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300+ 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.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Biography and Genealogy Resources

• Ancestry Library Edition  (SI Staff): Powered by Ancestry.com, this resource offers access to billions of records for genealogical research.
• American National Biography Online  (SI Staff): Offers portraits of more than 19,000 men and women, from all eras and walks of life, whose lives have shaped the nation. 
• Biography and Genealogy Master Index  (SI Staff):   Indexes current, easily accessible references sources to help find biographical material on people from all time periods, geographic locations, and fields of endeavor.
•   FamilySearch : For over 100 years, FamilySearch has been actively gathering, preserving, and sharing genealogical records worldwide.
•   Fold3  (SI Staff): Provides access to military records, including the stories, photos, and personal documents of the men and women who served. Also includes some census records and selected other non-military materials.

• Harvard Library
• Research Guides
• Faculty of Arts & Sciences Libraries

Library Research Guide for History

Getting what you need, general information.

• Newsletter February 2024
• Exploring Your Topic
• HOLLIS (and other) Catalogs
• Document Collections/Microfilm
• Outline of Primary Sources for History
• Finding Online Sources: Detailed Instructions
• Religious Periodicals
• Personal Writings/Speeches
• Oral History and Interviews
• News Sources
• Archives and Manuscripts
• Government Archives (U.S.)
• U.S. Government Documents
• Foreign Government & International Organization Documents
• French Legislative Debates/Documents
• State and City Documents
• Historical Statistics/Data
• GIS Mapping
• Public Opinion
• City Directories
• Policy Literature, Working Papers, Think Tank Reports (Grey Literature)
• Technical Reports (Grey Literature)
• Country Information
• Corporate Annual Reports
• US Elections
• Travel Writing/Guidebooks
• Missionary Records
• Reference Sources
• Harvard Museums
• Boston-Area Repositories
• Citing Sources & Organizing Research
• Newsletter January 2011
• Newsletter June 2012
• Newsletter August 2012
• Newsletter December 2012
• Newsletter June 2013
• Newsletter August 2013
• Newsletter January 2014
• Newsletter June 2014
• Newsletter August 2014
• Newsletter January 2015
• Newsletter June 2015
• Newsletter August 2015
• Newsletter January 2016
• Newsletter June 2016
• Newsletter August 2016
• Newsletter January 2017
• Newsletter June 2017
• Newsletter August 2017
• Newsletter January 2018
• Newsletter June 2018
• Newsletter August 2018
• Newsletter August 2019
• Newsletter December 2019
• Newsletter March 2021
• Newsletter October 2021
• Newsletter June 2019
• Newsletter May 2022
• Newsletter February2023
• Newsletter October 2023
• Exploring Special Collections at Harvard
• Newsletter October 2024

Fred Burchsted & Anna Assogba

Research Librarians

We are always happy to give you a tour of Widener and an orientation to our catalog, HOLLIS, and our other resources. Our emails are below.

This guide is intended as a point of departure for research in history.  We also have a more selective guide with major resources only: Introductory Library Research Guide for History .

• Finding Primary Sources Online  offers methods for finding digital libraries and digital collections on the open Web   and for finding Digital Libraries/Collections by Region or Language .
• Online Primary Source Collections for History  lists digital collections at Harvard and beyond by topic

Please feel free to email us with questions. We can make an appointment for you to come in, and we can talk at length about your project.

• Anna Assogba ([email protected]) Research Librarian and Liaison to the Department of History, Lamont Library (With particular knowledge of Zotero and other citation management systems).
• Fred Burchsted  ([email protected]) Research Librarian and Liaison to the Department of History, Widener Library.

How can you get your hands/eyes on material?

HOLLIS is the center of the Library ecosystem. This is often the best first step to see if we have something. In HOLLIS, click on "Online Access" or open the record and scroll down to the "Access Options" section. Check the HOLLIS section of this guide for more guidance.

Browser Plugins for Library Access

Harvard Library Bookmark and Lean Library plugins can help you find out if we have access to books and articles online.

Off-Site Storage

Books and other materials stored in facilities not on Harvard's main campus. Request this material through HOLLIS:

• Select "Request Pick Up" in the Access section of the HOLLIS Record, then enter your Harvard Key.
• A drop down menu will allow you to choose delivery location. Sometimes there is a single delivery option. Submit your request.
• You will receive an email usually next business day (not weekends or holidays) morning. Item is usually ready for pick-up in mid-afternoon. 

Sometimes Offsite storage material is in-library use only. For Widener, this is the Widener secure reading room on the 1st floor (formerly the Periodicals Room). Most Offsite storage material is available for scanning via Scan & Deliver (see below). 

Scan & Deliver/Interlibrary Loan

Use Scan & Deliver/Interlibrary Loan to request PDFs of articles and book chapters from HOLLIS when you cannot get online access. Limit: 2 chapters from a book or 2 articles from a journal.

Interlibrary Loan

Request materials from other libraries via InterLibrary Loan :

• Some non-Harvard special collections may be willing and able to scan material (usually for a fee). Our Interlibrary Loan department will place the request and help with the cost (there is a cap).
• Contact the other repository to see if they're able to scan what you need. Get a price estimate for the material and the exact details (such as: Box 77 folder 4. This information is often available in Finding Aids).
• Fill in what you can (put in N/A if the field is inapplicable) with the price and other information in the Comments box.
• This will get the process going and ILL will get back to you if they need more information or to discuss the price.

BorrowDirect

Borrow Direct allows Harvard students, faculty, and staff to request items from other libraries for delivery to Harvard within 4 business days. If the item you need is not available, try searching our partner institutions' collections in BorrowDirect.

Purchase Request

If there are materials you'd like to see added to the library's collections, submit a purchase request and we will look into acquiring it. We can buy both physical and electronic copies of materials; specify if have a preference.

Special Collections

Special Collections are rare, unique, primary source materials in the library's collections. To access, look for "Request to Scan or Visit" in HOLLIS (to place a scanning request) or contact the repository directly. Most of our larger archival collections are able to provide scans.

Carrels at Widener Library

Graduate students and visiting scholars are eligible to have a carrel in the Widener Library stacks. Start the process with the  carrel request form . (If you do this right at the start of the semester, it may take a few weeks before you receive confirmation.) Materials from the Widener stacks, including non-circulating materials like bound periodicals, can be checked out to your carrel.

Ivy Plus Privileges

Our partnership with BorrowDirect allows physical access to libraries of fellow Ivy Plus institutions: Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Duke University, Johns Hopkins University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, Stanford University, University of Chicago, University of Pennsylvania, and Yale University.

Help with Digital Projects

The Digital Scholarship Group offers workshops and support to faculty, students, and staff interested in digital research methods.  See also   GIS Mapping Resources  and  Visualization Support .

• Other Subject Guides
• Current Awareness Resources

More guides are available via the  Harvard Library Research Guides site

Finding Book Reviews

Finding Dissertations and Theses

Finding Harvard Library's Unique or Distinctive Primary Sources: Original and Digital

Guide to Research in History of Art & Architecture

Library Research Guide for Book History

Library Research Guide for British Colonial and Foreign Relations Sources

Research Guide for Primary Sources on Civil Rights

Inter Libros: Research Guide for Classics, Byzantine, & Medieval Studies

Literary Research in Harvard Libraries

Library Research Guide for American Material Culture  (This is in an early stage of development)

Middle East and Islamic Studies Library Resources

Music 219r: American Music , Library Guide

Library Research Guide for HIST 1006: Native American and Indigenous Studies

Library Research Guide for the History of Science

Library Research Guide for History 97g: "What is Legal History ?"

Library Research Guide for U.S. Foreign Relations

Library Research Guide for Global History

Library Research Guide for HIST 2256: Digital Archives: Europe and European Empires

Library Research Guide for Educating for American Democracy

Library Research Guide for American Studies

Library Research Guide for Latin American Studies

Germanic Languages and Literatures

Slavic and Eurasian Studies at Harvard  (See Research Contacts at bottom of left hand column)

Library Research Guide for South Asian Studies

Library Research Guide for HIST 1037: Modern Southeast Asia

Research Guides at Other Institutions

Go to Google Advanced Search

• all of these words: Sociology library
• any of these words: guides research resources
• site or domain: edu  (or ac.uk for Britain, etc.)

To find new Harvard E-Resources.Go to  Cross-Search in Harvard Libraries E-Resources  and choose the Quick Set: New E-Resources. This operates oddly, you sometimes have to select one of the E-Resources displayed, then close the resulting page to see the whole list of new E-Resources. This list displays some but not all new E-Resources.

The following history library blogs list new history resources:

• Reviews in History
• University of Washington
• Next: Newsletter February 2024 >>
• Last Updated: Apr 14, 2024 9:25 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.harvard.edu/history

Harvard University Digital Accessibility Policy

PUBLIC HISTORY RESEARCH LAB

National visitation report, reframing history, census of history organizations, history in our parks, research briefs, museum closure tracking.

Latest Updates:

• June 8, 2023: New report published: 2023 National Visitation Report

About the Public History Research Lab

By conducting and sharing research about the public history community and the role of history in American life, AASLH helps advance public history practice, strengthen our institutions, and empower history professionals across the country. Through our research, AASLH strives to equip history professionals, museum leaders, scholars, advocates, and others with data and insights they can use to fulfill their missions and more effectively champion the cause of history.

The Public History Research Lab functions as the central hub for the AASLH’s research activities. Through staff expertise and strategic collaboration with external researchers and advisers, we carry out a range of research projects in service of the field. We share our findings through varied outlets, including print and digital publication, webinars, conference sessions, blog posts, and specialized research briefings for the staff and board of historical organizations. We also monitor trends and publications that can impact public history practice, periodically publishing targeted research briefs on the AASLH blog.

If you have questions, ideas, or feedback, or are interested in partnering with us on a project, please contact John Marks ( [email protected] ), Director of the AASLH Public History Research Lab.

John Garrison Marks, Director John Marks is Director of AASLH’s Public History Research Lab, providing strategic direction for AASLH’s research on the U.S. public history community. He oversees the planning and execution of all Research Lab projects, leads collaborations with external researchers, and carries out analysis, reporting, and grant writing for the Lab. Email John .

