278 Interesting History Essay Topics and Events to Write about

A history class can become a jumble of years, dates, odd moments, and names of people who have been dead for centuries. Despite this, you’ll still need to find history topics to write about. You may have no choice!

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But once in a while, your instructor may let you pick a history essay topic. Are you clueless about where to start? If you are, don’t worry. You’ve come to the right place! In this article, you’ll see 278 cool historical events to write about. You’ll also discover some sources for good research on our ideas.

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Top 10 History Essay Topics

  • The US’s role in World War I.
  • Child labor during the Puritan era.
  • Religion during the Aztec times.
  • Causes of the Battle of Germantown.
  • The economic impact of the Titanic ’s sinking.
  • The economic effect of the Bracero Program.
  • Cultural impact of the Spanish-American War.
  • Industrial Revolution’s impact on the environment.
  • The goal of Protestors at the 1968 Democratic Convention.
  • Women’s employment during the Great Depression.

How to Pick the Best History Essay Topic

Most of this article is devoted to listing history topics that are ideal for essays, but first, it’s important to have a simple process for using a list of possible essay topics like this.

  • Before you start writing, brainstorm. Read this list. Scan lists of history essay prompts. Maybe even skim a history essay example or 2 (or 10, or 25). When you find a topic you like even a bit, write it down in your personal list. Add any other topics that come to your mind.
  • Pick a topic that will satisfy your instructor and you can write well about. After you have a long list, review the assignment instructions. Then, eliminate the most inappropriate topics from your list. Lastly, reread the remaining topics. At this point, decide the topics you know enough about to write about wisely.

This 2-step process will make sure you get started on the right foot, but don’t forget the basics of sound writing. Remember these two rules. First, always plan your essay by using an outline. Second, stick to a well-structured essay with an introduction, body, and conclusion (use a 5-paragraph essay if it’s suitable).

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Here’s one further tip that is notably helpful for history essays. Use Wikipedia to explore historical events that you don’t understand well. (But of course use primary sources if you are writing a true research paper.) Alternatively, if you have some keywords in mind, you can find a random topic generator for writing and see what it can offer you.

Here’s the list of history essay prompts that you’ve been waiting for.

The Ultimate List of Historical Events to Write about

  • An Industrial Revolution in England essay is an excellent Industrial Revolution essay. Use this essay to explain some Industrial Revolution effects. Or perhaps give a brief but analytical overview of the Industrial Revolution timeline.
  • Alternatively, you could write an Industrial Revolution in Europe essay . England was the first nation to industrialize. But it wasn’t the last. In this Industrial Revolution essay, perhaps discuss differences among European nations in industrialization. (This kind of comparative approach yields an especially fine Industrial Revolution research paper as well.)
  • Or use a markedly different topic by writing a Martin Luther King essay . This key historical figure still shapes how we think about race, social justice, and the power of nonviolent protest. His death was tragic.
  • One way to avoid making your essay a Martin Luther King biography is to focus on a specific event or impact of this man’s life. For example, your Martin Luther King essay could be about a specific Martin Luther King speech or quote . (But if you’re going to write about King’s famous “ I Have a Dream ” speech, make sure you have something unique to say!)
  • Instead, you could write a broader Civil Rights Movement essay . In this, you must go beyond a basic Civil Rights Movement summary and focus on the meaning of this period over time or some specific change caused by it. (Again, don’t let your Civil Rights Movement essay become a Civil Rights Movement research paper.)
  • You could write about another period of dramatic change in a French Revolution essay . This violent revolution filled with imprisonments, trials, and beheadings was caused by immense suffering by the poorest people in France. As such, when writing this essay, provide only a brief French Revolution summary, and focus on the impact and triggers of specific events.

Fact for History essay: Last 3500 years the civilizated world has lived in peace for only 230 years.

  • Similarly, you could write an American Revolution essay . Both events involved overthrowing a monarch, but unlike a French Revolution essay, an American Revolution essay is effectively about a war, the build up to war, and the recovery from a war.
  • Perhaps your historical essay could focus on a person who was instrumental to the American Revolution . For example, consider Ben Franklin , a famous early American statesman, diplomat, scientist, and inventor.
  • The War of 1812 was the conflict between America and Britain directly following the American Revolutionary War . It’s a fine essay topic for those seeking to understand early American history.
  • Wars make notable topics for historical essay, but the aftermath can be even more interesting. The Weimar Republic was the terribly failed German government created after World War I . A critique of this government could be a superb essay subject.
  • In contrast, post-war Vietnam has been a relative success story. The nation reunified following the defeat of South Vietnam. The modern Vietnamese people possess a higher quality of life than citizens of many nearby nations.
  • You could also write about the Post-World War II 1950s . During this time, America exhibited surprising growth and prosperity. However, the United States began to wage a deadly Cold War with the USSR.
  • Another quite related topic is the messy late 21 st century American foreign policy . You could focus on the rise of terrorism after America’s invasion of Iraq , the worldwide US military bases, or any number of military dictators that the US has supported. These are all very provocative topics.
  • Or you could focus on a more specific military event, such as the Battle of Hastings . This battle shaped the whole history of England, as kings from continental Europe invaded English.

History essay fact about Genghis Ghan.

  • The time of the Battle of Hastings was also characterized by the heavy influence of knights and feudal law in daily life. Knights were more than heavily armed warriors. They were also lords that controlled the land and subjugated peasants. This was a major cause of uprisings such as the French Revolution.
  • Many medieval knights were also involved in the Crusades . This invasion of the Holy Land by European kingdoms represented a violent period. During these conquests, European nobility pillaged sacred sites and artifacts; with the goal of controlling the birthplace of their Christian faith.
  • Following this time, Europe entered a period of Renaissance Humanism . Humans began to think about their humanity a bit more deeply. In doing so, many works of fine art, such as the first realistic paintings and sculptures, were produced.
  • Your essay could focus on slightly later events, such as the fall of great empires . At various times in the past, nations such as Rome, China, Portugal, England, and the Holy Roman Empire controlled huge areas of our globe. Your essay could survey the implosion of these once great powers.
  • The abolition of slavery is a fascinating and important historical essay topic. You may focus on this process within a single country, or you can write a comparative essay in which you compare and contrast the process of abolition across the globe or between two societies.
  • Another highly relevant topic is the impact of Karl Marx . Few historical figures have had as huge an impact on society as Marx. Accordingly, you can consider how his writings were used (or abused) in a variety of nominally communist parties, movements, uprisings, and nations.
  • Of course, you should always consider writing an integrative history essay . You can’t pick just one topic? Why not pick two or more! This is a nice approach for selecting compare and contrast essay topics . In this type of essay, you compare or contrast, people, events, or countries. In choosing this path, you make it possible to write a totally unique essay. The sky is the limit!
  • A more human-focused approach could be an interesting hook for the paper. A paper based on the writing of the soldiers in World War I could outline what war was like at the beginning of the 20th century.

Old photos and letter.

  • A personal look at World War II could be just as interesting and with more available documents.
  • One of the possible hooks for such papers may be the plight of the African American soldiers who fought in World War I and II .
  • Another topic may be dedicated to soldiers from India who fought for the British in World War I .
  • The economics of Europe after World War I may show the causes and effects that led to further conflict.
  • You may dedicate your project may to the changes in fashion in the 20th century .
  • More obscure topics like the Canadian history of film can make for an interesting thesis.
  • American art of the 20th century is a big topic that has many interesting examples.
  • History of math can show the timeline of math’s evolution.
  • The conclusion of the British rule in India caused many positive and negative effects on the country which can make for an interesting project.
  • The history of Roman sport provides fascinating examples of contests through the ages.
  • History of architecture during renaissance can show the differences between the eras.
  • Life before the invention of photography could be a topic that outlines how people preserved images back in the day.
  • You can compare and contrast the history of Roman and British empires .
  • Examples of music created for political causes could be an interesting hook for a music history essay.
  • T he history of medicine can provide some striking facts about the bizarre antique cures.
  • “What are the events that led to the fall of Roman Empire ?” is one of the more common history essay questions.
  • Summary of the achievements of the American civil rights movement can provide an impression of what a dream of one man could do.
  • An argumentative essay topic about the value of public communication can be chosen and created by using examples from the world history.
  • A paper on the music of ancient civilizations can shine a light on prehistoric cultures.
  • Your project can be about the anti-fascist activists in the US before WW II .
  • It is possible for high school students to write about the events of the year when they were born .
  • A thematic paper answering the question “ what started the worst wars in world history? ” could compare and contrast different wars to find similar causes and effects.
  • The hippie culture of the 1960s can be presented as a response to the events of the era.
  • Also, the fashion of hippies can be explored in your project with examples of real clothing.
  • The New Wave movement in cinema was revolutionary for its time and can be an interesting essay topic.
  • The same could be said about the New Wave genre of music that became popular in the 1980s.

Audience on a concert.

  • Another music genre that captured the imagination of the public can be explored in an essay on the history of rock music .
  • History of propaganda in films can help explore some pivotal moments in world history.
  • Canadian history of sport is an interesting topic to explain why hockey is so popular in the Great White North.
  • Economics of sport throughout history may also interest the reader due to the massive commercial expansion of sport in recent decades.
  • Education during the renaissance was booming and could serve as a great topic for an essay.
  • Education during the middle ages was rare and could contrast the previous topic.
  • The justifications that the US used for the drop of the nuclear bombs during World War II is a controversial topic but an interesting one.
  • American involvement in the Korean War is an often overlooked topic, but it deserves attention.
  • To show how turbulent history of a single country may be, the causes and effects of the military coups in Nigeria could be fascinating.
  • The war between Iran and Iraq could be seen as one of the most critical proxy wars of the modern history.
  • The space race was an iconic element of the Cold War, and it is related to many history essay topics.
  • Events that led to the rise of the Saudi Arabia can show how fast a country can develop when money is not an issue.
  • The British music invasion into the US market has had a significant effect on American music and can be an interesting topic.
  • History of American worker unions could serve as a topical essay in today’s political climate.
  • The process of reparations for the Maori people in New Zealand in a rare success story of an ex-British colonial country making up for the discrimination its natives endured.
  • Roman graffiti is a lighthearted topic that describes a less discussed aspect of Roman culture.
  • The gender roles of Roman society can be compared and contrasted with the gender roles of the people of Gaul that often fought each other.
  • The prominent figures of the American Revolution include a great variety of people who would later compose the most important documents of the US.
  • A compare and contrast essay about the similarities of American and Bolshevik revolutions can show how the most prominent opponents of the Cold War had similar beginnings.
  • The history of Japanese isolationism could be interesting to explore as a unique moment in world history.
  • The Millerites believed that the world would end on a specific date, but it only led to the events known as “The Great Disappointment” which could make for a great history topic.
  • The Carnation Revolution of 1974 was an almost bloodless coup and represents one of the few examples of peaceful transitions to democracy.
  • The golden age of piracy is an interesting topic about an era that is often glamorized in fiction.
  • The Copper Country Strike was one of the most tragic cases of death due to anti-strike action, and its events are still discussed today.
  • The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre was a gruesome murder committed in broad daylight and emblematic of the gangster activity of the era.
  • The Yalta Conference was one of the most important events of World War II with British, Soviet, and American leaders discussing post-war plans.
  • British colonization of Africa was one of the most tragic; the causes and effects of it could be interesting to examine.

Old plane fly above hills.

