cover of our course syllabus is one of several panels from the mural “America Today,” painted between 1930 and 1931 by the American artist Thomas Hart Benton. The rest of the panels from the mural can be viewed here . In your essay, place 2–3 of these panels in historical context. How do these paintings reflect key themes and questions from American life at the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth? In crafting an argument about the paintings, be sure to place them in conversation with lectures and assigned readings from the course. Avoid statements about artist intent, and focus instead on historical context and what the paintings reflect and reveal from the period in question.

Essay Guidelines

Essays should present an original argument that clearly responds to one of the above prompts. This argument should be unique (of your own making) and should reflect careful engagement with course materials. It should also be clearly expressed and organized, so a reader would have no problem understanding both the overall argument and its progression through your essay. In crafting your argument, you should draw on lectures, discussions, and assigned readings.

Evidence in support of your argument should be drawn entirely from readings assigned in class. This includes recitation handouts and materials from lecture. All essays, regardless of which prompt they respond to, must engage (and cite) a minimum of five assigned readings. At least three of those must be primary source documents.

Essays should be approximately 1250 words in length (please include a word count at the end of your essay), double-spaced, and written in a 12 point font. They should include page numbers, properly formatted footnotes with accurate citations, and a title that reflects the paper’s argument. All sources should be cited using the Chicago Manual of Style (see the Chicago-Style Citation Quick Guide ).

Essays will be evaluated according to:

  • The quality of the analysis and argument presented
  • The strength of the evidence marshaled in support of that argument
  • The quality of written expression (this includes style, grammar, and proper citation)

Essay #2 is due during Lecture 13.

1 Alan Trachtenberg, The Incorporation of America: Culture and Society in the Gilded Age (New York: Hill and Wand, 1982), 7.

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75 Interesting History Essay Topics

Do you wonder how ancient civilizations functioned and evolved through the years of inventions and innovation? History indeed teaches us so much about the people and communities that created an impact back then. While literary essay topics help you explore the nuanced writing forms, history essay topics are meant to nurture your research skills. The thirst to discover stories of war, victories of freedom fighters, and the smuggling of arms can be quenched by engaging in essay writing. 

History is vast, ranging from states to nations, from forts to ports and so much more. In such a case, you simply cannot be studying it all or exploring topics all of a sudden. Hence, it is important to know that history can be categorized into different types wherein you can choose the one that interests you the most. Writing history essays empowers critical thinking skills and builds a problem-solving mindset in everyday life. This article will take you through different history essay topics motivating you to discover varied perspectives, ideas, and ideologies of the past.

Engaging History Essay Topics 

Various creative writing topics for high schoolers tap into building their imagination skills and enhancing their thinking abilities. However, along with history websites , interesting history essay Topics enable students to dive deeper into the ancient world and discover evolution. It is important to provide students with the right topic that interests them thereby inspiring them to research and find facts. The below-mentioned topics are a combination of various parts of history that help teachers offer a comprehensive learning environment. 

1. General History Essay Topics

  • The reasons behind the fall of the Roman Empire and its effects.
  • The effects of the printing press on the Renaissance’s dissemination of knowledge.
  • Propaganda’s function in World War II and its impact on public opinion.
  • The historical contributions of ancient African civilizations.
  • The Silk Road’s importance in promoting trade and cultural exchange between East and West.
  • The elements that led to the Byzantine Empire’s rise and demise.
  • How the Scientific Revolution affected the growth of modern science.
  • Analyzing the social and cultural backdrop of the frenzy during the Salem Witch Trials.
  • The Louisiana Purchase’s importance in influencing American expansion.
  • The effects of the Spanish Inquisition on freedom and toleration of religion.
  • The impact of Enlightenment thought on the French and American Revolutions.
  • How the Mongol invasions affected the economies and societies of Eurasian countries.
  • The consequences of the Protestant Reformation on politics and society in Europe.
  • The artistic and governmental achievements of the ancient Persian Empire.
  • The reasons for and effects of the Chinese and British opium wars.

2. Essay Topics on Ancient History 

  • The pharaohs’ achievements offer a glimpse into the growth and fall of Egyptian civilization.
  • The legacy of ancient Mesopotamia is the contributions it made to early human cultures and culture.
  • What can we infer about the Indus Valley Civilization, a prehistoric culture, and its significance?
  • The causes behind the rise, expansion, and ultimate destruction of the Roman Empire.
  • The construction of China’s Great Wall and its significance.
  • Ancient Rome’s aqueducts, roadways, and structures are feats of engineering.
  • The development and significance of early scripts like cuneiform and hieroglyphics.
  • Symbolism and purpose in the art and architecture of ancient civilizations.
  • The impact of mummification methods on ancient Egyptian ideas about the afterlife.
  • Beginnings and religious practices of ancient civilizations: A comparison.
  • The importance of the ancient Olympic Games in promoting peace and harmony between city-states.
  • Legendary stories’ cultural value to ancient cultures.
  • Influence of the Persian Empire on regional trade and cultural exchange.
  • Investigating the Mayan civilization’s triumphs and demise.
  • Early Indian mathematicians’ contributions to mathematics.

3. Essay Topics on World History 

  • How Europe’s intellectual and cultural development was fueled by the Renaissance.
  • The effects of the Cuban Missile Crisis on the Cold War and world politics.
  • The effect of the Mongol invasions on how medieval Eurasia developed.
  • The legacy of ancient civilizations: Contrasting and comparing the contributions of the civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley.
  • Gender rights and the position of women during the French Revolution.
  • The causes of the Roman Empire’s collapse during its ascent and fall.
  • The reasons for and effects of the 1917 Russian Revolution.
  • The importance of the Silk Road in fostering commercial exchange.
  • The contribution of the Enlightenment to world upheavals and reformations.
  • China’s connections with the West after the Opium Wars.
  • The effect of the Spanish Conquistadors on the Americas’ indigenous cultures.
  • The causes of the Byzantine Empire’s collapse and its historical repercussions throughout Europe.
  • Political and religious changes in Europe as a result of the Protestant Reformation.
  • The emergence of empires in prehistoric Mesopotamia and their historical consequences.
  • The Declaration of Independence’s importance in molding American history.

4. Essay Topics on Black History 

  • The influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African-American culture.
  • The importance of the Underground Railroad in aiding slaves’ freedom-related escapes.
  • African-American participation in the Civil War and their struggle for freedom.
  • The racial equality campaigns carried out by the Black Panthers.
  • African-American aviators in World War II as the Tuskegee Airmen.
  • The integration process of the first African American pupils into previously all-white schools.
  • The history of Black History Month and its importance.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964’s legacy and ongoing effects.
  • The battle for desegregation by the Little Rock Nine.
  • Black Lives Matter: Its Background and Importance
  • The fight for voting rights and electoral participation by African Americans.
  • Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs’): Background and Influence.
  • Importance of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
  • The Black Arts Movement’s influence on culture during the 1960s and 1970s.
  • The National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People’s (NAACP): Background and Significance.

5. Argumentative Essay Topics on History

  • Was the American Revolution a true revolution or was it merely a fight for independence?
  • Social and economic effects of the Industrial Revolution on the working class.
  • Women’s participation and contributions to the war effort during World War II.
  • The Mongol Empire’s legacy: Did it make a positive or detrimental impact on world history?
  • The Declaration of Independence’s importance in influencing American values and administration.
  • The benefits and drawbacks of imperialism.
  • The effects of the Treaty of Versailles on post-World War I stability in Europe.
  • The Black Death’s consequences on medieval society and how they affected Europe in the long run.
  • The reasons behind the French Revolution and its effects.
  • The reasons behind and effects of the Cold War’s Cuban Missile Crisis.
  • Analyzing the civil rights movement’s effects on society and determining its effectiveness.
  • The importance of ancient Greek and Roman culture in forming contemporary Western culture.
  • The discussion around the use of atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
  • The function of propaganda in World Wars I and II.
  • Nelson Mandela’s contribution to the end of apartheid in South Africa.

Final Words

Drafting your thoughts about different history topics helps you explore a world of possibilities. Essay writing helps develop control grammar and language skills thereby strengthening communication.

With the above-mentioned history essay topics, you can choose the one that interests you the most. Ensure to pen down your thoughts and add new perspectives to the stories of the past. Students can also explore and play online history games to learn more about history and practice the same.

us history essay topics

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History Essay Topics: 50+ Interesting Ideas to Get You Started

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by  Antony W

June 9, 2024

history essay topics

For a history essay, your professor may ask you to describe a person, analyze an event, give an overview of a context, or argue about something historical. The first step to complete the assignment is to analyze several topics and pick an idea to explore.

Your history essay can be on anything you find interesting, as long as it falls within the scope of the assignment brief. You can focus on less known yet significant historical events or controversial issues that span from the ancient times to this present day.

Let’s see some examples of history topics that are no doubt a good fit for an essay assignment.

50+ History Essay Topics

We understand how difficult brainstorming can be, especially for last-minute essays . So here are at least 50 essay topic ideas to make the ideation stage easy to navigation.

World History Essay Topics

  • How the Mongol Empire left an indelible mark on world history and the regions it conquered
  • How the spread of Christianity influence global history and cultural development
  • The effects of Islam on the Middle East and its influence beyond the region
  • How the Silk Road served as a vital link between Eastern and Western civilizations
  • How European exploration and colonization affect the indigenous societies of the Americas
  • The causes and far-reaching consequences of the Black Death in shaping European history
  • The origins and key impacts of the Renaissance in transforming Europe
  • How the rise and fall of the Aztec and Inca empires shaped the Americas
  • What were the root causes and extensive consequences of World War II ?
  • What was the significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall in the context of world history?
  • How Confucianism influenced the culture and societal norms of China
  • What were the impacts of European imperialism on the societies of Africa and Asia?

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History Argumentative Essay Topics

An argumentative topic requires you to choose a topic, pick a side, consider the opposing argument, and then use the strongest rebuttal to counterclaim the opposing arguments. Here are some interesting ideas that are good fit for history: 

  • Did the Great Depression shape the United States’ economic and social landscapes?
  • Does the French Revolution hold any significance in the annals of world history?
  • Did Russian Revolution reverberate through global history and influence subsequent political ideologies?
  • Did the Civil Rights Movement reshape American society and its values?
  • Did women play any role during the American Revolution?
  • Is there evidence that the Renaissance transformed the European culture and society during its era?
  • Did slavery fundamentally shape the trajectory and development of the American economy?
  • Has apartheid in South Africa has long-lasting effect on the nation’s history and society?
  • Was the Marshall Plan effective in revitalizing and reconstructing Europe post-World War II?
  • How the Industrial Revolution affects the living conditions of the working class in various regions
  • Did Cold War have a lasting effect on global politics and society during and after its duration?
  • Did the Enlightenment era contribute to shaping Western thought and values?

American History Essay Topics

  • The key catalysts behind the American Revolution and the way it shaped the nation’s trajectory
  • How women contributed to and influenced the American Civil War and the long-term impacts of their involvement
  • The profound effects of the Great Depression on various aspects of American life and society
  • What motivated American involvement in World War I, and what were the repercussions of this engagement?
  • How the Cold War era affected American culture and politics
  • How the United States’ role in the Vietnam War shaped domestic policies and public perception of international conflicts
  • How has American foreign policy evolved and shifted since World War II, and what were the driving factors behind these changes?
  • What lasting effects did Ronald Reagan’s presidency have on the political landscape and governance in the United States?
  • How did the Watergate scandal influence American political history and public trust in government?
  • How has the role and decisions of the Supreme Court influenced social and legal changes in American society?
  • What profound societal changes did the Industrial Revolution bring to American life and economy?

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Ancient History Topics

  • What were the primary factors leading to the outbreak of the American Civil War, and how did they contribute to the conflict?
  • How did the French Revolution unfold, and what were its main causes and lasting impacts on France and the world?
  • What were the key elements that characterized Ancient Rome’s culture, governance, and influence on world history?
  • What qualities and circumstances made Hitler an influential leader, and what impact did he have on Germany and the world?
  • What were the root causes and significant events of China’s civil war, and how did it shape the nation’s trajectory?
  • What was the significance of pyramids in Ancient Egypt and what role did they play in society, religion, and culture?
  • How did social injustices manifest in France and what were the consequences during specific historical periods?
  • What were the underlying causes and far-reaching effects of the Great Recession on global economies and societies?
  • How did the feudal system operate, and what were its social, economic, and political implications?
  • How monarchies structured in ancient Britain and their impacts on governance and society

Black History Topics

  • How the legacy of slavery shape the ongoing struggle for civil rights in America
  • The significance of the Black Lives Matter movement in addressing contemporary racial injustices
  • How African-American authors used their works to portray and analyze the institution of slavery
  • The cultural and societal significance of the Harlem Renaissance for African-American communities
  • How social injustices manifested during the period of slavery and their enduring effects
  • The life and historical impact of Frederick Douglass in the fight against slavery and for civil rights
  • How the civil rights movement evolved over time and its key turning points
  • How racism persists and manifests in modern society

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

American History - Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

American History encompasses the historical events, individuals, and movements that shaped the United States. An essay could explore significant periods like the Revolutionary War, Civil Rights Movement, or discuss the impact of historical events on contemporary American society and its global interactions. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about American History you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

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Aftershock: Beyond the Civil War Summary

Aftershock: Beyond the Civil War is a documentary aired on history channel on TV. The movie was directed by David Padrusch in the year 2006. The documentary is segmented into various series that describe the history of the time of the civil war in America. During that time, there was a deadly conflict between various races represented in America. The southern part of America was experiencing angry rebellion from the people. The Aftershock documentary is mainly focused on broadcasting the […]

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The American Civil War, a turbulent and transformative chapter in the nation's history, witnessed a series of significant battles and events that shaped its course. Yet, one moment emerges as the critical turning point that left an indelible mark on the conflict's outcome. In this essay, we will explore this defining juncture, uncovering the reasons for its exceptional significance and its profound impact on the Civil War's trajectory. The Battle of Gettysburg: A Momentous Encounter At the heart of the […]

The Lowell Mills Story in American History: more than Just Threads and Looms

Let's take a trip back to the early 19th century, to a bustling town called Lowell in Massachusetts. This isn't your average town; it's the heart of the American Industrial Revolution, and it's buzzing with the sound of looms and the spirit of change. The Lowell Mills aren't just a bunch of buildings where textiles are made; they're the stage for a whole new act in American history, one where industry, innovation, and social change collide. Imagine this: massive mills […]

Great Depression Vs. Great Recession

Both the Great Depression and the Great Recession were major events that have occurred in the United States economy that have had lasting effects on the country and other countries around the world. But these events were necessarily good ones. They were two of the greatest crises in American economic history. The Great Depression was first, occurring from 1929 to1939. The Great Recession happened many decades in the future, starting in late 2007 and ending in early 2010. Comparison of […]

The Jacksonian Era: a Transformative Period in American History

The years 1829–1837, known as the Jacksonian Period, were a pivotal time in American history. The significant influence Andrew Jackson's presidency had on the political climate and social mores of the country makes this era commonly remembered. It was a period of intense populism, turbulent economic times, and divisive discussions that affected American history. The victory of Andrew Jackson in 1828 marked a dramatic change in American politics. Being the first president who wasn't from the Eastern aristocracy, he symbolized […]

Ronald Reagan’s Unparalleled Role in Shaping the Cold War: a Revolutionary Era in American History

Introduction The Cold War, a long and intense ideological and geopolitical struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union, profoundly influenced the second half of the 20th century. Among the American presidents who grappled with the complexities of this era, Ronald Reagan emerges as a singular and transformative figure. His leadership during the Cold War not only marked a pivotal point in American history but also played a central role in bringing an end to the protracted conflict. This […]

Enlightenment Ideas Reflected in the Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence reflects a great extent the values of Enlightenment. The Declaration of Independence is a formal statement written by Thomas Jefferson asserting freedom from Great Britain. The Enlightenment was an intellectual and philosophical movement that dominated the world of ideas in Europe. The Enlightenment brought ideas of scientific reasoning over religious reasoning which propelled a huge transition in American views. The movement stimulated religious tolerance and democratic revolutions around the world. Most of the Enlightenment ideas reflected […]

FDR’s Pearl Harbor Speech: a Turning Point in American History

Introduction The early morning of December 7, 1941, had barely begun when the tranquility of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, was shattered by the thunderous roar of Japanese warplanes. The attack on Pearl Harbor was a cataclysmic event that thrust the United States into the midst of World War II. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's speech to Congress the following day is not just a historical footnote but a pivotal moment that redefined the course of American history. This essay delves into the […]

Dred Scott V. Sandford: a Landmark Case in American History

The Dred Scott v. Sandford judgment, made in 1857, is one of the most notorious Supreme Court rulings in American history. This key case not only highlighted the difficult topic of slavery, but it also had a huge impact on the country's journey to Civil War. The implications of the verdict were felt profoundly in the fabric of American society and law, and its echoes may still be heard today in questions about civil rights and citizenship. Dred Scott, an […]

Why was Herbert Hoover Blamed for the Great Depression?

President Herbert Hoover is often blamed for the great depression for many reasons, he had ideas put into place that were meant to aid the problems in the economy but hurt it instead. Pro-labour policies made by President Hoover after the stock market crash of 1929 caused the majority of the nation's gross domestic product to decline over the next two years. This made what could have been a bad recession turn into the Great Depression. There were many reasons […]

Arrowheads of the Past: a Journey through Native American History

Picture this: you're walking through a field, and there, half-buried in the dirt, you find a small, pointed stone. It's an Indian arrowhead, a silent storyteller of a time long gone. These arrowheads, shaped by the hands of Native Americans centuries ago, aren't just cool, ancient trinkets; they're like time capsules, offering us a glimpse into a world that predates modern history books. So, let's take a walk through the history and significance of these fascinating artifacts. First off, think […]

Ideological Foundations of the Whig Party in American History

A significant political entity in the United States throughout the middle of the 19th century, the Whig Party exerted considerable influence over the country's political terrain. Established during the turbulent 1830s in opposition to the policies of Democratic Party President Andrew Jackson, the Whigs formulated a distinctive set of principles and beliefs that set them apart during that period in American politics. The purpose of this paper is to examine the Whig Party's foundational tenets, their influence on American political […]

American History’s Tempests: the Weather Underground’s Ann Arbor Origins

The tapestry of American history is woven with the threads of various social movements that have influenced the nation's political, cultural, and ideological landscapes. One of the more turbulent threads is that of the Weather Underground, a radical left-wing organization that gained notoriety in the late 1960s and 1970s. Ann Arbor, Michigan, known primarily for its prestigious university and its progressive ideals, served as an influential hub for the Weather Underground, catalyzing a tempest of activism that swept across the […]

Theodore Roosevelt’s Square Deal in American History: Unpacking a Progressive Promise

In the annals of American history, few presidential promises have resonated through the ages quite like Theodore Roosevelt's Square Deal. Conceived as a cornerstone of his domestic policy, the Square Deal was Roosevelt’s ambitious blueprint to offer a fair shake to every American citizen. Not merely a set of isolated reforms, the Square Deal was an ethos, a political philosophy, and a rallying cry for equity that has since become emblematic of early 20th-century progressivism. At the heart of the […]

How the Great Depression Affected African Americans

In the 1920s, African Americans were looked upon as lower class individuals and as a result, had very low paying jobs. Now, just imagine an economic crisis in such a situation. It will be chaotic. Unfortunately, an economic crisis did hit, and many African Americans lost their jobs, to leave the jobs for the white Americans. This economic crisis, plus the racial inequality African Americans faced caused a great depression amongst African Americans, which affected them till 1960. During this […]

American History Unraveled: Ripples of Dissent and the Paxton Boys in Colonial America

In the patchwork quilt of American history, there are swatches stained with the darker hues of aggression and injustice. One such fragment is the story of the Paxton Boys, a group whose actions in the 1760s offer a revealing glimpse into the frictions and factions of colonial Pennsylvania. The Paxton Boys’ narrative is not just a local tale of a vigilante group; it embodies the broader dynamics of colonial unrest, the complicated relationships with Native Americans, and the seeds of […]

Heroification: the Impact on American History

Introduction James Loewen’s 1995 book, Lies My Teacher Told Me captiously, explores twelve idealistic high school textbooks and establishes the Eurocentric and factious sentiments of American history. In a critique of prevalent historical themes, Lies My Teacher Told Me analyzes how American history courses and, more notably, their textbook counterparts act as an injustice to students and the nation they aspire to conserve. In the opening remarks, Something Has Gone Very Wrong, Loewen scrutinizes the rampant dislike of history courses […]

What was the Great Depression?

