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People often say that time travel is impossible. I beg to differ. Did you know that researching historical events can be regarded as time traveling? Because you will get more information about events as if you were there. Most university and college students in the United States consider writing history papers uninteresting. Some of their negative opinions stem from inability to come up with unique and fascinating historical research topics. If you have a history assignment and are stuck on finding a suitable title that can guarantee you success, you are in the right place. Our research paper writers for hire have compiled various history research paper topics that can inspire your essays. Select from different interesting topics in history to research and write on. Apart from giving you 250 research themes, this article also explains what these topics are, their characteristics, and how to choose them.

What Are History Research Paper Topics?

History research paper topics refer to titles that explore past times, events, and the evolution of cultures and traditions. As a branch of more broad social science research topics , they evaluate social, political, scientific, and economic developments that humans have made since the beginning of time. History research topics majorly focus on recorded and unrecorded past events and times. The theme you choose for your research paper or thesis will guide your overall content. You may be provided with history paper topics by lecturers or professors in your school or required to come up with one of your own. In this case, we have got a huge list for your selection.

Characteristics of Good History Research Topics

Before writing any history paper, you should come up with or select a suitable title. Choosing good history topics to research is a challenging task. As a scholar, you may falter at this stage and pick a topic that is unsuitable for your paper, which eventually affects your grade. Since we want to make it easy for you, we will provide a checklist of characteristics to look out for when selecting titles for your essay. Good topics for a history research paper should be:

Meaningful.
Unambiguous.
Attractive.
Expressive.
Well-defined.

How to Choose a History Research Topic?

Unless you are provided with a title to write on, most times, you will be required to come up with your research topics in history. Generally, this is a broad subject covering different areas. As a result, it may be a tedious task for you to try and select a suitable research topic for history paper. However, do not worry because we will present a series of steps to guide you in choosing a title for your essay. Follow this procedure when you want to pick historical topics to write about:

Brainstorm ideas and determine the best one.
Evaluate all background information that has been provided.
Focus on issues that are interesting to you.
Create a keyword list or an outline for your topic.
Be flexible in your research.
Ensure all titles meet assignment requirements.

List of History Topics to Research

To succeed in your essays, it is vital to come up with good research topics for history. Therefore, you should select unique and interesting historical topics to research. Below are examples of best history research paper topics:

What were major impacts of slave trade in Europe?
Historical development of the industrial revolution.
Factors that promoted construction of pyramids in Egypt.
Negative consequences of World Wars on the global economy.
Effects of the American Civil War on people’s ways of life.
Historical origin of the American Revolution.
Impacts of European scramble for and partition of Africa.
Factors that led to the US-Mexico war in 1846.
Major reasons why the Soviet Union collapsed.
Expressionist movement and its impacts on modern art.

The following list offers everyone what they need. If not, ask our experts for a piece of advice or generate a title to your liking with our Topic Generator .

Interesting History Topics to Research

There are many interesting history research paper topics that you can write on. However, we strive to provide you with the best. We have compiled a list of most interesting history topics for you to pick:

What processes were taken in abolishing slave trade?
Queen Elizabeth: A historical background of how she came to power.
Factors that led to Americans going into Civil War.
Main uses of money in ancient Greece.
Science that led to discovery of polio vaccines.
Key facts about the American Revolution.
Assassination attempts on US Presidents in the last 70 years.
Effects of child labor during the Puritan era.
Major roles played by America during World War I.
What factors made the Titanic sink?
Environmental impacts of industrial revolution.
What economic role did women play during the Great Depression?
How did the Germantown Battle start?
What influenced the Spanish-American War ?
Roles played by religious leaders during the Aztec era.

Good History Research Paper Topics

Apart from interesting titles, there are also good topics for history research paper that can guarantee you high grades in your paper. Below is a list of good history paper topics:

Historical origin of the Roman Empire.
What tactics were used by Greeks in their win against Persians?
Famous war strategies employed by Alexander the Great in his conquest of Egypt.
What lesson can we learn from construction and implementation of the Great Wall of China?
Most successful attacks by Julius Caesar on Great Britain.
Hun's first invasion of Europe: An analysis of its success.
Challenges faced by Mohammed in his journey from Mecca to Medina.
Impacts of Aristotle’s philosophical ideas in today’s world.
First Greek Olympiad and its legacy.
Famous African American soldiers during the Civil War.
Achievements of Genghis Khan in Asia.
Russia-Ukraine war: Origin of this conflict.
Challenges faced by the American army in Vietnam.
Economic implications of Versailles Treaty on European nations.
Major causes of World War II.

Unique Historical Research Topics

To stand out from other scholars, you ought to have unique history research topics. To get you there, we have provided history topics to write about:

Historiography of reasons that led to World War I.
Adoption of Rococo artistic style in architecture.
Major environmental impacts of late Warthe retreat in central Europe.
What political impacts did cartoons and propaganda experts have during World War II?
What vital religious roles did sculptures play in ancient Greece?
History of famous Christian symbols and their significance.
Psychological significance of Kazimir Malevich's artworks.
Origin and political importance of Dalits in India.
How did Julius Caesar and Cleopatra’s relationship affect his leadership?
Famous medics who played a crucial role during World War II.
What key implications did Balkan Wars have on the European map?
Achievements of Queen Victoria’s first year in office.
Discovery of X-Rays: How and by who?
Spanish Civil War: An analysis of first 100 days during the war.
Key events that followed after Pearl Harbor was attacked.

Before you start writing a History research paper, go deep into the area you are studying and don't skip important dates. Get proficient paper help 24/7 if that sounds like a waste of time for you.

Easy History Topics to Write About

Sometimes you are striving to beat deadlines for submitting your paper. Such times call for easy history topics to research. When you find yourself in such a situation, look at these easy historical events to write about for your inspiration:

Major impacts of World War I.
Key achievements of the Women's Rights Movement in the past century.
Economic impacts of the biggest earthquake in America.
Salem Witch Trials: Causes and impacts.
How did the European invasion of Africa affect levels of education on the continent?
Achievements of the Ottoman Empire.
Apartheid in South Africa: Its social and political impacts.
Causes of rise and fall of Roman Empire.
Significant inventions during the Middle Ages.
How Native Americans reacted to European invasions of their lands.
Strategies used by the American government to overcome the Great Depression.
How important was Pearl Harbor during World War II?
Consequences brought by nuclear weapons in Europe.
Common effects of Greek culture in Europe.
Major roles played by Shogun in Japanese history.

History Research Paper Topics for Students

Most students always encounter challenges when it comes to selecting historical topics to research. Choosing the right title can make a difference between success and failure in your paper. This is why you need to have various history research questions to help you in selecting your focus area. It does not matter whether you are in middle school, high school, or college because we have a list of topics that will help you get good grades .

History Research Topics for Middle School

There are times when middle school students are required to select historical events to write about. If you find yourself in this situation, we have interesting topics in history suggested for you:

European Middle Ages: Major challenges that were witnessed during that era.
Gender bias roles and how they have changed over time in Britain.
How many soldiers did America lose during World War I?
In what ways have nuclear weapons changed the military?
What measures were taken to abolish slavery in America?
History of the United Kingdom monarch.
How were enslaved people transported to America?
Impacts of the Cold War on the European economy.
Who were the first settlers in America?
Agrarian revolution: Origin and impact in Europe.
Evolution of man according to Darwin.
Positive impacts brought by the Ottoman Empire .
Significance of Shakespearean plays to modern theaters.
Factors that facilitated the growth of the industrial revolution.
How the motor industry developed in America.

History Research Topics for High School

If you are a high school student looking for research topics in history, you have arrived at the right place. Below we have compiled history project topics for you to choose from:

Factors that promoted growth of the Byzantine Empire.
Repercussions brought by World War II to Britain.
History and growth of Civil Rights Movement in America.
How did World War I cripple Germany's military power?
Major factors that made it easy for colonies to win the American Revolution.
Challenges faced by China in its space exploration attempts.
Why was America reluctant to participate in World War II?
Key benefits of the Cold War to Russia.
Factors that led to eradicating most Native Americans’ cultural practices.
American Wild West: Analysis of myths as portrayed by popular culture.
History of the American constitution.
Fight against terrorism: Its origin and development.
Berlin Wall: Its social impacts on the people of Germany.
Major social revolutions in Britain.
Revolution of the internet.