W. Maclane Hull, Research Fellow W. Maclane Hull holds an M.A. in Public History from the University of South Carolina, where he is currently a Ph.D. student in the Department of History. Since 2018, he has conducted the analysis and contributed to the writing of AASLH’s annual National Visitation Report, as well as other research and writing on historic site visitation. His scholarly research focuses on the cultural history of the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements, with a focus on the history of music. Email Maclane .

View 2023 National Visitation Report here: Infographic Summary | Full Report

Since 2019, AASLH has conducted annually a national survey of in-person visitation trends at United States historical organizations. The National Visitation Report provides data about attendance at historical organizations of all types and sizes, enabling us to more confidently assess Americans’ engagement with U.S. history museums, sites, and other institutions. The Report highlights year-to-year visitation trends, helping us understand more clearly if visitation is going up or down (and by how much) at institutions of different budget sizes, organizational structures, functions, and in different regions of the country.

• In our first National Visitation Report, published in 2019, we found that visitation at historical organizations increased just under 8 percent from 2013 to 2017, and declined about 2 percent from 2017 to 2018.
• Our 2020 report found little change in visitation from 2018 to 2019.
• In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we found that visitation declined nearly 70 percent at institutions of all types, all sizes, and in all regions.
• The 2021 report revealed that visitation increased 75 percent, but that overall visitation remains below pre-pandemic levels.
• Our most recent report reveals that visits to history organizations increased by 37 percent from 2021 to 2022, a continuation of the recovery trend that began in 2021. Although this overall number represents substantial growth and is a positive sign for the field, most history institutions still received fewer visitors last year than they did before the beginning of the pandemic.

We plan to conduct the next survey in 2025.

Additional Resources:

• National Visitation Report Resource Center

In 2019, AASLH received a grant from the Mellon Foundation for “Reframing History with the American Public,” a three-year project to carry out a comprehensive, nationwide study of how the public understands what history is and why it’s valuable to society and to develop new, more effective communications tools for the field. Working with the renowned FrameWorks Institute, partners at the National Council on Public History and the Organization of American Historians, and a panel of advisers of public historians, museum professionals, and history scholars, the “Reframing History” project has three major goals:

• To identify the gaps between experts’ and the public’s understanding of what history is and why it’s valuable to society
• To develop and test new communication strategies for solving those challenges
• To create and deploy tools and resources to train history professionals in all sectors of our field to communicate more effectively with the public.

In 2020, we completed the first of those goals, resulting in the report: “ Communicating about History: Challenges, Opportunities, and Emerging Recommendations. ” You can read our summary of the report on our blog . In 2021 we tested communications strategies identified in that report, developed an empirically tested, proven set of recommendations for how history professionals can most effectively communicate to public audiences what history is, what historians do, and why it’s valuable to society. We have released a Report , Toolkit , and Podcast the summarizes this research and provides recommendations. We are developing webinars, online courses, and other professional development resources to encourage the adoption of the project’s recommendations and train history professionals and volunteers to put them into practice.

As we approach the 250th anniversary in 2026, we believe this project will help historians, museum professionals, educators, and others take full advantage of that once-in-a-generation opportunity to reintroduce history to the public.

• Phase I Report: “ Communicating about History: Challenges, Opportunities, and Emerging Recommendations ”
• Phase I Report (Methodology): “ Communicating about History: Research Methods and Sample Composition ”
• Summer 2020 Project Update: “ Framing History with the American Public ”
• Grant Announcement: “ AASLH Receives Grant to Study Americans’ Attitudes Towards History ”

The  2022 National Census of History Organizations  is a first-of-its-kind effort to research the size and scope of the history community in the United States. Funded through a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the “History Census” represents the first national effort to produce a high-quality, up-to-date, comprehensive list of the country’s thousands of history museums, historical societies, and related organizations. This initiative identified 21,588 history organizations in the United States, a number we are confident represents a  floor  rather than a  ceiling.  Through our analysis of this data, we have been able to identify some of the fundamental characteristics of our field, assess major strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas for improved practice and further research.

Read the Report

Initiated in 2019, the “History in Our Parks” initiative is led by a task force of professionals from state, county, and city parks agencies around the country. This group is working to identify the unique needs and challenges of parks and recreation agencies that care for historic and cultural resources while operating within a system that is not geared towards heritage preservation. In doing this, the task force seeks to gather data on the number of parks and recreation agencies (municipal, county, and others) that care for historic and cultural resources (museums, historic sites, collections, archeological sites, cemeteries, landscapes, etc.), initiate an assessment of their needs and challenges, and explore how AASLH can help through networking, training, and collaborative efforts with other organizations.

In May 2022, the task force published “History in Our Parks: Results from a National Survey of Practitioners.” This report is the result of a survey effort undertaken in Winter 2020 to understand how historic sites are operated by public parks agencies and the challenges faced by practitioners tasked with history work in public parks. Read the report here .

• Task Force Description and Member List

In an effort to make research reports, white papers, and new studies more accessible to history practitioners, the Public History Research Lab publishes “Research Briefs.” These short summaries of new (and sometimes old) research from across and beyond our field help distill lengthy reports into just what you need to know: what they did, what they found, and why it matters to you.

• Institute of Museum and Library Services, “Market Analysis and Opportunity Assessment of Museum Capacity Building Programs” Research Brief | Full Report
• Monument Lab, “National Monument Audit” Research Brief | Full Report

In collaboration with museum professional Adam Rozan, the Public History Research Lab is helping to track, in real-time, announcements of U.S. museum closures. While other research and data collection efforts, like our Census project, can help provide longer-term insights on museum closures, this crowd-sourced project helps identify closure announcements as they happen. We hope this effort can help us see emerging—and concerning—trends sooner and enable us to respond more proactively.

• To submit a recent museum closure, use this form .
• To view the list of closures, click here .
• To read more about the project, click here .

Organization:

Partner organizations:, resources available for planners:.

197 Fascinating US History Research Topics To Top The Class

There is no doubt that America is one of the greatest countries in the world. With its rich history and diverse culture, America has something to offer everyone. The good news is that a wealth of information is available on American history, so you will find one of the research topics that interest you. Today, we will talk about those very US history research topics.

Whether you are looking for a specific event in American history or want to learn more about the country, there is plenty of material to help you get started. If unsure where to begin, try starting with a general search on American history. You can also look for specific topics, such as the American Revolution or the Civil War.

Once you have chosen a US History research topic, you’re on the way to greatness. 

Table of Contents

US History Research Topics: Classic, Neo-Classic, Mind Blowing

The initial step in writing a  research paper  on the history of the United States is to decide on a fascinating topic. If you’re experiencing difficulty finding an excellent US History research topic, don’t fret – we have you covered. This article includes a list of intriguing American History research paper topics for your convenience and to help you ace your thesis. You can also avail History Research Help Service to achieve good grades.

Classic US History Research Topics

• Voyage to Indies and Discovery of North America
• Influence of The New World On the Lives of American Indians
• British colonization of North America: Reasons and motives
• Life and conditions for early settlers in America
• The difference between Southern Colonies and Northern Colonies
• The role of women in the Appalachian colonies 
• The causes of slavery in Newfound America
• Benefits and harms of slavery in the United States of America
• Puritans influence American society and prejudice against other communities
• Conflicts and battles between native Americans and European settlers
• The reasons behind American Revolution and war for freedom
• Research on Salem Witch Trials: Causes and Consequences
• American Revolution War: Causes and Consequences
• Status of African-Americans and condition of slavery after the civil war
• Who were the pilgrims?

More from our blog:  Argumentative Research Topics : Religion, Health, Economics, etc.

Neo-Classical US History Research Topics

• Why was the Civil Rights Movement in the United States influential?
• Is John Kennedy’s death still a mystery?
• Legal Trials and Investigations over JF Kennedy’s Assassination
• Media works, documentaries, and films based on the Life and Death of John Kennedy
• Cuban Missile Crisis: The Threat of Escalation and War
• The reasons behind America fighting the Korean War and its consequences
• Primary causes and consequences of The Vietnam War for The United States
• Analysis of Apocalypse Now in the light of the Vietnam War
• The Iraq War: Causes and Consequences
• What was the Cold War?
• Was The Iraq War a mistake?
• History of the Cold War and its impact on The World and United States
• Impacts of the Iraq War on the global scenario
• War on Terror in Afghanistan
• Reasons behind 9/11 attacks and what could we have done to avoid this?
• Importance of political stability in Pakistan for Global Peace
• Hiroshima Bombing: The Greatest Crime Against Humanity in the history of humankind
• Was the bombing of Hiroshima justified?
• Robert Oppenheimer: The Maker Maker of The Atomic Bomb
• History of Nuclear Weapons in the light of the sentence “Now I become death, destroyer of the world.”
• The attack of Pearl Harbor: The First Major Allies Defeat
• The role of the United States in World War II
• The Great Depression: Causes and Consequences
• The reasons for Americans Entering World War I
• Causes and consequences of The National Ban
• Purpose of the First Constitution Amendment

Read More:  Social Work Research Topics

American History Research Topics For High School

• The role of the Sons of Liberty in the history of the United States
• History of Slavery and Racism
• Native American opposition against the settlers
• A wave of slavery in the United States
• President impeachment over moral issues
• President’s impeachment over national security
• Can the Vietnam War be justified?
• Possibilities of neutrality for the United States in World War I
• Did the world become safer after the Cold War
• Countries involved in The Cold War
• The role of America In The Cold War in The Middle East
• The history behind the Russo-Ukrainian War and the role of America
• Role of Slavery in the American Civil War
• Was slavery the only reason behind American Civil War?
• Imagine yourself in America of 1776? What would be your role? A revolutionary or not?
• Influence of Puritanism On Modern American Culture
• The reasons why America is called The Land Of Opportunity
• The reasons for the creation of the Articles of Confederation
• Difference between North and South American Politics
• The influence of George Washington on the results of the American Revolution