The Great Depression was a dramatic shift in the US economy leaving people homeless and people didn't have a way to make a living. .This made the government create new programs called the New Deal it however failed to stop the Great Depression and these programs wasted a lot of money..The Great Depression started in 1929 it was the biggest economic downfall in US History it left a lot people without jobs and banks started going out of business all […]

Causes of the Great Depression (1929-1939)

During the Great Depression, Franklin D.Roosevelt stated, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." As World War I ended and the 1920's boom in the industry deteriorated, the Great Depression developed and the result was dreadful. The crash affected millions of people and lasted for about a decade. United States was in a state of despair, as banking systems failed, many people were unemployed, and prices drastically fell. War-producing factories shut down, farms/homes were lost to possession […]

Effects of the Great Depression on Life of Americans

The Great Depression is a major event in American history impacted the lives of many Americans and others around the World. Following World War I, the Great Depression brought pain, confusion, and suffering to a countless amount of Americans lives. Any hope Americans had at the time was lost because of this tragic event. Unfortunately, all workers at this time no longer could feel comfortable with the economy around them. Essentially, the economy was ruined and created chaos across America. […]

What Ended the Great Depression?

The Great Depression had a devastating impact on the nation, spreading across the countryside and bringing hardship to big cities and small towns. No social, racial, or economic class was excluded. At the depth of the depression, in 1933: 13 million people were unemployed, 50% percent of the banks had foreclosed, national income fell by 42% and one million people were homeless. There were multiple reasons the depression occurred. The series of factors that caused this event were the 1929 […]

Government Response to the Great Depression

Black Tuesday was the start of the depression. Also, Herbert Hoover did not want to give the people federal money. He thought they had to get themselves out of the problem. This made many people go homeless and plus the Dust Bowl which also destroyed people's homes. The Great Depression was defined as a dark age in the 1930's. Although, there are causes that made the Great Depression happen, like the farm industry failing, low income families, and lastly World […]

Declaration of Independence Enlightened Thought Essay

The Declaration of Independence is a document declaring the colonies' freedom from Britain; however, it was not an original work, many of the thoughts were just being used from the English philosopher John Locke. Some of the theories that John Locke created,  Thomas Jefferson used, in the Declaration of Independence, such as the ideas of natural rights, how to run the government, and identifying the basis of government. In many ways the Declaration of Independence seems as if it is […]

What was the Great Depression and why did it Start in the USA

There are many significant events that have shaped America’s history. Some were infamous, some scandalous and some we choose to overlook..According to the PBS film “The Great Depression”, The Great Depression was one of the most traumatic and gut wrenching event throughout history. This film outline the events leading up to the great depression and highlights some of the significant events during this time period. The Great Depression was an economic downturn that began in 1929 while president Herbert Hoover […]

Great Depression: what Happened, Causes, how it Ended

During the 1930s. America went through one of the worst economic declines in world history, The Great Depression. Many believe it was sole because of the stock market crash, however other factors played a huge role in causing the Great Depression to occur. Bank failures, the Smoot-Hawley Tariff in the 1930s, and weather conditions from the Dust Bowl all played a critical factor in influencing this economic depression within America. Throughout America's history, much examination has been placed in the […]

Great Depression: Causes and Definition

The Great Depression was the worst economic problem in the history of the world, from 1929 to 1939. It caused many problem and difficulty like, Overproduction, Big crash, weak banking systems, and buying on margins. The Great Depression made everyone forget about the wealth, growth and prosperity of last period of ten years and face new economically unfair conditions of business and living in a bad situation. The government should’ve involve more in the Great Depression to help people and […]

September 11th 2001 Attack

The attack of September 11th 2001 was one that really shock America. It left many people dead and other wounded. The total number of people who died in the attack was 2,996 while those got serious injuries were more than 6000. People who died in the incidence included those who were in the building, outside, firefighters and also some terrorists. It was a shock to many people how so many people could die within a very short period of time. […]

Great Depression in the United States

The Great depression was a time when America could not see the future and felt doubtful about the future to come. This was the worst economic downfall in the history of the United States. The Depression started in 1929 and happened to end in the end of 1930. More than a third of the nation's banks had failed and this caused the major stock market to come crashing down. The Great Depression was horrifying for many Americans because of its […]

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How To Write An Essay On American History

Introduction to american history as an essay topic.

Writing an essay on American history involves delving into the rich and complex narrative of the United States' past. It's a journey through significant events, influential figures, and transformative periods that have shaped the nation. In your introduction, specify the particular aspect or period of American history you will focus on, such as the Revolutionary War, the Civil Rights Movement, or a specific presidency. Establish the importance of this topic in understanding the current social, political, and cultural landscape of the United States. This introduction should provide a brief overview of the historical context and set the stage for a deeper analysis.

Researching and Presenting Historical Facts

When exploring a topic in American history, thorough research is crucial to understand the events, their causes, and their effects. Use credible sources like academic journals, history books, and primary documents to gather information. In presenting these facts, maintain a clear and organized structure, guiding the reader through the chronological order or thematic development of your topic. For instance, if writing about the Civil Rights Movement, discuss key events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and landmark legislation. Accurate representation of historical facts forms the backbone of your essay, providing the reader with a well-informed perspective.

Analyzing and Interpreting Historical Events

Beyond presenting historical facts, your essay should analyze and interpret these events. Discuss the broader implications of these events on American society, politics, and culture. For example, analyze how the Industrial Revolution changed economic structures and social dynamics in America, or how the outcomes of the Civil War shaped the nation's future. This analysis should offer insight into the complexities of historical events, revealing the interconnectedness of various factors and the long-term impacts on the United States.

Concluding with Reflections on American History

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your discussion and offering reflections on the significance of your historical topic. Consider how understanding this aspect of American history provides insights into contemporary issues facing the nation. Reflect on the lessons that can be learned from the past and how they can inform present and future decisions. A well-crafted conclusion will not only encapsulate your analysis but also emphasize the relevance of studying American history, inspiring readers to appreciate its impact on today's society and their own lives.

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History Essay Topics

Caleb S.

Crafting a Winning Essay with These Outstanding History Essay Topics

18 min read

Published on: May 4, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

History essay topics

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Many students struggle to come up with interesting and original history essay topics that will engage their readers.

It can be frustrating to spend hours brainstorming only to come up with a mediocre topic.

In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of history essay topics. These topics will not only engage your readers but also stimulate your critical thinking.

By the end of this blog, you will have a wealth of ideas to choose from. 

So buckle up, grab a pen and paper, and get ready to take your history essay to the next level. 

Let's dive in!

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History Essay Topics For Students

History is a fascinating subject with endless possibilities for exploration. Check out these history essay topics for students that are both interesting and engaging.

History Essay Topics For Middle School Students

Middle school is the perfect time to explore different periods of history and discover what interests you the most. 

These history essay topics for middle school students will help you do just that.

  • How did the ancient Greeks contribute to modern civilization?
  • What was life like for Native Americans before European colonization?
  • How did the Industrial Revolution change society and the economy?
  • What were the causes and effects of the American Revolution?
  • What role did women play in the Civil War?
  • How did the Renaissance influence art, science, and culture?
  • What were the major accomplishments of the ancient Egyptians?
  • How did the Silk Road impact trade and cultural exchange?
  • What were the key events and outcomes of the French Revolution?
  • What were the causes and consequences of World War I?

History Essay Topics For High School Students

Are you a high school student struggling to come up with a topic that's both interesting and challenging? 

Look no further than these top history essay topics - high school.

History Essay Topics Grade 10

Here are some grade 10 history essay topics:

  • The impact of World War II on the world today
  • The causes and effects of the French Revolution
  • The role of women in the Civil Rights Movement
  • The impact of imperialism on Africa
  • The rise and fall of the Roman Empire
  • The influence of ancient Greece on modern culture
  • The causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution
  • The impact of the Cold War on international relations
  • The effects of the Great Depression on the world
  • The role of nationalism in shaping modern Europe

Grade 11 History Essay Topics

These are some history essay topics - grade 11:

  • The impact of World War I on the world order and the rise of fascism
  • The role of nationalism in the breakup of colonial empires in Africa and Asia
  • The causes and consequences of the Russian Revolution
  • The impact of the Great Depression on global politics and society
  • The origins and outcomes of the Cold War
  • The impact of decolonization on postcolonial societies
  • The rise of communism in China and its global impact
  • The civil rights movement in the United States and its impact on society
  • The impact of the Cuban Revolution on Latin America and the world
  • The role of religion in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Grade 12 History Essay Topics

Check out these history essay topics - grade 12:

  • The impact of World War II on global politics and society
  • The causes and consequences of the Holocaust
  • The role of the United Nations in international relations
  • The rise of globalization and its impact on world events
  • The impact of the Civil Rights movement on the United States and the world
  • The Cold War as a global conflict
  • The origins and consequences of the Korean War
  • The impact of the Vietnam War on American society and foreign policy
  • The role of women in social and political change throughout the 20th century
  • The Arab-Israeli conflict and its global impact

History Research Paper Topic

  • The role of religion in the development of medieval Europe
  • The impact of the transatlantic slave trade on African societies
  • The causes and consequences of the French Revolution
  • The impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures in the Americas
  • The historical and cultural significance of the Great Wall of China
  • The development of modern democracy in the United States and Europe
  • The impact of imperialism on Africa and Asia
  • The rise and fall of the British Empire
  • The impact of the Renaissance on European art and culture
  • The history and evolution of the Olympic Games

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History Essay Topics - American History

American history is filled with triumphs and tragedies, heroes and villains, and moments of great change and conflict. 

Here are a few topics that will help you explore American history:

  • The American Revolution and its impact on global politics and society
  • The causes and consequences of the Civil War
  • The Reconstruction era and its impact on African American rights
  • The rise of the Progressive movement and its impact on American society
  • The role of the United States in World War I
  • The impact of the Great Depression on American society and politics
  • The United States' involvement in World War II and its aftermath
  • The Civil Rights movement and its impact on American society
  • The Vietnam War and its impact on American politics and society
  • The rise of conservatism in the late 20th century

19th Century History Topics

Check out these history paper topics after 1877 for your next essay:

  • The impact of the Second Industrial Revolution on American society and politics
  • The Spanish-American War and its impact on American imperialism
  • The Progressive Era and its impact on social reform and politics
  • The United States' entry into World War I and its impact on the country
  • The Roaring Twenties and its impact on American culture and society
  • The Great Depression and its impact on American society and politics
  • The New Deal and its impact on social and economic policies in the United States
  • The United States' entry into World War II and its impact on American society and politics
  • The Civil Rights Movement and its impact on American society and politics
  • The Watergate scandal and its impact on American politics and journalism

20th Century History Topics

  • The Cold War and its impact on international relations
  • The Civil Rights Movement and its impact on American society
  • The rise of fascism and totalitarianism in Europe
  • The Space Race and the Cold War competition for technological supremacy
  • The impact of the Great Depression on global economics and politics
  • The rise of globalization and its impact on world economies and cultures
  • The feminist movement and its impact on women's rights and gender equality
  • The rise of terrorism in the late 20th century and its impact on international security
  • The fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War

Ancient History Essay Topics

  • The history and mythology of Ancient Egypt
  • The impact of Alexander the Great on Greek and world history
  • The role of women in Ancient Greek and Roman societies
  • The legacy of the Persian Empire
  • The historical and cultural significance of the pyramids of Mesoamerica
  • The development of democracy in Ancient Athens
  • The impact of Confucianism on Ancient Chinese society
  • The history of the Indus Valley Civilization
  • The impact of the Assyrian Empire on the ancient Near East

World History Argumentative Essay Topics

Here are some potential world history essay topics:

  • Was the Age of Exploration ultimately beneficial or harmful to the world?
  • Did colonialism have a positive or negative impact on colonized countries?
  • Was the French Revolution ultimately a success or failure?
  • Was the Industrial Revolution ultimately beneficial or harmful to society?
  • Was World War I inevitable, or could it have been prevented?
  • Did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to the outbreak of World War II?
  • Was the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified?
  • Was the Cold War an inevitable outcome of post-World War II politics?
  • Did the fall of the Soviet Union represent a victory for democracy?
  • Was the Arab Spring ultimately successful or a failure?

World War I & II History Topics

  • Causes of World War I: Nationalism, Imperialism, and Alliances
  • The Role of Technology in World War I: Trench Warfare and Chemical Warfare
  • Treaty of Versailles: Effects on Germany and the Beginnings of World War II
  • The Rise of Hitler and the Nazi Party
  • The Holocaust: Causes, Events, and Aftermath
  • The Battle of Stalingrad: Turning Point of World War II
  • The Manhattan Project: Development and Use of the Atomic Bomb
  • Women's Roles in World War II: From the Homefront to the Front Lines
  • The Allied Invasion of Normandy: D-Day and the Liberation of Europe
  • The Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki: Justified or Unjustified?

US History Essay Topics

  • The impact of the American Revolution on the development of American democracy
  • The significance of the Louisiana Purchase in the expansion of the United States
  • The role of the United States in World War I and its impact on American society 
  • The impact of the New Deal on American social and economic policies
  • The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on American society and politics
  • The role of the United States in the Vietnam War 
  • The impact of the Watergate scandal on American politics and journalism
  • The significance of the 9/11 attacks and their impact on American society and politics
  • The impact of the digital age on American society and politics
  • The role of social media in shaping American political discourse

Black History Essay Topics

  • The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on Black Americans and American society 
  • The role of slavery in the development of the United States economy and society
  • The significance of the Harlem Renaissance in the development of Black culture 
  • The impact of Jim Crow laws on Black Americans in the South and beyond
  • The legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and his impact on the Civil Rights Movement
  • The impact of the Black Panther Party on Black empowerment and political activism
  • The significance of the election of Barack Obama as the first Black President 
  • The role of Black women in the Civil Rights and feminist movements
  • The impact of the Black Lives Matter movement on American society and politics
  • The significance of Juneteenth in Black American history and its impact on society

African American History Essay Topics

  • The role of African American soldiers in the Civil War
  • The impact of the Emancipation Proclamation on African American lives
  • The contributions of African American women to the Civil Rights Movement
  • The life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
  • The Harlem Renaissance and its significance in African American history
  • The Tuskegee Airmen and their contributions to World War II
  • The effects of redlining and segregation on African American communities
  • The role of African American athletes in breaking down racial barriers in sports
  • The impact of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on African American voting rights
  • The legacy of slavery and its ongoing impact on African American communities

Canadian History Essay Topics

  • The impact of European colonization on Indigenous peoples in Canada
  • The significance of the War of 1812 on Canadian nationalism and identity
  • The role of Sir John A. Macdonald in the formation of the Canadian Confederation
  • The impact of the Great Depression on Canadian society and politics
  • The significance of the Quiet Revolution in Quebec 
  • The role of Canadian soldiers in World War I and World War II
  • The significance of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in Canadian society and politics
  • The impact of the Canadian Multiculturalism Act on Canadian society and identity
  • The significance of the October Crisis of 1970 on Canadian politics and civil liberties
  • The impact of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Indigenous-settler relations 

French Revolution Topics

Here are some french revolution topics to spark your curiosity:

  • The causes and social conditions leading to the French Revolution
  • The role of Enlightenment ideas in the French Revolution
  • The rise and fall of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution
  • The impact of the French Revolution on the development of modern democracy
  • The role of women in the French Revolution and the fight for equal rights
  • The significance of the storming of the Bastille in the French Revolution
  • The effects of the French Revolution on European politics and society
  • The role of Napoleon Bonaparte in the French Revolution and its aftermath
  • The cultural and artistic achievements of the French Revolution
  • The long-term effects of the French Revolution on French society and culture

Julius Caesar Topics Ideas

  • Julius Caesar's rise to power in Rome
  • The political and social conditions of the Roman Republic before Julius Caesar
  • The motives and consequences of the assassination of Julius Caesar
  • Julius Caesar's military conquests and tactics
  • Julius Caesar's consolidation of power as a dictator
  • Julius Caesar's lasting influence on Roman history
  • Julius Caesar's complex relationship with the Roman Senate
  • The political reforms of Julius Caesar and their effectiveness
  • Julius Caesar's family background and personal relationships
  • Analyzing Julius Caesar's speeches and writings for insight into his leadership style

Argumentative History Essay Topics

  • Should Confederate monuments be removed?
  • Was the dropping of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified?
  • Should reparations be paid to the descendants of enslaved people in the United States?
  • Was the colonization of America by Europeans justified?
  • Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples Day?
  • Was the American Revolution a justified war?
  • Should the United States have entered World War II earlier?
  • Was the Cold War a necessary conflict?
  • Should the United States have dropped the atomic bomb on Japan in World War II?
  • Was the Vietnam War justified?

History Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Should the United States have dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
  • Was Christopher Columbus a hero or a villain?
  • Should Confederate statues and symbols be removed from public spaces?
  • Should reparations be paid for the historic injustices suffered by African Americans?
  • Should the United States have entered World War I?
  • Should the use of torture in interrogations be justified in extreme situations?
  • Should the United States have participated in the Vietnam War?
  • Should the United States have interned Japanese Americans during World War II?
  • Should the electoral college be abolished in favor of a popular vote in U.S. presidential elections?
  • Should the United States have continued its policy of neutrality during World War II?