History Research Paper Topics for College Students

There is a wide range of history research topics for college students. However, to achieve the highest grade, you must find the best history thesis topics for your term paper. The following is a list of the most popular American history research paper topics for college students:

A comparison between Crusaders and Jihadists.
Most effective farming tools that were used in Mesopotamia.
In what ways has Japanese art influenced European cultures?
Impacts of racial segregation on development of music industry in America.
Major racial events that have plagued American society in the past 50 years.
Key constitutional amendments that have taken place in the US over the last 100 years.
How did Europeans use religion to conquer countries?
Origin and benefits of vaccines to people.
Significance of Marie Antoinette during the American Revolution.
In what ways did the Medici family influence the Renaissance?
How did communist manifesto influence European countries?
Controversial issues surrounding Pope Alexander VI.
Roles played by women during the Vietnam War.
Manson family: Truths and myths surrounding them.
Historical account of first space exploration by America.

Historical Events to Write About

Writing a history paper should be a fun affair. To make your experience worthwhile, we have different cool history topics for research papers. Selecting a theme from these classifications will make it easy for you to write a unique and interesting essay for your research. Go through these topics for history project and use any of them as sources of inspiration for your paper. When you decide on the idea, make sure to check how to write a research paper properly.

World History Research Paper Topics

One of the most fun titles to write on is interesting world history topics. Although this category is broad, you should not be confused about what to research and write because we have got you covered. Below are world history topics for research paper that you can choose:

Significant environmental consequences of Persian Gulf War.
Factors that contributed greatly to the fall of Aztec Civilization.
What were the economic impacts brought by the rise of the Qing Dynasty?
Key chain of events that led to the Russian Revolution and rise of communism.
How did the Samurai culture greatly impact nations around Japan?
Life and achievements of Nelson Mandela and his struggle to liberate South Africa from colonial rule.
Major reasons why the Great Wall of China was constructed.
Factors that contributed to Babylon collapsing.
Economic significance of Constantinople in the Byzantine Empire.
Mughal architectural influences in constructing Taj Mahal.

US History Research Paper Topics

There are a lot of American history research paper topics that you can select. However, to guarantee your success in this process, we have provided the best US history topics for research paper below:

Ways in which early settlers in America learned to coexist together.
Major factors that contributed to Witch Trials in Salem.
What laws were put in place to control enslaved people in America?
Key reasons why Boston Massacres occurred.
What factors led to the American Revolution?
Reasons why George Washington is regarded as one of the greatest leaders in American history.
New roles for women after the American Revolution.
Key events that took place in creating the American Constitution.
Conflicts between British and Native Americans in the 19th century.
Modern activism groups. Their origin and development in the USA.

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European History Research Topics

Finding the best European history research paper topics may be difficult because of European countries' different historical and cultural backgrounds. Nevertheless, below we have created interesting European history topics that will make it easy for you:

Niccolo Machiavelli's philosophy and its impacts.
Most renowned artist of the Renaissance period.
Maximillian Robespierre: Impacts brought by his reign of terror during the French Revolution.
Factors that led to creation of Austria-Hungary.
Rise and fall of the Viking era.
Characteristics that are associated with Gothic art.
Origin and impacts of Romanticism.
A comparison of great works by Mozart and Bach in the 18th century.
How Cubism revolutionized the art movement in Europe.
Military role played by British women in World War II.

European history has various events described in literature. If you want to focus on how any event is depicted in literary works, don't hesitate to browse for literature research paper topics.

French Revolution Research Topics for History

The French Revolution is a significant historical period. If you are searching for the best historical topics to research about this period, look no further. Below are best history topics ideas for you to start with:

Achievements of King Louis IV.
Factors that contributed to Napoleon losing the Waterloo battle.
Major causes of the French Revolution.
How has the French Revolution affected modern France?
Major roles played by the French Revolution in Europe.
What was the significance of Robespierre during the French Revolution?
How did the French Revolution influence music and French operas?
How was Napoleon’s conquest affected by the French Revolution?
Key societal transformation after the French Revolution.
Causes and impacts brought by Champ De Mars Massacre.

American Revolution History Research Paper Topics

Another popular category to write on is American history research topics. When asked to write about the American Revolution, do not be confused. The following are interesting American history research paper topics for your ideas:

Social consequences caused by the American Revolution.
What role did women play during the revolution?
How did the American Revolution impact Europe?
How did typical Americans live during this revolution?
Famous female writers during the American Revolution.
Negative social impacts of the American Revolution.
Similarities between the Trenton and Princeton Battles.
Significant achievements of Alexander Hamilton during the American Revolution.
How did the revolution change the perception of America by British?
How did George Washington affect the outcome of the American Revolution?

History Research Paper Topics on US Civil War

When looking for popular US history topics to write about, you should consider the Civil War. If that is the case, we have good US history research topics about the Civil War for your inspiration:

What factors led to the American Civil War?
How is the American Civil War represented in popular culture?
What were the roles played by African Americans during this period?
Impact of Civil War on American society.
Effects brought by the Civil War on ending slavery in America.
Key roles played by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War.
Major roles played by women during the Civil War.
Major course of American Civil War.
What are the key advantages of the American Civil War?
How did the Civil War impact distribution of wealth in America?

Cold War History Research Topics

The Cold War has some of the most interesting history topics to research. If you want to be inspired by the Cold War historical investigation topics, we have a list for you below:

What key roles did America play during the Cold War?
What interventions were made by the UN during the Cold War?
How were popular cultures affected by the Cold War?
Why is the Cold War described as an era characterized by fear?
Key events that led to discussions to end the Cold War.
What impacts did the Cold War have on European economic development?
Key events that led to the Cold War.
What major countries were involved in the Cold War?
What was the aftermath of the Cold War?
Cultural shifts during the Cold War.

20th Century Research Paper Topics

Are you searching for 20th-century history paper ideas? Look no further. Below are interesting research topics about history and development witnessed in the 20th century:

Successful tactics used by Gandhi to revolt against British oppression.
Reasons why the assassination of King Carlos of Portugal failed to provoke a revolution.
How the Marne Battle made it easy to stop advancement of German forces.
Factors that facilitated the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
How did the attack on Pearl Harbor change the course of the war?
Methods used to spread and promote Communism ideologies in Europe.
How did the relationship between the Soviet Union and America change over time after 1945?
Factors that led to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
Friendship treaties signed between Fidel Castro and the USSR.
Cuban missile crisis: Origin and consequences.

Modern History Research Paper Topics

You may be asked to write a paper on modern history topics. When you find yourself in this situation, go through the following history topics for research paper to get your inspiration:

Columbian Exchange: Its origin and consequences.
Foods taken by people during the Industrial Revolution.
How was it living in the Wild West?
Aftermath of the Great Famine in Ireland and how people coped.
Negative impacts brought by David Livingstone's exploration in Africa.
Russia's expansion of its territories and how they annexed Siberia.
Characteristics associated with the Commercial Revolution and its impact on world finances.
Positive consequences brought by spice trade in shaping the modern world.
Key inventions that facilitated the Age of Exploration.
Why was Alexander II assassinated?

Extra History Research Paper Topics

You can never fully exhaust historical titles because history is constantly changing and being written. But, by now, we hope you have a clear picture of interesting history research paper topics you can write on. But if you still need more inspiration for your essay, we will provide you with extra history research paper topic ideas classified in the following different categories.

History Research Paper Topics for Exam

Do you wish to study for your history exam and are looking for US history research topics to get you going? Not only do we have various topics on American history to aid you, but we also have interesting world history research topics. Below is a list that can jump-start your revision:

Gender roles in 19th century England.
Economic repercussions brought by World War II in France.
Major people who fought for abolition of apartheid rule in South Africa.
How Roosevelt contributed to ending World War II.
How Alabama's claim impacted America.
Factors that contributed to the rise of communism in China.
Origin and development of the Syrian crisis.
University education in Europe: Its origin and development.
How colonization of America impacted the Natives.
History and development of Veteran’s Day.

>> Read more: How to Write a DBQ

History Research Paper Topics for Academics

There are many interesting things to learn about in history. All you have to do is seek a fascinating historical topic to investigate and learn about. To start you off, we have topics you can look at below:

Similarities between European and American industrial revolutions.
Negative effects brought by the industrial revolution on the working class.
Reasons why Black Death spread rapidly in Europe.
Origin and development of poetry.
Islamic architecture’s influence on modern structures.
Negative environmental effects brought by World War II.
Importance of Mathematics in ancient Egypt.
Major roles played by women during the Great Depression.
Why was iron important during the industrial revolution?