  • A paper on the evolution of flight could provide a timeline of marvelous engineering throughout history.
  • Operation Paperclip was a secret plan to integrate scientists of Nazi Germany after the end of World War II which events lead to the beginning of the space race.
  • Historical events that were predicted in fiction can be one of the more exciting history essay topics.
  • African-American music history can be explored to show how oppression influenced culture.
  • Biography of Julius Caesar is filled with dramatic events and is one of the most exciting history essay topics.
  • Aztec life before the arrival of the colonists was filled with horrible sacrifices and deserves examination.
  • The causes and effects of Manifest Destiny are bizarre and tragic by modern standards but were considered righteous in their day.
  • You could compare and contrast the life of the Roman leader Julius Caesar and Nicholas II of Russia because they were almost mirrored images of each other.
  • The actions of Churchill led to some of the worst defeats for the British forces during World War I , but are overshadowed by his later leadership.
  • The transition from the 50s to 60s fashion can be explored to show the drastic change in the culture of those years.
  • The events that led to the emergence of teenage culture after World War II can be outlined.
  • The economics of international trade during the Renaissance period can be described to show the complex relationships of Europe.
  • American Revolution in film rarely receives accurate portrayals. A look at its depictions can be interesting.
  • A paper on the causes and effects of Cold War paranoia could show how quickly people can be overwhelmed by fear.
  • Ronald Reagan’ s policy of a winnable nuclear war launched a chain of events that could end the world.
  • The diversity of the Roman Empire is a rarely explored topic and could lead to an interesting paper.
  • Medieval medicine is a fascinating topic. It combines the ideas from Ancient Greece and Rome, pagan medicine, and many religious superstitions.
  • Another interesting history topic is the history of dystopian art . In turbulent times, it may be especially fascinating to trace the development of dystopian art and see what shaped the ideas of dystopian worlds in different eras. Moreover, you may find it interesting to see the predictions about the modern era in dystopian literature and cinema.
  • Medicine in the early XX century is an excellent topic for an essay. At the turn of the century, there was a major change in the way people treated medical technology , hygiene, and chemistry. Groundbreaking achievements, such as the discovery of X-rays and penicillin , shaped modern medicine as we know it.
  • The history of video games is an exciting essay topic. See how video games developed from the most primitive forms into the glorious, hyper-realistic works of art that we enjoy now.
  • The history of quantum mechanics is a history topic that can teach us a lot about the world around us. You can write about the groundbreaking experiments that changed the way we think about nature, and learn about great minds who were not afraid to question even the most fundamental laws of physics.
  • Alternatively, you can write about the development of astronomy . Another fascinating scientific field that can show us how people in different eras were discovering the beauty and complexity of the Universe .
  • Similarly, you can write about the history of evolutionary theory . All ancient cultures had their ideas about the origin of life. See how Darwin’s idea of natural selection revolutionized not just science, but human thought in general.
  • Another outstanding example of a revolution of human thought is the history of psychology. From the ancient idea of spirits and possession to the groundbreaking ideas of Freud and the discovery of conditioning – see how the cultural perception of the human psyche changed over time.
  • A topic closely related to the current issues, pandemics that changed history can be explored to see the effects of epidemics on nature, science, and society as a whole. It may also be interesting to write about how viral infections spread around the world.
  • The history of transport is a fascinating topic. Starting from the earliest of times, humans are continually developing new ways of traveling as far and safe as possible. See how technology evolved from the discovery of a wheel to rocket science, and how it changed history and the world around us.
  • The history of the punk subculture is an excellent topic for presentation. Show how punk philosophy, fashion, and music changed the culture in the U.K. and around the world.
  • Another interesting research topic for high school students is the Great Depression . Learn what caused the severe economic crisis, and what socio-economic effects it had on countries all around the world.
  • From the first settlements built by ex-convicts to the outbreaks of smallpox and aboriginal resistance – the history of Australia is full of dramatic events and stories that we can learn a lot from.
  • Or you can choose the exploration of Africa as the subject of your history essay. The story of two extraordinary individuals in search of a path into the heart of the continent inspired the novel Heart of Darkness .
  • Historical figures in Shakespeare’s plays is a great history research paper topic. You could compare the lives of real historical figures, such as Julius Caesar and Henry V , to those of their fictional counterparts.
  • Voyages of Christopher Columbus is one of the most critical events in history before 1500. While the discovery of the New World had an enormous influence on the colonization era, Columbus’s legacy remains controversial.
  • Or you can write an essay on HernĂĄn CortĂ©s , a pivotal figure in the colonization of South America. His actions against native civilizations are highly controversial, and his life story is full of myths and mysteries.
  • The Civil War was the defining event in the U.S. history before 1877. It had an enormous impact on American society and led to major changes in the Constitution.
  • One of the world history topics that everyone needs to know about is the culture and society of ancient Greece . Incredible art, philosophy, politics, and scientific ideas of the ancient Greeks continue to inspire us today.
  • Similarly, an essay on the Greek Dark Ages can shine a light on the fall of the great civilization. It is also the period during which Homer’s famous poems Odyssey and Iliad were composed.
  • Chivalry in the Middle Ages is an interesting history topic, and it is often romanticized. Learn about the chivalric code, tournaments, and epic legends about famous Medieval knights.
  • Also, it may be interesting to write a world history essay on King Arthur . Explore the real events that inspired stories about the legendary British leader and the Knights of the Round Table.
  • The history of Easter Island is a very intriguing history topic. You can talk about the mysteries surrounding the culture, language, and the eventual demise of the inhabitants of one of the world’s most isolated islands.
  • The history of nuclear weapons is an excellent controversial topic for an essay and a discussion. The stories of research, development, and the use of atomic bombs can be used as cautionary tales for people today.
  • From cave paintings and letters to telephone and the Internet – the history of communication is one of the best topics for a research paper. See how the means of communication evolved throughout human history.
  • Also, the history of the Internet can be explored in your research paper. What was initially created for research and military use became one of the defining elements of modern life.
  • The history of animation is an interesting topic for high school students. Learn about the evolution of animation – from the ancient Egyptian murals depicting motion to the first CGI cartoons and everything in-between.
  • The history of museums has many exciting twists and turns. Discover how people of different eras were preserving art and other extraordinary objects. Also, it may be interesting to learn about the most significant art thefts in history.
  • The history of cosmetics is an excellent topic for a research paper with a presentation. See how makeup was used in different eras, what it was made of, and how historical figures influenced makeup trends of the past epochs.
  • Amelia Earhart is a wonderful role model whose life you can research in your history essay. She was an aviator pioneer and a best-selling author. Her disappearance in 1937 remains a mystery.
  • History of Eurovision song contest is a lighthearted topic with serious political undertones. It was originally intended to unite all countries of post-war Europe in one song contest, broadcast live on television.
  • The history of theater is a fascinating subject for a research paper. Theater first appeared in Ancient Greece, went through significant changes during the Renaissance, and it remains a popular art form that covers many genres.
  • The history of the death penalty is an interesting topic for an essay that you can have a discussion about. The death penalty has a fascinating and gruesome history and remains a controversial subject even today.
  • You can write an outstanding research paper on the history of whaling . People have been hunting whales since prehistoric times for various reasons, including perfume and candle manufacturing.
  • Another exciting world history topic is Gold Rush . While the California Gold Rush is by far the most famous, there were many other cases throughout history, dating as far back as ancient Egypt.
  • One of the more mysterious history topics that you can write about is Stonehenge . This majestic stone structure has been for a long time associated with druids. The latest discoveries suggest that it was used as an observatory.
  • Maybe an even more mysterious history research paper topic is the Pyramids of Egypt . The only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, they are some of the largest structures ever built, and their history remains intriguing.
  • Or you can choose to write about all the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World ! They are remarkable buildings and constructions, all but one of which are entirely destroyed, and some are speculated to have never existed.
  • Similarly, you can write a paper on other beautiful buildings, such as the picturesque Machu Picchu. An iconic citadel of the Inca civilization, it is now considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
  • A paper on Joan of Arc can show how one extraordinary individual is capable of changing the course of history. Her life is surrounded by many legends, and she remains a popular subject in art.
  • Similarly, you can write about Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and what impact it had on the entire American nation. Delivered during the Civil War, it is considered to be the greatest speech ever.
  • A history research paper on feminism could provide a timeline of the fight for equality. Closely connected to the current issues, this topic covers everything from the women’s suffrage movement to the modern Women’s Marches .
  • One of the most exciting history topics that everyone needs to know about is the Minoan Civilization – the first highly advanced society in Europe. You can talk about its discovery in the late XIX, the incredible art of Knossos, and its numerous legends, including the famous Labyrinth.
  • You can choose to write an essay on history of Indigenous Australians . The timeline of first humans populating Australia is full of mysteries, and their culture remains fascinating.
  • An interesting essay can be written on the earliest universities . They were founded long before 1500 in Asia and Africa for educating government officials, and are a fascinating subject to explore.
  • You can write an exciting research paper on Alexandria – a city in Egypt founded by Alexander the Great. In ancient times, it was a city like no other, and had an enormous influence on the Mediterranean culture.
  • Middle Ages are full of interesting history topics – for example, you can choose to write about medieval magic. From alchemy and astrology to inquisition and witch trials, it’s an existing subject to explore.
  • One of the best topics on the history of explorations is the North Pole expeditions . It is full of dramatic events, and it took numerous failed attempts until the North Pole was finally reached in the XX century.
  • The first English settlements in America are among the essential parts of the U.S. history before 1877. It includes stories of hardships of the first settlers, bad weather, hunger, and conflicts with native inhabitants.
  • Napoleon is an incredibly interesting historical figure. You can write a stunning paper on the rise and fall of his empire.

Confucius quote.