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Good History Essay Topics

  • The impact of the Black Death on medieval Europe
  • The significance of the French Revolution in shaping modern democracy
  • The role of the printing press in the Protestant Reformation
  • The impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade on African societies 
  • The significance of the Civil Rights Movement in shaping contemporary race relations
  • The impact of the Scientific Revolution on modern medicine and technology
  • The significance of the Meiji Restoration in modernizing Japan
  • The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II
  • The impact of the Green Revolution on global agriculture and food security
  • The significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall in ending the Cold War 

Modern History Essay Topics

  • The impact of the World Wars on modern society and global politics
  • The significance of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
  • The role of globalization in shaping economic development and international relations
  • The impact of colonialism on modern post-colonial societies
  • The significance of the feminist movement in shaping gender roles and expectations
  • The role of technology in shaping modern warfare and international security
  • The impact of the digital age on privacy, identity, and democracy
  • The significance of the Cold War in shaping global politics and international relations
  • The role of environmentalism in shaping public policy and global sustainability efforts
  • The impact of the internet and social media on communication, culture, and politics

Famous History Topics

  • The fall of the Roman Empire
  • The reign of Elizabeth I in Tudor England
  • The American Revolution and the birth of the United States
  • The French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon
  • The Industrial Revolution and its impact on modern society
  • The World Wars and their impact on global politics and society
  • The Civil Rights Movement in the United States
  • The Cold War and the arms race between the United States and Soviet Union
  • The Space Race and the first moon landing
  • The collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War

Interesting History Essay Topics

  • The impact of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire on world history
  • The role of women in ancient civilizations such as Ancient Egypt and Greece
  • The historical and cultural significance of the Silk Road
  • The Salem witch trials and their impact on American colonial society
  • The Viking Age and its impact on European history
  • The Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire
  • The history of the Samurai in feudal Japan
  • The impact of the Age of Exploration on world history
  • The history of the Ottoman Empire and its legacy in modern-day Europe 

Middle Ages Research Topics

Here are some Middle Ages research topics for your essay:

  • The Crusades and their impact on Europe and the Middle East
  • The role of the Catholic Church in medieval society
  • The development of feudalism and the manorial system
  • The Black Death and its impact on medieval society
  • The Hundred Years' War and its causes and consequences
  • The emergence of chivalry and the knightly code
  • The Magna Carta and its significance in medieval England
  • The role of women in medieval society and their representation in literature
  • The rise and fall of the Byzantine Empire
  • The architecture and art of the Middle Ages

Salem Witch Trials  History Essay Topics

  • The events leading up to the Salem Witch Trials and their causes
  • The role of religion in the Salem Witch Trials and its impact on the community
  • The legal proceedings and trials of the accused witches
  • The social and political climate of Salem during the witch trials
  • The impact of the Salem Witch Trials on American society and culture
  • The different interpretations and portrayals of the Salem Witch Trials in literature 
  • The significance of the Salem Witch Trials in the history of witchcraft and the occult
  • The aftermath of the Salem Witch Trials and the long-term effects on the community
  • The role of gender and power in the accusations and trials of the Salem witches
  • The lessons gained from studying the Salem Witch Trials in modern times

How to Choose a Good History Essay Topics

Choosing a history essay topic can be a challenging task, especially with number of events and figures to choose from. 

However, selecting the right topic can make all the difference in the success of your essay. 

Here are some tips to help you choose a good history essay topic:

Brainstorm Ideas: Take some time to brainstorm potential topics. Write down any historical events or figures that interest you. 

Consider the themes and messages that you want to convey in your essay.

Research the Topic: Once you have a list of potential topics, conduct some research to ensure that there is enough information available to write a quality essay. 

Look for primary and secondary sources, and consider the perspectives of different historians.

Narrow your Topic: A broad topic can make it difficult to write a focused and well-supported essay. 

Consider narrowing your topic by focusing on a specific time period, geographical location, or theme.

Consider your Audience: Think about who will be reading your essay and tailor your topic accordingly.

If you are writing for a professor or academic audience, choose a topic that is more specialized and in-depth.

If you are writing for a general audience, choose a topic that is more accessible and engaging.

Choose Something that Interests you: You will be spending a lot of time researching and writing your essay. So choose a topic that you are genuinely interested in. 

This will make the writing process more enjoyable and will help you produce a better quality essay.

In conclusion, history is a fascinating subject with an abundance of topics to explore. 

If you're looking for a topic, this blog has provided you with a comprehensive list of ideas to choose from. 

By following the tips, you can select a topic that is not only interesting but also well-suited.

However, if you find yourself struggling with selecting a topic or crafting a well-written history essay, don't worry. 

Our history essay writing service is here to help you!

Contact us to learn more about the professional essay writing service and how we can help you succeed in your history studies.

We also have an AI writing tool to assist you with a wide range of historical subjects and can help you create a custom essay that meets your specific requirements. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i write about a controversial topic in my history essay.

Yes, as long as you present a balanced and well-supported argument. Controversial topics can make for interesting essays. But it's important to maintain objectivity and avoid presenting biased opinions.

How do I research for a history essay?

Start by gathering information from reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and primary sources. Take notes and organize your research to help you develop a clear thesis and supporting arguments.

How important is citing sources in a history essay?

Citing sources is crucial in any academic essay, including history essays. It helps to avoid plagiarism and gives credibility to your arguments. Make sure to use the citation style recommended by your instructor.

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us history essay topics

110 Original History Essay Questions: Examples and Topics

us history essay topics

When looking for history essay topics, people often think about the world-famous military and political events. However, there is so much more to history than battles and international affairs. Plenty of small but engaging incidents are hiding in plain sight, and yet, people usually miss them.

What are those intriguing aspects?

In this article, our team has prepared a list of interesting history essay questions with examples. They are all about unusual events and historical viewpoints. To help with your academic writing, we divided the article into subheadings. Here, you’ll find topics according to your essay type.

  • Top History Topics
  • 🔍 Extended Essay
  • ✒️ Historiographical Essay
  • 📌 Persuasive Essay
  • ⚙️ Technology Topics
  • 🎶 Music Topics
  • 🌄 American History
  • 🏰 European History
  • 🔥 5 In-Class Essay Tips

🤩 Top 15 History Essay Topics

  • Julius Caesar.
  • Middle Ages.
  • World Wars.
  • Holy Inquisition.
  • US Independence.
  • 20 th Century.
  • Bronze Age.
  • Thomas Edison.
  • Slave Trade.
  • Russian Revolution.

💁 Topics for Various Essay Types

There are many types of essays for an academic assignment. It may be a simple short essay or a long structured essay. Each one has its format and rules. Here, we are going to talk about essays that you might have questions about.

🔎 History Extended Essay Topics

An extended essay (EE) is an obligatory part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP). For an IB diploma, a student should do extensive research. It should be finished with a 4000-word paper.

The extended essay provides practice for undergraduate research. Besides, it gives a chance to explore a topic of personal interest. You may check out some examples in a free essays database to get a reference of how they actually look like. Here, we dive into history EE topics.

  • Oldest human settlements according to archeological sources.
  • The suffrage movement in the United States of the early XXth century.
  • How Dior’s bar suit revolutionized women’s fashion.
  • History of Chemistry in Europe during the Age of Enlightenment.
  • Psychology essay: evolution of treatment for various mental disorders. Psychological methods and medicine.
  • Development of black rights following the US Civil War.

The Battle of Gettysburg was the bloodiest battle of the Civil War.

  • History of physics: from Antiquity to modern times.
  • Principles of medieval economics: a historical analysis. Analyze the financial structure in medieval Europe and the Middle East.
  • How did industrialization affect global climate change?
  • Expansion of traffic jams in China. The root of a problem and China’s solution.
  • The effects of capitalism on Caribbean republics. Study the history of capitalism in the Caribbean. What were the effects of plantation produce on their economy?
  • The use of sun reflection in the military. A historical analysis of the utilization.
  • Analysis of Victorian literature and culture by Carolyn Williams.
  • Biology in warfare. The use of biological weapons from Antiquity to modern times.
  • A study of malnourishment in African societies. Explore the historical roots of malnutrition in Africa. How did it affect their societies?
  • Research question: why Western countries have dominated the world in modern history?
  • Otto Skorzeny. How did Nazi Germany’s most effective agent become Mossad’s advisor? Dive in the biography of Otto Skorzeny. Analyze his character and post-war activity.
  • The history of visual arts in Christianity. How did religion shape the art of Western civilization?
  • Six-Day War of 1967. Examine the strategies of Israel and The United Arab States.
  • Imperial Japan in the late period of WWII. Its non-standard means of warfare.

📝 Historiographical Essay Topics

Now, let’s look into another type of essay—a historiographical essay. It analyzes and evaluates how scholars interpret a historical topic. Usually, the essay is problem-centered. So, compare the viewpoints of two or more historians on the same event.

Here you will find good topics for historiographical essays:

  • The Soviet internment camps of the Stalin Era.
  • What is the classification of a “historical fact?”
  • The fate of Japanese Americans during WWII.
  • Mongolian aid to the Soviet Union during World War II.
  • An analysis of the main areas of historical research.
  • What defined a nation’s sovereignty in the XIXth century?
  • The activity of Pamela Parsons in the 70s.
  • “The Life of the Prophet” by Ibn Hisham.
  • The history of Earth: from its formation to modern times. Make detailed research on the history of Earth. Talk about major geophysical and chemical processes. What did impact the Earth’s formation and evolution?
  • An argumentative essay. How substantial was the Allies’ aid of “Land Lease” to the USSR in WWII?
  • Things to know when studying cultural heritage.
  • Processes of detecting historical excavation sites.

📌 History Persuasive Essay Topics

A persuasive essay is a piece of academic writing where you list two or more points of view on a subject. In such a paper, you use facts and logic to support your perspective.

  • An argumentative essay on American involvement in WWI. How crucial was it in defeating the German Empire and its allies? Analyze the impact of America’s contribution to WWI.

The US maintained neutrality in WWI until 1917.

  • Slavery played one of the key roles in Ancient Rome’s rise to power. Discuss the structure of slavery in Ancient Rome. Provide evidence for/against this argument.
  • Festivals in India are an essential part of the nation’s identity. Analyze the role of local and national Indian festivals. Did they form identities of different cultural groups?
  • Why did the Soviet Union lose the Cold War? Could it be because of its involvement in Afghanistan? Explore the impact of the Soviet-Afghan War on countries of the Warsaw Pact.
  • Psychedelic substances allow people to think more creatively. Discuss the effects of different drugs on the human mind. Examine notable cases and experiments with drug testing.
  • The presentation of the American Revolution in movies. Research a few pieces of cinematography about the American Revolution. Analyze their historical accuracy.
  • Bipolar disorder essay and Vincent Van Gogh. Analyze activity and medical records of Vincent Van Gogh. Give arguments for/against the aforementioned idea.

Bipolar disorder causes shifts in a person's mood.

  • Florentine art history. How did the noble patronage of artists contribute to Florentine art? To prove your perspective, examine several famous art patrons of Florence.

⚙ History of Technology Essay Topics

Technology has been the cornerstone of powerful civilizations that moved the world forward. Advancement of technology is a curious phenomenon. It moved at a faster pace with every century of the last millennium.

Here, we will take a look at thought-provoking topics on the history of technology. Besides, you’ll see a few history essay questions on technology.

  • Advancement of farming technology in the Bronze Age.
  • Technological advancements of Ancient Rome. Discuss Roman technological inventions. How did they impact the world for many centuries?
  • Structure of a Roman road. Explain the structure of a Roman road. Discuss how the road system connected the Empire. Did it help to spread Christianity?
  • The history of genetically modified food: corporation profits and risks.
  • The history of sanitation in Paris. A tale of revolutionary engineering solutions.
  • Evolution of heart surgeries.
  • The scientific contribution of Dr. Ivan Pavlov to physiology.
  • Avicenna (Ibn Sina) and the history of medieval medicine. Talk about Avicenna’s contribution to medicine. How accurate were his thoughts on it?

Avicenna memorized the entire Qur'an by age 10.

  • The trebuchet: the deadliest siege weapon of Medieval Europe.
  • The history of limb surgery: from pirates to modern medicine.
  • Japanese experiments on humans during WWII. Did they provide humanity with valuable data on the human organism?
  • Naval technology throughout human history. Research military and civic solutions of naval engineering during various periods. Consider Antiquity, Middle Ages, Age of Discovery, Age of Enlightenment, etc.
  • Rapid European scientific advancement of the Age of Enlightenment. Why did the advancement of science and technology in Europe increase in the 18-19th centuries?
  • History of blimps: strengths and weaknesses.
  • First computers of WWII. Study the first computer systems of WWII. Explain their technical capabilities and flaws.
  • How did the new technology make WWI so high with casualties?
  • The science of an atomic bomb: a case study.
  • How online social media impacted global society in the 2010s?
  • How China introduced new types of censorship with the creation of the Internet.
  • Compare college education of the XIXth century and modern times.
  • The city of Tenochtitlan. The technological marvel of the Aztecs.

🎶 Music History Essay Topics

Music is one of the most effective examples of human genius. People have made music to express their emotions to each other. Thus, the history of music is extensive and rich in detail. Exploring it can be just as fascinating as listening to music.

Below, you’ll find the best ideas on the history of music to talk about:

  • Jazz, New Orleans, and the Roaring Twenties: a musical phenomenon. Discuss the genre’s origins and technical aspects.
  • The music of the Antiquity of the Mediterranean region. From Egypt and Greece to Rome.
  • The use of music in Ancient Rome.

The Lyra is one of the most ancient stringed musical instruments.

  • Techniques a style of Mozart and Beethoven. A critical analysis.
  • Studio 54 – a story of disco, glamour, and exclusivity.
  • The history of organum and organ music.
  • Advancement of music technology in the early XXth century.
  • Baroque music and its famous composers. Analyze the technical details behind baroque music. Give examples of its notable composers.
  • Music theater as the main source of musical innovation of the late classical era.
  • Detailed analysis of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Examine the composer’s final symphony. Explore Beethoven’s health complications during the last years of his life.
  • Religion and music: how Christianity employed the vocal skills of monks. Research the history and characteristics of the Gregorian chant.
  • The golden era of classical music of the XVIIth-XIXth centuries in Germany and Austria.
  • The musical experiments by Andy Warhol.
  • The musical instruments of the Renaissance and modern times. What are the similarities and differences?
  • Musical instruments and chants of Bronze Age Mesopotamia.
  • Bohemian Rhapsody: a musical analysis. Discuss the story behind the creation of Queen’s famous song.
  • Lively music and deadly drugs. How did narcotics become a part of the music industry in the 60s and 70s?
  • The history of the club culture of New York. Discuss the history of clubs in New York. How did the advocates for gay rights start the new idea of clubbing?
  • The emergence of hip-hop and rap in Uptown Brooklyn and the Bronx. Analyze how the new genre started commenting on the reality of streets and black rights.
  • The history of Woodstock – America’s most iconic music festival.

👍 Good History Essay Questions

Writing an essay about countries should be divided into European and American theaters. Each region has a history rich in events and personalities.

Below, there are great European and US history essay questions for your paper:

🌄 American History Essay Questions

  • How did medics deal with casualties during the US Civil War? Talk about the organization of medical staff on both sides of the war. Analyze the treatment methods applied to wounded soldiers.
  • What factors contributed to the victory in the American Revolution?
  • US economy and culture of the 1920s. How did it develop?
  • How did civil rights develop during the Reconstruction era?

The Civil Rights Act became law over a president's veto.

  • Why was slavery so popular in the southern states? Analyze the economy of the southern states in America. Explain why slavery has such deep roots there.
  • Why did the United States emerge as a superpower after WWII?
  • Who were the main benefactors of the US economy in the early 20th century?

🏘 European History Essay Questions

  • The Renaissance essay. Why and how did naturalistic beauty become the main element of art?
  • What are the key ideas in Robin Briggs’s historical research on witchcraft?
  • The Modern European history question. How did the Mafia operate in Italy? Analyze the roots of Italian Mafia, its organizational structure. What were its spheres of influence?
  • Which scientific innovations were discovered in the late XIXth and early XXth century Europe?
  • Tudor history: what caused the English Reformation?
  • How did colonization transform the economies of European empires?
  • Which economic and political benefits were introduced at the creation of the European Union? Elaborate on the history of the EU. Analyze its economic and political aspects.

🔥 5 Tips for Writing an Essay in Class

For whatever reason, you need to write an in-class essay. It could be an exam or an ordinary assignment. It doesn’t matter as the goal remains the same. You have to compose a coherent paper in a short amount of time under supervision.

What is the best way to handle working under such pressure? By following our tips:

1. Practice beforehand

Any sort of training makes a person comfortable with the upcoming task. Practice writing an essay so that you memorize the format. Keep in mind how to outline the paper and some useful words for transitions. Even when you’re unfamiliar with the topic, you’ll still know where to begin without thinking.

2. Forget to panic

Students can lose time by bracing themselves. By staring on the blank page with the essay question can help no one. The sooner you start the task, the better. Don’t let your brain panic!

3. Plan before you write

Starting the essay right away may be tempting and promising, but that’s how you make mistakes. Reread and analyze the given question, notice the keywords. Make sure you’re answering what’s asked, not more or less. Come up with a thesis statement and make an outline.

Clear your thoughts to focus on your task.

Properly organizing your paper saves your time and reduces stress. It ensures that you addressed every issue. Plus, it shows whether you connected every argument to the thesis statement. Besides, putting topic sentences and transitions in the outline makes them less repetitive in the essay.

4. Keep in mind your writing speed

Remember the first tip? This one comes naturally from practicing. The more you write, the better you understand your pace. Learn how much time you need to complete each part of the essay writing. Try not to exceed the estimated time for an outline, an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

5. Proofread

Writing in a rush, you may forget about your spelling and punctuation. Save some time for rereading your paper thoroughly. Pay attention to logical reasoning and grammar errors. Add sentences if necessary. Your paper may look messy as long as you do so to improve your writing and ensure the perfect flow.

Proofread. Always.

Thank you for taking some time to read this article. We hope that it will help you in your academic studies. If this article proved to be informative to you, leave a comment below. Share it with others who might need some guidance in their studies.

🔗 References

  • How To Write a Good History Essay: Robert Pearce for History Today
  • Elements of an Effective History Exam Essay: Mark Brilliant, Department of History, Program in American Studies, University of California, Berkeley
  • UChicago Supplemental Essay Questions: College Admissions, University of Chicago
  • Tips for Writing Essay Exams: Writing Center, University of Washington
  • Popular Application Essay Topics: The Princeton Review
  • Historiographical Essays: Center for Writing and Speaking, Campbell Hall
  • Persuasion Essays: Sheldon Smith for Eapfoundation.com
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85 Intriguing American History Topics for Academic Writing

Table of Contents

History is a vast subject. It ends at the present day but begins from the time undated. American history, to be specific, is quite complicated whether one studies it out of curiosity or as a part of academics. Hence when students are assigned to create an academic paper on American history topics, they get confused. Unlike other countries around the globe, America has witnessed many revolutions, from the colonial settlement in 1600 to the nonviolent resistance of Martin Luther King in the 1960s. As a result, choosing a topic on this subject for all these events that highlight the best writing skills of the student is difficult. Find here, a list of outstanding American History topics you can consider for writing a research paper. Before that, let’s learn how to choose accurate   topics .

American History Topics

3 Tricks To Shortlist the Best American History Topics

Choosing topics for academic papers on American history that can help showcase your knowledge of the subject and writing skills is no child’s play. However, following specific tricks can help you to complete the job without much effort or stress.

Here are the 3 simple tricks that one can use to choose some of the best topics .

  •   Look for the areas of interest:  The first step to choosing topics on American history is to look for interesting areas. It can be civil wars in America, the LGBTQ community revolution in the 20th century, or the art and entertainment revolution post World War 2.  However, these subjects are exhaustive. It would be best if you narrowed down the scope of the issue to include it in a single assignment. Hence, look for specific events in the areas of interest.
  • Look for primary sources of information:  Choosing a topic on American history   on which no information is available to craft a paper is worthless. Hence, after selecting the areas of interest and narrowing down some topics, find information from the primary sources.
  • Drafting a hypothesis:  One may create a hypothesis on the selected topics to examine the one that sits well within the historical context. It indicates that none of the chosen topics is trans-historical; it must not indicate “people like this.
  • A moved forward with the legislation since an individual got inspired and educated on the subject by his mother, who was a reformer.
  • In 1870, an enslaved man responded to his enslaver in a specific code language without expressing anger or irritation.

Go with the subjects that help create a definite historical hypothesis.

List of Interesting American History Topics

Now that you know the drills to choose the best topics on American history, you may wonder what topics on American history are ruling the college and university assignments. From here, get the most fascinating and unique assignment topics on American history.

Trending American History Topics

Here are the top 10 most trending topics related to American history for college assignments:

  • Black Panthers – What was their ideology?
  • How is the USA affected by foreign settlements?
  • The controversy about the Wilmot provision
  • Features that rule the Roaring Twenties?
  • What caused the Missouri Compromise, and how was America affected by it?
  • Function of women in the Great Depression
  • Who profited the most from the crash of the 1929 Stock Market?
  • What contribution did Michael Collin make the space exploration?
  • Impact of the Bracero Program on the United States of America
  • How did the Western countries develop from the contribution of Birmingham Young?