Explore some more  history research paper topics

US History Research Topics for College

• The time of president Jackson
• Monroe doctrine: “America is for The Americans.”
• Presidency of Jefferson
• Conquest of the wild west
• Systematic plunder and annihilation of the Indians
• Constitution of the united states
• Constitutions of the states: the sovereignty of the people, division of powers, the election of positions
• Public, church and state separation
• Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence: “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
• War of independence
• Bill of rights; suspension of trade with England
• Boston tea party against England
• First English emigrants to North America
• From the end of the great depression to the consumer fever
• The marginalized societies
• Black people as a marginalized society
• Transgender as a marginalized community
• Women as a marginalized community in America
• The time of interwar
• The great depression
• From the civil war to the 1st world war
• Consumer society
• The war of secession
• The war against Mexico
• The destruction of Indian cultures
• Persecution against Indian People
• The policy towards Latin America and the Caribbean during the second presidency of Barack Obama
• Americans and political influence in Latin America
• Changes in the power equation, strategic constants in the last two centuries
• Defense Policies in a Global Economic Context and unstable politician
• The United States and anti-Americanism
• Cultural identity and national security
• Political and economic reforms
• The four pillars of US foreign policy toward the Western Hemisphere in the 21st century
• History of Science and technology in the United States
• Work, job insecurity and inequalities youth income in the United States
• History of  US-Russian relations  and the crisis in Ukraine
• Hegemony, geopolitics and the United States
• The Capitalist World System and the New Alignments Geopolitics in the 21st Century

Read More:  Nursing Research Topics

Political US History Research Topics

• Ages of consent and marriage: steps throughout US History
• History of sexual freedom in America
• The history of Political Science
• Political wounds before and after the death of John F. Kennedy
• Jimmy Hoffa as, a notable figure
• Involvement of Sicilian Mafia in the Political History of the United States
• Right to abortion: Past and present
• Immigration to the United States over the last century
• Evolution in the rights of immigrants
• History of Human Rights in The US
• History of Capital Punishments
• The US In International rankings
• Issue of Mass Surveillance: Predictions of George Orwell
• Political terrorism by the United States officials
• Economic terrorism
• Separation of the church from politics
• Foundation of Healthcare policies
• Issue of national security and crimes against prisoners
• War crimes in Iraq
• Environmental politics over the year
• Business vs. working-class conflicts
• Poverty among marginalized societies and the role of the state to overcome the issue
• Global politics and the role of America
• Religious prejudice in the United States
• Racism in Politics
• The political history of American capitalism

Let us write your research Paper at Paper Perk:  Order a research paper .

US Industry History Research Topics

• The United States Patent and Trademark Office
• History of Science and Technology in The United States
• History of NASA and space quest
• Attempts to land on the moon
• History of American Medicine and Pharma
• History of American discoveries
• History of American inventions
• Appreciative research about American engineers and industrialists
• Research on African-American Inventors
• A deep look into the National Investors Hall of Fame
• Science and technology in the United States
• Industrial revolution in the United States
• Role of Capitalism in industrial America
• History of Astrophysics 
• Research in molecular genetics and genomics 
• Health care in the United States and the History of biotechnology
• History of nuclear weapons
• Manhattan Project: Historical Aspects
• The space race between USA and Russia
• Technology during World War I and Technology during World War II
• The military-industrial complex in the United States
• History of Banking and Finance
• History of Wall Street
• Labour unions in the United States and Immigration to the United States
• The agricultural history of the United States
• History of the automobile and Interstate highway system
• Ford Vs. Ferrari: Historical Industrial elements portrayed in the movie
• History of electromagnetism and War of currents
• History of the oil industry and Pennsylvania Oil Rush
• The invention of the telephone
• History iron industry 
• History of the steel industry
• History of Iron and Steel Manufacturing
• History of rail transportation in the United States
• Second industrial revolution
• Role of industry and technology in World War I
• Role of industry and technology in World War II
• History of coal mining
• Efficiencies introduced during the industrial revolution by motorways and canals
• Highways and road structures in the US 
• History of freeways and canals in the United States
• Native American inventors: A more profound look
• Native American Industrialists in the United States
• Structures and industries built by the indigenous people

Business and industry go side by side; you might want to explore:  Business Research Topics  through Paper Perk.

International Relations: History of US Research Topics

• The institutionalization of Political Science
• Studies and Trends in Politics and International Relations
• Historical threats to the US International Relations
• The origin of international relations
• Traditional thought of international relations
• The objective study of historical international relations of the United States
• Origin of Globalization as the US as the center of it
• The United States regarding the international exchange of Technology and cultural industries
• Humanitarian intervention, conflicts and genocide
• Environment, migrations and development
• Security in Relationships Contemporary Internationals

Related to International Relations and Diplomacy:  266 Political Science Research Topics To Get All The Votes

History of Hollywood Research Topics

• Filmmakers from New York
• Life at Hollywood
• History of Visual Effects in American films
• Mafia movies as the rise of emerging US Cinema
• History of American cinema
• Origin and History of Hollywood
• History of motion picture
• Cinema: from the end of the 19th century to the present day
• Reflection of social and historical facts in Hollywood
• Pioneering studies on ideological and historical traits
• Historical Trends That Have Impacted Movies
• Movies explain the past and relate to it
• Initial studies on cinema and its impact on the society

Talking about Hollywood, let’s look at some  Music research topics

In conclusion, this article has provided 197 US history research topics. With such a wide range of topics, you will find one that interests you. With careful research and a well-written thesis, you can win your supervisor’s heart and write the year’s thesis. If you are still confused, you can contact  our writers  for an immediate consultation.

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Get Started on Your Project

A National History Day ® (NHD) project is your way of presenting your historical argument, research, and interpretation of your topic’s significance in history. NHD projects can be created individually or as part of a group. There are two entry divisions: Junior (grades 6–8) or Senior (grades 9–12). After reading the Contest Rule Book and learning about the annual theme , you’re ready to dig in!

Your Guide to Getting Started

Choose your topic .

A topic is the part of history you want to study. Choose a topic that is interesting to you, that fits the annual theme , and that is not too big and not too small. Studying the entire American Revolution is probably too big. At the same time, studying one decision made by General George Washington on one day in the Revolutionary War might be too small. Just like Goldilocks, find a topic that is “just right.”

Can I select any topic I want?

Absolutely! NHD encourages you to explore historical topics ( local , regional, national, or global ) from any time period. Start by checking with your teacher. Teachers might have certain guidelines specific to their classrooms. All topics also need to be approved by your parent or guardian.

How old should my topic be?

Your topic must be old enough that historians are writing about it. Historians tend to wait until enough time has passed that the topic feels complete and they can answer the “So What?” question about the topic; i.e., why is the topic important to know about? You will answer the same question about your topic. 

If you are interested in something that is happening currently or very recently, consider exploring that topic in history. For example, you might be interested in how people today are coping with a dwindling water supply. Look back to struggles over access to water in the past. You might find a great topic that way!

Start Your Research

Once you select a topic, you are ready to begin your research by finding out what was going on before and during the time that your topic occurred. This is called historical context and it’s where historians begin.

Historians use these and other terms when talking about the study of history. Refer to the Student Glossary as you come across historical terms and concepts.

Historical context sets the stage for your topic. To learn about historical context, historians use two key types of resources: primary and secondary sources. Remember to keep track of your research sources so you can create your bibliography.

Secondary Sources

Secondary sources tell, analyze, or interpret events. Historians create secondary sources based on their reading of primary sources. Secondary sources are usually written decades, if not centuries, after the event occurred by people who did not live through or participate in the event. 

Begin your research with secondary sources to help you build your knowledge of the big picture surrounding your topic. To understand the connections between your topic and the time period, ask yourself:

• Why did my topic happen at this particular time and in this particular place?
• What were the events that came before my topic?
• How was my topic influenced by the economic, social, political, and cultural climate of the time period? 

Primary Sources

Primary sources are the most exciting part of history. These are the sources created during the time that the event took place. Be sure to look at primary materials created by as many people as you can. Looking at various viewpoints will help you develop multiple perspectives.

Examples of primary sources include: documents, artifacts, historic sites, songs, or other written and tangible items created during the historical period you are studying.

While it can be tempting to jump right to the primary sources, the historical context of your topic that you learn from secondary sources will help you make sense of the primary sources that you find.

Conducting Interviews

Interviews are not required for an NHD project. Requests to interview historians or other secondary sources are inappropriate. Historians do not interview each other. Instead, you might conduct oral history interviews of those who were eyewitnesses to the events. Oral histories are primary sources. Learn more about g uidelines for conducting interviews and the difference between oral histories and interviews with experts.

Develop a Historical Argument

NHD projects must do more than just tell a story. Historians create a historical argument to state what they will prove through their writing. The historical argument is a clear and specific two or three-sentence statement that contains the how and why of what historians found in their research.

After you do your research and analyze your sources, your ideas about the significance of your topic in history will take shape. Then it is time for you to develop your historical argument.

Your research provides the evidence to support the argument you wish to make.

Example Topic: Battle of Gettysburg

Historical Argument: The Battle of Gettysburg was a major turning point in the U.S. Civil War. It turned the tide of the war from the South to the North. After the battle, Lee’s army would never fight again on Northern soil and the Union army gained confidence.

Select a Contest Category

NHD offers five creative categories in each division (Junior: grades 6–8, or Senior: grades 9–12). The documentary, exhibit, performance, and website categories offer both individual and group participation options. The paper category allows individual participation only. Groups may include two to five students.

Documentary

A documentary is a ten-minute film that uses media (images, video, and sound) to communicate your historical argument, research evidence, and interpretation of your topic’s significance in history. 

A documentary should reflect your ability to use audiovisual equipment to communicate your topic’s significance. The documentary category will help you develop skills in using photographs, film, video, audio, computers, and graphic presentations. Your presentation should include primary source materials and also must be an original production. To produce a documentary, you must have access to equipment and be able to operate it.

Documentary Resources

Documentary project checklist, documentary evaluation form, documentary project example 1: baseball diplomacy, documentary project example 2: aiming for a diplomatic future.

An exhibit is a three-dimensional physical and visual representation of your historical argument, research evidence, and interpretation of your topic’s significance in history.

Exhibits use color, images, documents, objects, graphics, and design, as well as words, to tell your story. Exhibits can be interactive experiences by asking viewers to play music, look at a video, or open a door or window to see more documents or photos.

Exhibit Resources

Exhibit project checklist, exhibit evaluation form, exhibit project example 1: black studies now, exhibit project example 2: the radium girls.

A paper is a written format for presenting your historical argument, research evidence, and interpretation of your topic’s significance in history.

A paper is a highly personal and individual effort, and if you prefer to work alone this may be the category for you. Papers depend almost entirely on words to tell the story, and you can usually include more information in a paper than in some of the other categories. Various types of creative writing (for example, fictional diaries, poems, etc.) are permitted but must conform to all general and category rules.