History Research Paper Topics for Experts

Scholars should not be the only ones looking for stimulating ancient history research paper topics. Experts can also find inspiration in various US history paper topics that we have provided for you below:

Origin of the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
Gulf War: Its causes and social effects on the people.
Social impacts of conflicts witnessed in Syria.
Most respected general during the Roman Empire's rule.
Negative consequences of the Cold War on global politics and direction.
Social and political impacts brought by racism in America.
History of education development in Europe.
What causes the Mexican-American wars?
Factors that facilitated the rise of the Dutch Republic?
Controversial issues surrounding the American Civil War.

Need more ideas? We have a full assortment of titles in different fields. From education research topics or philosophy paper topics to business research topics , you are sure to choose the one you need.

Bottom Line on History Research Topics

As a history scholar, choosing a title for your essay can seem both daunting and exciting. There are many interesting topics of history you can select to write on. However, picking the right one can be challenging. This article has provided various ideas on the US and world history topics to research and write argumentative essays on. We hope that the above list makes it easy for you to choose a title or inspire you to come up with your own. There are many good historical events to write about. All you need is to go through the list we have provided and make your choice.

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40 Interesting Historical Research Topics

Last modified 2024-08-13
Published on 2021-03-17

History is typically a required course in high school, under the umbrella of social science. History is definitely not everyone’s cup of tea; however, understanding American, European, and World History will give you an opportunity to escape your little bubble of life and gain broader perspectives about historical events and how they influence current and future events. History repeats itself, is often said. Learning about history will not only give you knowledge of the past but also predictions for the future.

History may sound boring at first, but historical events were influenced by numerous factors, ranging from politics, technological advancement, and social circumstances. Especially, when you dive deeper into history with historical research, you will develop critical analysis and technical analysis skills by uncovering events and analyz ing how they have impacted the future through convincing arguments.

Enhance Your Research Skills with Aralia’s Research Scholar Classes

So now, you’re very interested in doing historical research, but you don’t know where to start. Every research paper starts with an interesting topic. So, ask yourself, what topic is of the most interest to you and most unique and interesting to readers? Maybe you are interested in learning more about European History during the Renaissance period, or the decolonization of Asia under the event of the Second World War . Depending on the topic, you will be able to integrate and discuss multiple perspectives that contribute to the events or incidents. Examples include: the economy, education, politics, social life, etc. While brainstorming a topic, you should also look for reliable resources. Reliable resources can come from your school’s library, scholarly and peer-reviewed articles, etc. For more details about steps in the research process, we’ve written in detail 8 critical steps while doing research you should check out.

Before going into the list, we recommend that you should have a clear direction of what historical aspect you should focus on. There are 5 main aspects when it comes to historical events:

Religion/Philosophy: belief, creator, place of worship, ideas
Politics: government, laws, leaders, crimes, war, military, democracy
Economics: currency, jobs, bank, trade, stocks, gold, production
Society: communication, personality, age, nationality, gender, religion
Culture: traditions, clothing, appearance, festivals, food, language, sports, education, architecture

You can write any one of those preceding aspects, or a combination of two or three aspects in relation to each historical event. We’ve compiled and categorized topics to guide you in your historical research paper writing process. Using the topics, you can dive deeper into exploring which topics you’re most interested in writing about, and should be most relevant to your history career in high school and college. Now, let’s get started!

1. World History

World History is a broad and diverse research topic that covers a wide period of time: from civilization to social movement. Therefore, there are multiple topics students can choose from. Remember, world history discusses the development in the world in response to interchanges among significant countries in the world.

World Wars I and II, the links between them, and how they could have been prevented
American Revolution – Revolutionary War from 1775 to 1783
Trade in the Roman World designed by The Romans created one of the most impressive road networks of the ancient world.
The rise and fall of empires, in relation to conflicts, protests, and riots against corporate globalization, and the threat of worldwide terrorism against the West.
Cradle of civilization: Ancient Discoveries of China, Egypt, Mesoamerica, or India, or any other civilization that le d to a high level of craft specialization and artistic production from each civilization, creating opportunities for trade
Architecture through the ages: the changes in architecture through various traditions, regions, and dates, growing from human’s basic needs of shelter and protection.
Women’s rights movement around the world. To see the overall timeline of women’s rights movements, you can explore women’s activism from generations past and present on the UN Women’s website .
Math and Science discoveries throughout ancient history that contribute to how we apply math and science today
Ancient conquests and their influence on the modern world map formation
Nuclear warfare, a military conflict or political strategy which deploys nuclear weaponry.

2. United States History

For students studying in the US, United States History has always been fascinating, given its Declaration of Independence in 1776. American History ranges from prehistory, European colonization, the American Revolution, the Federal period, the Gilded Age, the Great Depression, and the Cold War. Below are some examples for U.S. historical Research paper:

Attack on Pearl Harbor, the military strike by Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service upon the United States against the naval base at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii.
The Vietnam War: Social consequences and treatment of veterans returning from the war
Immigration in the late 1800s: the “melting pot” and “salad bowl” metaphors
Gold Rush and its development of the California state
Civil War and the participation of women and African America ns
JFK Presidency, Policy and Assassination
My Lai Massacre, incident of American violence committed against unarmed civilians during the Vietnam War
Sept 11, 2001 attacks and their impact on American security policies, foreign policy, and views on Islam through media and movies
Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, its tactics, movements, and outcomes
Yellow journalism and its impact on the Spanish-American War

3. European History

The history of Europe began with the first appearance of anatomically modern humans in Europe. European History is considered the best-documented history compared to that of other regions in the world of history. Through conducting European studies, you will be able to understand its people, culture, and the way they saw the world.

The Nude in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance: religious or erotic?
Italian unification
The relationship between Turkey and the European Union, and its impact on the position that Turkey has today
Black Death, cause, symptoms and impact
Religious crisis in the 16th century: the birth of Protestantism
The Agricultural Revolution and the development of market economies
The spread of Christianity: the political aspects
European imperialism, in relation to the economic and political power overseas
The Industrial Revolution and societal consequences
The influence of Locke and French philosophies on the rise of liberal political thought in Europe in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries

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4. asian history.

Asian History remains unknown to many people in the Western world . However, in the discussion of world history, the civilizations of Asia display a preeminence prior to the age of Western civilization.

Western imperialism in Asia and Asia n transformation in the areas of religion, economy, and society
The Story of Viet n am: From Prehistory to the Present
Open Door policy and its impact on the economies in the US and China
Ancient Korean & Chinese Relations
The Forgotten History of South Korean Massacres in Vietnam
Invasions of the Korean Peninsula and its struggle for unification
Yasuke and its defense on Japan’s Greatest Warlord
British Malaya: British involvement in Malay Politics
The Great Game: a political and diplomatic confrontation between the British Empire and the Russian Empire over Afghanistan and neighboring territories in Central and South Asia.
The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world’s earliest civilizations

History is a topic of great breadth and depth. Historians today are fascinated by the new findings of history through the examination of archaeology and anthropology. The above are the few examples we hope will inspire you to take the next step to conduct historical research. If you are passionate about history and would like to conduct a research project in preparation for history or other liberal arts majors in college or a history career in the future, we are here to help! We recently launched a new Historical Research project, along with the long-standing American, European, and World History courses.

Aralia’s History tutors are inspired teachers and professors who are committed to student success. They are recognized in their field or are currently teaching at top high schools and colleges/universities in the US.

5. Take History classes with Aralia

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what could be good topics for historical research

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150 Strong History Dissertation Topics to Write about

Writing a dissertation is one of the most challenging and exciting moments of an academic career. Such work usually takes a great deal of time, courage, and intellectual effort to complete. That’s why every step in your work process is essential.

It all starts with finding a good topic, which can be a challenge of its own. It especially matters when it comes to liberal arts subjects. In social studies, literature, or world history options are practically endless.

Coming up with history dissertation ideas, you need to think of historical events that interest you. We get it, choosing one is tough. There can be too much to wrap your head around. That’s why IvyPanda experts prepare some dissertation topics in history ready for you.