Unique American History Research Topics

Students pursuing their research studies on American history find the following   topics useful.

  • How did the Red Scare take place?
  • The primary mission of the loyalists
  • What was the importance of education during Puritan times?
  • How did the Great Awakening impact the American subcontinent?
  • Did the Boston Tea Party significantly benefit the Americans?
  • The immediate effects of the Battle of Bunker Hill?
  • Causes of failure of the presidential reconstruction?
  • Why did the 1870 economic recession take place in America?
  • Role of Railroad development on America’s industrial development
  • Contribution of Fredrick Douglass to the abolition of slavery

American History Topics Based on Events between 1763 and 1865

Do you want to build your history assignment on events between 1763 and 1865? Consider these topics.

  • How did the American culture evolve?
  • Shed some light on the legacy of the joint stock organizations
  • What was the impact of the American Revolution on American society?
  • How did the rituals of Thanksgiving evolve?
  • What justifications do Americans have for their faith in Manifest Destiny?
  • Events led to the sovereign republic entity of Texas
  • Aftermath of the Royal Proclamation of 1763
  • What impact did the American Revolution have on the other states of the subcontinent?
  • How did the War of 1812 take place?
  • Problems that increased with the beginning of the Missouri Compromise
  • When was the USA declared independent, and what is its legacy?
  • Why was the right to carry arms included in the Bill of Rights?
  • Aftereffects of the American war with Mexico
  • Why did America choose Washington, DC, as its national capital?
  • How did the French Revolution impact America?

American History Topics Based On Events Before 1877

You can use these   topics on history to discuss events in America before 1877.

  • What was the condition of America before Columbus discovered it?
  • The New World that developed after the landing of Christopher Columbus
  • What were the discoveries and contributions of Christopher Columbus to America?
  • Explain when the British began to rule in America and how their first settlement looked like
  • Discuss the ethnicity of Puritans and their settlement in the United States of America
  • What were the effects of British rule in America?
  • How did the protestant reformation impact the history of the USA?
  • What is the Middle Ground for the Native Americans?
  • How did the American colonization impact the American population?

1878-1899 American History Topics

Here are the most popular ideas on events that occurred between 1878 and1899 in America:

  • How did industrialization evolve after the Civil War?
  • America from the eye of the immigrants
  • What social reforms took place during the Progressive Era?
  • Why was the Foreign Policy developed during the 1890s?
  • How did the Foreign Reforms impact the Americans?
  • Shed light on interracial relations in the Progressive era
  • Did anything in America change after the Japanese immigrated to America in the 19th century?

Read more: Top Fascinating History Research Topics For Students

Afro-American History Essay Topics

Are you assigned to compose a history assignment on Afro-Americans? Take a look at the most popular topics.

  • What led to the slave resistance in the 18th century?
  • How did the African Americans use music as a tool of their opposition?
  • The religion and spirituality followed by African Americans in the United States of America
  • How did the amendment of the 13th century lead to the end of slavery in the United States of America?
  • How was the news of the rules of the Brown vs. Board of Education received by the public?
  • Why is the Harlem Renaissance one of the most significant American history topics?
  • What is the importance of Martin Luther King’s speech – “I have a dream.”
  • Significance of Barack Obama’s presidency on the black communities of America?
  • What healthcare reforms did Barack Obama bring to the United States of America?
  • How has Barack Obama’s presidency impacted the United States of America?

Fascinating American History Ideas for Academic Work

The following are some excellent American history topics that you can consider for writing your academic papers such as essays, research papers, dissertations, or theses.

  • Discuss the emergence of the “Old American West.”
  • Analyze the effects of European colonization of the North American continent
  • Discuss European reactions to the American Civil War.
  • How did urbanization affect American life?
  • Explain the role of Oil in Industrializing America.
  • Analyze the impact of the Cold War on the American economy.
  • Write about the Women’s suffrage movement in America.
  • Explain how the early Americans justified slavery.
  • Research and write about the history of Sports in the United States.
  • Investigate the role of students in advancing civil rights for African Americans.
  • Explain how the GI Bill affected African-American veterans
  • Write about the American-Iranian Tough Relations
  • Explain how migration shaped American society in the 1930s and ‘40s

From the above-mentioned list of striking American History topics, choose any topic based on the historical period of your choice and draft an excellent academic paper. In case, you experience difficulties with identifying the right topic, feel free to connect with us.

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Early American History Research Paper Topics

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Exploring a variety of early American history research paper topics is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of the foundations of the United States. This page presents a comprehensive guide for students studying history, providing a vast range of topics, practical advice on how to select and approach them, and an in-depth article examining the richness of early American history as a field of study. In addition, iResearchNet’s custom writing services are introduced, offering professional support to students who wish to dive into this compelling subject area. Through this combination of resources, students are empowered to create a captivating and academically rigorous research paper on early American history.

100 Early American History Research Paper Topics

In this section, we will explore a comprehensive list of early American history research paper topics. These topics are divided into 10 categories, each offering a diverse range of subjects for exploration. Whether you are interested in politics, social dynamics, cultural developments, or economic aspects, there is a topic that will captivate your interest. Delve into the rich tapestry of early American history and uncover fascinating research paper topics that will broaden your understanding of this critical period.

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Politics and Government:

  • The influence of colonial charters on the development of early American governance
  • The evolution of colonial assemblies and the rise of self-government
  • Examining the impact of the Albany Plan of Union on colonial unity
  • The role of colonial legislatures in shaping early American political culture
  • The significance of the Stamp Act Congress in the lead-up to the American Revolution
  • Analyzing the creation and ratification of the Articles of Confederation
  • Exploring the debates surrounding the Constitutional Convention and the drafting of the U.S. Constitution
  • The impact of the Federalist and Anti-Federalist papers on American political thought
  • Investigating the origins and consequences of the Alien and Sedition Acts
  • Examining the influence of early political parties on the formation of American democracy

Social and Cultural Transformations:

  • The interactions between Native American tribes and European settlers in the early colonial period
  • The role of religion in shaping early American society and culture
  • Exploring the impact of the Great Awakening on religious practices and social values
  • Analyzing the institution of slavery and its effects on early American society
  • The emergence of religious toleration and religious freedom in the colonies
  • Investigating the social dynamics and gender roles in early American communities
  • The influence of Enlightenment ideas on the intellectual and cultural development of early America
  • Examining the role of education and the establishment of early American universities
  • The cultural assimilation of different immigrant groups and their contributions to early America
  • Exploring the development of early American literature, art, and architecture

Economic and Trade:

  • Analyzing the impact of the Columbian Exchange on the economies of early America
  • The role of mercantilism and the Navigation Acts in shaping colonial trade policies
  • Investigating the development of the triangular trade and the Atlantic slave trade
  • The rise of colonial industries and the growth of regional economies
  • The impact of the American Revolution on trade and commerce
  • The significance of the Embargo Act of 1807 in early American economic history
  • Exploring the role of early American banks and financial institutions
  • Analyzing the economic consequences of westward expansion and the Louisiana Purchase
  • Investigating the emergence of early American capitalism and the growth of the market economy
  • Examining the effects of the War of 1812 on early American trade and industry

Native American History:

  • The interactions between Native American tribes and European colonizers
  • Exploring the impact of disease on Native American populations
  • Investigating the role of Native American alliances in shaping the outcome of colonial conflicts
  • The effects of land dispossession and forced removal on Native American communities
  • The cultural, social, and political resilience of Native American tribes in the face of colonization
  • Examining the cultural exchange and adaptation between Native Americans and European settlers
  • The role of Native American leaders and warriors in early American conflicts
  • Exploring the impact of the Indian Removal Act on Native American sovereignty
  • The effects of reservation policies and assimilation efforts on Native American communities
  • Investigating contemporary Native American activism and the ongoing struggle for rights and recognition

Revolutionary War and Independence:

  • The causes and catalysts of the American Revolution
  • Analyzing the role of key individuals, such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, in the Revolutionary War
  • The impact of foreign assistance, particularly from France, on the outcome of the Revolution
  • The experiences of soldiers and civilians during the Revolutionary War
  • Investigating the ideological foundations of American independence and the Declaration of Independence
  • Examining the impact of Revolutionary War battles, such as Saratoga and Yorktown
  • The effects of the Treaty of Paris (1783) and the establishment of the United States
  • Exploring the challenges of nation-building and creating a system of government after the Revolution
  • The significance of the Federalist Papers in the ratification of the U.S. Constitution
  • Investigating the debates over individual rights and the inclusion of a Bill of Rights in the Constitution

Slavery and Abolition:

  • The origins and development of slavery in the early American colonies
  • Exploring the experiences of enslaved individuals and the resistance against slavery
  • Investigating the impact of the American Revolution on the institution of slavery
  • The role of early abolitionist movements and individuals in the fight against slavery
  • Analyzing the economic, social, and political implications of the cotton gin and the expansion of slavery
  • The Underground Railroad and the network of abolitionist activities
  • Examining the impact of the Missouri Compromise and the Compromise of 1850 on the slavery debate
  • The significance of the Dred Scott case and its role in deepening sectional tensions
  • Investigating the role of African Americans in the Civil War and the fight for emancipation
  • The effects of the Emancipation Proclamation and the Thirteenth Amendment on the abolition of slavery

Early American Women:

  • Exploring the experiences of women in colonial America
  • The role of women in early American politics and social movements
  • Analyzing the impact of the American Revolution on women’s rights and gender roles
  • Investigating the contributions of early American women writers, artists, and intellectuals
  • The emergence of women’s suffrage movements in the 19th century
  • Examining the role of women in education and the establishment of female seminaries
  • The experiences of enslaved women and their resistance against oppression
  • Exploring the impact of the Seneca Falls Convention and the Declaration of Sentiments
  • Investigating the intersectionality of race and gender in early American women’s history
  • The effects of the Civil War and Reconstruction on women’s rights and social status

Immigration and Ethnicity:

  • Analyzing the patterns of immigration to early America and the motivations of different immigrant groups
  • The experiences of Irish immigrants and their role in early American society
  • Investigating the contributions of German immigrants to early American culture and industry
  • Exploring the experiences of Italian, Polish, and Eastern European immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
  • The impact of Chinese and Asian immigration on early American history
  • Examining the challenges faced by immigrant communities and the establishment of ethnic enclaves
  • Analyzing the nativist movements and the rise of anti-immigrant sentiment in the early 19th century
  • The effects of immigration policies, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act and the Immigration Act of 1924
  • Investigating the experiences of African American migrants during the Great Migration
  • Exploring the cultural contributions of different immigrant groups to early American society

Early American Military History:

  • Analyzing the conflicts between European powers for control of North America
  • The role of Native American tribes in early American military engagements
  • Investigating the French and Indian War and its impact on the balance of power in North America
  • Examining the strategies and tactics of American Revolutionary War commanders
  • The significance of key battles, such as Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill, and Trenton
  • The experiences of soldiers and civilians during the War of 1812
  • Analyzing the Mexican-American War and its consequences for American expansion
  • The role of military leaders, such as Andrew Jackson and Winfield Scott, in early American conflicts
  • Investigating the impact of the Civil War on military tactics and technology
  • Examining the effects of the Spanish-American War and the emergence of the United States as a global power

Religion and Early American Society:

  • Exploring the religious diversity of early American colonies
  • Analyzing the role of Puritanism in shaping the social and cultural landscape of New England
  • Investigating the religious revival movements of the Great Awakening and their impact on early American society
  • The religious tensions and conflicts in the Salem Witch Trials
  • Examining the establishment of religious freedom and the separation of church and state
  • The role of religious denominations, such as Quakers, Baptists, and Methodists, in early American society
  • Analyzing the impact of religious missionaries on Native American communities
  • Exploring the religious dimensions of the abolitionist and women’s rights movements
  • Investigating the religious aspects of the Second Great Awakening and its influence on American culture
  • The role of religion in shaping early American moral and ethical values

This comprehensive list of early American history research paper topics provides a wide range of subjects for students to explore and delve into the fascinating world of colonial America. From politics and social dynamics to economics, culture, and religion, there is a topic to pique the interest of every history enthusiast. By choosing a research paper topic from these categories, students can engage with the rich historical context and develop a deeper understanding of the complexities and dynamics that shaped early America. So, embark on this intellectual journey and uncover the untold stories and hidden gems of early American history through your research paper.

Early American History: Exploring the Range of Research Paper Topics

Early American history is a captivating and pivotal period that laid the foundation for the United States as we know it today. From the arrival of European explorers to the establishment of the thirteen colonies, this era is filled with significant events, influential figures, and cultural transformations that shaped the course of the nation’s history. For students studying history and embarking on research papers, early American history offers a vast and diverse range of fascinating topics to explore. In this article, we will delve into the rich tapestry of early American history and highlight the variety of research paper topics available, providing students with a glimpse into the complexities and significance of this era.

Cultural Encounters and Interactions

One intriguing aspect of early American history is the encounters and interactions between different cultural groups. The arrival of European explorers in the Americas brought together diverse societies, including indigenous peoples, European settlers, and African slaves. Researching the cultural exchange during this period can shed light on the complexities of early American history. Topics to consider include the impact of European exploration on indigenous populations, the cultural resilience of Native American tribes, the influence of African cultures on colonial societies, and the development of a distinct American identity shaped by these encounters.

Exploring the various forms of cultural exchange can provide insights into the dynamics of power, cultural adaptation, and resistance that defined early American history. Students can delve into specific case studies, such as the interactions between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe, the fur trade and its impact on Native American communities, or the cultural assimilation of enslaved Africans in the colonies. By examining these encounters, students can analyze the complexities of cross-cultural interactions and their long-lasting consequences.

Social and Economic Dynamics

Understanding the social and economic dynamics of early American society is essential for comprehending the development of the colonies. The colonial period was characterized by diverse economic systems, such as the plantation economy in the South and the mercantile economy in the North. Exploring the economic, social, and political aspects of this period can provide insights into the factors that influenced the growth and transformation of colonial society.

Students can explore the economic systems of early America by examining topics such as the role of indentured servitude, the establishment of cash crops like tobacco and rice, the development of trade networks, and the emergence of cities as economic centers. They can also investigate the social hierarchies that shaped colonial society, including the distinctions between social classes, the role of gender and family dynamics, and the impact of religious beliefs on daily life.

Political Movements and Revolutionary Ideals

The quest for political autonomy and the seeds of revolution began to take root in the colonies during this period. Investigating the political landscape and revolutionary ideals can provide valuable insights into the motivations and aspirations of early American colonists. Students can explore the ideas and ideologies that shaped the revolutionary spirit, the events that fueled the desire for independence, and the key figures who played significant roles in the American Revolution.

Research paper topics could include the influence of Enlightenment thinkers, such as John Locke and Thomas Paine, on revolutionary ideology, the causes and consequences of key events like the Boston Tea Party and the Stamp Act, and the significance of founding documents like the Declaration of Independence in shaping the nation’s identity. Additionally, students can examine the challenges faced by the colonists, the strategies employed in the fight for independence, and the formation of early American governments.

Struggles for Equality and Identity

The colonial period also witnessed struggles for equality and the formation of cultural and social identities. Researching the experiences of marginalized groups, such as women, African Americans, and Native Americans, provides a deeper understanding of social dynamics and the complexities of early American society. By exploring their perspectives and contributions, students can gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of these groups in shaping the nation.

Topics in this area could include the role of women in colonial society and their involvement in political movements, the institution of slavery and its impact on African American communities, the experiences and resistance of Native American tribes to colonial expansion, and the development of distinct regional and national identities. Students can analyze primary sources, such as diaries, letters, and newspapers, to uncover the voices of those who have often been marginalized in traditional historical narratives.

Early American history is a captivating period filled with rich narratives, significant events, and diverse cultural interactions. Exploring the range of research paper topics in early American history allows students to delve into the complexities and significance of this era. By examining cultural encounters, socioeconomic dynamics, political movements, struggles for equality, and the formation of identity, students gain a deeper understanding of the events, people, and ideas that laid the foundation for the United States. As they embark on their research journeys, they will uncover the untold stories, legacies, and lessons from early American history, gaining a broader perspective on the nation’s past and its enduring impact on the present. By delving into these research paper topics, students have the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing exploration and understanding of early American history.

Choosing Early American History Research Paper Topics

Selecting the right research paper topic is crucial to the success of your project. It sets the foundation for your investigation and determines the depth and breadth of your research. In the field of early American history, there are numerous fascinating topics to explore, each offering its own unique insights and opportunities for discovery. In this section, we will provide expert advice on choosing early American history research paper topics, helping you navigate the vast array of options and select a topic that aligns with your interests and academic goals.

  • Narrow down your focus : Early American history spans a vast period and covers a wide range of events, people, and themes. To choose an effective research paper topic, it is essential to narrow down your focus. Consider specific time periods, such as the colonial era, the American Revolution, or the early republic. Alternatively, you can concentrate on specific regions, such as New England, the Southern colonies, or the frontier. By narrowing your focus, you can delve deeper into the subject matter and provide a more comprehensive analysis.
  • Follow your passion : Passion is a key ingredient for a successful research paper. Select a topic that genuinely interests you and ignites your curiosity. Whether it’s exploring the lives of influential figures like Benjamin Franklin or Thomas Jefferson, investigating the impact of religious movements, or delving into the experiences of marginalized groups, choose a topic that resonates with your intellectual and personal interests. Your enthusiasm will fuel your research and enable you to produce a more engaging and insightful paper.
  • Identify knowledge gaps : Research is driven by the desire to expand knowledge and uncover new perspectives. As you consider potential research paper topics, identify knowledge gaps or underexplored areas in early American history. Look for topics that have received less scholarly attention but offer significant potential for exploration and discovery. This could involve examining lesser-known events, shedding light on marginalized voices, or challenging existing interpretations. By addressing these gaps, your research can make a unique and valuable contribution to the field.
  • Utilize primary and secondary sources : To develop a strong research paper, it is essential to utilize both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources provide firsthand accounts, documents, and artifacts from the period under study, while secondary sources offer analysis and interpretations by historians. When selecting a research topic, consider the availability of primary and secondary sources related to your chosen subject. Access to reliable and diverse sources will ensure a well-rounded and comprehensive investigation.
  • Consider interdisciplinary approaches : Early American history intersects with various disciplines, including literature, sociology, anthropology, political science, and more. Consider adopting an interdisciplinary approach when selecting your research topic. This allows you to explore connections and influences between different aspects of early American history and other fields of study. For example, you might analyze the representation of early American history in literature or examine the social and cultural impact of political ideologies. By integrating multiple perspectives, you can offer a more nuanced analysis of your chosen topic.
  • Engage with historiographical debates : The field of early American history is rich with historiographical debates—ongoing discussions and disagreements among historians. These debates provide an excellent opportunity for research and analysis. Consider choosing a topic that aligns with a particular historiographical debate. By examining the different interpretations and arguments put forth by historians, you can contribute to the ongoing dialogue and present your own analysis and conclusions.
  • Consult with your instructor or advisor : Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your instructor or advisor when selecting your research paper topic. They can provide valuable insights, recommend relevant sources, and help you narrow down your focus. Discuss your interests and ideas with them to receive feedback and suggestions for refining your topic. Their expertise and experience will ensure that your research is focused, relevant, and academically rigorous.

Choosing the right research paper topic is a critical step in the process of studying early American history. By narrowing down your focus, following your passion, identifying knowledge gaps, utilizing primary and secondary sources, considering interdisciplinary approaches, engaging with historiographical debates, and seeking guidance from your instructor or advisor, you can select a compelling and meaningful topic for your research paper. Remember, the topic you choose should not only align with your academic goals but also ignite your curiosity and passion. Embrace the opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of early American history and contribute to the ongoing exploration and understanding of this pivotal era.