Paper Resources

Paper project checklist, paper evaluation form, paper project example 1: women strike for peace, paper project example 2: soil conservation service, performance.

A performance is a dramatic portrayal of your historical argument, research evidence, and interpretation of your topic’s significance in history.

The performance category is the only one that is presented live. Developing a strong narrative that allows your subject to unfold in a dramatic and visually interesting way is important. Memorizing, rehearsing, and refining your script is essential, so you should schedule time for this in addition to research, writing, costuming, and prop gathering.

Performance Resources

Performance project checklist, performance evaluation form, performance project example 1: caroline chisholm, performance project example 2: debate over the bill of rights.

A website is a collection of interconnected web pages that uses multimedia to communicate your historical argument, research evidence, and interpretation of your topic’s significance in history.

A website should reflect your ability to use website design software and computer technology to communicate your topic’s significance in history. To create an NHD website project, you must use NHDWebCentral ® .

Website Resources

Nhdwebcentral ® instructions, website project checklist, website evaluation form, write your process paper & annotated bibliography.

All NHD projects have two required elements in common—a process paper and an annotated bibliography.

Process Paper

A process paper is a description of how you conducted your research, developed your topic idea, and created your entry. The process paper must also explain the relationship of your topic to the contest theme. You’ll find these and further information about writing your Process Paper in the Contest Rule Book .

Annotated Bibliography

An annotated bibliography is a formatted list of the sources that you used in your research. The main goals of an annotated bibliography are to:

• Give credit to the original authors, avoiding plagiarism
• Show the value of a source to the research
• Reflect varied perspectives with different types of sources
• Provide the source information so that readers can explore those sources on their own

An annotated bibliography is required for all categories. Read the Contest Rule Book to learn about the detailed requirements.

NoodleTools: NHD and NoodleTools partner together to help you organize your research sources. NoodleTools can help you track your sources, take notes, organize your ideas, and create your annotated bibliography. Your teachers can sign up and receive account access for all of their students for one year. The program allows teachers to see the progress their students have made and offer direct electronic feedback.

Find Your Local Contest

National History Day competition begins at the local level. Registration, contest dates, submission deadlines, and further supporting materials are available through each affiliate’s local contest website.

Project Examples

Get inspired by NHD projects submitted in previous years’ contests.

Create an Entry

Resources to help you start and complete your NHD entry

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Honors US History Semester 1 Projects: Home

Database resources.

• History Reference Center
• Biography Reference Center

Website Resources

• Research Project Calculator Calculate the step by step timeline for completing a research paper or project.
• Historic Newspapers--Library of Congress Welcome to Chronicling America, enhancing access to America's historic newspapers. This site allows you to search and view newspaper pages from 1880-1922 and find information about American newspapers published between 1690-present.
• American Memory Project--Library of Congress American Memory provides free and open access through the Internet to written and spoken words, sound recordings, still and moving images, prints, maps, and sheet music that document the American experience.
• History Channel Information by Topic Choose from a VERY large group of topics. Provides brief descriptions and links to related articles.
• Collection of Links--US History 1890-1930 Over 500 links to information about the Emergence of Modern America.
• Library of Congress 1900-1929 Progressive Era to New Era Immigration and Ethnic Heritage Industrialization, Urbanization and Labor Westward Expansion Women's Suffrage WWI
• Great Depression & WWII, 1929-1945 The Great Depression WWII
• Collection of Links--US History 1929-1945 Over 450 links to information on the Great Depression and WWII.
• Collection of Resources for Educational Excellence Features photos, videos, artifacts, and articles on a wide variety of US history topics.
• PBS Lesson Plans
• US Gov't Department of Defense There is information from the secretary of defense, military photographers, Department of Defense information, links to each branch of the military’s websites, news updates, a link to the Pentagon tv channel, and photo archives. There are also ways to subscribe to their RSS feed, podcasts, and widget.
• The American Presidency Project The American Presidency Project contains the most comprehensive collection of resources pertaining to the study of the President of the United States.

Books Available

• The Great Depression: An Eye Witness History Compiles a history of the Great Depression, including the events that led up to it and the New Deal that followed, with chronologies, personal narratives, and documents.
• Black Tuesday: A Prelude to the Great Depression Describes the events leading to the October 29, 1929, stock market crash resulting in a financial loss to thousands of investors and ushering in the Great Depression. more... less... US HISTORY 1920-30's DOA
• An Album of the Great Depression Discusses the causes, events, and effects of the Great Depression and highlights the programs designed to alleviate it. more... less... US HISTORY 1920-30's KAT
• WWII Contains excerpts from memoirs, diaries, letters, newspapers, speeches, advertisements, and other primary sources that provide eyewitness reports on the America's role in World War II, and features introductory essays, chronologies, period illustrations and photographs, and brief biographies of key individuals. more... less... WARS WWII SCH

Learning Objective

Students will be able to compare perspectives on events in US History through examination of a ficiton or non-fiction book and research of the time period.  For first semester students will examine events from 1900-1945 (end of WWII).

Important Documents

• Book Review Rubric
• Book Review Instructions
• Magazine Instructions & Rubric

Examples of Strong/Weak Work

Important vocabulary terms.

• Last Updated: Dec 3, 2015 2:34 AM
• URL: https://libguides.ops.org/burkehonorsushistorysemester1

Omaha Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, age, genetic information, citizenship status, or economic status in its programs, activities and employment and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following individual has been designated to address inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Superintendent of Schools, 3215 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68131 (531-299-9822).

Las Escuelas Públicas de Omaha no discriminan basados en la raza, color, origen nacional, religión, sexo, estado civil, orientación sexual, discapacidad , edad, información genética, estado de ciudadanía, o estado económico, en sus programas, actividades y empleo, y provee acceso equitativo a los “Boy Scouts” y a otros grupos juveniles designados. La siguiente persona ha sido designada para atender estas inquietudes referentes a las pólizas de no discriminación: El Superintendente de las Escuelas, 3215 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68131 (531-299-9822).

HIS 131 - American History I: American History Project

• Research in History
• Find Articles
• Civil War Women
• Civil War Films
• Civil War Medicine
• Civil War Prisons
• Civil War Photography
• Books, eBooks, and Websites
• Civil War Weapons
• Civil War Leaders
• General Sherman
• African Americans in the Civil War
• American History Wargame
• Research Process
• MLA Citation Help
• Primary Documents for HIS131
• John Brown and Harper's Ferry
• ECHS - Native American Research Assignments

Civil War Topics

• Books, Ebooks, and Websites
• African-Americans in the Civil War

eLibrary Civil War page

Annotated Bibliography

• MLA Annotated Bibliography - Civil War

Click on the Link for a Sample of an Annotated Bibliography

Database Suggestions

• << Previous: Find Media
• Next: Civil War Women >>
• Last Updated: Mar 6, 2024 11:06 AM
• URL: https://libguides.rccc.edu/amhistory1

College of Arts and Sciences

History and American Studies

• What courses will I take as an History major?
• What can I do with my History degree?
• History 485
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• What courses will I take as an American Studies major?
• What can I do with my American Studies degree?
• American Studies 485
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Alumni Intros

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A proposal is a chance to explain your topic, discuss the resources critical to your research, and justify the need for your proposed paper.

Proposal Guidelines

Goals of a proposal.

1) Precisely defines your topic and the need for studying it (i.e., it briefly takes apart the topic and tells what one will learn from reading your proposed paper).

2) Explains the sources critical to your proposed research, demonstrating that they are adequate for your project.

1) Narrow and break down your topic and your approach to it as much as possible. (ONE SENTENCE ON THE PROPOSED TOPIC IS NOT ENOUGH.)

2) Discuss the issues and questions which you foresee your paper addressing.

3)  To demonstrate your competence, you must exhibit a level of research and thinking suitable for this stage of your work.  Remember, you are expected to have done a fair amount of research already.  It should indicate that you have done extensive research in library catalogs, databases and the internet.

4) Explain why you are using your secondary and primary sources, to explain which will be especially valuable, and, perhaps, to explain what important sources are not available and are likely to be missing from your paper–and why your topic is manageable nonetheless.

Do not try to cover every source. Provide a useful view of the critical sources that anyone doing your topic must look at. Whether or not you have yet finished your study of them, or you have yet to acquire them, you should have determined which are the critical ones.

In referring to sources, always provide author (full name on first reference) and date of work; generally the full title is also necessary or useful.

5) Exclude irrelevant information. Since the proposal is a discussion of sources and not a research trail, do not include comments about where, in what order, or how you found sources (e.g., in the UMW library or through ILL) or that you are “still waiting” for ILL to provide you with a book.

6) Include a bibliography of relevant sources cited using the Turabian/Chicago Manual of Style  citation guidelines . That list of sources should not include finding aids, bibliographies, encyclopedias, or children’s books.

7) Although footnotes/endnotes are not usefully employed in a proposal, you must make clear where your information came from.

8) Use of first-person perspective can be appropriate, but do so only in consultation with your professor.

For general writing guidelines, see here .

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American History Decades project/Hunt: Home

Objective/goals.

Objective: Students will research various aspects of American culture and politics during their assigned decade (the 1920's, 1930's, 1940's and 1950's). This will provide for students to work both independently and collaboratively, honing their research, writing and presentation skills.

Project Goals:

• This project should provide the audience with an overall idea of what happened during that decade, and an idea of what it was like to live during that time period.
• After researching the topic, students will need to determine the format the project will take, such as Prezi, Google slides, Keynote or Powerpoint. Whatever the format chosen by a group, the presentation should make use of multimedia and be colorful, engaging and interactive. Use text, pictures, music, video and be creative; really try to think "outside of the box."
• The presentation will take 3-7 minutes,
• Students will work in small groups, i.e. the 1920's group will work together, the 1930's group will work together, and so on.
• Each group member will select an aspect/aspects of their era (see topics below) to research independently.
• Each group member must read at least three scholarly sources (i.e. articles by professional scholars from academic journals or selected chapters from books written by professional scholars).
• Each group member will choose one of their three scholarly sources and write one annotated bibliography .
• Each project should include information on the following:
• Fashion/Clothing/Hairstyles (men and women)
• Entertainment/Recreation/Leisure/Popular Culture
• Inventions/Technology/Innovations

Project Requirements

Groups will write a brief report about their decade, devoting about two paragraphs to each of the topics listed above using data gleaned from each member's three scholarly sources. Therefore, a group with four members will have a total of twelve scholarly sources from which to draw information for their written report. Reports must be properly formatted using footnotes and bibliographies in the Chicago Manual of Style. All group members must partake in researching and putting the project together and identify who did what on the final project.