How to Choose a Topic?
Ancient History
Medieval History
Modern History
Cold War Topics
American History
European History
Indian History
African History
Performing Arts
Visual Arts
How to Structure

🧐 How to Choose a History Dissertation Topic?

Before examining our ideas for dissertation topics in history, you should get ready for this. You have to understand how to pick a history dissertation topic, which will ensure your academic success. Keep in mind that this is a vital step in your career.

So, check some tips on picking what to write about:

Make sure that the topic fits in your field of study. You have to understand what you’re writing about. Basing your paper on existing knowledge and experience is a part of any dissertation. Working on an overly complicated idea can sound impressive but lead to failure. It will become a nightmare already on the stage of writing a dissertation proposal. How can you write the entire thing without comprehending it?
Estimate whether you’re interested in the topic you intend to write on. Although this might seem obvious, yes. However, being actually invested makes a massive difference for your further work. There are plenty of students who settle for “easy but boring” topics and end up struggling twice as much.
Ensure that your topic is specific enough. Your idea should have the potential for fruitful research. Narrowing down your area of study is essential for writing a good dissertation. It helps you to find the direction of your examination and enough sources to work with. Moreover, this way, you’ll be able to explore your topic in its entirety.
Do some prior research. It will give you an understanding of how much literature on your topic is out there. Take notes of the materials for the reference list and your analysis. Checking history essay samples is a good idea, too.
Don’t be shy to ask your dissertation advisor for some assistance. After all, they are here to help and guide you through the process. Besides, you have to see what ideas they consider relevant and appropriate.

👍 Good Dissertation Topics in History: Time Period

History is a subject as ancient and vast as the humankind itself. It’s only rational to study it according to a particular timeline. Here are some good history dissertation topics for different periods.

🏺 Ancient History Dissertation Topics

Ancient Civilizations: The Maya Empire . The Maya was an incredibly powerful Empire with its prime around six century A.D., excelling in mathematics, calendar-making, astrology, and writing. It faced the decline of its city-states in nine century A.D., leaving a rich cultural heritage to the studies of subsequent generations.
Women’s Roles and Gender relations in the Ancient World
Greek City-States . Ancient Greece is the place where the first city-states were formed. How did the first governments in the ancient history timeline develop? How did people’s attitudes towards leadership change in that context?

A city-state was the community structure of ancient Greece.

Ancient Near-Eastern Thought and the Old Testament
The Inca Empire as a Great Civilization of Pre-Columbian America
The Impact of Mongol Invasion in Ancient Arab
The personality of Julius Caesar and His Effect on Rome
The Role of Poets and the place of Poetry in Ancient Greece
Mesopotamian Civilization . This was a fertile land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. It has been home to some of the world’s wealthiest and most advanced ancient cities. It can also make an excellent archaeology dissertation topic. There are plenty of fascinating sites that could be studied.
History: Ancient Greek Olympics . Started in 776 BC, the Olympic Games were the most important cultural event in Ancient Greece. They were held in honor of Zeus every four years. Besides, the Olympics were representative of the triumph of physical and spiritual power.
Warfare and Violence in Ancient Times. Try to do a comparative analysis of warfare techniques used by different ancient civilizations. It could be a great dissertation topic.
Burial Rituals in Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece: a comparison
Plutarch’s Vision on Alexander the Great
Dissolution of the Roman Empire . The Empire sprawled from the coast of North Africa to the territories of the modern UK and Armenia. Once, it was the most powerful political entity in the entire Mediterranean. The empire, however, collapsed in 476 CE. What were the reasons for its eventual decline?

There are at least 8 prominent reasons for the Roman Empire's decline.

How Geography Has Impacted the Development of Ancient Cultures
Cause and Effect of Art on Classical Societies
The Invention of Papyrus and its impact on the World
Chichen Itza Archaeological Site . Chichen Itza is a great pre-Columbian archaeological site, home to the Maya civilization. It is a fascinating study case in many aspects. Consider the origins and Maya history. Analyze the cultural preservation issues that it faces nowadays.
Egyptian Pyramid’s Importance in Egypt’s society
The Stone Age Period and its Evolution

🛡 Medieval History Dissertation Ideas

Cultural Exchanges in the Medieval Period . In the aftermath of the Roman Empire’s fall, new geopolitical conditions formed. The early Middle Ages period already marked the appearance of new trade routes. It fostered cultural exchange between nations.
Rome in the Middle Ages and its cultural transformation
The Development of Feudalism and Manorialism in the Middle Ages
The Catholic Church and the Black Death in the 14th Century . During the high Middle Ages, the plague epidemic terrorized Europe. It was a dreadful challenge to medicine, religious institutions, and the social apparatus of the time. How did the Catholic Church deal with such a complex and disastrous medical phenomenon?
Jews and Muslims in Medieval Spain . Christian, Islamic, and Jewish communities shared the Iberian peninsula in the early Middle Ages. It formed a vibrant cultural environment.
London during the Roman Age: A Critical Overview
Causes of the First Crusade of 1095-1099
Twelfth-Century Renaissance, how Franciscans reacted to it and benefited from its development
Business and Empire, the British ideal of an Orderly World
The Black Death, Late Medieval Demographic crisis, and the Standard of Living controversies
The Role of the Church in the life of the Middle Ages

Over the Middle Ages, the church was the only universal European institution.

Medieval Siege Warfare . Exploring methods of defense used during the Middle Ages might be an interesting research project.
The Conditions of Hindu and Islamic women in Medieval India
Why the Crusades Failed
The Mechanical Water clock of Ibn Al-Haytham, his philosophy of the rise and fall of empires
The Renaissance and its Cultural, Political and Economic Influence
The Dark Ages as the Golden Ages of European History . Plenty of facts demonstrate civilization’s decline during the Middle Ages. It was, nevertheless, the time of significant scientific, literary, and technological progress. For some interested in writing a medieval literature dissertation: think of Dante’s Divine Comedy . Da Vinci made his groundbreaking study projects during the Middle Ages. It was the time when first universities, such as Cambridge and Oxford, were founded. Overall, this period has a lot to offer!
Japan’s Development Under Edo/Tokugawa Shogunate
Historical and Theological Context of Byzantine Iconoclasm
Medieval Convivencia: Document Analysis

🕰 Modern History Dissertation Topics

World History: Enlightenment in Society and its Impact on Global Culture
Nationalism and its 19th Century History
Why Mussolini and the Fascists Were Able to Seize Power in Italy
Religious Symbolism in Renaissance paintings . Renaissance is well-known as a period when fine arts were thriving. It was an early modern birthplace of many technological and cultural advancements. Religion, however, was still a central topic in visual art.
Industrial Revolution and its Impact on Western Civilizations
Principles of Liberalism and Its Connection to Enlightenment and Conservatism
“History and Topography of Ireland” by Gerald of Wales . Looking for an incredible Irish history dissertation topic? Then this document might be an interesting prompt. Its somewhat controversial tone of describing contemporary Irish culture, history, and traditions can be subject to a comprehensive analysis.
Moral treatment of Mental Illness . Over the 19th and 20th centuries, psychology has changed. Moving from a scientific periphery, it became one of the central subjects of scholarly discussions. Mental illnesses were highly disregarded in earlier centuries. People even considered them to be manifestations of demonic possession. How did this attitude change? Why did people rethink psychology as a scholarly discipline?
A History of the Cuban Revolution

Abraham Lincoln’s Historical Influence
Role of Women During the Spanish Civil War
Conquest and Colonization of America by European Countries . Colonization of America is one of the grandest enterprises in the world’s political history. What were its driving forces?
Origins and Trajectory of the French Revolution
Major Impacts of Consumerism in contemporary world history
Coco Chanel Fashion: History of Costume . Probably not the first topic for a history dissertation that comes to mind. Chanel is truly an iconic figure in modern history, though. She revolutionized the fashion industry concerning gender as well.
Causes of the Breakup of the Former Yugoslavia
The Russian Working Class Movement . Before 1861, the agriculture and peasant-owning system were the foundation of the Russian Empire’s economy. Serfs made up a significant part of the population, accounting for over 60% in some regions. Then the serfdom abolition happened. A lot has changed in the economic and social life of the country.
Segregation During the 1960s
Historical Development of Feminism and Patriarchy
Monetary and Fiscal Policy during the Great Depression

🔔 History Dissertation Topics on Cold War

The Role of Cold War in Shaping Transatlantic Relations in the Period from 1945 to 1970
The showdown between the United States and the USSR . Cold Was was essentially the power struggle between the US and the Soviet Union. It unleashed in the aftermath of World War II. This political precedent came to an end with the collapse of the Soviet Union. However, the answer to the “Who won the Cold War?” question may be unclear.
The Cuban Missile Crisis , its causes, and effects
US Foreign Policy during the Cold War. Cold War, as a phenomenon, has many layers to it. Yet the one crucial is the contest of two ideologies: democracy and communism. How did the US shape its foreign policy and pursue its interests abroad? And how did the cultural and political setup within the country adjust to it?
To what extent did the Cold War shape the US relations with Latin America?
What was the importance of Berlin in the Cold War?
Japan’s role since the end of the Cold War
Cold War Politics, Culture, and War . Exploring the Cold War causes and effects can be quite a challenge. It is such a multifaceted phenomenon. It was a war led on many fronts. Both USSR and the US pursued their interests using a variety of methods.