How to Write an Early American History Research Paper

Writing a research paper in the field of early American history requires careful planning, thorough research, and effective organization. By following a systematic approach, you can navigate the complexities of the subject matter and produce a well-structured and insightful paper. In this section, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write an early American history research paper, from formulating a thesis statement to presenting your findings and conclusions.

  • Formulate a compelling thesis statement : A strong thesis statement serves as the foundation of your research paper. It succinctly states the main argument or purpose of your study. When formulating your thesis statement, ensure that it is specific, focused, and debatable. It should reflect the central theme or question that your paper aims to explore. For example, your thesis statement could address the impact of the American Revolution on the development of early American society or analyze the influence of religious beliefs on colonial governance. Make sure to refine and revise your thesis statement as you progress in your research.
  • Conduct extensive research : Thorough research is essential for producing a comprehensive and well-supported research paper. Utilize a combination of primary and secondary sources to gather relevant information and evidence. Primary sources may include historical documents, letters, diaries, newspapers, and firsthand accounts from the period. Secondary sources, such as scholarly articles and books, provide analysis and interpretations by historians. Consult reputable databases, archives, and libraries to access a wide range of sources. Take detailed notes, organize your findings, and keep track of your sources for proper citation.
  • Organize your paper : Effective organization is key to presenting your research in a logical and coherent manner. Begin by creating an outline that outlines the main sections and subtopics of your paper. Typically, an early American history research paper includes an introduction, literature review, methodology (if applicable), main body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Ensure that each section flows smoothly and supports your thesis statement. Use clear headings and subheadings to guide your reader through the paper. Consider the chronology of events or thematic categories to structure your arguments.
  • Analyze and interpret primary sources : Primary sources provide valuable insights into the historical context and perspectives of early American history. Analyze and interpret these sources to support your arguments and shed light on the topic you are investigating. Pay attention to the biases, limitations, and possible interpretations of the sources. Engage critically with the primary materials and draw connections between different sources to develop a nuanced understanding of the subject matter. Quote or paraphrase relevant passages, providing proper citations to give credit to the original authors.
  • Engage with secondary sources and historiography : Secondary sources offer scholarly analysis and interpretations of early American history. Engage with these sources to situate your research within the existing historiography. Identify key debates, arguments, and perspectives within the field and critically assess their relevance to your research topic. Use secondary sources to support or challenge your arguments, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the existing scholarship. Provide in-text citations and include a comprehensive bibliography to acknowledge the contributions of other historians.
  • Present your findings and analysis : In the main body paragraphs of your research paper, present your findings and analysis in a clear and organized manner. Develop coherent arguments supported by evidence from your research. Use topic sentences to introduce each paragraph and ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs. Provide detailed explanations and interpretations of your sources, demonstrating your ability to critically analyze the historical material. Incorporate relevant examples, data, or statistics to strengthen your arguments.
  • Craft a compelling conclusion : The conclusion of your research paper should summarize your main findings, restate your thesis statement, and provide a sense of closure to your paper. Reflect on the significance of your research in the context of early American history. Discuss any implications or broader insights that your study may have uncovered. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion and instead focus on synthesizing your research and leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
  • Revise, edit, and proofread : Revision is a vital step in the writing process. Review your research paper for clarity, coherence, and logical flow. Ensure that your arguments are well-supported, and your ideas are effectively communicated. Edit for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Pay attention to formatting guidelines and ensure proper citation of all sources. Consider seeking feedback from peers, instructors, or academic writing centers to gain valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.

Writing an early American history research paper requires a systematic and disciplined approach. By formulating a compelling thesis statement, conducting extensive research, organizing your paper effectively, analyzing primary and secondary sources, engaging with historiography, presenting your findings and analysis, and crafting a compelling conclusion, you can produce a well-structured and insightful research paper. Remember to revise, edit, and proofread your work to ensure its clarity and academic rigor. Embrace the opportunity to contribute to the field of early American history and advance our understanding of this important era.

iResearchNet’s Writing Services

At iResearchNet, we understand the challenges that students face when tasked with writing a research paper on early American history. The extensive research, critical analysis, and writing skills required can be daunting, especially when juggling multiple assignments and commitments. That’s why we are here to help. With our professional writing services, you can unleash your potential and achieve academic success in your early American history research papers. Let’s explore how iResearchNet can be your trusted partner in this journey.

  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers : Our writing team consists of expert degree-holding writers with extensive knowledge and experience in early American history. They are well-versed in the key events, figures, and themes of this era, allowing them to provide accurate and insightful analysis in your research papers. Our writers possess advanced degrees in history or related disciplines, ensuring that your papers are crafted by subject matter experts who understand the nuances of early American history.
  • Custom Written Works : At iResearchNet, we value originality and authenticity. All our research papers are custom-written from scratch based on your specific requirements and instructions. We understand the importance of producing unique and plagiarism-free papers, and we guarantee that every document we deliver is original and tailored to your needs. You can be confident that your research paper on early American history will be one-of-a-kind and of the highest quality.
  • In-Depth Research : Research is at the core of any successful history paper. Our writers are skilled researchers who know how to access a wide range of credible sources to gather the necessary information for your early American history research paper. They have access to reputable databases, archives, and libraries, allowing them to conduct in-depth research and include the most relevant and up-to-date sources in your paper. You can trust that your research will be thorough and comprehensive.
  • Custom Formatting : Proper formatting is essential in academic writing. Whether your university requires APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard style, our writers are well-versed in these formatting guidelines. They will ensure that your research paper adheres to the specific requirements of your institution and the chosen citation style. From in-text citations to the bibliography, your paper will be formatted correctly and consistently.
  • Top Quality : At iResearchNet, we are committed to delivering top-quality research papers. Our writers follow rigorous quality control processes to ensure that every paper meets the highest academic standards. They meticulously proofread and edit each document to eliminate errors and improve clarity. Our focus on quality extends to the content, structure, and overall coherence of the research paper. Rest assured that your early American history research paper will demonstrate excellence in every aspect.
  • Customized Solutions : We understand that each research paper is unique, and we offer customized solutions to meet your specific needs. Whether you need assistance with topic selection, thesis formulation, research guidance, or complete paper writing, we can tailor our services to your requirements. Our flexible approach allows you to choose the level of support that suits your needs, ensuring that you receive the necessary guidance and assistance throughout the research paper writing process.
  • Flexible Pricing : We strive to make our services affordable and accessible to students. Our pricing structure is flexible, allowing you to choose the services that fit within your budget. We offer transparent pricing, and there are no hidden fees or additional charges. You will receive a quote based on the specific requirements of your early American history research paper, enabling you to make an informed decision about our services.
  • Short Deadlines : We understand that students often face tight deadlines. At iResearchNet, we offer short turnaround times to accommodate urgent research paper requests. Whether you need your early American history research paper in a few days or even within three hours, we have writers who can work efficiently and deliver your paper on time. Our fast and reliable service ensures that you can meet your deadlines without compromising on quality.
  • Timely Delivery : Punctuality is crucial in academic assignments. We prioritize timely delivery to ensure that you receive your completed early American history research paper within the agreed-upon timeframe. Our writers are committed to meeting deadlines, allowing you to submit your paper on time and avoid any academic penalties. We value your time and understand the importance of prompt delivery.
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  • Absolute Privacy : At iResearchNet, we prioritize your privacy and confidentiality. We have robust security measures in place to protect your personal information and ensure that your interactions with our platform remain confidential. We adhere to strict privacy policies and will never disclose your personal details or the nature of the services you have requested. You can trust us to handle your information with the utmost care and professionalism.
  • Easy Order Tracking : We provide a user-friendly platform that allows you to easily track the progress of your early American history research paper. You can communicate with your assigned writer, monitor the status of your order, and exchange messages or additional instructions conveniently. Our streamlined process ensures effective collaboration and transparency throughout the writing process.
  • Money Back Guarantee : We are confident in the quality of our services and the expertise of our writers. In the unlikely event that you are not satisfied with the final research paper, we offer a money-back guarantee. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we will work with you to address any concerns and ensure that you are fully content with the outcome.

When it comes to writing a research paper on early American history, iResearchNet is your reliable partner. With our team of expert writers, customized solutions, commitment to top quality, flexible pricing, fast turnaround times, 24/7 support, absolute privacy, easy order tracking, and money-back guarantee, we are dedicated to helping you unleash your potential and achieve academic success. Place your trust in iResearchNet’s writing services and embark on a rewarding journey of producing outstanding early American history research papers.

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Now is the time to unleash your potential in early American history. With iResearchNet’s writing services, you can overcome the challenges of writing a research paper and achieve outstanding results. Our tailored solutions, expert writers, thorough research, customized approach, commitment to academic excellence, timely delivery, confidentiality, and 24/7 customer support make us the ideal partner for your early American history research papers. Place your trust in iResearchNet and embark on a rewarding journey of academic success. Let’s unlock the secrets of early American history together.

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A List of Unique American History Essay Topics for High School

If you want your American History essay to be really interesting for others to read, you should pick the topic that will be both unique and easy for you to write on. Here are several fresh topics you might consider for your essay.

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  • How was the North American Continent discovered?
  • How did the discovery of the New World influence the life of the Indians?
  • What were the reasons for British colonization of the North America?
  • What was life like for the early settlers in America?
  • What were the differences between the Northern and Southern colonies?
  • The role of women in colonies.
  • What were the causes of the Salem witch trials?
  • Slavery in America: how did it happen?
  • How did slavery impact on the American economy?
  • Who were the Pilgrims?
  • How did the Puritans influence American society?
  • What was the nature of the conflicts between Native Americans and the colonists?
  • Why did the American Revolution started?
  • What were the results of the American Revolutionary War?
  • Did the status of African Americans change after the civil war?
  • What was the purpose of the First Amendment to the Constitution?
  • Was National Prohibition successful?
  • Why did America enter the First World War?
  • How did the Great Depression start?
  • The role of the USA in the Second World War.
  • What if Japan hadnot attacked Pearl Harbor, would the US have enteredWorld War 2?
  • Was the bombing of Hiroshima justified?
  • What was the Cold War?
  • What were the causes of the Vietnam War?
  • The Iraq War: was it a mistake?
  • Could the September 11 attacks have been prevented?
  • Why was the Korean War necessary to the United States?
  • Could the Cuban Missile Crisis escalate into a war?
  • Is John Kennedy death still a mystery?
  • Why was the Civil Rights Movement in the US effective?
  • How did Martin Luther King influence America?
  • Why was Martin Luther King killed?
  • Was the My Lai Massacre a military crime?
  • The unsolved mystery of the lost colony ofRoanoke: discovering the truth.
  • What is the impact of theCalifornia Gold Rush?
  • Was the contribution of women in the Civil War important?
  • How did the death of Abraham Lincoln influence the US?
  • Why were the labor unions created?
  • What is the Gilded Age?
  • How did the San Francisco earthquake affect the city?
  • What have caused the Great Depression?
  • How did the US benefit from the Mexican War?
  • Why did American settlers use the Oregon Trail?
  • How did the US become a superpower?

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AP®︎/College US History

Course: ap®︎/college us history   >   unit 10, ap us history periods and themes.

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  • Preparing for the AP US History Exam (5/4/2016)
  • AP US History Exam Prep Session (5/1/2017)

us history essay topics

AP US history periods and themes

Example ap us history problems, key terms, documents, and court cases to know, primary documents:.

John Winthrop, “City on a Hill” / “A Model of Christian Charity”
Jonathan Edwards, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God”
Thomas Jefferson, “Declaration of Independence”
James Madison, “Constitution of the United States”
Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony, “Declaration of Sentiments”
Frederick Douglass, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”
Harriet Beecher Stowe, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” (main ideas)
Abraham Lincoln, “House Divided” speech, Second Inaugural Address
Sojourner Truth, “Ain’t I a Woman?”
Andrew Carnegie, “The Gospel of Wealth” (main ideas)
Josiah Strong, “Our Country” (main ideas)
Upton Sinclair “The Jungle” (main ideas)
Franklin Delano Roosevelt, First Inaugural Address, December 8 1941 address
George Kennan, “Long Telegram”
Martin Luther King Jr. “Letter from Birmingham Jail”, “I Have a Dream” speech
Betty Friedan “The Feminine Mystique” (main ideas)
Ronald Reagan “Evil Empire” speech

Supreme Court cases:

Marbury v. Madison
Dred Scott v. Sanford
Plessy v. Ferguson
Brown v. Board of Education
Roe v. Wade
Bush v. Gore

Foreign policy doctrines:

Monroe Doctrine
Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine
Truman Doctrine
Nixon Doctrine
Bush Doctrine
virgin soil epidemic
salutary neglect / benign neglect
mercantilism
Anti-Federalist
isolationism
judicial review
Democratic-Republican
Jacksonian Democracy
nullification
popular sovereignty
Emancipation
Jim Crow segregation
sharecropping
mass production
labor union
imperialism
self-determination
prohibition
laissez-faire economics
liberalism (economics/politics)
Soviet Union
containment
Domino Theory
non-violent protest (Civil Rights)
Vietnamization
conservatism

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Great Answer

439 History Argumentative Essay Topics to Get an A [Writing Tips Included]

Who hasn’t been puzzled when it comes to choosing historical argument topics?

It is hard to memorize all the information given in a class. Undoubtedly, all historical issues can be developed into excellent history essay topics. The question to resolve is how to discover your case.

You can find 300+ unique world history argumentative essay topics in our article, as well as some essay writing tips. If our topics are not enough for you, use our instant and completely free research title generator .

  • 🚧 History Essay Challenges
  • 📜 Top 15 Topics
  • ✊ Revolution Topics
  • 🗺️ Regional Topics
  • 🤴 Key Figures Topics
  • 🏳️‍🌈 Key Movements
  • 📿 Topics on Traditions
  • 👁️‍ Topics on Mysteries
  • 📝 Historical Topics – 2024

📢 History Persuasive Essay Topics

  • 👉 Choosing a Topic
  • ♟️ Writing Strategies

🚧 History Essay Topics Main Challenges

History shapes our present. To study the rules of our modern world and society, we need to research historical argument topics. They can show us which conflicts led to a better future and which destroyed our civilization.

History assignments for high school students contain many pitfalls. The five most critical of them are listed below.

  • Avoid thinking that any event was inevitable. First, we rarely dispose of a complete picture of a historical period. Second, some events are Force-Majeure and unpredictable. However, human choices matter. Focus on what could have been changed and which lessons we could learn from the alternative result.
  • Listing events is pointless. It can be read in any chronicle. Instead, your purpose is to analyze them. An untrivial perspective is what makes your essay a good one.
  • People often change their opinions. Historical figures also did. Try not to perceive their beliefs as a consistent and invariable set of ideas. Explore how they reached their wisdom or why they made errors.
  • Not all events are relevant to your history essay question . Make a list of the significant events and personalities that refer to your topic. Cross out all that can be omitted. Then add minor events related to those that left. It is what you should write about.
  • Avoid vague words. Great, prominent, positive, or negative are obscure words that make your writing limited and unilateral. Most personalities and events were multifaceted. Work in this direction.

List of do's and don'ts of history essay.

📜 Top 15 History Argumentative Essay Topics

History is full of mystery, riddles, and conflicting points. Writing a history paper will undoubtedly be fun if you choose an exciting history essay topic. Meet our list of the most provocative history questions.

  • How could The 1896 Anglo-Zanzibar last only 38 minutes?
  • Did Arab people invent the Arab numerals or Hindus?
  • Hitler as the man of the year in 1938, according to Time magazine.
  • The average life expectancy of peasants In the Middle Ages was about 25 years.
  • Why were Roman soldiers using baths as rehabilitation centers?
  • What was the importance of the Battle of Stalingrad?
  • The wars with the most considerable losses took place in China.
  • In 400 BC, Sparta had only 25,000 inhabitants but over 500,000 slaves.
  • Out of the last 3500 years, how many years were peaceful?
  • How important is tea time for British people?
  • In the middle of the 20th century, the whole British royal court got sick because of improperly cooked potatoes.
  • Compare the number of Soviet soldiers who died in World War II and the number of American ones.
  • Has any part of the Roman Empire existed 1000 years after the Fall of Rome?
  • Were the Egyptian pyramids actually constructed using slaves’ labor?
  • Did Leonardo Da Vinci have dyslexia?

⚔️ History Essay Topics on War

“There never was a good war or a bad peace,” — wrote Benjamin Franklin in one of his letters. Did we learn what peace is, after all? Discussion and analysis of armed conflicts that humanity has faced throughout its existence are still massive jobs researchers do. Below, you can find excellent topics on war and peace.

Detailed categorization to help you write a good essay about war!

  • How did the Second World War change family traditions? It lasted for six years, and families learned how to survive without a father. What were the psychological implications for mothers, children, and returning soldiers?
  • Food packages for long-term storage quickly developed during both World Wars . Explore which products changed the most. How did their modified form affect the cuisine and rations?
  • WWII spurred the creation of new professions . Find out which jobs appeared during this period. How were they linked to warfare? Did they change after the termination of the war?
  • Many scientific advances came to our understanding through dubious ways. The research and experiments of Nazi Germany on humans led to a breakthrough in medicine, anthropology, genetics, psychology, etc. Is it moral to use their findings for peaceful purposes?
  • Soldiers spread the Spanish Flu during WWI. It killed more people than died in military actions. Did it influence the outcome of the war? Analyze how the pandemic might have unfolded if it had happened in a time of peace.

1918 influenza pandemic killed 3% to 6% of the global population.

  • Explain how trench warfare slowed the military actions in WWI. What were the common diseases in trenches, and how did they affect the conflict? The Germans dug trenches not to lose any more ground.
  • American Women in History of World War II.
  • To which extent was Hitler not responsible for the Second World War? He was obviously the one to blame for the many atrocities of the Nazis. Still, which circumstances were out of his control and led to the war?
  • Japanese American Life During and after the World War II.
  • Compare the economic conditions in which Britain entered WWI and WWII.
  • The Treaty of Versailles in World War II History .
  • What was the military potential of Russia in WWI?
  • World War II People in “Hitler’s Army.”
  • Is it correct to say that the results of WWI caused WWII?
  • Minority Civil Rights in the US after the WWII.
  • Was Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria so influential that his death caused the outbreak of WWI?
  • What Was the Second World War Impact on the USSR?
  • The Russian population scarcely supported the Bolsheviks. What helped them to seize power during the October Revolution? The provisional government was occupied by the war. The Red Army followed the same interests, and Vladimir Lenin led the entire group.
  • Francisco Franco was the dictator of Spain from 1939 till 1975, when he died. How did the Spanish Civil War bring him to power? Why did Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy help him?
  • The monarchy in Uganda was abolished in 1967. Several years later, from 1971 to 1986, the country was torn apart by the Civil War . What were the causes of this dark period, and how did it end? Is Uganda peaceful now?
  • Describe the role of climate in the collision between the North and South in the US. Did long agricultural seasons make the South depend on fieldwork? Was the traditional use of slavery a way to get rich?
  • The polarized opinions of the left and right political forces caused the Greek Civil War. Based on the history of this conflict and the thematic in-country clashes of other countries, analyze the eternal and unending struggle between the left and right ideologies.
  • The American Civil War Outbreak and the Role of the Federal Government.
  • The English Civil War (1642 – 1651) was about ruling England, Scotland, and Ireland. What were the variants, and which one do you support?
  • Short- and Long-term Causes of the Civil War .
  • Describe the differences between the free Northern States and the slave Southern states during the American Civil War.
  • The Economics of the Civil War.
  • How did the Second Civil War in Sudan entail the creation of South Sudan through the referendum of 2011 ?
  • The Motives of Individual Soldiers Who Fought in the Civil War .
  • Why was Pugachev’s Rebellion (1773 – 1775) in Russia defeated?
  • Post-Civil War Political, Economic, Social Changes.
  • Austrian Civil War: The shortest possible conflict (12-16 February 1934).
  • Petersburg in the Civil War: History Issues.