Getting started:

Use your Foner textbook to help you find good scholarly sources. Skim over the readings in each chapter to help you think about data to explore for your topics. A list of scholarly sources, "review questions" and useful websites can be found at the back of each chapter.

• For the Twenties see p. 796
• For the Thirties see p. 838
• For the Forties see p. 882
• For the Fifties see p. 916

Your Teacher

Additional resources.

• PDS library catalog (Destiny) You can search for library books on your decade or on a specific topic if the material is not found on the reserve cart.
• GVRL (ereference books) Hint: for this project, click on "history," and then search the American Decades set, and the one called American Decades: Primary Sources.
• ABC-CLIO American History Hint: Choose the American History database and then click "topics" to find a timeline. You can then choose time periods corresponding to your decade.
• Infobase American History Hint: See the "Topic Centers" box to the right to find quick links to the decades.
• Historical New York Times
• Oxford Music Online The music database should be able to help with information on types of music and musicians.
• JSTOR Scholarly journal articles. Remember to use the "advanced search" function.
• EBSCO Academic Search Premier EBSCO's version of scholarly journal articles.
• ArtStor Huge image database. Find photos and works of art here.
• A-Z databases Links to all the PDS databases.
• Chicago Manual of Style A quick, online guide to citing using the Chicago manual of style.
• Last Updated: Mar 4, 2016 8:23 AM
• URL: https://pds.libguides.com/Decades

Best History Research Paper Topics

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

Comprehensive List of Best History Research Paper Topics

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

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Ancient History Topics

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

Medieval History Topics

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

Early Modern History Topics

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

Modern History Topics

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

Asian History Topics

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

American History Topics

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

European History Topics

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

African History Topics

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

Military History Topics

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

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

History and What Range of Best Research Paper Topics it Offers

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

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

Exploring Different Periods

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

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

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

Geographical Perspectives

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

Thematic Approaches

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

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

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

Making the Right Choice

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

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

How to Choose Best History Research Paper Topics

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

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

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

How to Write a Best History Research Paper

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

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

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

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History Research for High School Students

Historians piece together narratives from fragmented evidence to reconstruct past events. From Herodotus, the "Father of History," to Doris Kearns Goodwin, combining history and leadership insights, historians preserve and interpret the past, shedding light on the complexities of human experience. Recently, history increasingly emphasizes diverse and inclusive narratives, exploring perspectives from marginalized groups, highlighting previously overlooked voices and stories. History is critical to understanding the present moment and making decisions that will lead us to a better future.

History Research Guide

History Articles

History Projects

History Mentors

History Scholars

Types of History Research and Careers

Historical research includes archival research, oral history, and quantitative analysis. Archival research involves examining primary source documents, while oral history captures personal narratives through live interviews. Quantitative history employs statistical methods to analyze historical data. 

Beyond traditional roles in academia, careers for historical researchers include museum curators, who manage and interpret historical collections, and archivists, responsible for preserving and organizing historical documents. Historical consultants can work with businesses, government agencies, or film directors to provide historical context for projects. Some authors—Hilary Mantel, Umberto Eco, and Ken Follett, for example—write historical fiction, where they blend research with storytelling. Another career option is forensic history, in which historians collaborate with law enforcement to investigate historical mysteries or cultural property theft. Digital historians leverage technology to create interactive exhibits or contribute to digital humanities projects. Genealogists use historical records to trace family histories. 

Such diverse career options allow individuals to apply historical research skills in innovative and impactful ways.

How to Get into History

Start by choosing a specific era or topic that captivates you. Dive into reputable books, documentaries, and online resources to build a foundational understanding. Seek guidance from teachers or local historians, and consider participating in history-related clubs or activities. Be sure to question your sources, especially digital sources. If possible, explore physical primary sources in local archives or museums. Attend history lectures or events to broaden your perspective. Here are some more resources.

1. Take a Class in High School

If you're interested in becoming a historian, it's important to build a well-rounded foundation in various subjects that will enhance your analytical, research, and communication skills. Here are some standard and less obvious high school classes that can contribute to your preparation for a career in history:

World History - Provides a broad understanding of major events and developments globally.

U.S. History - Focuses on the history of the United States, a fundamental subject for many historians.

Advanced Placement (AP) English - Develops critical reading and writing skills, crucial for historical analysis and research papers. Advanced Composition or research writing also enhances your ability to articulate historical findings clearly.

Geography - Understanding the geographical context of historical events can provide valuable insights.

Economics/Government - Helps in understanding the socio-political and economic aspects of historical events.

Latin or Classical Languages - Useful for understanding ancient texts and civilizations.

Modern Languages - Depending on your historical focus, knowledge of languages like French, Spanish, German, or others may be beneficial.

Statistics - Essential for analyzing and interpreting historical data.

Archaeology or Anthropology - Provides insight into human societies and cultures through the study of artifacts and physical remains.

Computer Science or Digital Media - Familiarity with digital tools and research methods is increasingly important in modern historical research.

Art History or Music History - Understanding the cultural and historical context of art and music can enrich your understanding of a specific time period.

Philosophy - Develops critical thinking skills and an understanding of different worldviews that can be valuable in historical analysis.

Public Speaking - Enhances your ability to present historical findings effectively, a crucial skill for historians.

Psychology or Sociology - Provides insights into human behavior, which can be valuable when analyzing historical events and figures.

Internships or Independent Study - Seek opportunities for internships or independent study projects with local historical societies, museums, or archives to gain practical experience.

Remember that the specific classes available may vary by school, so it's essential to take advantage of any unique opportunities or specialized courses that align with your historical interests. Additionally, consider participating in extracurricular activities like history clubs, academic competitions, or research projects to further develop your passion for history.

2. Read a Book

Here are some foundational books we chose based on their historical significance, influence on the field of history, and their enduring relevance. They often mark key moments in the development of historical thought or provide key insights into significant periods and cultures. We also include some newer works that challenge traditional perspectives and contribute to the evolution of historical discourse. These books provide a mix of foundational knowledge and more contemporary perspectives, encouraging a well-rounded understanding of historical scholarship. Keep in mind that interpretations in history can vary, and engaging with a variety of perspectives is key to developing a nuanced understanding of the past.

Foundational Readings:

The Histories by Herodotus (c. 440 BCE) - Often considered one of the earliest works of history, this ancient Greek text covers the Greco-Persian Wars and offers insights into various cultures.

The Peloponnesian War by Thucydides (c. 431 BCE) - Thucydides provides a detailed account of the conflict between Athens and Sparta, emphasizing the importance of political and social factors.

The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli (1532) - Though more political philosophy than history, this work explores the nature of power and leadership, influencing historical thought.

The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon (1776) - A comprehensive analysis of the Roman Empire's history, widely regarded as a foundational work in the field of history.

The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels (1848) - While primarily a political and economic treatise, understanding Marx's ideas is crucial for interpreting many aspects of modern history.

The History of the Decline and Fall of the Ottoman Empire by Mustafa Ali (1731-1754) - This Ottoman historian's work offers insights into the decline of the Ottoman Empire from an insider's perspective.

Newer Thought-Provoking Works:

Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond (1997) - Explores the impact of geography and environment on the course of human history, challenging traditional Eurocentric perspectives.

A People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn (1980) - Offers an alternative narrative of U.S. history from the perspective of marginalized groups, challenging mainstream historical interpretations.

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari (2014) - A provocative exploration of the history of Homo sapiens, covering the cognitive, agricultural, and scientific revolutions.

The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan (2015) - Challenges Eurocentrism by examining the historical significance of the Silk Roads and the interconnectedness of civilizations.

The Swerve: How the World Became Modern by Stephen Greenblatt (2011) - Explores the impact of the rediscovery of Lucretius' poem on the Renaissance and the shaping of modern thought.

1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles C. Mann (2005) - Challenges traditional views of pre-Columbian America, presenting new perspectives on the advanced civilizations that existed before European contact.

The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined by Steven Pinker (2011) - Argues that violence has decreased over human history, challenging perceptions of historical periods as more violent.

3. Extracurricular Study

Here are some activities you can do outside of classroom time to practice your skills in researching, presenting, and sharing historical knowledge. 

History Club - Join or establish a history club at your school. This provides a platform to discuss historical topics, organize events, and interact with like-minded peers.

Model United Nations (MUN) - Participate in MUN conferences to improve research, negotiation, and diplomacy skills. MUN often involves addressing historical and contemporary global issues.

Debate Team and/or History Bowl - Participate in academic competitions such as Debate Team, History Bowl, History Bee, or Quiz Bowl. These events challenge your historical knowledge and critical thinking abilities. They can also build your public speaking and argumentation skills.

Internships at Museums or Archives - Seek internships or volunteer opportunities at local museums, historical societies, or archives. This hands-on experience provides insight into archival work, curation, and preservation.

Writing for School Publications - Contribute articles on historical topics to your school newspaper or literary magazine to develop your writing skills and share your passion with a wider audience.

Community Service Projects - Engage in historical community service projects, such as documenting local history, conducting oral history interviews, or assisting with historical preservation efforts.

Language Clubs - Join language clubs related to historical languages (e.g., Latin, Ancient Greek, or others) to enhance your linguistic skills and deepen your understanding of historical texts.

History Research Opportunities 

Once you have some ideas about what time period you’d like to research, you could pursue your vision at a pre-college program, a local community college, a competition, an internship, or a virtual program. If you want to be free to conduct your own project, we still advise that you give yourself a deadline and have a mentor who you can consult. 

Find research programs close to home

We’ll go into summer history programs in more depth in the next section, but if you want to find all types of established research opportunities close to home, our High School Student Research Opportunities Database is an excellent resource. Click on your state, then search based on your location, institution, event type (in-person or virtual), and tuition (paid or free). 

Join Online History Communities

Participate in online history forums, discussions, and social media groups to connect with a broader community of historians and history enthusiasts. JSTOR Daily has a community section where you can find articles, discussions, and updates related to historical and political topics. Goodreads also has various groups dedicated to history and politics. Joining these groups allows you to participate in book discussions, recommendations, and more. You can also visit subreddits like r/history, r/AskHistorians, r/Ask_Politics, and others for a wide range of historical and political discussions. Always check the rules and guidelines for each subreddit.