  • You can focus on a specific era in your essay – for example, Victorian England. This period of history, both fascinating and terrifying, still inspires countless novels, movies, and T.V. series.
  • Titanic is an excellent topic for an essay and a discussion. A cautionary tale about a luxurious ship that sank due to criminal negligence.
  • Death of the Romanovs is an interesting history topic that is still being investigated. This gruesome story inspired many myths, including that of the survival of Anastasia.
  • Similarly, you can choose an essay on the assassination of J.F. Kennedy . Learn about what caused it and what long-term effects it had on the American nation.
  • Similarly, the assassination of Martin Luther King was an enormous tragedy for the whole country. The circumstances of this event are still not entirely clear, and there are several different theories as to what happened.
  • Chernobyl disaster is a fascinating topic that is very popular today. See what led to the tragedy, and what long-term consequences it had on nature and society.
  • The fall of the Berlin Wall is a crucial event in modern history. You can write about life in GDR and FRG prior to the fall of the Wall and compare it to what happened afterward.
  • Another history topic that you can choose for your essay is the history of berserkers. These Old Norse warriors were fighting in what’s often described as a trans-like state, and their name became synonymous with uncontrolled rage.
  • Education in the modern world. The new opportunities of the globalized world influence quality and expectations towards studying. A historical essay can analyze the significant inventions that impacted education. For example, you may focus on the Internet .
  • South African Apartheid . The racial segregation regime threw South Africa into poverty and conflicts. Your essay might discuss the historical events that led it. Or you can trace the Apartheid’s timeline from setting to abolishment.
  • The founding of the United Nations . The organization’s support of equal human rights is crucial for modern society. The history of the UN is a broad topic with many key events. You may also study the influence of countries such as the USSR on its establishment.
  • Cultural trends during World War II. Music, fashion, and art reflected humanity’s hopes and fears of the world. They also supported people when life was tough. In a research paper, you can choose and describe specific examples. Discuss the impact of entertainment during that period, or compare it to World War I.
  • The creation of the United States’ Constitution is an interesting US history essay topic. The road to the first national frame of government includes many events. You can analyze the contents of the original Constitution articles based on their drafts.
  • Changes in European economies following the discovery of America . After Columbus’ return from his journey, the most powerful empires started to occupy new lands. Later, economic progress led the world to its current conditions. An essay that highlights these milestones can be fascinating!
  • Fight against terrorism . After September 11, 2001, the world enforced its war on terrorism. Governments applied measures such as peacemaking interventions to unstable areas. A historical assignment might include the most significant attacks. You can also discuss the UN’s campaigns against terrorism under this topic.
  • Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. The attacks were crucial events that finished World War II . Your essay might address the events that led to the attacks. Discuss if there could have been other ways of stopping Japan’s aggression.
  • Urbanization in the US is an interesting essay topic. The most significant change took place in the 19th century. The railroads connected the whole country, and trading opportunities grew. Discuss why people moved from rural areas to cities and the consequences of it.
  • History of railroads in the United States. Broad territories were the major obstacles to American economic development. In 1827, the first railway journey took place in the US. The roads were rapidly built during the following century. A discussion these events is a fun historical assignment topic.
  • Immigration and scientific progress in the 20th century. Back then, thousands of Europeans were forced to migrate to the US. Many of them were responsible for important discoveries and inventions. Discuss its effect of immigration on science and technology in a historical essay.
  • The three most important inventions of the 19th century. The 1800s are full of creations that changed humanity’s history. Typewriters, bicycles, and telephones were first made in that period. For an essay, you can pick the inventions based on their historical value.
  • The stock market crash in 1929 was the worst experience for the industrialized world at the time. Entertainment during the Great Depression played an essential role in supporting America. It is also an interesting historical topic to write about.
  • The history behind today’s foreign affairs . Despite prolonged peace, governments still have political disagreements. Choose two conflicting countries and identify the events that led to the current situation.
  • The history of the LGBTQ community in the United States. Modern American society praises equity and respects the rights of minority groups. However, it wasn’t always like this. LGBTQ is a broad discussion topic influenced by past events. It might also be interesting to compare the US community to the European one.
  • The global financial crisis of 2008 is a great modern history essay topic . An economy can crash for multiple reasons. If it happens worldwide, the effects are severe. An argumentative essay can be a basis for analyzing the causes of the crisis. Compare it to other economic disasters such as the Great Depression .
  • Cultural progress led humanity to important social developments. One of them is the legalization of same-sex marriages . Historical analysis can include a timeline of such marriages. Social activism related to the topic is an excellent basis for an essay.
  • The Holocaust . One of the darkest events in the 20th century’s history is the European Jews’ genocide . Analyze the chain of events leading to it in a historical essay. How did it impact human rights enforcement during the post-war period?
  • Space exploration in the 21st century is a historical topic that develops right now. Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin was founded in 2000, and Elon Musk started SpaceX in 2002. An essay can highlight the milestones of space exploration after the Cold War.
  • The history of Thanksgiving . Pilgrims established the holiday based on celebrating the harvest. Discuss the tradition’s roots and the impact of English colonists on American culture . An essay can also describe similar feasts around the world.
  • Another good history essay topic is Antarctica. The impactful exploration of ice lands only began in the late 19th century. Today, scientists study Antarctica’s land, resources, and animals. Trace the past events and discoveries of the region in your historical essay.
  • The history of infections. Our lives have changed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. There were similar events in the past, where plague and flu diseases killed millions of people. A comparison can help you learn about the development of today’s healthcare practices.
  • Women’s suffrage . In August 1920, the US Congress ratified the 19th Amendment that gave women the right to vote. Many campaigns and protests preceded the event. The perception of women by society started transforming since then. An essay might describe the challenges leading to these changes.
  • History of the Olympic Games is a fascinating topic for middle school . The legacy of ancient Greece was revived only in the 19th century. Study the events that took place throughout the Olympic Games’ history.
  • If you need a world history essay topic, try writing about the International Red Cross . In 1863, Swiss businessman Henry Dunant established the Red Cross. He was influenced by the terrifying experience of seeing thousands of wounded men at war. A persuasive essay can highlight the organization’s historical importance.
  • Weapon development during World War II . Military weapons contributed to technological progress in the 20th century. A research paper might focus on the weapons invented during the War. You can also discuss the impact of military innovations on post-war life.
  • An essay on Korean history can analyze how one nation can change if divided into separate regimes. North and South Korea started making peace only in 2018. Try and determine the reasons for the 1948 separation and political instability.
  • Ku Klux Klan as a resistance movement is an important topic. Four million citizens nationwide joined the group in the 1920s. Such popularity revealed the demand for change. Your historical essay might include crucial outcomes of Klan’s activities. A comparison to the medieval inquisition might lead to interesting conclusions.
  • Globalization is another excellent history essay topic for high school students. The world has never had so many cultural and economic connections as it does today. Your essay can go through historical events that caused globalization . Or, you may analyze its benefits and downsides.
  • History of climate change . In 2009, the UN Climate Change Conference stated that the world is in danger due to human impact on climate. A historical essay can focus on the environmental factors of the topic. Alternatively, you may trace the discoveries and studies about climate change.
  • Labor Day is a national holiday first celebrated in the industrial era. It originated in the 19th century when workers spent 12 hours daily to earn the minimum wage. In your historical essay, describe the events that led to the holiday’s creation.
  • The history of the American presidency is a broad topic to write about. More than 40 people ruled the country and impacted all facets of America. For example, you may choose to evaluate education under different presidents . You can also compare democrats and republicans as presidents.
  • Gutenberg’s printing press invention changed the world. It was as significant in the 15th century as the Internet was for modern history. An essay can reconstruct the events before and after the invention of printing. Its impact on education and the economy are interesting points for discussion.
  • The European Union has deep historical roots since the Empire period. An essay about it might cover the timeline of democracy established in Europe. You can highlight the changes that took place in the countries that joined the Union. Alternatively, compare the organization and its aims to other historical alliances.
  • Modern religions are an intriguing subject for an essay. Historical events often shape peoples’ beliefs. Discuss why people started updating the main religions in recent decades.
  • Population resettlement took place multiple times in human history. For example, thousands of Serbian Albanians were forced to flee Kosovo during the 1999 conflict. An essay that describes a migration can include the reasons for it. Compare it to similar occurrences, and discuss its outcomes.
  • Ancient architecture is the most incredible legacy cherished by generations. Design patterns and colors of creations reflect the periods they were built in. For your essay, choose specific examples and mention the events associated with them. Research can include ancient European, Asian, or American architecture.
  • Socialism as a political regime significantly impacted world history. Socialist movements took place in Europe and the United States. The Soviet Union was established under its conditions. Choose this interesting 20th-century essay topic and describe a country affected by socialism. For example, China is still ruled by that regime.
  • History of democracy in Africa . African history includes centuries of foreign occupation. Yet, its countries have recently started getting deserved independence. Algeria, Morocco, Namibia, and Zimbabwe only got their democratic government in the last 60 years. Historical research can analyze the influence of ex-colonizers on Africa. Or, you may choose a country to describe its journey from a colony to a democracy.
  • History of South American countries. Colonizers occupied the regions in South America after Columbus’ journey. You can discuss the conflicts between the land’s native inhabitants and migrants. A research paper may also reveal how the nations were formed by combing two different populations.
  • The history behind the petroleum industry is an interesting basis for an essay. Oil defines the UAE and Russia’s economies and has significant influence in politics. Study the formation of the world’s oil industry, or choose one country to explore.
  • History of Native American tribes . More than 500 groups of Indigenous Americans lived in the US territories. Each had its own culture and policies. For your essay, gather information about conflicts between the natives and migrants.
  • History of vaccination . The development of this practice is an interesting essay topic. You can review the timeline, starting from the 1798 smallpox vaccine .
  • History of China . Write an essay that explores the most significant events of the country’s history. An interesting idea is to compare it to other major countries. Moreover, you can discuss the Chinese presence in the World Wars by analyzing its strategies.
  • Events that affected the environment. There are many examples of history playing against nature. Think of nuclear bomb explosions, rapid industrialization of the 19th century , and deforestation. Your essay might analyze several such events and provide lessons for the future.
  • The history behind popular foods . Migration and global trading helped humanity discover chocolate , potatoes, and coffee . A historical essay can focus on one product and describe what made it famous.
  • The Vikings played a significant role in European history. Scandinavians still cherish their traditions and unique culture. Your research might be about their settlements in Scotland, France, and Ireland. Also, you can describe the unique worldview of the Vikings.
  • Ancient piracy covers many themes that you can mention in an essay. The first pirates were the Sea Peoples in the 14th century BC. Today, the pirates still exist in politically unstable regions such as Somalia . Your historical paper can include the most significant acts of piracy in ancient times.
  • History of money . People have been exchanging goods throughout history. Yet in 770s BC, the Chinese invented the ultimate trading product— money . The historical timeline of the financial systems is an excellent topic for an essay.

Other History Essay Topics

  • European motives for expansion & colonization in New World
  • “Birth of Modernity” of Renaissance
  • Racial tensions and immigration in California
  • Gandhi’s innovative renovation of tradition explained
  • Colonists’ actions in the pre-revolutionary era
  • The French Revolution an outcome of Enlightenment ideas
  • The autobiography of St. Ignatius
  • Land disputes between native American groups and the United States
  • The 1930s generation of Soviet spies and operatives
  • The Tea Act and the Coercive Acts: Britain and the colonies
  • The Middle Ages as the “Dark Ages”
  • The making of the modern Middle East: term definition
  • The uniqueness of World War One
  • Social structure and lifestyles of the 1960s counterculture
  • Depression period and new deal legislation
  • United States’ policy of isolationism since the 19th century
  • History: Abraham Lincoln’s address in Gettysburg
  • The use of armed forces by the United States and its effect
  • Radical republicans during the Reconstruction era
  • Lincoln’s vs. Davis’ administrations during the war
  • Civil War’s impact on Northern and Southern economies
  • Consumerism critique in the 1950s-70s
  • Lincoln’s plan for Reconstruction and opposition to it
  • Women and blacks’ participation in the Civil War
  • War of 1812: reasons and outcomes for native communities
  • The causes of the Protestant reformation
  • Palestinian Liberation Organization’s history
  • Ethnographic sketch of Brazilians
  • British colonization of America and its results
  • What was the purpose of Lee’s plan on Gettysburg?
  • The leaders of command for the modern war in 1864
  • What did George Washington Thanksgiving proclamation state?
  • Post-WWII events that caused loss of faith in American way
  • European groups’ motives to migrate to America
  • Industrial economics and its social impact on Britain
  • Refugee definition development in the 20th century
  • Positive things to learn from Medieval culture
  • Scientific revolution in Western European civilization
  • The Spanish-American war: definition and facts
  • The role of violence in the America’s expansion
  • Protestant Reformation leaders & Catholic Church’s response
  • Asian studies: Takahashi Mutsuo’s “The Snow of Memory”
  • Colonization of freedmen: arguments for and against
  • Major milestones of the Kyoto treaty and Montreal Protocol
  • Progressive Era & New Deal outsiders and corporate ownership
  • American progressive movement and its participants
  • Steel industry & American history changes in the 1890-1920s
  • Anarchist & socialist movements and terrorism
  • What is the Third Estate? What role did it play in Revolution?
  • The Islamic revolution of 1979 and its main causes
  • Conservatism in American life from 1968 to the present
  • African American Civil Rights Movement in 1950-1980
  • Second World War and the end of colonial rule in Africa
  • The main reasons of the American Civil War
  • Alexander Graham Bell’s most important day
  • History of gangs in America and Utah
  • Civil Rights vs. Black Lives Matter movement
  • Latin America: national issues
  • American ancient people and Skull Wars
  • Historical events in history of white people of America
  • Reasons of Confederacy’s defeat during Civil War
  • Tombs Egypt during the period of 3200 BC to 1200 BC
  • Republican Reconstruction and its achievements
  • Christians-Rome relationship: persons and events
  • Lincoln’s answer to the Emancipation question
  • US women’s rights movements in 1850-1900
  • The Eighteenth Amendment and Volstead Act
  • Japan, China, and the Ottoman Empire during the 19th century
  • Capital punishment and African Americans
  • Industrial growth during the last 100 years in the US

These are a tiny handful of the wide array of topics that you can write about for history class. When in doubt, always solicit opinions from your professor. (The worst case scenario is that they say no.)