Intercountry Wars

The image depicts the main reasons of international conflicts.

  • Analyze the possible reasons for an international conflict and how they can be regulated through warfare. List the ideas that motivated people to get into a war. This essay will illustrate the debatable history of wars.
  • Describe the relationship between the emergence of nuclear weapons and the Cold War. Why was America afraid of the Soviet Union and communism?
  • Why was the Spanish-American War one of the cheapest conflicts in history? It lasted for only several months and did not take many lives, as other military actions did. What secured its swift completion?
  • What Were the Major Diplomacy Steps of J.F. Kennedy in Cuba During the Cold War?
  • Why did Canada play a peacekeeper role at the beginning of the Cold War?
  • The Seven Years War and its Impact on the First British Empire.
  • How did the history of the Palestinians impact the Arab-Israeli conflict?
  • Outline the reasons for the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979.
  • The Vietnam War’s Impact on the United States.
  • Describe the collaboration between the American and Australian troops in the Vietnam War.
  • United States Role in the Korean War: History Analysis.
  • How did the Soviet Union and US intervention cause Afghanistan’s War on Terror?

Religious Wars

  • Why did the Huguenots fail in the French Religious Wars (1562 – 1598)? They could not rely on settlements that supported them. Thus, they were less autonomous than the Catholics.
  • How did the Thirty Years’ War change the geopolitical image of Europe? Why was it transformed into a group of independent states with equal rights? The most important consequence of the war was the creation of the modern notion of national borders.
  • Describe the relationship between the Second Great Awakening and the abolishment of slavery in the US. It also entailed several philanthropic reforms and women’s emancipation. Why did the movement inspire a new vision on slavery and encourage questioning the British monarchy control?
  • Quackers: The religion of pacifism and non-violence. Did their peaceful worldview prevent their faith from popularization? Which controversy with other confessions did they face?
  • How did the English Civil War (1642 – 1651) lay the modern parliamentary monarchy’s foundation in the UK?
  • Islam and War: True Meaning of Jihad.
  • How did the Second Great Awakening participants expect to bring America to a Golden Age through religion?
  • Comparison of Jewish and Muslim Experiences.
  • Which role did religion play in the American Revolutionary War (1775 – 1783)?
  • Christian Europeans vs. Islamic Arabs: Why did the fight for Jerusalem affect the Jews who lived in Europe?
  • Judaism, Christianity, and Islam .
  • Why did the Catholics fight with Protestants during the Thirty Years’ War?
  • Religious Beliefs and Political Decisions.
  • How did the Protestant Reformation lead to the European Wars of Religion?

✊ History Essay Topics on Revolution

Pick a revolution, any famous and well-documented one, and be sure to find a bunch of yet unresolved questions. Numerous mysteries held by revolutionary events give us a lot of topics to debate. Now, here are themes to study about the world and local revolutions.

Political Revolutions

  • The European Revolutions (1848) affected almost 50 countries. Battles and executions took tens of thousands of lives. How did nationalism incentivize the political and economic struggle?
  • How did the French invasion of Spain (1807) entail the Spanish-American Wars? The Spanish side aimed for political independence from America. What was their motivation?
  • Fulgencio Batista, the Cuban President, was an elected president. He gradually seized power and became a dictator. Why did the US politically support him before Fidel Castro ousted and replaced him?
  • The Shah’s regime brought economic shortages and inflation. Some people thought he was the puppet of the non-Muslim West (i.e., the US). How did Shah’s oil policy lead to the Iranian Revolution?
  • During the Storming of the Bastille , there were only seven political prisoners. Why did the revolutionaries attack this building and not the Versailles or some other royal building? Why was Bastille the symbol of monarchy and its abuse of power?
  • Various Propaganda Tools Shaped People’s Vision of the State and Themselves during the Cultural Revolution in China .

"When dictatorship is a fact, revolutions becomes a right" - Victor Hugo

  • The Events That Led to the American Revolution .
  • Describe and analyze the conflict between the Three Estates that led to the French Revolution .
  • Who won in the Spanish American War of Independence and why?
  • The Proclamation and the Stamp Act: Discriminatory laws that led to the American Revolution.
  • Economic Factors Contributing to the Cause of the American Revolution.
  • A political revolution does not change the property relations inside the country. Give examples of such events.
  • Cold War Role in the Iranian Revolution .
  • Haitian Revolution (1791–1804): The only successful revolt of self-liberated slaves.
  • The Effects of Social Media on Egyptian Revolution of 2011 .

Social Revolutions

  • Boston Tea Party (1773) was a protest of merchants against the British tax on tea. Why is it considered as the precursor of the American Revolution? How does it symbolize the birth of American patriotism?
  • The French nobility was not concerned with the problems of ordinary people. They dedicated themselves to leisure and intrigues. Do you agree with this statement? How does it fit with the idea that France had authoritarianism?
  • What is the difference between a political and a socio-economic revolution? Which event takes more time and has more dramatic consequences? Give several examples of the experience in different countries.
  • The Neolithic Revolution was the first social revolution in the history of humanity. Describe the shift from nomadic life to permanent settlements. How did the transformation change people’s lives and their sources of food?
  • Could we consider the Enlightenment as a social revolution? Was this transformation a peaceful one? What were its causes, and what did people strive for?
  • Syrian Arab Spring: Why Was it Late? Conflict Evolution and Solutions.
  • How did the burning of Cinema Rex theatre trigger the Iranian Revolution?
  • The American Revolution as a Social Revolution.
  • How did hope and idealism fuel the French Revolution?
  • The Revolution of Women in Society.
  • What was achieved by the Civil War in the USA (1861-1865)?
  • Child Labor During Industrial Revolution.
  • Analyze the existing theories of what does and does not constitute a revolution.
  • Karl Marx’s Ideas on Society Alienation and Conflict Theory.
  • What were the precursors of the Age of Revolution in Europe and America?
  • The Revolution of Transportation Systems.

🗺️ World History Argumentative Essay Topics

Time to examine history from a local perspective! Below you can find multiple excellent topics on regional history. The US history, Latin America, Asia, Europe, and more. Make sure to look at all of them precisely – this will require some effort.

US History Essay Topics

  • American history before 1877: The New World before Christopher Columbus. Which sources of knowledge about the first settlements do historians draw from? Which civilizations existed there before the invasion of the Europeans?
  • Explore the role of women in Colonial America . What rights did they have? What was their standard daily routine? Why was their work sometimes more complicated than that of their male relatives?
  • How did slavery appear in British America? What were the circumstances that led to forced labor? Why was the trans-Atlantic slave trade so prosperous?
  • How did the Founding Fathers treat Indian history and tribes? Were their actions legitimate? Did these deeds favor the establishment of the New World? Can such or any other “ethnic cleansing” ever be justified?

8 Founding Fathers of the United States.

  • Were Jim Craw Laws necessary for a smooth transition from slavery to democracy? Or were they a big mistake that provided freedom to African-Americans without giving them any rights?
  • The Roles Played by Different Presidents on American Civil Rights Movement.
  • Comment on the inflow of immigrants pursuing the American Dream after the Civil war.
  • The Enslaved Blacks and Free Blacks During the American Civil War.
  • How did Prohibition in the US cause the proliferation of the Italian-American Mafia?
  • American Revolution: The “History” and “Memory”.
  • Franklin Roosevelt led the US into the Second World War as the biggest debtor but exited it as the most significant creditor.
  • In Search of the American Dream throughout the History.
  • Describe the main problems the first British settlements faced in America.
  • The Right to Vote in the USA Throughout the History.
  • What were the psychological consequences of the Great Depression on ordinary American citizens?

Latin America History Essay Topics

  • How did smallpox influence the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire ? How did the disease contribute to other advantages of the Spanish forces? Why did Cortez wish to defeat the Aztecs?
  • The Panama Canal made Panama the second-fastest growing economy in Latin America after Chile. It brings about $2 billion in yearly revenue. However, more than five thousand people died during its construction. Was it possible to avoid the deaths by postponing the construction?
  • How the history of Peru would be different if Francisco Pizarro did not initiate the homicide of the Aztecs. Would modern Peru benefit from its pre-colonial natives? Which historical monuments would have been preserved?
  • Gold or silver was never found in Uruguay. How did this fact influence the present-day prosperity and stability in the country? Why did it present almost no interest for the colonial conquest?
  • In 1848, General Santa Anna sold a big part of Mexico to the United States. Why did he do so? What would Latin America look like now had he not sold the land to feed the army?
  • Nationalism and Development in the Countries of Latin America.
  • Why did Latin America wish to declare independence from Spain (1810)?
  • Haitian Migration History, and the Role of Jamaica in This Process .
  • Explore the benefits of the Chilean victory in the War of the Pacific (1879 – 1883).
  • Brazil and the European Union: The Relations.
  • Why did America win the Mexican-American War?
  • Criminal Justice Systems of the US and Colombia.
  • Describe how the borders of modern Brazil were decided back in 1494 .
  • Which consequences of Gen Alfredo Stroessner’s dictatorship in Paraguay can you name?
  • Mexico’s Globalization and Democratization.

European History Essay Topics

  • Why did ordinary people believe in Fascist propaganda? Analyze the psychological factors and the cultural precursors that made people susceptible to Nazism. Did the fear of being killed influence their willingness to obey the ruling party?
  • Find out the difference between the perception of gods in Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. Did both nations truly believe in gods? Was the Pantheon a cultural phenomenon? Why did they use the same gods with different names ?
  • Would Roman Empire have become so influential if it had never used slavery? Why was slavery an essential part of the economy of many countries? What changed then? Was the abolishment of slavery dictated only by humanism?
  • How did the relationships between lords and their vassals transform into modern government standards? Which positive and negative features were preserved throughout the ages? Compare the ancient tradition and the present-day government using historical and contemporary figures.
  • What is the difference between the Renaissance and the Enlightenment ?
  • Why Capitalism Started in Europe and Dominated the World ?
  • Analyze the evolution of peace-maintaining methods inside the country and around its borders throughout European history.
  • Building a Communist Society in East Germany.
  • What does the classical and vulgar language distinction in Ancient Rome tell us about the structure of its society?
  • Austria and France: Impacts and Causes of World War I and World War II.
  • Compare and contrast the role of Russia in WWI and the Napoleonic Wars .
  • Trace the development of European liberalism.
  • Germany at the End of the World War I.
  • List the six ancient civilizations and compare the causes that led to their fall .

Asian History Essay topics

  • What made the Mongol Empire the second-largest kingdom in human history? How did the empire use technology and production to ensure its prosperity? What helped Genghis Khan unite the nomadic tribes?
  • The Black Death is traditionally associated with Europe since it killed one-third of its population. Still, the bubonic plague started in Asia. Explore its outburst in 1330 – 1340 and its origins (presumably, in China).
  • Explore the consequences of numerous conflicts between nomads and settled people in Asia. How did this rivalry shape the history of the continent? Analyze the contribution of trading between nomads and towns.
  • A crossbow was invented in Asia. It revolutionized warfare. How did the weapon make archery a more democratic art? Which benefits did crossbow offer the army? Describe the history of the arm.

A crossbow was invented in Asia.

  • The word Aryan comes from Iran and India. It meant “a noble person.” How did it turn into the most abused words of anti-Semitism?
  • The Causes and Effects of Cultural Revolution in China (1966-1976).
  • What are the social effects of female infanticide in China, India, South Korea, and Nepal?
  • China’s New Silk Road for Trade and IGo to demoessays.commplications.
  • Compare and contrast the Indian castes and Feudal Japanese classes.
  • The Development of Tension Between South and North Korea.
  • How did the Battle of Gaugamela (331 BC) open Asia to be invaded by Alexander the Great?
  • Japan’s Withdrawing From the International Whaling Commission.
  • Describe the weapons of Ancient Asian civilizations as the mirror of their culture.
  • How did some Asian countries (Japan, China, and Siam) escape European colonization ?
  • Nationalism in East Asia, Japan and China.

Russian History Essay Topics

  • Which tribes created modern Russia? Were they Slavic or Finno-Ugric? Why does this history argumentative essay topic cause debates among historians? What are the implications of either variant for the Russian national identity?
  • How did the Tsardom of Moscow transform into the Russian Empire in 1721? What did Peter I do for this reformation? How did it change Russian society’s standard of living?
  • Why did Boris Godunov come to power breaking the Rurik family dynasty? Before his ascension to the throne, he was a Tatar nobleman and served as an advisor to Tsar Fyodor I. Why did his rule start at the Time of Troubles (1598 – 1613)?
  • Is it appropriate to call Moscow the “Third Rome” ? Sophia Palaiologina, the daughter of the last emperor of Constantinople, married Ivan III. Analyze the reasons for the statement that Moscow is the successor of the Roman Empire
  • What were the causes and consequences of the existence of the four “False Dmitrys”? Explore the under-the-carpet battle that led to the killing of the dynasty’s successors. How did the four imposters entail the decay of the institution of Tsardom?
  • Long-Term Strategies to Address Threats to the US’ Interest From Russia.
  • Which personal traits helped Ivan the Terrible establish the Tsardom of Russia and make it a powerful state?
  • Why Is There a Strong Russian Influence in Syrian Crisis?
  • Debate the phenomenon of Peter the Great : Was he the result of the epoch or the random person who changed Russian history?
  • Crisis on European Borders and Russia’s Threats.
  • What were the merits and drawbacks of Catherine the Great ?
  • Communist Nations Divisions During the Cold War.
  • How did other countries react to the Russian version of communism?
  • The Cold War Between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.
  • Did the communist regime make Russia stronger, or did it throw it back in time?
  • The Collapse of the Soviet Union .

African History Essay Topics

  • Why did the imperial historiography propagate that Africa had no history? They wanted to create the image of Africa as the “dark continent.” How did the historians justify these statements and relate them to the absence of writing?
  • The Kingdom of Kush : The most powerful African kingdom. Describe the period of its existence and outline the possible reasons for its decay. Which historical monuments have been found of that era?
  • Do you support the idea that humanity originated in Africa? Why does this statement insult the Western World? Is there enough evidence that proves the idea?
  • We know about African history from the perspective of Western scholars. Even the locally educated people who study history have adopted the Western way of looking at the past. What can be done about that?
  • Before European colonization , there were about 10,000 states in Africa. Describe their ethnic similarities and shared customs that we know nowadays.
  • What do we know about prehistoric Africa, i.e., the one that existed before the Ancient Egypt civilization?
  • China in Africa: Aspects of Sino-African Relations.
  • Why is slavery often mentioned as the initial reference point in African history?
  • African Americans Fight for the Rights.
  • Which problems arose in some African societies as a result of decolonization ?
  • The History of African American Women’s Fights for Suffrage.
  • Describe how decolonized Africa tried to decolonize its history.
  • Colonialism, Ideology, Ethnicity, Religion, Social Class, and Legitimacy in Africa’s Politics.

Australian History Essay Topics

  • James Cook was not the first one to discover Australia. Who were his predecessors? Why didn’t they gain as much fame as Cook did?

Who came to Australia before Captain James Cook?

  • King O’Malley : The founder of the Australian capital. How did he favor the creation of the Commonwealth Bank? How did Prime Minister Fisher ensure trust in the bank among the population?
  • Why did the Ballarat Rebellion finish just in 30 minutes? What did the rebels struggle for? How did the event lead to the signing of the Electoral Act of 1856?
  • The first colonizers of Australia were prisoners. How does this fact impact the contemporary image of the country? What were the historical implications of such a demographical situation?
  • Why do Australians consider the battle of 25 April 1915 (during WWI) as “the birth of the nation?” Describe the reasons that made Australian Imperial Forces participate in the war and attack the Turkish coast?
  • Why were Afghan cameleers important in Australia, and what caused their disappearance?
  • Aboriginal and Chinese Australians: Cultural Diversity.
  • What were the causes of the Rum rebellion of 1808, and which role did William Bligh play in it?
  • How Have Australian Attitudes Towards ‘Asia’ Changed Since the 1890?
  • Describe the role of Merino sheep in the Australian economy since they were first brought there by Captain John Macarthur in 1797.
  • Is Australian Foreign Policy Now Independent?
  • Ned Kelly : A ruthless killer or a symbol of resistance to the colonial power?
  • Multiculturalism in Australian Society .
  • Describe the Brisbane Line and its role in the Japanese invasion.
  • China’s and Australia’s Management of International Disputes.

🤴 History Essay Topics on Key Figures

The significance of historical figures is something challenging to measure and compare. And there is indeed no need to do that; everyone has their place, time, and role. With these topics below, we offer you to dive into biographies of some fascinating people. Take a deep breath; we are almost there!

Central Figures of Ancient History

  • Plato vs. Aristotle : The abstract vs. the empirical. Both of them are the most influential figures in Western philosophy. Aristotle was Plato’s disciple. What made their ideas so different?
  • Why was Diogenes a controversial personality? How did he manage to criticize social conventions through his simple lifestyle? Is poverty a virtue, as Diogenes claimed?
  • Aeschylus: The father of Tragedy . What were his contributions to the image of Ancient Greek theater? Explore his influence beyond his own time.
  • Homer created the ancient Greek identity. Did he formulate the qualities already present in his compatriots ? Alternatively, did he idealize the past to make the Greeks aspire for more?
  • Cleisthenes : The father of the Athenian democracy. Explore his contribution to the governance of Athens. How different was it from the modern idea of democracy?
  • The Ancient City of Tikal: Mayan Cultural, Social, Astronomy and Political Influence .
  • Why did Mark Antony and Cleopatra trust one another so much?
  • Plutarch : Our window to the ancient times.
  • Cleopatra’s Life and Political Impact .
  • How did Alexander the Great and his conquest change the ancient world?
  • Ethical Life Issues in Works by Cicero and C.S. Lewis .
  • Why do we consider Hippocrates as the father of medicine ?
  • Aristotle and Relationships at Work .
  • Describe the difference between the historical and fictional accounts of the assassination of Julius Caesar.
  • Alaric I the Visigoth: The person responsible for the Sack of Rome in 410.
  • Jesus & Mohammed: Comparison and Contrast.
  • Why was Leonidas I encircled by a hero cult?
  • Moses in Christianity, Judaism and Islam .

Central Figures of Medieval Ages

  • TomĂĄs de Torquemada was the first Grand Inquisitor of Spain. Why did his name become the synonym of religious fanaticism and cruelty? What made him the most notorious Inquisitor?
  • Charlemagne was the creator of modern Europe. He divided the Carolingian Empire between his sons. He also added more parts to Europe that had never been under Roman or Frankish control before. Explore his activity.
  • Avicenna (980 – 1037) was the most important polymath of the Islamic Golden Age. Analyze his contributions to modern science.
  • Constantine was the last Byzantine emperor . He was killed when protecting Constantinople from the Ottoman Turks. What makes him a legendary figure in Greek culture?
  • Thomas Aquinas was the first theologian that linked religion and science. He connected Christian principles with Aristotelian ideas. How did he influence our perception of God and faith?
  • Did Marco Polo travel to China, or was he a big liar?
  • Joan of Arc as a Military Heroine .
  • Why was Sir William Marshal called “the greatest knight” in human history?
  • St. Thomas Aquinas’ Cosmological Argument Analysis .
  • Describe the leadership qualities of Richard the Lionheart in his battle for Jerusalem with sultan Saladin.
  • Was Genghis Khan a great ruler? Analyze his leadership style.
  • British Culture – Tudors, Henry VIII and Anglican Church.
  • William the Conqueror and his Domesday Book : The most critical statistical document in European history.
  • Why was Peter the Hermit the critical figure in the First Crusade ?
  • Elizabeth I’s Leadership. English History .
  • What was the role of Joan of Arc in the Hundred Years’ War?
  • Pope Innocent III: The person who invented the Crusades.