Work with a professor

If you have a clear idea of your passions, you can reach out to professors in your field to see if they are open to collaborating with you. Refer to our Guide to Cold-Emailing Professors (written by Polygence literature research mentor Daniel Hazard , a Ph.D. candidate at Princeton University).

Engage in your own research project

Students with initiative and focus can opt to tackle research independently. Carly Taylor , a Stanford University senior who has completed several research projects this way, outlined a guide about how to write a self-guided research paper . By reading it, you’ll get a better understanding of what to expect when taking on this type of project.

Summer Programs in History

Here are some top picks for summer history research programs. We chose them based on a combination of their affordability, name recognition, social opportunities, and academic rigor.

Stanford Summer Humanities Institute

Hosting Institution: Stanford University

Cost: $8,250 USD for 2023

Format: In person (Stanford, CA)

Application deadline: February 

Here’s an opportunity to study at Stanford University. Coursework includes Ancient Rome, The Greeks, Revolutions, The American Enlightenment among others. Students explore the humanities at a college level, investigate philosophical questions, and pursue exciting research topics that are chosen by each participant. Check the site for the most current application information.

1. Pre-College Program in American History

Hosting Institution: Wiliam & Mary and National Institute of American History & Democracy (NIAHD)

Cost: $2,500 - $5,000 USD

Format: Online and in-person (Williamsburg, VA)

Application deadline: Late May 

These three-week sessions are a rigorous prep for college. Students participate in class discussions with a maximum of 12 students; are expected to read 30-60 pages of college-level articles and primary source documents each night; and will submit written work each week. Course work includes “Artifacts of American History,” “The Road to the American Revolution,” and “The Road to the United States Civil War.” Check the site for the most current application information.

2. Ancient Civilizations, History, & Myth

Hosting Institution: Smithsonian Institute

Cost: $8,290 USD + airfare

Format: In person (Europe - various cities)

Application deadline: Mid-March 15

Traveling to Greece and Italy, students dive into the history and traditions of these countries on this high school summer program in the Mediterranean. Participants explore the legacy of the Greek and Roman empires as they travel through the countries where the history was made. Athens, Crete, Santorini, Naples, and Rome among others. Students learn, see, feel how history and the present coexist in Rome, where Renaissance architecture and Roman ruins are integrated in a dynamic modern city. Check the site for the most current application information.

For more picks, check out our Top 10 History Research Summer Programs . 

If you’re searching for a virtual history research opportunity, consider doing a project through Polygence with one of our History mentors .

History Internships for High School Students

A few of the summer programs we found were either paid or unpaid internships. You can also check for internship opportunities with your local community college, university, museum, or historical society. Other good places to check out are rare book libraries, government offices, national park services, or community restoration projects.

1. Student Historian Internship Program

Hosting institution: New-York Historical

Compensation: Unpaid volunteer

Format: In-person (New York, NY)

Application deadline: Mid-Feb

High school students participating in the Student Historian internship utilize New-York Historical resources to conduct research and create digital projects. They learn about careers in museums, libraries, and history fields, collaborate with peers to improve public speaking and leadership skills, and engage in hands-on work to enhance their knowledge of American history. The internship's focus is on Our Composite Nation: Frederick Douglass’ America. Although this internship is unfortunately unpaid, there is an option to receive community service hours or school credit. Check the site for the most current application information.

2. Met High School Internships

Hosting institution: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Compensation: ≈ $1125

Application deadline: Early March

Rising juniors and seniors from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut can connect with professionals in the fields of art, museum, and creativity at one of the world’s finest museums—The Metropolitan Museum of Art—with this awesome paid internship. This internship isn't just for students interested in art - This opportunity enables you to connect with Museum professionals individually or in small groups, in various fields such as editorial, marketing, social media, education, scientific research, conservation, and others. Check the site for the most current application information.

3. Library of Congress

Hosting institution: Office of the Librarian

Format: Online and in-person (Washington, DC)

Application deadline: Late April

If you're interested in public programming, historical research and writing, exhibition development, and outreach, this four-week internship offers a unique experience. Your research will help develop content to support the new participatory learning space for youth and families in the Library of Congress. Check the site for the most current application information.

Polygence Scholars Are Also Passionate About

History project ideas and how to brainstorm your own.

A history project gives you the chance to delve into the past, exploring events, individuals, and societal changes that fascinate you. While you can always go the route of the traditional research paper, you can also consider a vast array of creative alternatives. Consider crafting a compelling documentary or putting on a play, where visuals and narration bring history to life. Or try serial podcasting, using the power of audio and the flexibility of the short form. Embracing diverse formats not only showcases versatility but also enriches the learning experience, making history accessible and engaging.

1. Nature's Past: Let's Do Environmental History!

When you think of “history” you might think of politics and battles but it is so much more than that! Instead of writing a paper on a specific event, try focusing on the environment and the material world. How much better was the environment when everyone rode horses instead of driving cars? What environmental problems did society face in the past and how do those compare or differ from today? 

Idea by history research mentor Gustave

2. History Podcast

Choose a recent event that revolves around race and capitalism within the U.S. Pull together articles, news stories, and social media posts to view the different reactions to this event that occurred. Compare this current event to a similar past event and create a podcast or video of your findings. 

Idea by history research mentor Samantha

3. Family History

Gain a better understanding of your family’s past and the historical events your ancestors may have lived through. Start by interviewing your relatives and listening to their stories in order to collect as much information as possible. Ask questions about your ancestors, places where they’ve lived, collect documents, record oral histories, etc. By using the information given, you can do a deeper dive into your family's past. Write your own family’s history or create a podcast! 

Idea by history research mentor Luther

Check out even more project ideas on the 10 History Passion Project Ideas for High School Students post.  

You can also brainstorm your own project ideas . If you want support, the Pathfinders program gives you the chance to meet with three different mentors who specialize in your field of interest. You can discuss your project ideas with them, and they can help you grow your idea, discover new research techniques, and point the way to great resources and alternative options. 

History Projects from Polygence Scholars

To get you inspired with the variety of forms your history research project could take, here are a few projects by some of our Polygence Scholars.

1. A Board Game All About the American Revolution

Michael's game focuses on American history, specifically the colonial era and the American revolution. Players roll dice to determine how far they will move each round, and the goal is to reach the end while witnessing as many historical events as possible. There are also different tiles that represent different events, each spot meant to educate the player on that aspect of history.

2. Learning from the Master: A Conceptual Drawing

Israel's project focused on Leonardo da Vinci as a scientist, inventor,  and artist. He studied da Vinci's legacy and interrogated the perspectives da Vinci represents today. Like da Vinci's, he kept a notebook/sketchbook to think through the ideas that were presented in his research and his project culminated in a finished drawing.

3. Transracial East Asian Adoptees: Navigating Identity as Cultural Frankensteins 

Julia ’s curiosity about her own experience led her to write this research project on transracial adoptions and its impacts on identity formation. She examined the theme of “cultural Frankensteins” in the two films Abandoned Adopted Here and Approved for Adoption , which center around the lived experiences of East Asian transracial adoptees. She also explored the potential struggles many transracial adoptees may face in everyday life. She presented her paper at the Spring 2023 Symposium.  

Writing a History Research Paper

The secret to writing a great history research paper is to choose a time period and subject matter that truly excites you. You will be spending a lot of time researching it so the more curious you are about the subject, the easier it is to motivate yourself to work on it. For pro tips and in-depth instructions, be sure to read our How to Write a Research Paper as a High School Student post. For now, let’s go over several key steps and components of writing a strong research paper:

Select a Relevant and Intriguing Topic: Choose a topic that is meaningful to you. Maybe it has something to do with your own family’s history or someone you admire.Make sure your topic is specific and come up with some clear research questions.

Conduct Thorough Research -  Gather information from reputable sources, including academic journals, books, and online databases. Cite sources properly.

Formulate a Research Question -  Define a clear and concise research question that your paper will address. This question guides your investigation.

Develop a Strong Thesis -  Craft a well-defined thesis statement that conveys the main argument or purpose of your paper. This may change as you unearth new information.

Create an Outline - Organize your paper's structure with an introduction, topic ideas, transitions, and a conclusion. The more preliminary work you can do before you get started on the actual writing of your paper, the easier it will be later.

Writing Process - Be sure to set some time aside to work on it every day. Better to just do a little over a longer period of time than to try to cram everything in at the last minute. Create a schedule for yourself working backwards from your deadline. Be sure to add extra time for editing and reviewing with a mentor or teacher.

Citations and References - Ensure proper citation of sources using a recognized style guide (e.g., APA, MLA).

Proofread and Edit - Carefully review your paper for grammar, spelling, and clarity issues.

An excellent history research paper distinguishes itself through thorough research using credible sources, a well-defined thesis, clear and concise writing, and meaningful analysis. It offers a fresh perspective, contributes to the existing body of knowledge, and provides fresh insights. Seek feedback from teachers or mentors to refine your work and elevate it to a higher standard. 

Finally, if you have some ideas and want to conduct history research with the guidance of a mentor, apply to be a part of our flagship mentorship program . 

Showcasing History Projects

If you do decide to write a research paper for publication, you might want to take a look at potential journals before you even start your research. Browsing through previous articles will give you a sense of the length, tone, format, and other specifications you would need to fulfill in order to publish your findings . Here are some publications you could look into. 

1. Concord Review

The Concord Review is a quarterly journal that publishes exceptional essays written by high school students on historical topics. That said, if your business research has a historical bent to it, it might be eligible for submission. The journal has been around since 1987 and has a great reputation, with many student winners going to great universities. If your paper is published, your essays will also be sent to subscribers and teachers all around the world, which is an incredible achievement.

Papers submitted tend to be around 8,000 words, so there is definitely a lot of writing involved, and the Concord Review themselves say that they are very selective, publishing only about 5% of the essays they receive. We’ve posted our complete guide on publishing in the Concord Review here.