The analysis of historical events is subjective.

Most importantly:

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Remember, the analysis of historical events is subjective. Two scholars may have vastly unique explanations for a series of historical events unfolding the way they did. Accordingly, try to write from the perspective that your instructors most likely hold. And if you’re unsure, ask them to review a first draft of your essay, or at least talk to them about your thesis statement!

You might also be interested in:

  • A List of History Websites for a Perfect Research
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  • 497 Interesting History Topics to Research
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  • 350 Powerful Feminism & Women’s Rights Topics [2024]
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  • 229 Good Dissertation Topics and Thesis Ideas for Ph.D. & Masters

Historical Essay FAQ

Students are often asked to write on historical topics. Such an essay can be:

1. A description of a persona; 2. An analysis of historical events; 3. An overview of the context of the whole epoch, etc.

In any case, a historical essay deals with a retrospective and requires looking into history.

There are countless interesting topics for essays and research projects. You can look into any epoch from the ancient times up to the present days. Choose something that genuinely fascinates you. You might prefer a controversial issue as it is more exciting to study.

For any research paper, it is essential to create an outline first. Once you’ve identified some key aspects that you want to focus on, write them as bullet points. They will become the Body of your research paper. Don’t forget to add an introduction and a conclusion.

Whether you write about the World, the civil, the cold, the Vietnam, or any other war, be sure to stay as objective as possible. It is a very emotionally charged topic, but you need to refrain from opinionated judgments. Do not resort to direct accusations.

  • Prewriting: Techniques to Get Started – Outlining: University of Maryland Global Campus
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  • Historical Topics: Library of Congress
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  • A Research Guide
  • Essay Topics

120 History Essay Topics

History essay topics: how to choose the perfect one, history argumentative essay topics:.

  • The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society and the working class
  • The causes and consequences of the American Civil War
  • The role of women in the suffrage movement and their impact on society
  • The significance of the French Revolution in shaping modern political ideologies
  • The debate over the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II
  • The influence of the Renaissance on European art, culture, and intellectual thought
  • The reasons behind the rise and fall of the Roman Empire
  • The impact of colonization on indigenous populations in Africa and the Americas
  • The role of nationalism in the outbreak of World War I
  • The effects of the Cold War on global politics and the division of the world into two superpowers
  • The causes and consequences of the Great Depression in the United States
  • The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II
  • The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on racial equality in the United States
  • The reasons behind the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany
  • The debate over the historical accuracy of Christopher Columbus’s discovery of America

History Persuasive Essay Topics:

  • The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society and the economy
  • The significance of the American Revolution in shaping the modern world
  • The causes and consequences of World War I
  • The influence of the Renaissance on art, science, and culture
  • The reasons behind the fall of the Roman Empire
  • The impact of the French Revolution on political ideologies
  • The consequences of the Cold War on global politics and the balance of power
  • The significance of the Civil Rights Movement in achieving racial equality
  • The causes and effects of the Great Depression on the global economy
  • The role of imperialism in shaping the modern world
  • The impact of the Enlightenment on political and social thought
  • The reasons behind the rise and fall of ancient civilizations
  • The influence of the Scientific Revolution on the development of modern science

History Compare and Contrast Essay Topics:

  • Ancient Greece vs Ancient Rome: Comparing political systems
  • The French Revolution vs the American Revolution: Analyzing causes and outcomes
  • World War I vs World War II: Examining the impact on global politics
  • The Renaissance vs the Enlightenment: Contrasting cultural and intellectual movements
  • The Industrial Revolution in Britain vs the Industrial Revolution in the United States: Comparing economic and social changes
  • The Cold War vs the Space Race: Analyzing the competition between the United States and the Soviet Union
  • The Civil Rights Movement vs the Women’s Suffrage Movement: Comparing struggles for equality
  • The Mongol Empire vs the Ottoman Empire: Contrasting imperial expansion and governance
  • The Protestant Reformation vs the Catholic Counter-Reformation: Examining religious conflicts in Europe
  • The Russian Revolution vs the Chinese Revolution: Analyzing communist uprisings
  • The Atlantic Slave Trade vs the Transatlantic Slave Trade: Comparing the impact on African societies
  • The American Civil War vs the Spanish Civil War: Contrasting causes and consequences of internal conflicts
  • The Great Depression vs the Global Financial Crisis of 2008: Examining economic downturns
  • The Age of Exploration vs the Age of Imperialism: Comparing European expansion and colonization
  • The Holocaust vs the Rwandan Genocide: Contrasting genocides in different historical contexts

History Informative Essay Topics:

  • The rise and fall of the Roman Empire
  • The significance of the American Civil Rights Movement
  • The origins and consequences of the French Revolution
  • The role of women in ancient civilizations
  • The impact of the Renaissance on art and culture
  • The causes and effects of the Great Depression
  • The colonization of Africa and its long-term effects
  • The role of propaganda in World War II
  • The history and impact of the Cold War
  • The rise and fall of the Ottoman Empire
  • The influence of ancient Greek philosophy on modern thought
  • The history and significance of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
  • The causes and consequences of the Russian Revolution

History Cause Effect Essay Topics:

  • The Causes and Effects of the French Revolution
  • The Impact of World War I on the Rise of Totalitarianism
  • The Causes and Consequences of the Industrial Revolution
  • The Effects of the American Civil War on the Abolition of Slavery
  • The Causes and Effects of the Great Depression
  • The Impact of the Renaissance on European Exploration
  • The Causes and Consequences of the Protestant Reformation
  • The Effects of the Cold War on the Space Race
  • The Causes and Effects of the Russian Revolution
  • The Impact of the Enlightenment on the American Revolution
  • The Causes and Consequences of the Spanish Inquisition
  • The Effects of Imperialism on African Colonization
  • The Causes and Effects of the Mexican Revolution
  • The Impact of the Scientific Revolution on the Age of Enlightenment
  • The Causes and Consequences of the Vietnam War

History Narrative Essay Topics:

  • The Battle of Gettysburg: A Turning Point in the American Civil War
  • The Life and Legacy of Cleopatra: The Last Pharaoh of Egypt
  • The Great Depression: A Nation’s Struggle for Survival
  • The Fall of the Roman Empire: Causes and Consequences
  • The Trail of Tears: The Forced Removal of Native Americans
  • The Industrial Revolution: Transforming Society and Economy
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis: A Tense Standoff between the United States and Soviet Union
  • The Holocaust: A Dark Chapter in Human History
  • The Civil Rights Movement: Fighting for Equality and Justice
  • The French Revolution: From Monarchy to Republic
  • The Apollo 11 Moon Landing: A Giant Leap for Mankind
  • The Salem Witch Trials: Hysteria and Injustice in Colonial America
  • The Renaissance: A Cultural Rebirth in Europe
  • The Partition of India: The Birth of Two Nations
  • The Vietnam War: America’s Longest and Most Controversial Conflict

History Opinion Essay Topics:

  • The impact of colonization on indigenous cultures
  • The role of women in the American Civil Rights Movement
  • The significance of the Industrial Revolution in shaping modern society
  • The influence of religion on the Crusades
  • The consequences of the Treaty of Versailles on World War II
  • The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War I
  • The impact of the French Revolution on the rise of nationalism
  • The reasons behind the Salem Witch Trials
  • The significance of the Renaissance in European history
  • The consequences of the Cold War on global politics
  • The role of technology in shaping the outcome of World War II
  • The impact of the Great Depression on the rise of totalitarian regimes
  • The reasons behind the abolition of slavery in the United States
  • The influence of the Enlightenment on the American Revolution

History Evaluation Essay Topics:

  • Evaluating the effectiveness of the Civil Rights Movement in achieving racial equality
  • Assessing the role of women in World War II and their contribution to the war effort
  • Evaluating the success of the New Deal in addressing the Great Depression
  • The impact of the French Revolution on the rise of nationalism in Europe
  • Assessing the significance of the Treaty of Versailles in causing World War II
  • Evaluating the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War I
  • The impact of the Cold War on the global balance of power
  • Assessing the effectiveness of the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security
  • Evaluating the impact of the Cuban Missile Crisis on the relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union
  • The role of technology in shaping the outcome of World War I
  • Assessing the impact of the Renaissance on the development of modern art and culture
  • Evaluating the significance of the American Revolution in inspiring other independence movements around the world
  • The impact of the Enlightenment on the development of democratic ideals
  • Assessing the role of imperialism in shaping the modern world order

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100 History Research Paper and Essay Topics

15 August, 2021

13 minutes read

Author:  Richard Pircher

History is reasonably one of the most important subjects every student encounters in their school, college, or university life. Some students adore it and prioritize history among all other subjects, while others hate it and find it ultimately boring. The truth is, history class is quite essential: it teaches you how to think critically, reflect on the events, find links between cases and occasions, and gives you a valuable opportunity to develop analytical skills. Indeed, studying what happened in the past is critical for understanding the future and being able to interpret current events. Moreover, learning history can make us capable of controlling the things happening around us and contributing to the better quality of our own lives.

History Research Paper and Essay Topics

As a history student, you are certainly expected to compose sound essays on world history topics as well as elaborate on any American history topic. To make sure you write quality essays , you need to learn how to process history essay topics, outline your arguments, and depict historical events in a convincing and accurate way. All in all, keeping some pieces of advice in mind can do you good if your goal is to come up with interesting history topics and craft excellent essays. In the following guide, we will talk about the key features of a history research paper, discuss how to choose history topics to write about, and provide you with sample history topics.

interesting history topics

What Is a History Research Paper?

A history research paper challenges students with analyzing literature sources that are relevant to a particular historical event or historical era. Writing such a paper requires thorough preparation as well as in-depth research. Just like other types of college essays, a history essay follows a standard structure, where you need to develop a thesis statement and support it with relevant arguments and respective data. Thus, the only difference between a history research paper and other types of academic essays is that the first one analyzes solely historical events.

When writing a history research paper, it is critical to keep several points in mind, namely:

  • Relevance of the topic: why is it worth being discussed these days?
  • How is the topic related to the current times?
  • Why was the topic critical in the past?
  • How can a topic contribute to solving current economic and social issues?

Once you consider all the tips outlined above, you’ll become a pro at mastering any subject, from United States history research paper topics to the history of the middle ages.

Problems with writing Your History Research Paper ? Try our Essay Writer Service!

A Quick Guide to Choosing the Right Topic

If your goal is to craft an amazing history research paper with a strong thesis statement and not a less strong argument, there is a lot of effort to be made. A huge component of success lies in choosing the right topic. If you select a good and interesting one, you facilitate the writing process for yourself as well as make sure you will ultimately grab the reader’s attention. You might need to step out of your comfort zone and avoid limiting yourself to typical topics that have already been discussed thousands of times. Take a look at some tips that will help you come up with interesting but at the same time controversial topics in history:

It is always helpful if you take a look at existing, ongoing research topics. Coming up with your topic might be quite a challenge if you have no idea of what is going on in History research. For instance, find 20-30 US history topics, take a look at them, and think for a while. Which one has grabbed your interest the most? Which topic has the most potential  and the biggest importance to you?