For your history dissertation, analyze the Cold War from different angles.

How did Cold War propaganda influence the film industry?
What were the challenges in the post-cold war world?

🗺 History Dissertation Topics: Geographical Regions

Every country has its historical course, and so does every continent. Geography has always been an important factor when talking about history. It shapes historical trajectory in varied, unique ways.

Look at a dissertation topics history list based on geographical regions:

🦅 American History Dissertation Topics

History of Hollywood, California . Oh, Hollywood. A place where American movie history was born. What about Hollywood’s history? Although a less traditional American history dissertation topic, it is still a fascinating one. Explore the way technological advancements in filmmaking were introduced over the decades. How did they influence the film’s general style?
History: Migration into the United States . How did migration influence the economy of the time?
The Relationships between the Settlers and Native Americans
Literary works’ Views on Slavery in the United States
Causes of the Civil War in America
What is the real meaning of a cowboy?
The United States military experience through the eyes of films
Attack on Pearl Harbor: Effects of Foreign policy
Causes of Depression in the 1890s
Has President Obama’s Presidency changed the US?
The role of Founding Fathers in American Society and Religion
Post-Civil War reconstruction . Consider the way America’s economy, trade, and finance transformed in the aftermath of the Civil War.
Principal causes and consequences of the Spanish-American War
Why was the Declaration of Independence written?
The Significance of the Frontier in American History
How is a “new racial narrative” in the U.S.A created?
American Revolution and the Crisis of the Constitution of the U.S.A. Rethink the origins of the American constitution, as well as the following events. It could be an exciting thesis idea for an American history dissertation.

The US Constitution can be recognized as a crisis.

Growth and Development of San Francisco and Los Angeles after the Gold Rush
The Role of Racism in American Art
Drug Use and Abuse in America: Historical Analysis

🏰 European History Dissertation Topics

Age of Discovery in Europe. The Age of Exploration in Europe lasted from the 15th to the 17th century. Over this period, Europe actively engaged with other territories and continents. Discoverers formed new international relations and expanded geographical knowledge. This topic could also make an excellent cultural history dissertation.
Analyzing the Impact of British Colonization
Nationalism in World War II
Effects of the Industrial Revolution concerning World War I
The Rise and Fall of Napoleon and the Cause of Revolution . Napoleon is one of the most prominent figures in French history. What has shaped his career as a political leader?
History of Hitler’s Nazi Propaganda . Consider a brief history of Germany. Undoubtedly, the rule of Hitler and the Third Reich was its most devastating chapter. The “art” of propaganda flourished during the nazi regime. It penetrated the cultural, political, and social life of the country.
Evolution of the IRA
Napoleon’s Strategy and Tactics in his Invasion of Russia . For someone interested in writing a military history dissertation.
Industrial Revolution Impact on Gender Roles
Witchcraft in Europe (1450-1750) . Witch hunts took place as early as the Middle Ages in Europe. Held by the Church in most cases, witch hunts targeted those who were suspected of practicing black magic. Examine this both astonishing and problematic phenomenon.

Witch hunts are strongly tied to the gender discrimination.

French Revolution: Liberal and Radical Portions
West European Studies: Columbus’s Journey
History of Feudalism . Feudalism dominated the European way of life during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. What were its distinctive features as a system? Why did it eventually fade away?
Europe’s perception of Islam in the Early and Middle centuries
Cold War Consequences for European Countries
Mutated Medical Professionals in the Third Reich: Third Reich Doctors
Was the Holocaust the Failure or the Product of Modernity?
How did the use of print change the lives of early modern Europeans ?
Early Modern England: a Social History
Jewish Insight of Holocaust

⛰ Indian History Dissertation Topics

History of the Indian Castes. The Indian Caste system is a complex and unique example of social stratification.
Mahatma Gandhi’s Leadership . Gandhi is, for sure, among the greatest human rights advocates in the world’s history. His one of a kind leadership style is subject to many studies. While practicing a peaceful form of civil protest, he fought for equality, independence, and compassion.
Political conflicts in India in the XVII century
Impacts of the First World War on British Policies in India
Movement Against the British rule in India. Led by Mahatma Gandhi, with the support of the National Congress, the movement took place in 1920-22. It sought to fight for the freedom of Indians.
The Origin and Course of the Indian revolt of 1857
The Issues of the Partitioning of India in 1947
India Since 1900 . India is a region rich with unique traditions. Its spiritual and cultural heritage goes back to antiquity. The country’s authentic art and architecture, music, and cuisine have served as an inspiration worldwide. A considerable part of its history is, however, affected by British rule.

Colonization has created a merge of cultures in India.

Women in Hinduism and Buddhism
The British East India Company

🌍 African History Dissertation Topics

Ancient Societies in Mesopotamia and Ancient Societies in Africa: a comparison . Egypt is one of the most ancient African civilizations. Its origins go back to the third millennium B.C. Back then, the cultural exchange between Egypt and Mesopotamia was flourishing. What were the significant differences between the two civilizations? What did they have to offer to one another?
Political Violence in South Africa between 1985 and 1989
Did History of Modern South Africa begin with the Discovery of Diamonds and Gold?
Nelson Mandela: “Freedom in Africa.” Nelson Mandela is, without a doubt, one of the central figures in African history. His devotion and tireless effort in fighting against apartheid were remarkable. Thanks to him, many sub-Saharan countries enjoy the freedoms and advances of a democratic society.
The Cult of the Dead in West Africa: The Kongo People . African tribal rituals and traditions are unique and specific to their region. Cult of the Dead is prevalent in Western African culture. It can be notoriously known as the origin place of voodoo and other black magic practices. There is yet much more to this culture. Dismantling some prejudices could make an excellent African history thesis.
Christianity, Slavery, and Colonialism: the paradox
The Colonial War in Southwest Africa
African-Europe Relations between 1800 and 2000
Impacts of Slavery and Slave Trade in Africa
African Communities in America

There are organizations of African immigrants in the US.

🎨 Art History Dissertation Topics

Art comes in all shapes and forms. To grasp it better, we can explore each kind separately. Here’s a list of art history dissertation ideas:

🎶 Topics on Performing Arts

History and Development of Ballet . Ballet is an art form with a long history. Initially, a specific dance originated in Medieval Italy. It was later brought to France and Great Britain. Ballet thrived in the 20th century Russia, where Russian choreographers brought it to the highest level of mastery.
The Life and Work of William Shakespeare: His Contribution to The Contemporary Theater
Jazz Music in American Culture . Jazz is one of the most complex and exciting music genres of all time. It was born in the 20’s century black communities of New Orleans and quickly spread across America and then the world. The genre, however, will always be an integral part of African-American identity.
The Instrumental Music of Baroque: Forms and Evolution
Rock Music of the 1970s
Michael Jackson’s Life as a Musician and Choreographer
Development of the Symphony Orchestra in the 19th and 20th Century
Woodstock Music Festival . This massive music festival that first took place in 1969 was the epitome of hippie culture. It has a rich history that once again underscores the importance of performing arts in Western culture.
The History of Modern Chinese Music
The Renaissance Theater Development. The era in which both visual and performing arts were thriving. It has a lot to offer for proper dissertation research.