Cost: $70 to Submit and $200 Publication Cost (if accepted)

Deadline: Fixed Deadlines in Feb 1 (Summer Issue), May 1 (Fall), August 1 (Winter), and November 1 (Spring)

Type of research: History / Social Sciences

2. John Locke Essay Competition

This contest gives you the chance to refine your skills in argumentation (e.g,, independent insights, depth of knowledge, clear reasoning, critical analysis, and rhetoric) and have your work assessed by experts. You can choose from 1 of 3 challenging questions posed in 7 different categories (Philosophy, Politics, Economics, History, Psychology, Theology, and Law) in the form of a 2,000-word (max) essay. There’s also a junior category for students who are under age 15 (i.e., 14 or younger). Your entry will be judged by a panel of Oxford and Princeton faculty. Winning essays are posted on the John Locke Institute website , and you can check out the fascinating archive. Check out our post Everything You Should Know about the John Locke Institute (JLI) Essay Competition for more info.

Hosting institution: John Locke Institute

Awards: Awards: $2,000 scholarship (for 1st in each of the 8 categories)

Application deadline: Late May

Submission deadline: Late June

3. The Schola

The Schola is a peer-reviewed quarterly journal that showcases essays on various humanities and social sciences topics authored by high school students worldwide. They feature a diverse range of subjects such as philosophy, history, art history, English, economics, public policy, and sociology.

Editors at Schola are academics who teach and do research in the humanities and social sciences

Cost: $180 submission fee

Deadline: Rolling

Subject area: Humanities

Type of research: Essay submission

4. Research Archive of Rising Scholars (RARS)

Research Archive of Rising Scholars is Polygence’s own preprint server! We were inspired by arXiv so we created a repository for articles and other creative submissions in STEM and the Humanities.

We launched RARS in 2022 and we’re excited to offer a space for budding scholars as they look to publish their work in journals. To get a sense of business research papers we have published in the past, check out the results of a “history” search . 

Cost : Free

Subject area: STEM and Humanities

Type of research: Original research, review articles

Check out the Publishing Your Research as a High Schooler: 20 Journals and Conferences to Consider post for more options. 

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Active History Teacher

Interactive, Hands-on lessons and test prep ideas for US History Classrooms

Decades Project for US History

March 16, 2023

Have you ever assigned a decades project for your US History class?  It’s the end of the year.   You’ve finished your US History curriculum and need something engaging for students to go as an end of the year project?  It’s time to try a US History end of the year decades project!

Are you like me?

It’s May and standardized testing season is over.  You feel like you’ve done all of the fun review activities you can handle for the year.  You need to keep your students engaged and everyone is exhausted!  You want something that students can do independently that will hold their interest.  Sound familiar?

I have tried several projects over the years:  Oral History projects, “pick a topic from this year and research deeper”, Instagram summaries, etc.  All of these were fine, but I found that students really didn’t “get into them” and the work they produced was just ok.  

What is a decades project?

I created a one-pager type summary page for each decade covering the 1920s – 2010s.  Students will research a decade and create images for a variety of topics that relate to that decade.  Finally, they explain how each image relates to the decade they chose.  

The final product is a highly visual representation of each decade!

Benefits of a decades project?

• High interest due to student choice and topics
• Independent research means no direct teaching from you!
• Hand drawn or digital – students get to choose!
• Students love to research the “non history” stuff of a decade such as fashion and music.

How does it work?

• I created a sign up sheet for each decade.
• Students sign up for the decade of their choice.  I capped each decade at 4 because, let’s be honest, 1999s rap is cool.
• After students sign up, they choose to complete the digital version or hand drawn version.
• Students begin their research on the following topics for their decade:  fashion, innovations, music, fads, key events, literature, popular culture, kids/toys.  
• For each topic, students would include 4 images.  You could require more or less.
• I allowed students to include keywords with their visuals, but told them not to use sentences.  The point is to have each decade be a visual representation.
• I required students to use color and be neat.
• Students created a separate document/paper that explained each image for the decade.  They stapled it to their decades page or added a slide before turning it in. 

Student feedback?

Students love this project.  They love the ability to have free research time and that they can be creative.  

Why do I love it?

• The creativity students have is outstanding!
• I love the high quality work they produce on this project!
• We have been so content/standards driven all year, it’s nice to allow students a chance to breathe and research the fun stuff!  
• While they are working I can wrap up end of the year requirements for my school, like grades.

High interest, low stress = it’s a win, win for both teachers and students.  Check out this free and editable decades project and let me know how your students love it! 

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Doing Oral History on a Shoestring

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Phone: 541-346-3714

Websites: Eugene Masonic Cemetery Oral History Project , Eugene Lesbian Oral History Project , Casa y Comunidad , The Healers Project

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I help UO researchers and scholars breakdown information communication gaps between academia and the general public. These take shape through interactive and creative online storytelling projects by way of interviews, oral history, digital archives, and websites that heavily use multimedia.

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Phone: (541) 737-2810

Websites:  SCARC Oral History Program ,  SCARC in Oregon Digital ,  SCARC in OSU MediaSpace ,  Linus Pauling Online

I administer the SCARC Oral History Program and help facilitate digital projects activities in our department. I am also SCARC's lead for electronic records accessioning and web archiving. I curate many of our film and video collections, and have worked extensively with the Ava Helen and Linus Pauling Papers.

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A hands-on workshop designed to equip participants with practical skills for developing low cost oral history projects within their cultural organizations. It promises to ready you with actionable knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the oral history process whether you're embarking on a new endeavor or seeking to enhance existing initiatives.

Led by experienced professionals from the University of Oregon Libraries and Oregon State University Libraries & Press, this how-to do oral histories workshop introduces and orients learners to:

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• Guidance on free or low-cost tools that they can use to provide access to their projects.

Workshop designed for learners at the 2024 Oregon Heritage Conference. April 17-20, Forest Grove

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Who Is in Charge of History Curricula?

Some Findings from the AHA’s Research

Whitney E. Barringer, Nicholas Kryczka, and Scot McFarlane | Apr 17, 2024

Media accounts of a politically charged war for the soul of social studies are overblown. However, no one knows what actually is being taught in classrooms across the United States. In response, the AHA has undertaken a national empirical study on the current state of secondary US history education. This article includes some of the project’s findings.

W hen we asked social studies educators across the country how administrators viewed history curriculum, teachers told us a consistent story: “Afterthought.” “Back burner.” “Short end of the stick.” Teachers have long sensed the gradual sidelining of their subject—in attention, resources, and respect—in service of subjects regularly covered by state-mandated standardized tests. More recently, partisan culture wars have revived social studies’ role as a political football, with activists accusing teachers of pushing distorted history into K–12 classrooms. If this is what attention to social studies looks like, many teachers might prefer neglect.

History teachers are balancing their own expertise with the shifting demands of administrators. Elena Mozhvilo/Unsplash

Over the past two years, the AHA’s Mapping the Landscape of Secondary US History Education project has been cutting through the noise to assemble an empirical picture of what gets taught in US history classes. Over the course of interviewing hundreds of teachers and administrators, surveying more than 3,000 teachers, and collecting troves of curriculum from across the United States, we’ve caught a glimpse of the diverse but consistent challenges that teachers face as they try to keep their spirits up. Most teachers are neither completely ignored nor openly attacked. Instead, they navigate a diffuse and complex set of pressures and incentives around a perennial question: Who is in charge of curriculum?

This is a question with a long history. Between the 1980s and the 2010s, so-called “ accountability movement” boosters had the answer: the bosses are in charge. State, district, and schoolhouse administrators had a duty to align curriculum with state-adopted standards and to align teachers with one another. State education agencies used statewide common assessment to enforce alignment and accountability. Reinforced by federal mandates, these standardized tests were aimed at core skills in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics—not social studies. Today, only 20 states require assessment of US history content, with stakes varying dramatically. In some states with a history assessment mandate, much of the design, scoring, reporting, and consequences of testing are left up to local discretion.

When history does land on statewide exams, the effects on instruction are clear. In Texas, exceptional among our surveyed states with its state-designed, state-scored, standards-aligned exams for K–12 US history, the effects on grade-level course team alignment are clear: 74 percent of Texas teachers we surveyed report that they and their department colleagues give a common test at the end of every curricular unit, compared to only 33 percent in other surveyed states. Testing at the state level trickles down to the local. Teachers in assessment-heavy contexts voiced mixed feelings. One teacher likened their school to “a factory” where they’re “turning out a product.” Others appreciate a view of clear results and the chance to compete with their peers.

Veteran teachers report a clear trend away from autonomy and idiosyncrasy.

While standardized assessment may be the exception rather than the rule for social studies, three decades of accountability initiatives have nonetheless left their mark on the management of teachers. Large districts tend to grow heavier bureaucracies—and in some cases an ambition for more top-down control. Looking across their careers, veteran teachers report a clear trend away from autonomy and idiosyncrasy and toward course team alignment and common assessment. Commenting on the decrease in teacher autonomy, one Pennsylvania administrator admitted that, while he appreciated having oversight as an administrator, “as a teacher, I would have hated it.”

Even as state agencies, curriculum coordinators, and school principals seek to synchronize and discipline instruction, many administrators confessed that history teachers, especially at the high school level, feel at liberty to resist directives that they find burdensome or intrusive—even in right-to-work states. For their part, teachers often described a whiplash effect over the course of their careers; one administrator might assist their course team’s continual improvement with helpful resources, while the next simply pushes the latest trend, requiring paperwork rituals that teachers comply with in a perfunctory way. Ultimately, teachers ride these waves of attention and neglect, while retaining substantial discretion in deciding what they teach, how they teach it, and what materials they use.

The tug-of-war between management and labor reveals a deeper contest over the purpose of teaching history. Among district administrators, an emphasis on developing skills of nonfiction literacy, inquiry, and argumentation prevails. The stress on skills reflects profession-wide trends in curriculum and instruction—and, again, the ongoing pressures of standardized ELA assessment. Districts tend to organize professional development that reflects managerial priorities, leaving teachers on their own to develop their historical expertise. Administrators often express frustration with teachers they see as too focused on content (names, dates, stories, and concepts) rather than skills. At the same time, teachers typically define their expertise in terms of knowing their content. As one Connecticut administrator complained, he would prefer a focus on “transferable history skills” but instead gets stuck working “with history teachers [who] love their content.” In fact, history teachers have no objections to transferable skills: 97 percent of teachers we surveyed cited critical thinking and informed citizenship as the top learning goals for their students. They are far less enthused when they perceive that an administrator sees their social studies classes as an extra period of “nonfiction literacy” training for the next ELA exam.