Do some prior research

Once you know the approximate direction of your research, go to the Internet and discover what others write about it. Try to search for some evidence you might need to apply in your paper. Once you find enough support and information, you will be able to narrow down the research topic and come up with your arguments for an essay.

Select the best sources

Writing a history research paper has a lot to do with literature research. You will need to find a bunch of online sources and select only the ones that are most relevant to your research topic. Make sure you use only the most reliable sources and always apply appropriate citations to avoid plagiarism.

Start outlining

Once you’re all set with a research paper topic, don’t forget to structure your history paper. Outlining is the key to writing a proficient, coherent, well-argumented paper. You will need to follow standard outlining: introduction, main body paragraphs, and a summary paragraph at the end. Make sure you have reasonable arguments and evidence for each point of your outline.

Develop multiple thesis statements

A thesis statement plays a critical role when we talk about history research papers. First, it gives the reader an idea of what you will be talking about in the essay. Additionally, it does let the reader know which line of arguments you will follow later on and helps them understand why you decided to talk about a specific historical event. To make it easier for you to structure body paragraphs, develop several statements. If you do so, you will develop several different arguments and finally choose the best ones.

interesting history topics

Without further ado, take a look at 100 history research paper topics that will serve you as a basis for your own piece of writing:

Ancient History

  • Ancient Rome vs. ancient Greece: which one had more power in the past, and whose impact can be traced better today?
  • The philosophy of ancient greeks and its impact today
  • How the voting system of ancient Greece was organized
  • Protests in the ancient era: how demonstrations were organized in the past
  • The political system of ancient Rome
  • The military forces in ancient Greece
  • How Gladiator games were organized and which goal they pursued?
  • The society organization in ancient Egypt
  • Alexander the Great as one of the most leading figures in ancient History
  • Ancient Rome and civilian life

Middle Ages History Research Paper Topics

  • Crimes in the middle ages and how criminal behavior was treated
  • European Cities’ infrastructure during the medieval times
  • Philosophers of Medieval times and their impact on life today
  • The role of interfaith marriages in Medieval Europe
  • The most meaningful discoveries during the Middle Times and their contribution to the world economy
  • Revival of the Byzantine: the role and importance of the notion
  • Quran and its role in Medieval Europe
  • Middle Ages and the impact on the history of Europe
  • Why do some historians associate the Middle Ages with the era of discoveries?

Modern History

  • The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki: the reasons and possible prevention mechanisms
  • Native Americans in the US today
  • US immigrant policy: the challenges that are being put on the foreign residents
  • Social movements and the role of the industrialization
  • Social movements in the US today
  • The notion of Westward Expansion
  • The most prominent inventions of the 21st century and their inventors
  • Industrialization and its consequences for the US
  • Great Recession: tracing the adverse consequence of the crisis today
  • The role of NATO in the modern society

World History Research Paper Topics

  • The war between the United States and Mexico: the reasons and outcomes
  • The colonization of South America
  • The famous battle at sea Spain and Great Britain
  • How Medieval Europe shaped and perceived social interactions and personal relationships
  • The long-term consequences of the Cold War between the countries of the Soviet Bloc and the United States
  • The Chernobyl explosion: one of the biggest nuclear catastrophes of the mankind
  • 1968 student revolts
  •  Formation of the European Union and the key events that contributed to it

European History

  • French revolution and the force distribution that followed
  • The history of the European economy
  • Early Modern Europe
  • Muslims of Europe
  • The propaganda of western theories in the 20th century
  • England of the 17th century and the problem of gender bias
  • The analysis of Mid-Tudor Crises in Europe
  • The history of Nazi Germany: comparing German government of the past to the government of today

World War I

  • The Treaty of Versailles and its impact on the events of World War I
  • The Gallipoli campaign and the World War I
  • The image of eastern and western fronts in ​​World War I
  • Chemical Weapon in World War I: economic necessity or a hazard?
  • The entrance of America into the World War
  • Most influential alliances during the times of World War I
  • World War I and the Russian revolution
  • Battle at sea vs battle in the air: which countries used which strategies and why?
  • People and World War I: the cost of lives

World War II

  • How the Soviet army entered World War II and why its entry was critical for the World history
  • Child labor during the times of World War II
  • Africa and the World War II
  • Why did America decide to take a neutral role during World War II?
  • The fate of Germany after the end of the World War II
  • The state of diplomacy during World War II
  • The occupation of Japan
  • The events of the final year of World War II
  •  Resistance towards Hitler in Germany during the times of World War II

African American History Research Paper Topics

  • The role of the 14th Amendment in the lives of African American society
  • Attempts to end slavery via Abolitionist Movement: success and failure factors
  • Angela Davis – one of the greatest civil rights activists in African American society
  • How Black Codes were designed to limit the freedoms of African Americans
  • Black History month: the roots of an opportunity to fight racism and learn the history of African Americans
  • Dr. Martin Luther King and his impact that finds reflection in the African American society today
  • Malcolm X and the rights of the people of color
  • How cultural movements of African Americans contributed to the cultural diversity of the United States
  • Robert F. Kennedy and the success of his speech

United States History

  • The causes of civil war in the United States
  • 1776: the years of independence declaration
  • The key personalities during the times of revolutionary war
  • American social movements and the consequences that industrialization has had on the first
  • The history of slavery and human rights deprivation in the United States
  • The role of indigenous people: how is modern culture shaped by the impact of native Americans?
  • Analyzing the period between the wars
  • Emancipation Proclamation of 1863
  • Alcohol prohibition in the US: the roots and long-term consequences for the economy
  • Some of the most prominent historical events that took place during the times of Cold War
  • The Image of the United States during the Cold War
  • Cold War ar the period of uncertainty, fear, and resilience
  • The reason why Europe’s impact has been constantly shrinking at the times of cold war
  • Countries involved in the cold war and their role in it
  • Was it possible to prevent the Cold War or reduce its duration?
  • The influence of the Cold War in the current era: comparison of Russian vs. American pop cultures
  • The culture of the Soviet Union at the times of the Cold War
  • Chinese Communist Revolution during the Cold War

20th Century History Topics

  • American history of the 21st century
  • Ronald Reagan and the impact of the Mixed Legacies
  • The Holocaust and Roosevelt’s administration
  • Vietnam war: the role of females
  • Political Risks in American History during the reign of Harry Truman
  • Dictatorship in North Korea: the reasons behind it
  • The uprising of democratic movements
  • The history of organized crime in the 1920s in America
  • The greatest causes and consequences of the Great Depression
  • The death of the Soviet Union: how the world’s biggest country came to an end

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

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

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

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

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

  • 🚧 History Essay Challenges
  • 📜 Top 15 Topics
  • ✊ Revolution Topics
  • đŸ—ș Regional Topics
  • đŸ€Ž Key Figures Topics
  • đŸłïžâ€đŸŒˆ Key Movements
  • 📿 Topics on Traditions
  • đŸ‘ïžâ€ Topics on Mysteries
  • 📝 Historical Topics – 2024

📱 History Persuasive Essay Topics

  • 👉 Choosing a Topic
  • ♟ Writing Strategies

🚧 History Essay Topics Main Challenges

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

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

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

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

📜 Top 15 History Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

⚔ History Essay Topics on War

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

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

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

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

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

Intercountry Wars

The image depicts the main reasons of international conflicts.

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

Religious Wars

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

✊ History Essay Topics on Revolution

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

Political Revolutions

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

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

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

Social Revolutions

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

đŸ—ș World History Argumentative Essay Topics

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

US History Essay Topics

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

8 Founding Fathers of the United States.

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

Latin America History Essay Topics

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

European History Essay Topics

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

Asian History Essay topics

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

A crossbow was invented in Asia.

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

Russian History Essay Topics

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

African History Essay Topics

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

Australian History Essay Topics

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

Who came to Australia before Captain James Cook?

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

đŸ€Ž History Essay Topics on Key Figures

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

Central Figures of Ancient History

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

Central Figures of Medieval Ages

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

Central Figures of Modern Period

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

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

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

Central Figures of Contemporary History

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

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

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

đŸłïžâ€đŸŒˆ Argumentative History Topics on Significant Movements

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

Political Movements

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

Social Movements

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

Picture showing examples of different social movements.

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

Art Movements

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

Religious and Spiritual Movements

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

📿 Interesting History Essay Topics on Traditions

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

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

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

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

đŸ‘ïžâ€ Essay Topics on Historical Mysteries

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

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

📝 Historical Topics to Write About – 2024

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

👉 History Essay Topics: How to Choose

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

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

♟ Strategies for Historical Argument Topics

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

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

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

And we are done here.

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

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

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

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

Good luck, friends 🍀

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

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

TheHighSchooler

75 Interesting History Essay Topics

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

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

Engaging History Essay Topics 

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

1. General History Essay Topics

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

2. Essay Topics on Ancient History 

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

3. Essay Topics on World History 

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

4. Essay Topics on Black History 

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

5. Argumentative Essay Topics on History

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

Final Words

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

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

historical essay topics

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History Essay Topics: Top Picks for All Grades and Taste

History Essay Topics

History isn't just about old books and boring talks. It's an exciting adventure waiting to be discovered! If you have an essay to write, get ready to find some really cool topics that will grab your readers' attention.

We're skipping the dull things like dates and names. Instead, we're diving into the exciting parts—scandals, mysteries, and epic stories that make history come alive.

So, grab your pen, get ready, and let's travel through time together with our history essay writing service . Prepare to impress your teacher and amaze your classmates with your history essay topic that is anything but ordinary.

6 Tips on How to Choose the History Essay Topic Easily 

Now that you're all fired up about finding fascinating history topics let's talk about how to pick the perfect one. Here's a quick guide to help you out:

  • Think about what you like : After getting inspired by those cool essay ideas, take a moment to think about what really interests you. Maybe it's ancient civilizations like Egypt or Greece, epic wars like WWII, or how societies change over time, like the Industrial Revolution. Picking a subject you're into will make researching and writing much more fun because you'll be excited to learn more about it.
  • Check out the resources : Before you settle on a subject, see if there are enough books, articles, and other stuff you can use for research. It's important to make sure there's plenty of info out there to help you build a strong essay. Look for books in the library, articles online, and even documentaries or videos that might give you more insight into your subject. The more resources you have, the easier it will be to write a great essay.
  • Consider the scope : Once you've narrowed down your history interests, consider the scope of your essay. Is it too broad, like 'WW II,' or too narrow, like 'The Battle of Dunkirk'? Finding a balance will ensure that your prompt is manageable and allows for in-depth analysis within the confines of your essay.
  • Evaluate significance : Reflect on the significance of your chosen essay subject within the context of history. Does it shed light on broader historical themes or events? Does it offer insights into societal changes, cultural shifts, or political developments? Choosing an essay topic with historical significance will make your essay more engaging and meaningful.
  • Identify controversies or debates : Explore if there are any controversies, debates, or differing interpretations surrounding your chosen topic. Delving into conflicting viewpoints can add depth and complexity to your analysis, allowing you to critically evaluate historical narratives and arguments.
  • Personal connection or relevance : Consider if your chosen essay subject has any personal relevance or connection to current events, social issues, or your own background. Connecting history to the present can make your essay more relatable and impactful, fostering a deeper understanding of its relevance in today's world.

historical essay topics

With these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to finding a history topic that's not only interesting but also easy to write about.