Central Figures of Modern Period

  • How did Otto von Bismarck change the European map and reinforce Germany? He was the first chancellor of Germany for 20 years. This fact made him the mastermind of European affairs for two decades.
  • Alexander II and Nicolas II: The grandfather and the grandson. Fifty years separated prosperity from decay. The first abolished slavery, and the latter caused the collapse of the Russian Empire.
  • Stalin: From a collective leadership to dictatorship. He was the man that defined the epoch. Why was he the longest ruler of the USSR? How did his activity shape the international image of the Soviet Union?
  • Mahatma Gandhi liberated India from Britain . Yet, he invariably insisted on non-violent methods. Could the liberation have happened in more favorable conditions for India if he had used more aggressive measures?

Gandhi wrote a letter to Hitler, addressing him as "Dear Friend," and beseeched him to stop the war. Hitler never wrote back.

  • Churchill: The ideologist of the anti-Hitler coalition and the creator of the Entente. Why do we consider him the inspirer of the British movement against Nazi Germany? What were the main postulates of his ideology?
  • The Civil Rights Movement by Martin Luther King.
  • From the modern point of view, did Lenin fulfill his intentions by introducing communism?
  • Einstein and his Contribution to Science .
  • If we abstract from the issues of morality, was Hitler a positive figure for his country?
  • Hitler’s Interests: Nazi Germany and the Jews.
  • What was the role of Margaret Thatcher’s activity in the process of entailing deep divisions in British society?
  • Leadership Management: The Case of Mahatma Gandhi .
  • Analyze the life story of Sigmund Freud that brought him to become the father of psychoanalysis.
  • How did Anne Boleyn help to create the Church of England?
  • US Foreign Policies from Eisenhower to Kennedy.
  • How did Jane Austen’s stories about unremarkable situations turn into social satire?
  • George Washington: Life, Presidency, Challenges as a Commander.
  • How did El Greco transform icon painting by using ordinary people as models?

Central Figures of Contemporary History

  • Mao Zedong drew inspiration from the Soviet Communistic ideology. How did his principles differ from the USSR scenario? Analyze the policy of Mao Zedong from the modern Chinese point of view.
  • Albert Einstein changed our perception of reality through his theory of relativity . It explained how objects behave in space and time. The approach gave us a chance to predict the future.
  • Analyze the personality of Usama bin Ladin as the founder of Al-Qaeda and the most famous terroristic leader. Explore his ideology and motivation for killing civil citizens. Can we change this ideology through education?
  • Stanley N. Cohen was the first person who managed to cut DNA into pieces. But Paul Berg is considered the father of genetic engineering. Which personality did more for genetics?
  • Harry Truman was a Vice President only for several weeks. Truman, the 33rd US President, ordered the dropping of the bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Why did he do so?
  • Queen Elizabeth’s II contributions to the UK we know now.
  • Truman Doctrine in the United States History.
  • Anne Frank: The girl whose diary united millions of human tragedies.
  • Barack Obama’s Political Doctrine and Its Elements.
  • Describe the role of Douglas MacArthur in Japan’s restoration after WWII .
  • Maria Curie: The woman who taught us to use X-rays.
  • Merkel’s Germany and Trump’s Us Stances on Migration Policies.

Both Pierre and Marie Curie had no idea of the dangers of radioactivity.

  • How did Grace Kelly contribute to the image of Monaco as a touristic paradise?
  • Why did Gorbachev win the Nobel Peace Prize?

🏳️‍🌈 Argumentative History Topics on Significant Movements

Each epoch has had some movements that perform the leading ideas and soul of the corresponding time. Political, social, religious, and other movements have left multiple traces in different spheres of life. The necessity to explore these traces is pretty obvious, right? Let’s do it together.

Political Movements

  • Why does extreme libertarianism reject the authority of the state?
  • Anarchy and Sovereignty in International Relations .
  • Is it correct to regard feminism as a political movement ?
  • Analyze the incorrect interpretation of Nietzsche’s philosophy by the German Nazi.
  • “Manifesto of the Communist Party” by Karl Marx.
  • How do eugenic policies entail the loss of genetic diversity?
  • Discussion of Capitalism and Socialism.
  • Why are there two major parties in US politics?
  • Explore the development of the Women’s Suffrage movement in your local area.
  • Why does any political movement require access to state power to be successful?
  • Islamism: Political Movement & Range of Ideologies.
  • Does lobbying influence the development of various political movements in power?
  • Democratic Regime and Liberation Movements.
  • Describe communism as a secular religion.
  • Is anti-capitalism a viable ideology?

Social Movements

  • What are the achievements of the animal rights movement?
  • White Society’s Reaction to Civil Rights Movement.
  • Which women’s rights movements do you know, and what are their goals?
  • Civil Rights and #BlackLivesMatter Social Movements.
  • Do you believe that some psychological problems make people participate in social movements?

Picture showing examples of different social movements.

  • What did the Black Power Movement (1960 – 1980s) achieve?
  • Women’s Rights Movement Impact on Education.
  • What are the psychological effects of volunteering in hospices?
  • The Strategy of the National Popular Vote Movement.
  • Analyze the success of the Black Lives Matter movement.
  • Greta Thunberg : The inspirer of the international movement against climate change.
  • Free Movement of Workers in the EU Single Market.
  • Why does the majority of the population negatively look at all sorts of social movements?
  • #MeToo movement and its results: The cancellation culture.

Art Movements

  • How did the return of the African culture to the natives after WWII give birth to a new art movement?
  • Why are modern art movements so numerous, and what does this fact characterize?
  • Futurism. Artistic and Social Movement.
  • Which art movement do you consider the most recognizable?
  • Do you think Cubism is an art or a protest against artistic tradition?
  • An artistic movement: Copying geniuses or drawing inspiration from them?
  • Andy Warhol’s Paintings .
  • How did the Hudson River School of Art shape American painting?
  • Why did art in late Medieval Europe face decay?
  • Art Movements in History: Baroque .
  • What is the difference between the Baroque and Rococo styles?
  • Which artistic movement initiated the use of perspective in painting, and why did it happen?

Religious and Spiritual Movements

  • Explore the influence of fundamentalism on evangelicalism in America.
  • Look for similar features between new religious movements and radical Islamic groups .
  • Describe the distinctive traits of new religious movements that differentiate them from older religions.
  • Which methods does the Religious Right movement use against the LGBT community?
  • Do religious movements favor or impede globalization ?
  • Which psychological reasons drive young people to Satanism?
  • Why do people create new cults , and are they detrimental to society?
  • Explore the difference between a spiritual and religious movement.
  • Relation Between God, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit .
  • Is it correct to consider atheism as a religious movement?
  • Modern spiritual movements: business or altruism?

📿 Interesting History Essay Topics on Traditions

No matter the military history of a state or region, cultural heritage and traditions are something every society has. Now, the most exciting part is to explore these traditions and rituals. It can be a long journey!

  • Trace the difference between Vlad the Impaler as a historical and mythical figure.

Prince Charles of Wales, the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II, is the descendant of Vlad Dracula in the sixteenth generation.

  • Which events and traditions shaped the way we imagine a witch?
  • False and Folk Etymologies of Words .
  • Analyze Baba Yaga as the symbol of mother nature in Russian folklore.
  • How does German folklore reflect in the tales of the Brothers Grimm ?
  • The Thousand & One Nights: Folk Collection Overview.
  • Is there any scientific explanation for weather prediction by natural signs is present in many cultures’ folklore?
  • Witch-Hunt in Europe During the Middle Ages .
  • Half-human creatures of ancient times: Who were they, and which archetype did they represent?
  • Explore the folklore origins of the Swastika , which became the Nazi symbol.
  • The mythology of Achilles’ heel: What does it symbolize?
  • The Epic of Gilgamesh – A Classic Tale.
  • Describe the meaning of fireflies in Japanese culture.
  • “The Tale of Kieu” by Nguyen Du .
  • What is the link between zombies and voodoo?
  • Discover the origins of putting a pickle ornament on Christmas trees in Germany.
  • Why Saturnalia, Mithras, and Hanukkah were the precursors of modern-day Christmas?
  • What is the link between the Festival of Lanterns and Chinese New Year?
  • What are the origins of Imbolc in Celtic tradition?
  • Chinese Spring Festival .
  • Which African-American harvest celebrations were unified under the name of Kwanzaa?
  • What does Jewish Hannukah commemorate, and why does it last eight days?
  • Why does the US celebrate Veterans Day at the 11th hour on the 11th day and 11th month?
  • Why did the US presidents start racing Easter Eggs?
  • What is the relation between Daylight Savings time and WWI?
  • Analyze the geography and calendar of Christmas in different parts of the world.
  • Why are most rituals practiced in modern world religions?
  • Buddhism: History, Origins, and Rituals .
  • Describe human sacrifice rituals in Ancient Rome .
  • Why do civilized countries use rituals in politics, for example, during the presidential inauguration?
  • Crusades from a Christian Viewpoint .
  • Compare male and female initiation rituals in African countries.
  • How do funeral rituals help humans overcome the pain of loss?
  • Marriage rituals in Japan: History that is preserved to nowadays.
  • Explore pagan rituals that remained in the Christian culture.
  • Is Baptism a ritual of initiation?
  • What do the burial rituals of native Americans tell us about their culture?

👁️‍ Essay Topics on Historical Mysteries

Have you ever thought about how many things around us are still covered with layers of questions? Humanity has still not resolved some events, places, and people that took place throughout history. Let’s have a look at some breathtaking historical mysteries.

  • Think of the reasons for the Great Leap Forward . Why did people start painting caves and making jewelry?
  • During the Middle Ages, English speakers changed the way they pronounced vowels. What are the theories of the Great Vowel Shift ?
  • The Green Children of Woolpit: A scary folk tale or a historical event?
  • The Inca civilization: Highway and postal system, skull surgeries, and other signs of culture.
  • The Sea Peoples caused the Bronze Age Collapse. Who were they? Where did they come from?
  • What are the available explanations of the Phoenix Lights?
  • The Salem Witch Trials and Their Impact on Massachusetts .
  • Analyze the theories explaining the Baghdad batteries and select the most true-to-life version.
  • What do we know about the “ Nazi Bell. ” Why is there so little information about the secret weapon?
  • What do we know about the Philadelphia Experiment ? Discuss the major theories and opinions on that case.
  • The Tunguska event: Military experiments or a meteoroid impact?
  • The mystery of Yonaguni Island and its underwater structures: Who were their creators?
  • The Bermuda Triangle: Human error camouflaged as a mystery.
  • Was the uncanny nature of The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park created by Stephen King?
  • Delano Roosevelt’s bomb shelter : Why did the President order to construct the chamber in 1941?
  • What is known about the secret passageways and hiding rooms of the British Queen?
  • The chief designer of the “hall of records” in Mount Rushmore died before completing his work. Was it a conspiracy?
  • Why do the scientists believe that the secret of Stonehenge will be revealed in some decades?
  • Find out the facts that point to the existence of Atlantis.
  • The Lock Ness Lake and the monster: A non-extinct dinosaur?
  • Money Pit on the Oak Island : A geologic formation or a place to hide treasures?
  • What traits make Jack the Ripper so attractive to historians and fiction writers?
  • Italian Americans Portrayed as Mafia Members in Films .
  • Keth Arnold saw some “flying saucers” that traveled faster than jet airplanes. Was it a UFO or a flock of birds?
  • David Blair: The person who was guilty in the Titanic catastrophe.
  • Was Joan of Arc executed for heresy or for dressing in male clothes?
  • The mystery of Amelia Earhart: Dead or alive?
  • Was Grigori Rasputin really capable of predicting the future?
  • Did the lost Grand Duchess Anastasia die when the rest of the Romanov family was killed?
  • Explore the mystery of the Babushka Lady , who recorded the assassination of John F. Kennedy. What is known about her and the purposes of her filming?
  • The Man in the Iron Mask and his sentence in the Bastille: Who could he be?
  • Perseus in the Manhattan Project: How did he manage to hide from the US for so long?

📝 Historical Topics to Write About – 2024

  • Geopolitical consequences of the USSR collapse for the world.
  • The influence of Confucianism on modern society in China.
  • How did the formation of NATO impact the Cold War?
  • The significance of Napoleon Bonaparte in European history.
  • The development of democracy in ancient Athens.
  • Reagan’s tax reform and its impact on the modern economy.
  • What were the key consequences of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings?
  • The September 11th events and their impact on global security.
  • The Manhattan Project and the development of nuclear weapons.
  • The influence of slavery on African American families.
  • Mahatma Gandhi and his influence on the ideology of modern India.
  • What was the role of the first moon landing in astronomy?
  • The ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its value.
  • The true history of the Confederate flag.
  • How much regulation is necessary for capitalism to function?
  • The main causes of the Vietnam War.
  • Historical events should be reexamined through a contemporary ethical lens.
  • The debate over the role of the United States in the Middle East.
  • The controversy behind the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  • Operation “Barbarossa”: aggression or attack prevention?
  • The reasons for Martin Luther King’s assassination.
  • The efficiency of the United Nations.
  • Christopher Columbus: heroic explorer or the harbinger of genocide?
  • The disputes about the origins of Shakespeare.
  • Was Donald Trump an effective president?
  • The benefits of communism in Eastern Europe.
  • Is the world doing enough to prevent the destruction of historical sites?
  • The real motive behind the Watergate scandal.
  • South Korean provocations of the Korean War.
  • Should the United States have entered World War I?
  • Princess Diana’s death as the subject of a conspiracy theory.
  • The effect of the Cuban Missile Crisis on the Cold War.
  • Is the international community doing enough to commemorate the Holocaust?
  • The debate over the use of internment camps during WWII.
  • The factors contributing to the Nazi Party’s rise in Germany
  • Did the attack on Pearl Harbor push the USA into WWII?
  • The leading causes of the Roman Empire’s fall.
  • Mysteries of the disappearance of the Mayan civilization.
  • Disputes about the role of women in medieval society.
  • The corruption of the Catholic Church: myth or truth?
  • Capitalism is the best economic system.
  • The injustices experienced by Muslims after 9/11.
  • What would have happened without Hitler?

👉 History Essay Topics: How to Choose

Selecting the proper essay topic can sometimes be rather tricky. Especially after reading all these fascinating questions above😏

Jokes aside, perfect topic choice is crucial if you want to write a good essay or a research paper and get a high grade. Here are some useful tips that will help you make the right choice and write a great history essay.

Writing a good history paper on something you find boring and do not care about is impossible. If you like your history essay topic, you will enjoy researching it, and your reader will enjoy reading your piece.
Ask yourself if you will be able to explore the topic for your history essay on several pages. Your first idea is almost always likely to be too big. Refine it to a manageable size.
Figuring out the best angle for your college history essay topic will help you control your writing, give it structure and define your thesis.
If you have some vague thought of what you want to write about but do not know how to start, use online and offline sources to look them through for ideas.
Write a list of things you are interested in. Make it as long as possible and take a short break. Look through the list and find the idea you like most. Then brainstorm the idea you have chosen separately. This way, you’ll narrow down your topics to the one that is best for you.
Maybe you just do not know the subject well enough, which is why you cannot find the idea for your history essay. What sources are available? Make sure your topic has enough references to do thorough research.

♟️ Strategies for Historical Argument Topics

When it comes right to writing a historical essay, you should consider several scenarios of how to build your text. Depending on your topic and the point of view, you might need different strategies.

Now, let’s see the differences between descriptive and research argumentative essays on historical topics.

  • Historians debate my topic. I agree with some of them, and I’m going to prove that. I will use their arguments to show their correctness.
  • Historians disagree on my topic. I think they shall start their debate all over again, as they have reached a dead end.
  • Historians relatively agree on my topic. I have developed a better interpretation of the events in question.
  • Historians disregarded my topic. I will explain its topicality and list what should be researched.
  • Several historians have examined my topic, but their findings are inconsistent. I will present more constructive evidence to clarify things.
  • Many historians have studied my topic. However, I will take a fresh look at the subject matter from the perspective of new research or methodologies.

And we are done here.

Now, have a break if you’ve read all 396 topics. Though, wait, did you find something fitting you? In that case, you are free for a break 👼

In case if you are still not sure what to write about, we recommend you to read these topic compilations:

  • The Best Argumentative Essay Topics for 2024
  • Hot Problem-Solution Essay Topics
  • 250+ Interesting Topics to Research
  • Cause & Effect Essay Topics for Students
  • Top 138 Awesome Sociology Essay Topics & Questions for 2024

We are pretty sure there’s no hopeless situation. It’s just a matter of time and effort. And everyone needs a different amount of each. So, keep calm, and let’s rock this history essay!

Good luck, friends 🍀

Research Paper Analysis: How to Analyze a Research Article + Example

Film analysis: example, format, and outline + topics & prompts.

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Cofer describes the residences in Elena’s Paterson community very carefully while giving rather spare descriptions of characters’ physical appearances. Why do you think she does this?

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Elena and Eugene’s fathers never speak in the story. Why do you think Cofer relegates these characters to the background?

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i need help! does anyone have interesting US history research paper topic ideas?

hello, reddit!

i am a high-school student taking a dual enrollment college US history class. for this class, i must write a research paper once a month on a topic pertaining to any aspect of US history that falls within a certain timeframe. the deadline for my final paper is quickly approaching, yet I still haven't found a topic that hasn't fallen through. the requirements for this paper are as follows:

- 9-12 pages

- topic takes place between 1930 and 2022

- topic pertains to US history (my prof is very lax with this requirement this time around as the US has been involved in practically everything during this timeframe)

as for my interests, they're all across the board. i enjoy writing about politics and government, however, i find war and terrorism fascinating as well. my topics and grades for my previous three papers have been human sacrifice in aztec religion (96%, the paper sucked but my prof went easy on grading because nobody in the class had written a research paper before), key differences in confederate and union ideology and how they reflected in the confederate constitution (98%), and conflicts that caused the decline of the socialist party of america (96%).

any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated. thank you!

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History Grade 11 - Topic 4 Essay Questions

us history essay topics

Essay Question:

To what extent were Black South Africans were deprived of their political, economic, and social rights in the early 1900s and how did this reality pave the way for the rise of African Nationalism? Present an argument in support of your answer using relevant historical evidence. [1]

Background and historical overview:

There was no South Africa (as we know it today) before 1910.  Britain had defeated Boer Republics in the South African War which date from (1899–1903). There were four separate colonies: Cape, Natal, Orange River, Transvaal colonies and each were ruled by Britain. They needed support of white settlers in colonies to retain power. [2] In 1908, about 33 white delegates met behind closed doors to negotiate independence for Union of South Africa. The views and opinions of 85% of country’s future citizens (black people) not even considered in these discussions. British wanted investments protected, labour supplies assured, and agreed on the fundamental question to give political/economic power to white settlers. [3] This essay pushes back in time to analyse how this violent context in South African history served as an ideological backdrop for the rise of African nationalism in the country and elsewhere in the world.