🖼Topics on Visual Arts

Art Period Comparison: Classicism and Middle Age
Vincent Van Gogh: Changes in the Technique
The Ambiguity of Mona Lisa Painting

Orientalism in Western Art . It’s commonly associated with romanticism and some 20th-century artworks. Orientalism is a Western term that speculates the aesthetics of the Orient. Consider this concept as a prism through which Westerners viewed the Eastern world.
Classical Art and Cubism: History and Comparison
Postmodern and Modern Art . The 20th and 21st centuries have been a breeding ground for many forms of fine art to emerge and flourish. Some art movements presented their philosophy in the form of manifestos. These texts can be nothing but a pure treasure for someone writing an art history dissertation.
Female Figures in Ancient Greek Sculpture
Andy Warhol’s Career . Pioneer of pop-art, creator of Studio 54, and a style icon.
Filippo Brunelleschi and Religious Architecture
The Photographic Approaches Towards American Culture of Robert Frank and Garry Winogrand

📋 How to Structure Your Dissertation?

An adequately structured history dissertation can immensely help students. It ensures that they present their ideas and thoughts logically. Sticking to a particular dissertation structure is an essential element of such work.

Proper organization of a history dissertation can improve the working process.

The general plan of any dissertation type is the following:

Title Page. A title page should only contain essential information about your work. It usually shows your name, type of the document (thesis, research paper, dissertation), and the title itself. A good history dissertation title is crucial! It’s the first thing a reader will see.
Acknowledgments. Do you wish to give credit to someone for supporting you during the tiresome months of your work? This is the right part to do so, be it your family, friends, or professors. It is an excellent form to express gratitude to those who proofread your drafts. Or those who brought you another cup of coffee when you needed it.
Declaration. This section is your written confirmation. You declare that all the research and writing is entirely original and was conducted by you. If someone intellectually contributed to your project, state it in the acknowledgments.
Table of Contents. Essentially, it’s a brief structure of your dissertation. List every section that you’ve included in your academic paper here.
Abstract. This is the section where you write a brief summary of your dissertation. It should describe the issue, summarize your core message and essential points. List your research methods and what you’ve done. Remember to make it short, as the abstract shouldn’t exceed 300 words or so. Finish the part with a few essential keywords so that others can find your work.
Introduction. A dissertation introduction presents the subject to the reader. You can talk about the format of your work. Explain what you plan to contribute to the field with your research.
Literature Review. The chapter reviews and analyzes pieces of scholarly work (literature) that have been made on the subject of your research. The sources should present relevant theories and support your thesis. Be sure to discuss the weaknesses and strengths of the selected area of study and highlight possible gaps in this research.
a code of conduct;
research limitations;
research philosophy;
research design;
ethical consideration;
data collection methods;
data analysis strategy.
Findings and Results. Restate everything you have found in your research. However, do not interpret the data or make any conclusions yet.
Discussion and Conclusion. In this chapter, you should personally interpret all of the data and make conclusions based on your research. It is essential to establish a logical link between the results and evidence. Finally, conclude the overall study. You can add final judgments, opinions, and comments.
References. This section contains a list of references to all the sources that you used. Write down every material, which you quoted, mentioned, or paraphrased in your work. Check your educational institution’s guidelines to see how to do so correctly.
Bibliography. Similar to the reference section, a bibliography is a list of sources you used in your dissertation. The only difference is that it should contain even the sources you don’t directly mention in your writing. Whatever helped you with the research, you state here.
Appendices. The section may include any supplementary information that explains and complement the arguments. Add pictures, diagrams, and graphs that serve as examples for your research subject.

An appendix of the history dissertation should be available to provide the reader with evidence.

Writing a dissertation is the right challenge for those with ambitions and lots of determination. It is a lot like a marathon, and it starts with choosing the right topic. We hope that you will find one for yourself on this list. Good luck! Share the article to help those who may need a piece of advice or some history dissertation topics.

🔗 References

How To Write A Dissertation: Department of Computer Science, West Lafayette, Purdue University
Ph.D. Thesis Research, Where Do I Start: Don Davis, Columbia University
Writing with Power: Elbow P., Oxford University
Writing a Thesis or Dissertation – A Guide to Resources: Gricel Dominguez
The Elements of Style: Strunk, W. Jr., White, E.B., Angell, R.
A Collection Of Dissertation Topics In American History: asqauditconference.org
Yale History Dissertations: Department of History, Yale University
Dissertation Outline: School of Education, Duquesne University
Developing a Thesis Statement: The Writing Center, University of Wisconsin–Madison
Writing an Abstract: The Writing Center, George Mason University
Formatting Additional Pages: University of Missouri Graduate School
Reference List vs. Bibliography: OWLL, Massey University
How to Write Your Dissertation: Goldsmiths University for The Guardian
Tips on Grammar, Punctuation and Style: Kim Cooper, for the Writing Center at Harvard University
Acknowledgments, Thesis and Dissertation: Research Guides at Sam Houston State University
Thesis Formatting, Writing up your Research: Subject Guides at University of Canterbury
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Research Paper Guide

History Research Paper Topics

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Good History Research Paper Topics For Your Help

By: Nathan D.

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Jan 4, 2022

Research papers can be boring and time-consuming for some high school and university students. However, students will easily create a successful paper if they pick a great research paper topic. Some professors assign topics and make them easy for students. At the same time, others leave the choice to students by giving them the freedom to choose what they want.

The following blog post is a helpful resource for students who need ideas on what topics they can write about. It includes some great topics from which you'll be able to choose the best topic or get inspiration for your paper.

History is a fascinating subject that we should all know more about. There are many topics, and it's always hard to pick which one will work best for your research paper.

However, for your help, we compiled a great list of history research paper topics that can be divided into different categories. So, pick the one that matches your interest and academic level.

On this Page

History Research Paper Topics For College Students

Nuclear weapons and their influence on the world military clashes
The Crusades and Jihad: What are the similarities and differences?
Constitutional change in America: what is the role of the amendments?
What does religion have to do with the colonist wars?
How were ziggurats used in ancient Mesopotamia?
Ancient conquests and their impact on modern world map development
When were vaccines invented? Are they really useful?
The influence of Japanese art on European culture
How did segregation affect the American music industry?
Is racial discrimination still a part of American society?

History Research Paper Topics Before 1877

How did the border states perceive the battles of the Civil War?
Impact of the 1964 elections on civil rights
History before 1877: cause & effect
Explain the strengths and weaknesses of the Fourteenth Amendment
Explain American history before 1877
Labor unions, conflicts, and strikes in the 1800s
The British rule in the Americas and the first British settlements
United States foreign policy in the early 19th century
Why was the Bill of Rights added to the Constitution?
The role of faith in American history before 1877

History Research Paper Topics Philippines

The fundamentals of the Barrio Government System
The origins of the name the Philippines
Communist Party of the Philippines
Trading with the Chinese
The Consequences of Magellan’s murder
US colonization of the Philippines
Fire Mummies of the Philippines
Christian-Muslim relations in the Philippines
The religious belief system in the Philippines
The reorganization of town governments under the Maura law of 1893

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Indian History Research Paper Topics

What are the European influences evident in Indian culture?
The establishment of the British East India company
British colonialism in India
The real problem at the heart of goa's Devasthan regulation
Indian art and the impact of Hinduism
The issues of the partitioning of India in 1947
First European powers in India and their trade relations
What were the devastating impacts of British rule in India?
India’s first empire and the rise of Buddhism
The political activism of Dalits in India

History Research Paper Topics 20th Century

McKinley role for American imperialism
The reasons and causes for the start of prohibition and its effects on subsequent US history
The assassination of John Kennedy in 1963 and its consequences
Were imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th century justified?
The implication of atomic weapon
China in the 20th century
Hiroshima and Nagasaki events
The role of America in the Cold War
The analysis of Martin Luther King’s speeches
Rise of mafia

History Research Paper Topics 1900s

Queen Victoria died-World politics and the monarchy
What was the role of women in the 1900s?
The formation of the league of nations
Psychiatric methods in early 1900s America
The first electric washing machine
The NAACP is first founded-politics and civil rights
The New York subway opens-innovation and science
The origin of the piano
How did sports help promote equality for African Americans in the 1900s?
Gender roles of the Sioux tribe before 1900

Art History Research Paper Topics

Why were the sculptures of great importance in ancient Greece?
Comparative analysis of Mikhail Vrubel and Gustave Moreau art
The relevance of Abbey Church of St. Denis in Gothic architecture
The shifts in the art development in ancient Greece
Can impressionism be termed as simple art or art for the simple?
The significance of Christian symbols in Renaissance art
The influence of Hinduism on art from ancient India
Color psychology in the works of Kazimir Malevich.
The Influences of Sumerian art found in Hittite art creations
Construction of the Great Wall of China

European History Research Paper Topics

European colonization impact on Native Americans
The history of the French Revolution: new perspectives from Chartier and Furet
What made Pope Alexander VI controversial?
Great mistakes of Napoleon
How did Venetian history affect present Europe?
The role of politics in the spread of Christianity across Europe
How were cities developed in Medieval Europe?
Historical development of East European Jewry
The main battles of World War I
Between World War I and World War II, what are the military innovations?