History Essay Topics For Middle School

  • Nile's role in ancient Egypt.
  • Rise and fall of Rome.
  • Life in medieval castles.
  • Renaissance's impact.
  • Legacy of Columbus' exploration.
  • American independence.
  • The Great Migration.
  • Industrial Revolution effects.
  • Causes of WW I.
  • Civil Rights Movement journey.

History Essay Topics For High School

History essay topics grade 10.

  • French Revolution's Impact on Democracy.
  • Women's Role in WWII.
  • Effects of Colonialism on Indigenous Cultures.
  • Rise of Totalitarianism in the 20th Century.
  • Civil Rights Movement: Segregation to Equality.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964.
  • Industrial Revolution: Economic and Social Change.
  • Causes and Consequences of the Great Depression.
  • Legacy of Imperialism in Africa.
  • Cuban Missile Crisis.

History Essay Topics Grade 11

  • Causes and Impact of the Russian Revolution.
  • Understanding the Holocaust Genocide.
  • Government Intervention during the Great Depression
  • The Women's Suffrage Movement
  • Creating Conflict during the Partition of India
  • America's Experiment with Temperance
  • Apartheid in South Africa.
  • Iranian Revolution and Rise of Islamic Fundamentalism.
  • Environmental Movement from Carson to Climate Activism.
  • Soviet Union's Collapse.

History Essay Topics Grade 12

  • Challenges and Progress of African Decolonization.
  • Rwandan Genocide and Ethnic Conflict.
  • Origins and Solutions of Arab-Israeli Conflict.
  • Integration and Issues of European Union.
  • Tiananmen Square Protests and Quest for Democracy.
  • Fall of the Berlin Wall.
  • Global Financial Crisis of 2008.
  • Arab Spring: Middle East Revolution.
  • Brexit Impact on UK and EU.
  • Rise of Populism and Democracy's Challenge.

historical essay topics

19th Century History Topics

  • Industrial Revolution: Economic and Social Transformation.
  • Napoleon Bonaparte: Rise and Fall of an Emperor.
  • Women's Suffrage Movement: Struggle for Equality.
  • Slavery Abolition: Impact on Society and Economy.
  • British Imperialism in India: Colonial Rule and Resistance.
  • Manifest Destiny: Expansionism in 19th Century America.
  • The Crimean War: Conflict in the Age of Empires.
  • The Opium Wars: China's Clash with Western Powers.
  • Romanticism in Art and Literature: Expression of Emotion and Nature.
  • The California Gold Rush: Migration and Economic Boom in the West.

20th Century History Topics

  • WW I: Causes, Course, and Consequences.
  • The Roaring Twenties: Jazz, Prohibition, and Social Change.
  • The Great Depression: Economic Collapse and Social Struggle.
  • WW II: From Axis Aggression to Allied Victory.
  • The Cold War: Ideological Conflict and Global Tensions.
  • The Civil Rights Movement: Struggle for Equality and Justice.
  • The Space Race: Competition and Innovation in Exploration.
  • The Vietnam War: Controversy and Consequences.
  • The Fall of the Berlin Wall: Symbol of the End of the Cold War.
  • The Digital Revolution: Technology's Impact on Society and Culture.

French Revolution Topics

  • The Causes of the French Revolution: Economic, Social, and Political Factors.
  • The Estates-General: Origins and Significance in Pre-Revolutionary France.
  • The Storming of the Bastille: Symbol of Popular Revolt.
  • The Reign of Terror: Robespierre and the Committee of Public Safety.
  • The Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte: From General to Emperor.
  • The Napoleonic Code: Legal Reforms and Legacy.
  • Women in the French Revolution: Roles and Contributions.
  • The Impact of the French Revolution on European Monarchies.
  • The Rise of Nationalism: Revolutionary Ideas and Ideals.
  • Legacy of the French Revolution: Its Influence on Modern Politics and Society.

Julius Caesar Topics

  • The Early Life and Rise of Julius Caesar: From Youth to Power.
  • Julius Caesar's Military Campaigns: Conquests and Triumphs.
  • The First Triumvirate: Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus.
  • The Gallic Wars: Caesar's Conquest of Gaul and its Impact.
  • Crossing the Rubicon: Caesar's Defiance of the Senate.
  • The Ides of March: Assassination of Julius Caesar.
  • Octavian (Augustus) and the Rise of the Roman Empire.
  • Caesar's Reforms: Political, Social, and Economic Changes.
  • Caesar's Legacy: Influence on Rome and Western Civilization.
  • Julius Caesar in Literature and Art: Depictions and Interpretations Throughout History.

American Civil War Topics

  • The Causes of the American Civil War: Slavery, States' Rights, and Sectionalism.
  • The Battle of Gettysburg: Turning Point in the Civil War.
  • Abraham Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation: Ending Slavery.
  • The Gettysburg Address: Lincoln's Speech and Its Significance.
  • The Battle of Antietam: Bloodiest Single-Day Battle in American History.
  • African American Soldiers in the Civil War: Fighting for Freedom.
  • Reconstruction: Rebuilding the Nation After the Civil War.
  • The Impact of the Civil War on American Society and Economy.
  • Women's Roles in the Civil War: Nurses, Spies, and Homefront Activists.
  • Legacy of the Civil War: Its Impact on American Identity and Memory.

Industrial Revolution Topics

  • The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Urbanization and Migration.
  • Child Labor in the Industrial Revolution: Exploitation and Reform.
  • The Role of Inventions and Innovations in the Industrial Revolution.
  • Factory Conditions and Workers' Rights: Struggles for Labor Reform.
  • The Rise of Capitalism: Economic Changes in the Industrial Revolution.
  • The Steam Engine: Revolutionizing Transportation and Industry.
  • The Luddite Movement: Resistance to Industrialization.
  • The Spread of Industrialization: Global Impacts and Colonialism.
  • Women in the Industrial Revolution: Changing Roles and Challenges.
  • The Environmental Impact of the Industrial Revolution: Pollution and Urbanization.

World War I and II Topics

  • The Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand: Trigger of WW I.
  • Trench Warfare: Conditions and Strategies on the Western Front.
  • The Treaty of Versailles: Impact on Post-War Europe.
  • The Battle of the Somme: Carnage and Stalemate in WW I.
  • The Role of Technology in WW I: Tanks, Gas, and Aircraft.
  • The Rise of Fascism: Origins of WW II.
  • The Invasion of Poland: Beginning of WW II in Europe.
  • The Battle of Stalingrad: Turning Point on the Eastern Front.
  • D-Day: Allied Invasion of Normandy and Liberation of Europe.
  • The Holocaust: Genocide and Nazi Atrocities.

American History Essay Topics

  • The Founding Fathers: Their Vision for the United States.
  • The American Revolution: From Colonies to Nation.
  • Manifest Destiny: Expansionism and Its Impact on Native Americans.
  • The Industrial Revolution: Transformation of American Society.
  • Women's Suffrage Movement: Fight for Voting Rights.
  • Immigration and the American Dream: Diversity and Identity in the United States.

Modern History Essay Topics

  • The Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster: Lessons Learned in Space Exploration.
  • The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster: Environmental and Sociopolitical Consequences.
  • The Cultural Impact of the Beatles: Music, Politics, and Counterculture.
  • The Berlin Airlift: Humanitarian Efforts in the Shadow of the Cold War.
  • The Panama Canal: Engineering Marvel and Gateway to Global Trade.
  • The HeLa Cells: Medical Breakthroughs and Ethical Dilemmas in Biomedicine.
  • The Legacy of Nelson Mandela: South Africa's Journey to Democracy.
  • The Birth of Modern Feminism: Waves of Change in Gender Equality.
  • The Legacy of the Hippie Movement: Counterculture in the 1960s and Beyond.
  • The Influence of Japanese Pop Culture: Anime, Manga, and Video Games.

Interesting History Essay Topics

  • The Mystery of the Lost City of Atlantis: Myth or Reality?
  • The Life and Legacy of Cleopatra: Queen of the Nile.
  • The Silk Road: Trade, Culture, and Exchange Across Eurasia.
  • The Salem Witch Trials: Mass Hysteria and Religious Intolerance.
  • The Pirate Queen: Grace O'Malley and Irish Maritime History.
  • The Great Fire of London: Destruction and Reconstruction.
  • The Rosetta Stone: Deciphering Ancient Hieroglyphs.
  • The Legend of King Arthur: Fact versus Fiction.
  • The Space Race: Exploration, Competition, and the Race to the Moon.

Good History Essay Topics

  • The Lost Colony of Roanoke: America's Unsolved Mystery.
  • The Influence of Hatshepsut: Egypt's Female Pharaoh.
  • The War of the Bucket: A Medieval Conflict Over a Wooden Pail.
  • The Battle of Castle Itter: When American and German Soldiers Fought Together.
  • The Bermuda Triangle: Fact, Fiction, and Maritime Mysteries.
  • The Dancing Plague of 1518: Mass Hysteria or Supernatural Phenomenon?
  • The Eruption of Mount Vesuvius: Pompeii and the Preservation of Ancient Life.
  • The Great Emu War: Australia's Bizarre Military Campaign Against Birds.
  • The Green Children of Woolpit: Medieval England's Strange Visitors.
  • The Epic of Gilgamesh: Ancient Mesopotamian Literature and Mythology.

historical essay topics

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Global History Essay Topics

Looking for an essay topic on global history? Check out this list of 150 potential topics covering a wide range of historical periods and geographical locations. From the rise and fall of empires to the impact of religion on history, there’s something here for everyone. And you can always count on our history essay writer to guide you on your way to writing the essay, which will give you the best mark in the class!

100 Global History Topics

  • The Crusades
  • The Black Death
  • The Mongol Empire
  • The Renaissance
  • The Reformation
  • The Age of Exploration
  • The French Revolution
  • The Industrial Revolution
  • The American Revolution
  • The Korean War
  • The Vietnam War
  • The Cold War
  • The Gulf War
  • The War on Terror
  • The Arab Spring
  • The Syrian Civil War
  • The Ukraine Crisis
  • The European migrant crisis
  • The Brexit referendum
  • The rise of ISIS
  • The Charlie Hebdo shooting
  • The November 2015 Paris attacks
  • The Orlando nightclub shooting
  • The November 2016 U.S. presidential election
  • The Dakota Access Pipeline protests
  • The Battle of Aleppo
  • The Battle of Mosul
  • The Rohingya refugee crisis
  • The Las Vegas mass shooting
  • The Parkland school shooting
  • The 2018 FIFA World Cup
  • The Syrian chemical weapons attack
  • The 2018 U.S.-Mexico border separation policy
  • The 2018 Men’s FIFA World Cup
  • The 2020 coronavirus pandemic
  • The 2020 U.S. presidential election
  • The Black Lives Matter movement
  • The #MeToo movement
  • The 2017 Unite the Right rally
  • The 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting
  • The 2017 Manchester Arena bombing
  • The 2017 London Bridge attack
  • The Finsbury Park mosque attack
  • The 2017 Charlottesville car attack
  • The Christchurch mosque shootings
  • The Sri Lanka Easter bombings
  • The 2019 Delhi riots
  • The 2019–20 Hong Kong protests
  • The 2020 Beijing coronavirus outbreak
  • The 2020 George Floyd protests
  • The 2020 Belarusian protests
  • The 2020 United States presidential election
  • The January 6, 2021 storming of the United States Capitol
  • The COVID-19 pandemic
  • The 2020–21 Australian bushfires
  • The 2020–21 Western Saharan protests
  • The 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
  • The 2020 Yemen war
  • The 2020 Ethiopian–Somali conflict
  • The 2020 Kivu Ebola outbreak
  • The 2019–2021 Cameroonian protests
  • The 2020 global economic recession
  • The 2021 storming of the United States Capitol
  • The 2021 Myanmar coup d’Ă©tat
  • The 2021 military coup in Zimbabwe
  • The 2020–21 Russian protests
  • The 2020–2021 Kuwaiti protests
  • The 2021 Sudanese coup d’Ă©tat
  • The 2020–2021 Libyan conflict
  • The 2020 Minsk Agreement
  • The Second Libyan Civil War
  • The 2014 Libyan Civil War
  • The 2011 Egyptian Revolution
  • The 2010–2011 Tunisian Revolution
  • The 2009 Iranian Green Movement
  • The Iranian Revolution
  • The 2006 Lebanon War
  • The Second Intifada
  • The September 11 attacks
  • The Iraq War
  • The War in Afghanistan
  • The Israeli–Palestinian conflict
  • The Northern Ireland conflict
  • The Troubles
  • The Falklands War
  • The Iran–Iraq War
  • The Yemeni Civil War
  • The First Libyan Civil War
  • The Lebanese Civil War
  • The Iranian Green Movement
  • The Green Revolution

Interesting Global History Research Paper Topics

  • How did the Cold War shape the world we live in today?
  • What were the most important causes of World War I?
  • How did the Industrial Revolution change the world?
  • What were the causes and effects of the French Revolution?
  • How did the American Revolution impact the world?
  • What were the most important events of the 20th century?
  • What is the history of the United Nations?
  • What are the origins of the European Union?
  • How did the Cold War affect Europe?
  • What is the history of the Berlin Wall?