The Union Constitution of 1910 placed political power in hands of white citizens. However, a small number of educated black, coloured citizens allowed to elect few representatives to Union parliament. [4] More generally, it was only whites who were granted the right to vote.  They imagined a ‘settler nation’ where was no room for blacks with rights. In this regard, white citizens called selves ‘Europeans’. Furthermore, all symbols of new nation, European language (mainly English and Dutch), religion, school history. In this view, African languages, histories, culture were portrayed as inferior. [5]

Therefore, racism was an integral feature in colonial societies, and this essentially meant that Africans were seen as members of inferior ‘tribes’ and thus should practise traditions in ‘native’ reserves. Whilst, on the other hand, in the settler (white) nation, black people were recognized only as workers in farms, mines, factories owned by whites. Thus, black people were denied of their political rights, cultural recognition, economic opportunities, because of these entrenched processes and politics of exclusion. In 1910 large numbers of black South African men were forced to become migrant workers on mines, factories, expanding commercial farms. In 1913, the infamous Natives Land Act, worsened the situation for black people as land allocated to black people by the Act was largely infertile and unsuitable for agriculture. [6]

Rise of African Nationalism:

In the 19th century, the Western-educated African, coloured, Indian middle class who grew up mainly in the Cape and Natal, mostly professional men (doctors, lawyers, teachers, newspaper editors) and were proud of their African, Muslim, Indian heritage embraced idea of progressive ‘colour-blind’ western civilisation that could benefit all people. This was a more worldly outlook or form of nationalism which recognized all non-white groupings across the colonial world as victims of colonial racism and violence. [7] However, another form of nationalism recognized the differences within the colonized groups and argued for a stricter and more specific definition of what it means to be African in a colonial world. These were some differences within the umbrella body of African nationalism and were firmly anchored during the course of the 20th century.

African Peoples’ Organization:

One of the African organisations that led to the rise of African nationalism was the African People’s Organisation (APO). At first the APO did not concern itself with rights of black South Africans. They committed themselves to the vision that all oppressed racial groups must work together to achieve anything. Therefore, a delegation was sent to London in 1909 to fight for rights for coloured (‘coloured’. In this context, ‘everyone who was a British subject in South Africa and who was not a European’). [8]

Natal Indian Congress:

Natal Indian Congress Natal Indian Congress (NIC) was an important influence in the development of non-racial African nationalism in South Africa. Arguably, it was one of the first organisations in South Africa to use word ‘congress’. It was formed in 1894 to mobilise the Indian opposition to racial discrimination in Colony. [9] The founder of this movement was MK Gandhi who later spearheaded a massive peaceful resistance (Satyagraha) to colonial rule. This protest forced Britain to grant independence to India, 1947. The NIC organised many protests and more generally campaigned for Indian rights. In 1908, hundreds of Indians gathered outside Johannesburg Mosque in protest against law that forced Indians to carry passes, passive resistance campaigns of Gandhi and NIC succeeded in Indians not having to carry passes. But, however, they failed to win full citizenship rights as the NIC did not join united national movement for rights of all citizens until 1930s, 1940s

South African Native National Congress (now known as African National Congress):

In response to Union in 1910, young African leaders (Pixley ka Isaka Seme, Richard Msimang, George Montsioa, Alfred Mangena) worked with established leaders of South African Native Convention to promote formation of a national organization. The larger aim was to form a national organisation that would unify various African groups. [10] On 8 January 1912, first African nationalist movement formed at a meeting in Bloemfontein. South African National Natives Congress (SANNC) were mainly attended by traditional chiefs, teachers, writers, intellectuals, businessmen. Most delegates had received missionary education. They strongly believed in 19th century values of ‘improvement’ and ‘progress’ of Africans into a global European ‘civilisation’ and culture. In 1924, the SANNC changed name to African National Congress (ANC), in order to assert an African identity within the movement. [11]

Industrial and Commercial Workers Union (ICU):

The Industrial and Commercial Workers Union African protest movements that helped foster growing African nationalism in early 1920s . Industrial and Commercial Workers Union (ICU) was formed in 1919 was led by Clements Kadalie, Malawian worker. This figure had led successful strike of dockworkers in Cape Town. Mostly active among farmers and migrant workers. But, only temporarily away from their farms and was very difficult to organise. The central question to pose is to examine the ways in which the World War II influence the rise of African nationalism? Essentially, there were various ways that WW II influenced the rise of African nationalism. [12] Firstly, through the Atlantic Charter, AB Xuma’s, African claims in relation to this Charter. In addition, the influence of politicized soldiers returning from War had a significant impact.

The Atlantic Charter and AB Xuma’s African claims Churchill and Roosevelt issued the Atlantic Charter in 1941, describing the world they would like to see after WWII. To the ANC and African nationalists generally, the Atlantic Charter amounted to promise for freedom in Africa once war was over. Britain recruited thousands of African soldiers to fight in its armies (nearly two million Africans recruited as soldiers, porters, scouts for Allies during war). This persuaded Africans to sign up and Britain called it ‘a war for freedom’. [13] The soldiers returning home expected Britain to honour their sacrifice, however, the recognition they expected did not arrive and thus became bitter, discontented, and only had fought to protect interests of colonial powers only to return to exploitation and indignities of colonial rule.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this essay has attempted to examine the historical circumstances in which black people were denied of their political, economic, and social rights in the early 1990s. There are various that must be acknowledged in order to have a granular understanding of the larger and longer history of African nationalism, and this examination may exceed the scope of this essay. However, the central argument made here is that the rise of African nationalism in all its different ethos and manifestations was premised on humanizing black people in various parts of the colonial world. To stress this point, African nationalism emerged as a vehicle of resistance and humanization. Finally, African nationalism cannot be read outside the international context (as shown throughout the paper), as we have to take into account various factor which effectively influenced the spurge of this ideological outlook in society.

This content was originally produced for the SAHO classroom by Ayabulela Ntwakumba & Thandile Xesi.

[1] National Senior Certificate.: “Grade 11 November 2019 History Paper 2 Exam,” National Senior Certificate, November 2019. Eastern Cape Province Education.

[2] Williams, Donovan. "African nationalism in South Africa: origins and problems." The Journal of African History 11, no. 3 (1970): 371-383.

[3] Feit, Edward. "Generational Conflict and African Nationalism in South Africa: The African National Congress, 1949-1959." The International Journal of African Historical Studies 5, no. 2 (1972): 181-202.

[4] Chipkin, Ivor. "The decline of African nationalism and the state of South Africa." Journal of Southern African Studies 42, no. 2 (2016): 215-227.

[5] Prinsloo, Mastin. "‘Behind the back of a declarative history’: Acts of erasure in Leon de Kock's Civilizing Barbarians: Missionary narrative and African response in nineteenth century South Africa." The English Academy Review 15, no. 1 (1998): 32-41.

[6] Gilmour, Rachael. "Missionaries, colonialism and language in nineteenth‐century South Africa." History Compass 5, no. 6 (2007): 1761-1777.

[7] Lester, Alan. Imperial networks: Creating identities in nineteenth-century South Africa and Britain. Routledge, 2005.

[8] Van der Ross, Richard E. "The founding of the African Peoples Organization in Cape Town in 1903 and the role of Dr. Abdurahman." (1975).

[9] Vahed, Goolam, and Ashwin Desai. "A case of ‘strategic ethnicity’? The Natal Indian Congress in the 1970s." African Historical Review 46, no. 1 (2014): 22-47.

[10] Suttner, Raymond. "The African National Congress centenary: a long and difficult journey." International Affairs 88, no. 4 (2012): 719-738.

[11] Houston, G. "Pixley ka Isaka Seme: African unity against racism." (2020).

[12] Xuma, A. B. "African National Congress invitation to emergency conference of all Africans."

[13] Kumalo, Simangaliso. "AB Xuma and the politics of racial accommodation versus equal citizenship and its implication for nation-building and power-sharing in South Africa."

  • Bennett-Smyth, T., 2003, September. Transcontinental Connections: Alfred B Xuma and the African National Congress on the World Stage. In workshop on South Africa in the 1940s, Southern African Research Centre, Kingston, Canada.
  • Chipkin, I., 2016. The decline of African nationalism and the state of South Africa. Journal of Southern African Studies, 42(2), pp.215-227.
  • Feit, E., 1972. Generational Conflict and African Nationalism in South Africa: The African National Congress, 1949-1959. The International Journal of African Historical Studies, 5(2), pp.181-202.
  • Kumalo, S., AB Xuma and the politics of racial accommodation versus equal citizenship and its implication for nation-building and power-sharing in South Africa.
  • Moeti, M.T., 1982. ETHIOPIANISM: SEPARATIST ROOTS OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM IN SOUTH AFRICA.
  • Rotberg, R., "African nationalism: concept or confusion?." The Journal of Modern African Studies 4, no. 1. pp. 33-46.
  • Swan, M., 1984. The 1913 Natal Indian Strike. Journal of Southern African Studies, 10(2), pp.239-258.
  • Vahed, G. and Desai, A., 2014. A case of ‘strategic ethnicity’? The Natal Indian Congress in the 1970s. African Historical Review, 46(1), pp.22-47.
  • Van der Ross, R.E., 1975. “The founding of the African Peoples Organization in Cape Town in 1903 and the role of Dr. Abdurahman”.
  • van Niekerk, R., 2014. SOCIAL DEMOCRACY AND THE ANC: BACK TO THE FUTURE?. A Lula Moment for South Africa: Lessons from Brazil, pp.47-61.
  • Williams, D., 1970. “African nationalism in South Africa: origins and problems”. The Journal of African History, 11(3), pp.371-383.

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  • Why people have fallen out of love with dating apps

Tinder and Bumble are struggling as singles refuse to pay up

The illustration features a large, red broken heart on a dark red background. Scattered between the two halves of the broken heart are icons of various dating apps, such as Tinder, Bumble, OKCupid, Hinge, Plenty of Fish, and others.

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W hen Tinder , a mobile dating app, launched on college campuses in America in 2012, it quickly became a hit. Although online dating had been around since Match.com, a website for lonely hearts, launched in 1995, it had long struggled to shed an image of desperation. But Tinder, by letting users sift through photos of countless potential dates with a simple swipe, made it easy and fun.

Soon Tinder and its rivals had transformed courtship. A report published last year by the Pew Research Centre found that 30% of American adults had used an online dating service, including more than half of those aged between 18 and 29. One in five couples of that age had met through such a service. Usage surged during the pandemic, as lonely locked-down singles sought out partners. The market capitalisation of Bumble, a rival to Tinder, surged to $13bn on its first day of trading in February 2021. Later that year the value of Match Group, which owns Tinder, Hinge and scores of other dating services, reached nearly $50bn. Today roughly 350m people around the world have a dating app on their phone, up from 250m in 2018, according to Business of Apps, a research firm. In June Tokyo’s government even said it would launch a matchmaking app of its own to pair up singles in the city.

us history essay topics

Yet lately online dating has lost its spark. The apps were downloaded 237m times globally last year, down from 287m in 2020. According to Sensor Tower, another research firm, the number of people who use them at least once a month has dwindled from 154m in 2021 to 137m in the second quarter of this year (see chart 1). On August 7th Bumble reported revenue growth of just 3%, year on year, in the quarter from April to June, and lowered its forecast for the full year to 1-2%. Its shares plunged by a third in after-hours trading. On July 30th Match Group reported that its revenue for the same quarter grew by only 4%. Both companies’ market values have cratered since Bumble’s listing (see chart 2). That reflects users’ increasing disillusionment with dating apps, decreasing willingness to pay for them—and growing interest in offline alternatives.

Start with the disillusionment. Apps that once felt fun have, for many, become wellsprings of frustration. The network effects that initially propelled services such as Tinder, in which a widening choice of partners lured in ever more users, have now made them exasperating. Users grumble about spending hours sorting through tens of thousands of profiles. Half of women surveyed by Pew said they felt overwhelmed by the number of messages they received. It doesn’t help that 84% of Tinder users are men. So are 61% of those on Bumble, which is targeted at women. Many users also fret about scams.

us history essay topics

Younger adults are growing especially weary of the apps. One survey commissioned last year by Axios, a news site, found that only a fifth of American college students were using them at least once a month. “It’s not fun, it’s so superficial and it’s also just like really exhausting,” laments one youthful influencer on TikTok, a short-video app. “I’m kind of over it,” sums up Wunmi Williams, a 27-year-old who, after years of swiping and matching, has been unable to find a partner through a dating app. In a sign of growing despair, the Marriage Pact, an annual event in which participants are matched with a “backup” spouse should their future romantic endeavours fail, has spread to 88 college campuses across America.

All this helps explain why dating-app developers are struggling to convince users to part with cash—the second reason for their lacklustre performance. In an effort to boost margins, dating apps have been peddling paid upgrades to supplement their lowly ad revenues. Hinge has a separate feed with popular profiles it thinks you might like, but demands that you hand over $3.99 for a “rose” before you can chat with them. Tinder’s paid plans range from $17.99 a month (which gives you unlimited swipes and lets you change your location) to a hefty $499 a month (which lets you see the most popular profiles on the app and message users you haven’t matched with).

Got the ick

Online dating may no longer look desperate, but users seem to worry that paying for it might. The share of people who are willing to spend money on dating apps has been falling. Tinder’s paid users have declined for seven consecutive quarters. Men are more likely to cough up, which may be worsening the feeling common among women of being bombarded by messages on the apps.

Perhaps the biggest threat to the future of dating apps, though, is the growing share of singles looking offline for love. Last year some began wearing an aqua-coloured ring, made by a startup called Pear, to show their openness to being wooed. Thursday, a company that organises in-person events for singles, has expanded its service to roughly 30 cities, from Stockholm to Sydney. Its app works only on Thursday, when the events are held.

The romance is not confined to bars. Running clubs have become a place for athletic types to meet. Cooking classes, too, have become a place to look for partners, says Julia Hartz, the boss of Eventbrite, a ticketing platform. Attendance at its singles events rose 42% between 2022 and 2023. “You are bonding with someone, you’re having an experience, even if they’re not the love of your life,” says Casey Lewis, a blogger on youth culture, of such events.

Dating apps are looking for ways to lure users back. Some are hoping to spice things up with artificial intelligence ( AI ). Whitney Wolfe Herd, Bumble’s founder, recently mused that the future of courtship could involve one person’s AI bot going on “dates” with another’s. One new app, Volar, has begun offering just that.

In time, society might be willing to leave matchmaking to machines—but it is hard to imagine the strategy paying off just yet. A more fruitful approach for dating apps may instead be to focus on narrower markets. Grindr, an app for gay men, continues to grow quickly. So does Feeld, which targets the polyamorous. In the past few years Match Group has launched apps targeted at gay men (Archer), single parents (Stir), ethnic minorities ( BLK , Chispa) and snobs (The League). Revenue from this portfolio of brands grew by 17%, year on year, in the second quarter of 2024.

In addition to offering a smaller pool of partners, such apps also serve as a community for like-minded people. Grindr, for example, acts as a travel guide for tourists looking for gay bars and a hub for information on HIV . The company says its average user sends 50 messages a day, about the same as for WhatsApp, a messaging service. Its success in that regard might explain why Lidiane Jones, the chief executive of Bumble, has said she wants her firm to be known as a “connections company, rather than a dating company”. Pulling off such a rebrand may prove tricky. But love has never been an easy business. ■

To stay on top of the biggest stories in business and technology, sign up to the Bottom Line , our weekly subscriber-only newsletter.

This article appeared in the Business section of the print edition under the headline “Swiped out”

Business August 10th 2024

China’s manufacturers are going broke, china is overhauling its company law, what can olympians teach executives, a court says google is a monopolist. now what, a history-lover’s guide to the market panic over ai.

How to respond

From the August 10th 2024 edition

Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contents

More from Business

us history essay topics

Patriotism is replacing purpose in American business

Beware the costs

us history essay topics

Overcapacity is leading to soaring bankruptcies

us history essay topics

Its leaders want to make business less volatile—and easier to control

Citius, altius, spurious

The ruling could lead to a big-tech showdown

Past technologies offer clues to what comes next

Tim Walz's military record: What to know about potential VP's National Guard service

us history essay topics

Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday, choosing a progressive yet plain-spoken VP candidate from America’s heartland to help her win over rural, white voters.

“I’m pleased to share that I’ve made my decision: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will join our campaign as my running mate,” Harris said via text to supporters. “Tim is a battle-tested leader who has an incredible track record of getting things done for Minnesota families. I know that he will bring that same principled leadership to our campaign, and to the office of the vice president.”

We look at Walz, a 60-year-old U.S. Army National Guard veteran, and his military career over the years.

More: Tim Walz is Kamala Harris' VP pick: Minnesota governor named running mate: Live updates

How long was Walz in the military?

Walz served in the military for 24 years, enlisting in the Nebraska National Guard at 17 in 1981 and then transferring to the Minnesota National Guard in 1996. He retired in 2005 to begin his successful run for the U.S. House, representing Minnesota as command sergeant major, among the highest ranks for enlisted soldiers. His battalion went on to deploy to Iraq shortly after Walz's retirement.

Walz specialized in heavy artillery and had proficiency ribbons in sharpshooting and hand grenades.

But during the 21 years that Walz spent working with large artillery pieces, he suffered hearing loss and tinnitus in both ears, Minnesota Public Radio reported. He was allowed to continue his service after undergoing surgery, which partially resolved his hearing loss.

Where did Walz serve, and what did he do in the National Guard?

During his service, Walz responded to natural disasters, including floods and tornadoes in Minnesota and Nebraska, and was deployed overseas for months at a time, according to MPR.

In 2003, he was sent to Italy, where he served with the European Security Force to support the war in Afghanistan. He was also stationed in Norway for joint training with other NATO militaries.

Walz told MPR that he reenlisted in the National Guard after the September 11 attacks but never saw active combat in his years in the military.

Stars and Stripes reported in 2020 that Walz credited his Army experience with helping him steer Minnesota through the COVID-19 pandemic as governor.

As governor of Minnesota, Walz is commander in chief of the 13,000-soldier Minnesota National Guard. “I’m certainly proud of my military service, but it’s one piece of me,” he told Minnesota Public Radio in 2018. “It doesn’t define me.”

Reuters and USA TODAY reporter Tom Vanden Brook contributed to this story.

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Who Are the Far-Right Groups Behind the U.K. Riots?

After a deadly stabbing at a children’s event in northwestern England, an array of online influencers, anti-Muslim extremists and fascist groups have stoked unrest, experts say.

  • Share full article

Fires burn in a street with a vehicle also alight in front of ambulances and police officers.

By Esther Bintliff and Eve Sampson

Esther Bintliff reported from London, and Eve Sampson from New York.

Violent unrest has erupted in several towns and cities in Britain in recent days, and further disorder broke out on Saturday as far-right agitators gathered in demonstrations around the country.

The violence has been driven by online disinformation and extremist right-wing groups intent on creating disorder after a deadly knife attack on a children’s event in northwestern England, experts said.

A range of far-right factions and individuals, including neo-Nazis, violent soccer fans and anti-Muslim campaigners, have promoted and taken part in the unrest, which has also been stoked by online influencers .

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has vowed to deploy additional police officers to crack down on the disorder. “This is not a protest that has got out of hand,” he said on Thursday. “It is a group of individuals who are absolutely bent on violence.”

Here is what we know about the unrest and some of those involved.

Where have riots taken place?

The first riot took place on Tuesday evening in Southport, a town in northwestern England, after a deadly stabbing attack the previous day at a children’s dance and yoga class. Three girls died of their injuries, and eight other children and two adults were wounded.

The suspect, Axel Rudakubana , was born in Britain, but in the hours after the attack, disinformation about his identity — including the false claim that he was an undocumented migrant — spread rapidly online . Far-right activists used messaging apps including Telegram and X to urge people to take to the streets.

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  26. Tim Walz's military career: What to know about potential VP's service

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  27. Who Are the Far-Right Groups Behind the U.K. Riots?

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