Environmental History Research Paper Topics

What is the little ice age, and what impact it may have on the climate?
Landscape painters and environmental photography
Renewable energy
Discuss the most significant causes of climate change
Global warming: what could happen if ice glaciers melt?
Prehistoric wildlife and its importance in future eco-systems
How do organisms survive under extreme conditions?
What effects does biodiversity loss have on humanity?
Ecosystem health
Biomes and Ecosystems. What is considered a biome?

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Theatre History History Research Paper Topics

Attitudes towards women and their role in American musical theatre
Puppetry influence on cartoons these days
President of the greater Euclid little theatre
Women in restoration theatre: stages of liberation
Theatre role as a tool in social commentary
Artaud’s theatre influence
Ancient Greek theatre and drama
Theatre play
State theatre
The use of historically accurate costumes on stage

Interesting History Research Paper Topics

The process of abolition of slavery and its meaning for the world
Timeline of the 21st century
American revolution facts
How have taxes been introduced throughout USA history?
Queen Elizabeth. The truth about her life.
The conditions of life for soldiers in the First Crusade
African American soldiers during the war
Money and its uses in the Ancient Greek world
The power of denial: Buddhism, purity, and gender
Polio vaccines: historical development, types, and efficiency

Us History Research Paper Topics

Industrialization effects on American social movements
Amelia Earhart: Who was she? What is the truth about her life and death?
Effect of the cotton gin on economy and slaves labor
What did “American” mean in the 18th century?
The oldest universities: who founded them?
How and why were National Parks created?
Immigrants and their ideas of the American Dream
What did France lose because of Louisiana’s purchase?
How did the war affect social life and citizens’ psychology?
German-American immigration in 1854-1894

19th Century American History Research Paper Topics

What struggles did women face in the Nineteenth Amendment?
The genre of black popular music
American south religious practices
Tobacco trade in early American colonies
The beginning of slavery in British America and the middle passage
Women’s suffrage movement
1968 democratic convention in Chicago
Was there a need to bomb Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
The role of the United States during World War 2
What conditions were faced by the Americans in the 19th century?

Tips for Choosing the Best History Research Paper Topic

Here are some things to consider when choosing the topic for a history research paper.
Make sure your topic meets the assignment requirements. Consult your professor for feedback if you're not sure, and then use their input as guidance in completing it.
Choose a topic that interests you and will make the writing process more engaging.
A topic that is too broad might seem impossible to research. But, the right scope will enable you to find information relevant and focused.
Do some research and then select the topic.
Read other researchers’ thesis statements and get an idea from them.
Find history research papers from the past and read them for a better understanding.
Keep the audience’s interest in mind and then choose the topic.

Keep these points in mind, and then select the best topic, then add it to our AI essay generator to get instant essay help!

But, if you still have any confusion, simply consult the best essay writing service 5StarEssays.com .

We offer the best paper writing services and have helped countless students just like you with their academic tasks. Now, finding a good history topic is easy with the help of our expert writers.

So, don’t hesitate to contact us and avail the best write essay for me? writing help.

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Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

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60+ History Research Paper Topics From Our Top Writers

Finding that fascinating topic for history research paper can be a pain in some students’ necks. In this article, we reveal our only suggestions of ideas for good history research topics.

Whether you need United States history research paper topics, Europe and across the world, we have you covered. We have selected relevant topics with a clear statement to jumpstart your writing process. Check out our ultimate list of American history research paper topics for college students:

US History Research Paper Topics

What was the history and culture of Native Americans before the invasion by Europeans?
How did 9/11 change the US foreign policy?
Why did Japan target Pearl Harbor and how significant was it to the US?
Why did American Revolution leaders fail to achieve equality for everyone?
What traditions define Independence Day in the US?
What events led to the abolishment of slavery?
Who were the initial inhabitants of the US, and how was it found?
Did the US have to use two atomic bombs on Japan?

World History Research Paper Topics

What happened in Germany after the fall of Hitler and the Nazis?
Communism and why it is considered it is considered a lousy system historically.
Explain why nationalism is a primary source of identity everywhere else but has failed among the Arab States
In what ways did the assassination of John F. Kennedy change the course of US politics?
Who was Abu Hamid al-Ghazali, and what were the impacts of his ideas on the Islam world?
What was the primary intention of the US dropping atomic bombs on Japan? Was it to end the war or to prevent the Soviet Union from amassing influence in Asia?
Why is the fall of Constantinople in 1453 perceived as the saddest moment in the history of humankind?

European History Research Paper Topics

Why Eastern Europe has always trailed Western Europe in terms of development
Which other country used women in World War Two other than Russia?
What was Hitler’s reasoning for attacking the Soviets during WWII?
What European nation has the most influential culture in history?
What are some of the events that shifted France and England’s relationship from enemies to allies?
Point out some of the differences between feudalism in Eastern Europe and Western Europe
How were European countries affected by the Industrial Revolution?
Define the factors the led to the mass degradation of French women in the aftermath of WWII

Ancient History Research Paper Topics

Explain how philosophy became so popular in Ancient Greece
What are some of the similarities between Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome?
Alexander the Great; who was he, and why is he considered one of the most outstanding leaders in history?
In what way was ancient Egypt unique from Ancient Rome and Greece?
Point out the difference and similarities between Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome
What is the origin of democracy in Ancient Greece, and how did it come to be in general?
What is the story of Theagenes of Thasos, the strongest fighter in Ancient Rome?

Modern World History Research Topics

What was the status of women in the USSR through the 20th century?
Why didn’t any western countries intervene in Communist China in the mid-20th century?
What was the necessity of using an atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
What are some of the reasons behind US policies towards immigrants in the 21st century?
What is the price of industrialization to the American nation?
What are some of the most prominent inventors and industrialists in the modern-day world?
How did industrialization influence social movements in the USA?
Explain American foreign policy from the start of the 21st century

History Topics To Write About Africa

How Idi Amin did change the world’s attitude to Uganda
In what ways is the Democratic Republic of Congo different from its neighboring countries?
Why did it take until the 19th century for European powers to start colonizing Sub-Saharan Africa?
How were oil and petroleum discovered in Ethiopia?
Explain why North Africa went from the wealthiest regions during times of the Roman Empire to a regional backwater
Historically speaking, what are the wealthiest countries in Africa, and what contributed to the wealth in those counties?
What are some of the post-colonial drawbacks that Africa has had to deal with in recent times?
What was the African continent’s state in the 1600s? Was it similar to Asia and Europe?
What religions were practiced in Africa before being influenced by Europe and Asia?
What were some of the most potent African empires between the 6th and the 8th century?
What were the consequences of German Warfare in Africa in 1884?

Middle East Historical Research Paper Topics

The Sumerians; what made the first great civilization of humankind?
What are some of the less known facts about the Byzantine Empire?
Explain how the Ottoman Empire spread to the Middle East
Which countries in the Middle East have been powerful economically throughout history?
In what ways were the Byzantine and Roman cultures adapted to and incorporated in the Middle East?
What are the main events that altered the Middle East in modern history?

African American History

What were some of the impacts of Martin Luther King’s speech on the African American community?
What was the position of black Americans during the industrial age?
What were the struggles of the African American population after the Civil War?
What are some of the beliefs and traditions of African American culture?
In what way did the African American women help during WWII?
What did the 14th amendment have to offer the black community?
What are some of the legends and cultural traits in black history?