Global history regents thematic essay topics

  • The rise and fall of empires
  • The impact of religion on history
  • The role of geography in history
  • The importance of trade in history
  • The impact of war on history
  • The role of technology in history
  • The impact of art and culture on history
  • The importance of political systems in history
  • The impact of economic systems on history
  • The role of social movements in history
  • The importance of science and medicine in history
  • The role of education in history
  • The role of women in history
  • The role of minorities in history
  • The role of youth in history
  • The impact of environmental factors on history
  • The role of pandemics in history
  • The impact of natural disasters on history
  • The role of technology in warfare
  • The impact of colonialism on history
  • The role of migration in history
  • The impact of population growth on history
  • The role of climate change in history
  • The impact of globalization on history
  • The role of media in history
  • The role of consumerism in history
  • The role of terrorism in history
  • The role of organized crime in history
  • The role of the internet in history
  • The role of artificial intelligence in history

Advanced topics global history

  • The rise and fall of civilizations
  • The impact of religion on civilizations
  • The role of geography in civilizations
  • The importance of trade in civilizations
  • The impact of war on civilizations
  • The role of technology in civilizations
  • The impact of art and culture on civilizations
  • The importance of political systems in civilizations
  • The impact of economic systems on civilizations
  • The role of social movements in civilizations
  • The importance of science and medicine in civilizations
  • The role of education in civilizations
  • The role of women in civilizations
  • The role of minorities in civilizations
  • The role of youth in civilizations
  • The impact of environmental factors on civilizations
  • The role of pandemics in civilizations
  • The impact of natural disasters on civilizations
  • The impact of colonialism on civilizations

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135 US History Essay Topics

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

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

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

How To Write a US History Essay?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How To Structure a US History Essay?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

US History Essay Topics About the Civil War

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

US History Essay Topics About the Native Americans

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

US History Essay Topics About the Great Depression

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

US History Essay Topics About WW1 & WW2

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

US History Essay Topics About Women’s Rights

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

US History Essay Topics About Immigration

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

US History Essay Topics About Labor and Strikes

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

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

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543 American History Essay Topics & Good Ideas

18 January 2024

last updated

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

Cool American History Essay Topics

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

American History Essay Topics & Good Ideas

Easy American History Research Topics

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

Interesting US History Topics

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

US History Topics for High School

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

US History Topics for College Students

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

US History Topics for University

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

American History Essay Topics on Revolution Battles and Key Events

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

American Essay History Topics Before 1865

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

US Research Paper Topics on Black History

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

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

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

American History Essay Topics on Cold War and McCarthyism

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

American History Topics on Civil Rights Movement

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

US History Essay Topics on Immigration & Ethnic

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

American Industrial Revolution History Topics

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

Latin American History Essay Topics

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

American History Topics on Progressive Era

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

American History Essay Topics on Roaring Twenties

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

American Reconstruction History Essay Topics

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

LGBTQ+ American History Research Paper Topics

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

Native American History Essay Topics

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

American History Research Paper Topics About World War I & II

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

American History Essay Topics About Founding Fathers and the Constitution

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

American History Topics About Space Race and NASA’s Contributions

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

US Civil War Research Paper Topics

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

American History Research Paper Topics on Vietnam War

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

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

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

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IB History Extended Essay Topics and Research Questions

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  • Writing Metier

Are you gearing up to start writing your History Extended Essay but feeling a bit overwhelmed with where to start?

You’re in luck! We’ve put together an exciting array of IB History EE topics that span the rich tapestry of history, from the world wars to the nuances of cultural revolutions.

These aren’t just any History EE topics; they’re carefully selected to ignite your curiosity and fit snugly within the IB criteria.

So, please grab a cup of your favorite brew, and let’s explore these ideas together. And remember, if you need a bit more than just inspiration, we at Writing Metier are here to help you every step of the way! 

50+ History Extended Essay Topics

In this article, we’ve divided our selection of History Extended Essay topics into ten categories. It’s like having a library where each section is dedicated to a different era or theme in history, making it easier for you to find the topics that catch your eye. 

history extended essay topics

Whether you’re passionate about the Cold War, intrigued by the Renaissance, or curious about economic history, these categories collected by our History essay writers are set up to help you zero in on the area that sparks your interest. 

Think of it as a well-organized menu of historical feasts, ready for you to pick your favorite dish! 

1. World War I and II

We’re starting our exploration with World War I and II, where battles reshaped our planet. 

We’ll examine the causes behind the Great War, analyze strategic masterstrokes of the Second World War, and assess their lasting impact on society and politics. 

It’s a fascinating look at events that defined a century.

Causes and Consequences of World War I

  • Research Question:  How did rising nationalism contribute to the outbreak of World War I?
  • Research Question:  What were the long-term economic impacts of World War I on European countries?

Key Battles and Strategies of World War II

  • Research Question:  How did the Battle of Stalingrad turn the tide of World War II?
  • Research Question:  How did naval warfare strategies influence the outcome of battles in the Pacific during World War II?

Political and Social Impact of the World Wars

  • Research Question:  How did World War II influence the progression of the Civil Rights Movement in the US?
  • Research Question:  How did the political landscape of Europe change after World War I?

Moving from global conflicts to a war of shadows and ideologies, we enter the Cold War Era.

2. Cold War Era

This period was less about physical battles and more about espionage, strategic politics, and iconic leaders. We’ll explore the secret world of spies, the global chess game of this era, and the personalities who steered these events.

The Role of Espionage and Intelligence

  • Research Question:  How did espionage activities shape the diplomatic relations between the US and the Soviet Union during the Cold War?
  • Research Question:  How did intelligence operations contribute to the resolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis?

Influence of the Cold War on Global Politics

  • Research Question:  How did the Cold War affect political dynamics in the Middle East?
  • Research Question:  How did the Cold War contribute to the formation and policies of the European Union?

Key Figures and Leaders of the Cold War

  • Research Question:  How did Ronald Reagan’s policies contribute to the end of the Cold War?
  • Research Question:  How did Nikita Khrushchev’s leadership influence the course of the Cold War?

Now, let’s focus on Revolution and Change. We’re delving into the Russian Revolution’s seismic shifts, the Industrial Revolution’s world-changing innovations, and the unique narratives of Latin American revolutions.

3. Revolution and Change

These events didn’t just change nations; they rewrote the rules of society.

The Russian Revolution: Causes and Effects

  • Research Question:  What factors led to the success of the Bolsheviks in the Russian Revolution?
  • Research Question:  How did World War I catalyze the Russian Revolution?

The Impact of the Industrial Revolution

  • Research Question:  How did the Industrial Revolution drive urbanization and social change in 19th century Britain?
  • Research Question:  What were the key technological innovations of the Industrial Revolution, and how did they transform societies?

Revolutions in Latin America: A Comparative Study

  • Research Question:  How do the causes and outcomes of the Mexican and Cuban revolutions compare and contrast?
  • Research Question:  What was Simon Bolivar’s impact on the revolutions in Latin America?

Next, we explore the era of Colonialism and Imperialism, a time of empires expanding and reshaping continents. We’ll investigate what drove the Scramble for Africa, the complexities of British rule in India, and how empires waned in the 20th century. 

4. Colonialism and Imperialism

It’s a compelling story of power, conquest, and resistance.

The Scramble for Africa: Causes and Impact

  • Research Question:  What were the primary motivations for European nations in the Scramble for Africa, and how did they justify their actions?
  • Research Question:  How did the Berlin Conference and the subsequent division of Africa impact the political landscape of the continent in the long term?

British Rule in India: Economic and Social Effects

  • Research Question:  How did the economic policies of the British Raj affect the social and economic structure of Indian society?
  • Research Question:  What was the significance of the Indian railway system in facilitating British colonial objectives and its impact on India?

The Decline of Empires in the 20th Century

  • Research Question:  How did the collapse of the Ottoman Empire contribute to the shaping of modern Middle Eastern borders and conflicts?
  • Research Question:  What were the key factors that led to the decline of the British Empire after World War II?

Shifting from political power plays to the power of ideas, we enter the world of Cultural and Intellectual History. 

5. Cultural and Intellectual History

We’ll explore the Renaissance’s bloom of creativity, the Enlightenment’s revolutionary ideas, and the 1960s’ cultural upheaval. It’s a celebration of the minds that dared to think differently.

The Renaissance: Artistic and Scientific Innovations

  • Research Question:  How did Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions and scientific studies exemplify the spirit of innovation during the Renaissance?
  • Research Question:  How did the invention of the printing press transform literature and the spread of ideas during the Renaissance?

The Enlightenment: Philosophers and Ideas

  • Research Question:  How did Voltaire’s writings and ideas contribute to the development of Enlightenment thought?
  • Research Question:  How did Enlightenment philosophies influence the development of modern democratic and political ideals?

The Cultural Impact of the 1960s

  • Research Question:  How did the counterculture movement of the 1960s influence the evolution of music during that era?
  • Research Question:  How did youth movements in the 1960s contribute to social and political change in the United States?

From the world of art and ideas, we turn to Economic History. Here, we’ll dissect the Great Depression’s global impact, trace the evolution of economic systems, and understand globalization’s role in reshaping economies. 

6. Economic History

It’s an insightful look at how economic forces shape our world.

The Great Depression: Causes and Global Effects

  • Research Question:  What were the underlying causes of the 1929 stock market crash, and how did it precipitate the Great Depression?
  • Research Question:  How did the Great Depression affect the economies of industrialized nations outside the United States?

The Evolution of Economic Systems in the 20th Century

  • Research Question:  How did the shift from mercantilism to free market capitalism shape economic policies in the 20th century?
  • Research Question:  What factors led to the rise and eventual decline of command economies in the 20th century?

The Impact of Globalization on World Economies

  • Research Question:  How has the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) impacted the economies of its member countries?
  • Research Question:  How have multinational corporations influenced the process of economic globalization and its impact on national economies?

Here you can also find a list of good Economics extended essay topics for you. Just so you know 😉

In Social History, we examine the movements that have sculpted our societal landscape. 

7. Social History

We’ll explore the fight for women’s rights, the journey of the Civil Rights Movement in the US, and the Victorian era’s social reforms. These movements are the pillars of our modern society.