Alongside the pressures of accountability is the current culture war over history education. Only 2 percent of the teachers we surveyed say they regularly face criticism related to the way they teach topics in US history. Forty percent say they’ve probably encountered an objection only once or twice in their career. Forty-four percent have never encountered an objection to anything they’ve taught. This data is good news, but it is little comfort to teachers who find themselves working in a hot spot. The stories teachers reported to us were highly contingent on local contexts, with teachers who work mere blocks away from each other sometimes reporting radically different experiences.

Most parents are too busy or uninterested to hammer history teachers with objections.

Political extremes—whether conservative state legislators or progressive district administrators—do not represent the average experience of most teachers. Outside of more affluent corridors where some parents have the time to devote themselves to one side or another of the culture war, most parents are too busy or uninterested to hammer history teachers with objections. Public apathy can be no less damaging to teacher morale, with some teachers wishing that parents had the time and energy to care more about what happened in their classrooms—even if the parents centered their attention on controversial topics. When controversy does strike, teachers point to a shared lodestar of political neutrality. K–12 classrooms contain a wide range of ideological perspectives. Even when they find themselves personally out of step with the dominant views in their community, teachers tend to hold firm to a sense of themselves as neutral arbiters and truth tellers. As one Pennsylvania teacher put the common refrain, “it’s not my job to tell your kids what to think but how to think.”

Many administrators agree, backing up teachers when they face unfair critiques. In other cases, they issue vague directives, telling teachers to “be careful.” Such hazy management creates what a Washington state teacher described as “eggshell time.” Ironically, administrators have found that politicized challenges can be effective tools to encourage alignment with their expectations. A Virginia administrator told his teachers that in “this world of controversy . . . if you want to ensure we’re on your side, always use our materials.” In states with testing and top-down standards, this is even more evident. As one Texas administrator put it, teach to the standards “and don’t get on the news.” In Iowa, state guidance made clear that teachers should not interpret their state’s divisive concepts law as prohibiting any teaching or discussion of the history of slavery, racism, or segregation. But a chill had already set in, with some local administrators encouraging their teachers to use primary documents or student discussion in place of their own professional voice when covering so-called “difficult” subject matter. In Washington state, teachers interpreted a widely used antibias rubric as prohibiting them from covering material from the 19th century unless they were constantly and intentionally “calling out” the injustices of the era. Without administrative support, and unsure of what they can say, some social studies teachers feel like they cannot engage their students in the honest conversations that generate insight, curiosity, and trust.

Within the seeds of the culture war is an affirmation that history matters, in contrast to the testing trends that have made social studies an “afterthought.” A healthy public school system requires public deliberation and administrative oversight over what American schoolchildren should know and be able to do. But overbearing standardization—whether undertaken in the name of test prep, racial equity, or patriotism—runs counter to the long-standing and widely embraced goal of social studies: to foster new generations of independent-thinking, self-governing citizens. If teachers are too scared or too regimented to enact these habits as professionals, they will have little hope of modeling them for their students. Crisis and panic generate energy around education reform; they are also poisonous. The antidote is a slower, more deliberate, more mundane process: restore, reinforce, and reinvest in teachers’ confidence as authentic experts in their subject matter.

Historians, even those who do not work in secondary school classrooms, are not bystanders to these efforts. Whether advocating for more class time for social studies, supporting content-rich professional development opportunities, or standing up to those who seek to degrade the integrity of history, historians have ample opportunities to contribute. Our full research report, to be released this fall, will be useful for anyone with a stake in history and history education to understand this context and draw conclusions about the best approaches to making productive change.

The Mapping the Landscape research team presented a summary of their broader findings on March 14 at American Lesson Plan , an AHA Online event. A recording can be found on the AHA’s YouTube channel.

Whitney E. Barringer and Scot McFarlane are researchers and Nicholas Kryczka is research coordinator at the AHA.

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Whitney E. Barringer, Lauren Brand, and Nicholas Kryczka | Sep 26, 2023

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New Global Policy Horizons Lab Used to Research Conflict in Yemen

April 17, 2024

• history politics and international relations
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Samantha Ramay, a History major with a minor in International Relations, is tackling a huge research project this year. She is analyzing how diplomatic, economic, military and humanitarian factors are colluding and colliding as part of the unfolding crisis in Yemen and the Red Sea. And she’s using the University’s new Global Policy Horizon Lab to aid her efforts.

“Webster has provided me with academic opportunities I didn't even know existed,” Ramay, a junior who will graduate in 2025, said. “I have been encouraged to pursue challenges outside my comfort zone thanks to the wonderful support I've received from faculty mentors. These interactions in the classroom and beyond have left me inspired and empowered to pursue new paths in my education.”

Her project is focusing on the recent Red Sea attacks being launched out of Yemen by Houthi rebels, allegedly in response to the war in Gaza. She is analyzing the complex web of history, ideology and policies in the Middle East that have contributed to the Yemen crisis. Her final study will be presented as a conflict assessment report that summarizes her findings and offers policy suggestions. Once completed, she will use other resources in the lab to submit the paper for evaluation and publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

“The lab has given me the incredible opportunity to engage in international relations research in the way a policy analyst would, and also be compensated for my research thanks to the Don Maland Scholarship for Conflict Analysis and Resolution,” Ramay said. “I am incredibly thankful to be trusted with such a rewarding responsibility.”

The Global Policy Horizon Lab was created with students like Ramay in mind, said International Relations Professor Dani Belo.

“The lab is designed for students from all majors to explore national and international policies, with an emphasis on security,” Belo said. “By using the resources offered in the lab, we hope to equip students the practical knowledge and skills needed to pursue careers in the policy community.”

The lab was launched in the fall of 2023 in Room 104 of the H. Sam Priest Building. While the lab is physically located on Webster’s main campus in St. Louis, it is open to students at all of Webster’s locations around the world, Belo said. “Our resources are all digitally accessible online,” he said. Faculty also can use the lab’s resources, he added. 

Any student who wishes to participate in the lab should contact Belo at [email protected] and visit the lab website . 

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Five things our research uncovered when we recreated 16th century beer (and barrels)

It’s true that our 16th-century ancestors drank much more than Irish people do today. But why they did so and what their beer was like are questions shrouded in myth. The authors were part of a team who set out to find some answers.

As part of a major study of food and drink in early modern Ireland, funded by the European Research Council, we recreated and analysed a beer last brewed at Dublin Castle in 1574. Combining craft, microbiology, brewing science, archaeology, as well as history, this was the most comprehensive interdisciplinary study of historical beer ever undertaken. Here are five things that we discovered.

1. People didn’t drink beer because water was unhealthy

It’s often assumed that lack of access to clean water led people to drink beer instead. We know this isn’t true for many reasons, not least because brewers needed a constant source of fresh water to make the best beer.

Water was certainly viewed as less healthy, but not because of any understanding of microbial contamination. According to a system of medicine and treatment used at the time, Galenic humorism , water was a “cold” drink that affected digestion, causing fluctuations and windiness. Meanwhile, beer was “warm and comforting”, balancing the “humours” and quenching thirst.

2. Beer was a payment for work

Beer was taken as medicine, often mixed with curious ingredients. Treatments for conditions such as flux or bed wetting, for example, required ground kid’s hoof or grated stag’s penis to be taken with a drink of beer.

People drank at work, commonly receiving drink as part of their wages. The quantities were staggering. At Christchurch Cathedral in Dublin, masons received up to 15 pints per day when undertaking heavy work.

More typical was a range of five to ten pints, as was the case at Dublin Castle. There, servants imbibed up to 2,700 calories a day in beer alone, the cost of which exceeded what the household spent on bread.

3. Beer had some different ingredients then

In many ways, 16th-century beer would be recognisable today. The key ingredients were malt (made from barley or oats depending on the region), water, yeast and hops.

The addition of hops, a Dutch innovation, spread throughout Europe in this period. This resulted in a longer lasting drink, accelerating the development of the brewing industry as we know it today.

But there are differences between pre-modern and modern beers, relating primarily to the nature of the ingredients. Four centuries ago, cereals were grown as landraces .

A landrace has a wide range of characteristics distinct from those of standardised modern varieties, through adaptation to their regional climate, soils and topography. Shrinking cultivation of these landraces meant that sourcing heritage ingredients was challenging.

The variety of barley we chose was bere . This is the only landrace barley still grown commercially, thanks to the conservation efforts of agronomists and farmers in Orkney , Scotland.

The experiment was a unique opportunity to examine the significance of these varieties to the taste and quality of drinks in the past, and the benefits of saving heritage crops for future generations.

4. Making beer required skills in short supply today

Industrial brewing today produces the same beer every time. Brewing in the past, using simpler equipment and in a more open environment, was much more challenging. Brewers were deeply in tune with their working conditions and didn’t have modern devices such as thermometers.

They used their senses and knowledge to make adjustments as they worked. As the project team learned the hard way, small mistakes could be disastrous, resulting in spoiled beer and accidental porridge.

Recreating the technology of the past also highlighted the wider craft skills, such as coopering (making barrels), wicker-weaving, woodworking, and coppersmithing, that went into making all the equipment needed to make a pint. Much like heritage crops, these skills are in worrying decline.

Our oak fermenting barrels and mash tuns (a vessel used in brewing) were made by Les Skinner , at the time one of the last two master coopers in England. He has since retired. We had to go all the way to Portugal to find coppersmiths who could build a large freestanding boiler.

5. Even everyday beer was strong

One enduring misconception is that people were able to drink so much in the 16th century because their beer was relatively weak. Based on little evidence, it is assumed that beer of around 2% alcohol by volume (abv) was the most common drink of the working classes. But we know this so called “small beer” was widely rejected by workers, as well as by physicians, dietary writers, and government officials, who all deemed it dangerous to health.

Our experiment showed that a typical beer of middling strength actually had the potential to be around 5% abv, comparable to modern lager. This means people could have been extremely inebriated from merely what they drank alongside work. Unsurprisingly, there were loud and frequent calls for drinkers to show moderation.

Those calls often came, however, from the same people who liberally supplied their workers with beer. This suggests that the context in which people drank was very important. If having a pint or two at breakfast and dinner was acceptable, even expected, many more at the village alehouse was seen as more troublesome.

Susan Flavin , Associate professor of history, Trinity College Dublin and Charlie Taverner , Research fellow, history, Trinity College Dublin

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article .