Women’s Rights Movements Across History

  • Research Question:  How did the suffragette movement in the UK impact the fight for women’s rights and lead to societal change?
  • Research Question:  What was the contribution of women to the French Revolution, and how did it influence their rights?

The Civil Rights Movement in the United States

  • Research Question:  How did Martin Luther King Jr.’s leadership and strategies shape the course of the Civil Rights Movement?
  • Research Question:  How did media coverage affect the public perception and progress of the Civil Rights Movement?

Social Reforms of the Victorian Era

  • Research Question:  How did the Factory Acts reform labor conditions, and what was their social impact during the Victorian era?
  • Research Question:  How did Charles Dickens’ portrayal of social issues in his novels contribute to awareness and reform in Victorian England?

Next, we explore the experiences of Indigenous Peoples during colonial times. We’ll look at how European colonization impacted Native American societies, the resilience of Aboriginal communities in Australia, and the effects of colonial policies in South America. 

8. Indigenous Peoples and Colonial Histories

These stories are about endurance, identity, and cultural survival.

The Impact of European Colonization on Native American Societies

  • Research Question:  What were the immediate and long-term effects of the Spanish conquest on Aztec society and culture?
  • Research Question:  How did European colonization transform the social, political, and economic structures of Native American societies?

Aboriginal Histories and Resistance in Australia

  • Research Question:  What were the long-term effects of the Stolen Generations policy on Aboriginal communities in Australia?
  • Research Question:  How has the Aboriginal land rights movement shaped the legal and political landscape in Australia?

The Effects of Colonial Policies on Indigenous Cultures in South America

  • Research Question:  How did Spanish colonialism affect the social and cultural structures of indigenous societies in the Andean region?
  • Research Question:  What has been the lasting impact of Portuguese colonialism on indigenous communities in Brazil?

Now, let’s look at how technology changes history’s course. 

9. Technological Advancements and Historical Change

From the printing press sparking a knowledge revolution to the telegraph altering warfare, and the internet’s role in recent revolutions, we’re examining technology’s power to transform societies.

The Role of the Printing Press in Reformation Europe

  • Research Question:  How did the printing press facilitate the spread of Martin Luther’s ideas during the Reformation?
  • Research Question:  How did the invention of the printing press contribute to the intellectual and cultural developments of the Renaissance?

The Impact of the Telegraph on 19th Century Wars

  • Research Question:  How did the telegraph influence military strategies and communication during the American Civil War?
  • Research Question:  How did the use of the telegraph affect diplomatic communications and decision-making during the Crimean War?

The Influence of the Internet on Late 20th Century Revolutions

  • Research Question:  How did the internet and social media platforms influence the organization and spread of the Arab Spring movements?
  • Research Question:  How did the advent of digital communication technologies contribute to the political and social changes leading to the fall of the Soviet Union?

Finally, we arrive at the latest chapter in our history – Contemporary Global Issues and Conflicts post-1990. 

10. Contemporary Global Issues and Conflicts (Post-1990)

Here, we tackle the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the new face of terrorism post-9/11, and the far-reaching effects of the 2008 financial crisis. It’s a close look at the challenges shaping our current world.

The Historical Roots of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

  • Research Question:  How have the Oslo Accords shaped the subsequent developments in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
  • Research Question:  How have international interventions influenced the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since 1990?

The Rise of Terrorism and Its Global Impact Post-9/11

  • Research Question:  How have global counterterrorism strategies evolved in response to the changing nature of terrorism since 9/11?
  • Research Question:  What changes have been implemented in global aviation security as a direct response to the 9/11 attacks?

The Social and Political Consequences of the 2008 Financial Crisis

  • Research Question:  How did the 2008 financial crisis influence economic and political policies within the European Union?
  • Research Question:  What changes in financial regulation have been implemented since the 2008 crisis to prevent similar future events?

The Syrian Civil War and Refugee Crisis

  • Research Question:  How have different countries responded to the Syrian refugee crisis, and what are the implications of these responses?
  • Research Question:  How has the Syrian Civil War affected political and social stability in the Middle East region?

The Russian-Ukrainian Conflict and Its Global Implications

  • Research Question:  What were the causes of Russia’s annexation of Crimea, and how did the international community respond?
  • Research Question:  How has cyber warfare been utilized in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, and what are its implications for modern warfare?

And that wraps up our extensive list of over 50 History IB Extended Essay topics, carefully selected across various intriguing categories. 

Tailored to meet the IB criteria and EE rubric, these topics are ideal for anyone taking on history as their extended essay subject. They offer a gateway to explore significant historical events and themes, ensuring a blend of academic rigor and engaging storytelling.

Select Your Topic Wisely

As you stand at the threshold of your IB History Extended Essay, remember, the path to a great paper doesn’t have to be walked alone. If you’re circling around topic ideas or looking for expert guidance in writing a standout essay, Writing Metier is just a message away. 

We’re here to offer support, whether it’s sparking your initial idea or crafting an essay that truly reflects your historical insight. 

Reach out to us, and let’s turn your history essay into a piece that stands out in both depth and clarity.

historical essay topics

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Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

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Oral History Offers a Model for How Schools Can Introduce Students to Complex Topics

historical essay topics

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As historian David McCullough said, history is the study of who we are and why we are the way we are.

That’s why teachers in the Memphis-Shelby County public schools, as racially isolated now as they were when the U.S. Supreme Court outlawed school segregation, have launched a curriculum to introduce their students to the 13 children who helped integrate these Tennessee city schools in 1961.

Memphis-Shelby County teachers, researchers from the University of Memphis, and the local Memphis 13 Foundation worked with seven of the 10 surviving members of the Memphis 13—a group of Black 1st graders who peacefully enrolled in four all-white schools at the height of the civil rights era—to develop teacher training, lesson plans, and oral history activities for elementary students.

historical essay topics

“Just going home and talking to grandparents or talking to the elders in their community was never going to be enough,” said Anna Falkner, an assistant professor at the University of Memphis and a co-developer of the curriculum, “because it wouldn’t provide [students] with the context that they needed in order to understand what happened and understand the ongoing effects of, for example, the way segregation looks today.”

The Memphis 13 project offers a model for how schools can introduce complex subjects to students, even in early grades, while also giving them opportunities to investigate social studies in their communities

“Really consider the context,” Falkner said. “What are the specifics that can help students understand their Southern context or the context wherever they are and what that means in relation to the larger experience. It’s not just focusing on that national narrative, not just sharing Brown v. Board , but really thinking about, what did this look like in my backyard? What did it look like for my family members or my community members?”

For example, teachers met with surviving members of the Memphis 13 to identify projects for students in 2nd and 5th grades, when Tennessee social studies standards cover civil rights issues. Sheila Malone, one of the students who first integrated into the district’s Bruce Elementary as a 1st grader, suggested that 5th graders record the experiences of others who had attended the district schools during desegregation.

“[Malone] wanted the students to go back home and share the story and have intergenerational conversations about the history of our schools,” said Gina Tillis, the director of curriculum and instruction for the Memphis 13 Foundation, who co-developed the Memphis curriculum. “One of the things that I’ve noticed with the members of Memphis 13 is, as they’re sharing their stories, they’re unpacking memories that have been silenced. 
 This is a really powerful space for students to reflect on their education, their parents’ and their elders’ education, and what we’re doing collectively to create a more inclusive and equitable school system.”

Second graders, for example, watch documentaries and review news accounts about the school desegregation decisions in Memphis and other cities, identifying ways children their age participated. In 5th grade , students review collected oral history interviews and collect their own, as well as analyze modern policies related to school integration. Tillis said the project plans to expand the curriculum to 8th and 11th grades in the future.

Building school integration history projects

Emerging technology has made it easier for educators to engage their students in active historical research, according to the Center for Public History and Digital Humanities at Cleveland State University in Ohio. The center, for example, has developed apps to help students record interviews and archive historical documents.

Efforts like those of the Memphis 13 helped integrate public schools in the decades following the landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Brown v. Board of Education . However, these trends began to reverse in the 1990s and have worsened to this day, even as the overall public school population has grown more diverse. Studies find schools serving high populations of students of color continue to have on average fewer educational opportunities —including challenging courses, experienced teachers, and other resources—compared with schools serving mostly white students.

While the Memphis 13 are well known, Tillis stressed that schools can use community history to engage students regardless of where they are. “Everyone has a school desegregation story. Every district, every person ... and every district story is unique,” she said. “It’s, I think, one of the most powerful stories to share because it offers you this platform to really deconstruct what’s going on in our schools.”

Researchers recommended that schools interested in developing similar projects:

  • Work with local historians and groups to identify social studies topics and events that had strong effects on the local community. This can include school district librarians or archivists, for example.
  • Provide teachers with training in both the historical context and strategies and tools for documenting community history.
  • Focus on topics that encourage students to make connections between history and current issues in their community.

“One of the lessons that we’re hoping to share with other school districts is just the power of listening to your community members who are historians, even if they don’t work for the local archive: the neighbor down the street who kept all the newspapers, the person who knew everybody in the neighborhood,” Falkner said. “Finding those community members and making a meaningful way for them to participate in the curriculum development is the most important piece.”

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Ahenewa El-Amin leads a conversation with students during her AP African American Studies class at Henry Clay High School in Lexington, Ky., on March 19, 2024.

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Flashback: Your Weekly History Quiz, April 13, 2024

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Flashback: Your Weekly History Quiz

April 13, 2024, can you place 8 notable events in chronological order, from the upshot: what the data says, analysis that explains politics, policy and everyday life..

Employment Discrimination: Researchers sent 80,000 fake résumés to some of the largest companies in the United States. They found that some discriminated against Black applicants much more than others .

Pandemic School Closures: ​A variety of data about children’s academic outcomes and about the spread of Covid-19 has accumulated since the start of the pandemic. Here is what we learned from it .

Affirmative Action: The Supreme Court effectively ended race-based preferences in admissions. But will selective schools still be able to achieve diverse student bodies? Here is how they might try .

N.Y.C. Neighborhoods: We asked New Yorkers to map their neighborhoods and to tell us what they call them . The result, while imperfect, is an extremely detailed map of the city .

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110 Original History Essay Questions: Examples and Topics

historical essay topics

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

What are those intriguing aspects?

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

  • Top History Topics
  • 🔍 Extended Essay
  • ✒ Historiographical Essay
  • 📌 Persuasive Essay
  • ⚙ Technology Topics
  • đŸŽ¶ Music Topics
  • 🌄 American History
  • 🏰 European History
  • đŸ”„ 5 In-Class Essay Tips

đŸ€© Top 15 History Essay Topics

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

💁 Topics for Various Essay Types

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

🔎 History Extended Essay Topics

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

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

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

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

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

📝 Historiographical Essay Topics

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

Here you will find good topics for historiographical essays:

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

📌 History Persuasive Essay Topics

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

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

The US maintained neutrality in WWI until 1917.

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

Bipolar disorder causes shifts in a person's mood.

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

⚙ History of Technology Essay Topics

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

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

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

Avicenna memorized the entire Qur'an by age 10.

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

đŸŽ¶ Music History Essay Topics

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

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

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

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

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

👍 Good History Essay Questions

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

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

🌄 American History Essay Questions

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

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

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

🏘 European History Essay Questions

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

đŸ”„ 5 Tips for Writing an Essay in Class

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

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

1. Practice beforehand

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

2. Forget to panic

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

3. Plan before you write

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

Clear your thoughts to focus on your task.

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

4. Keep in mind your writing speed

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

5. Proofread

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

Proofread. Always.

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

🔗 References

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