Music History Research Paper Topics

What is the history of the film industry and classical composers?
How Classical German composers influenced further music development
How classical melody has been impacted by technology
Discuss the origins of classical composing
Analyzing Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony
A study of early music history and the evolution of musical instruments

History papers carry a lot of weight, allowing college students to learn the culture, traditions, and past of other nations. With our vast range of ideas, you should have a smooth time selecting an ideal topic.

Remember, you can always find research paper writing help online. Online writing services provide cheap, yet quality research papers that are carefully crafted by expert writers. What are you waiting for when help is only a few clicks away?

200+ Outstanding History Research Paper Topics With Expert Tips

24 min read

Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Last updated on: Jul 23, 2024

History Research Paper Topics for Colleg"e Students

How could World War II be prevented?
British Colonialism: How did it affect life in several parts of the world?
Allied occupation in Japan.
The role of religion in everyday life during the middle ages
The life and achievements of Alexander of Macedonia
The impact of science on sculptures in Ancient Greece
Explain the term "popular sovereignty."
How does the Aztec military compare to the Spanish army?
Why is Frederick Douglass such an important person in American History?
Evidence and significance of symbolism in Ancient Egypt

History Research Paper Topics India

What are the European Influences Evident in Indian Culture?
Prevention of Cyber Crimes: Legal Strategies in India
The establishment of the British East India company
What is the impact of Indian art on other cultures?
Impacts of the first world war on British policies in India
Influence of Hinduism on early Indian art
The issues of the partitioning of India in 1947
The political activism of Dalits in India
India's nuclear weapons program.
Mohandas Gandhi's involvement with Indian independence

History Research Paper Topics Philippines

History of the Philippines from different perspectives.
Historical analysis of inter-regional migration in the Philippines
The Barrio Government System's Foundations
The Philippines Communist Party has a long history.
Commerce with the Chinese
The Aftermath of Magellan's Death
The United States colonized the Philippines.
The Philippines' Fire Mummies
Christian-Muslim relations in the Philippines
Under the Maura law of 1893, municipal governments were reorganized.

History Research Paper Topics 1900s

What was the role of women in the 1900s?
The Russian Revolution lasted for ten days in the 1900s.
Describe fast food in the early 1900s.
What traditions followed in the 1900s?
The New York subway opens-innovation and science
What is the ancient history of the 1900s?
What did the western world think of the Middle East in the early 1900s?
The most impressive growth happened in the 1900s.
Events that caused the beginning of World War I
Gender and US literature, 1830â1900

History Research Paper Topics Before 1877

Here are some middle ages research topics to help you select the perfect historical theme.

The role of faith in American history before 1877 and after.
The U.S. revolution history before 1877
The first landing of Christopher Columbus and the new world
Why was the Bill of Rights added to the Constitution?
In what ways did the Compromise of 1877 affect politics?
The role of civil war before 1877
Cause and Effect- History before 1877.
What effect did the compromise of 1877 have on politics in the North and South?
The world history has some relation with 1877
The role of labor before 1877

History Research Paper Topics Before 1500

Before 1500 is mostly referred to ancient history. So here are some ancient history research topics for your ease.

The early history of Franks.
Who were the five "Good Emperors" of Rome?
Empire and religion in the Middle East 1200-500 BCE
What was it like to live in London during the 15th century?
An overview of the world from prehistory to 1500 CE
Early Modern History 1500-1700
The cold war history
The American revolution history
World civilization
Why do monarchies still exist around the globe?

History Research Paper Topics 20th Century

Here are some amazing 20th century history research paper topics to select from:

Scientific advancements in the dark ages
Why should America rebuild New Orleans?
Apollo 8 and the story of the first-ever voyage to the moon.
How did the US become the world's largest industrial nation?
Islamic empire
San Francisco before and after the great earthquake and fire
Fashion in the 20th century
What caused the division in Christian values of the 20th century?
Analysis of Eastern Civilization vs. Western Civilizations
Ancient Rome and civilian life

History Research Paper Topics for Middle School

Is racial discrimination still a part of American society?
Fire Mummies of the Philippines
Rise of mafia
Color psychology in the works of Kazimir Malevich.
How did the Apartheid period impact global politics?
A comparison between communism and capitalism.
Establishment of a new government
Mozart's music: a phenomenal case study.
Marriage, divorce, and children in Ancient Rome

Art History Research Paper Topics

The depiction of beauty in ancient art
Why is photogravure used more than encaustic painting?
The costumes of the early Italian Renaissance in 1420-1490.
The determining factor behind the main principles of Medieval art
The Chiaroscuro and its role in the history of art
Biblical motives in the early paintings of Leonardo da Vinci.
Where you can locate gifted Russian artists
Discuss the history of printmaking
Hidden messages in famous works of art
Discuss the development and importance of photography in art history.

Struggling to understand the worth of these topics? Watch this video to understand how to ace your history class

European History Research Paper Topics

19th-century European literacy
Medieval economic history
Discuss 1984 with respect to the 20th-century history of Europe
Did women have any position in the history of Germany?
Events leading to World War I
Who was Europe's most influential composer?
The role of politics in the spread of Christianity across Europe
How did Venetian history affect present Europe?
Nationalism in Europe
Gender bias in 18th century Britain.

US History Research Paper Topics

Confederate monuments in the United States
The aftermath of the Battle of Chattanooga
Amelia Earhart: Who was she? What is the truth about her life and death?
Discuss the emergence of joint-stock companies.
The beginning of slavery in British America and the Middle Passage.
German-American immigration in 1854-1894
What important role did the Militia play in the revolution?
History of New York City in the 19th century.
Slavery in the USA
Should Immigration be banned?

Interesting History Research Paper Topics

What caused Hitler's rise to power?
The significance of the French Revolution in world history
Reasons why nationalism is becoming popular worldwide
Analysis of the daily lives of medieval Europe's peasants
What were the prominent features of the Roman Empire?
Human sacrifices in the world of ancient Maya.
The history of Native Americans
Discuss the African American soldiers bravery
Explain the economic conditions of the world in ancient times?
Is a great depression possible today?

African American History Research Paper Topics for College Student

The genre of the black popular music
The changes in schooling in the 19th century
African Americans during the civil war
Exploring the low-income black college students life
1968 democratic convention in Chicago
The politics of race and class in the age of Obama
Women's suffrage movement
Terror trophies of WWI in America.
African countries' reliance on the west and how the west is taking advantage of this.
The genre of black popular music

Women's History Research Paper Topics

How did women contribute to the labor force in WWI?
The fight for equal suffrage and its outcome
The role of women in Ancient Rome
Women's rights during World War II: A brief overview
The impact of Elizabeth I on gender roles and feminism.
Discuss history from the female perspective
Analyze gender roles in the 20th century
The representation of women in the media
Discuss the role of women in a developing country
Rise of feminism in 21st-century America.

World History Research Paper Topics

Check out these famous history topics for your next essay:

The significance of the industrial revolution to world history
The role of Genghis Khan in the Mongol Empire
Exploring maritime trade routes in medieval times.
Discuss the silk road and its impact on global trade
Roman colosseum: An iconic symbol of ancient rome
Analysis of Islamic caliphates' conquest in the 7th century
Impact of world war II on the global society
The rise and fall of Napoleonic France
Rise and fall of The Ming Dynasty
The cold war: its influences on world politics.

Best US History Research Paper Topics

The civil rights movement and its achievements
The US Constitution: Its evolution and modern role
Impact of religion on political decisions in America
Analyze the impact of transatlantic slavery on US economy
The Vietnam war: Was it a justified conflict ?
The role of the American Revolution in world history Analyze the military tactics used during World War I
Was the Watergate scandal a turning point in US History?
Impact of environmental movements in changing political views.
The significance of Westward Expansion in US History.

U.S. Civil War Topics

Impact of the surrender of Appomattox on the North and South
The role of Abraham Lincoln in the US Civil War
Discuss the roles played by women during the civil war
Significance of military strategies used in battles
Effects of Reconstruction policy on US Economy
The role of African American soldiers in the US Civil War
Analysis of the political decisions leading to the US civil war
Impact of technology in the US Civil War
Was secession a justified response and what were its consequences?
Exploring how different states participated in the civil war.

French Revolution Topics

Discuss the role of Robespierre in the French Revolution
Was the Reign of Terror justified?
Impact of Philosophers on Revolutionary Ideas
The role of women in the French Revolution
Analysis of Napoleon's rule and its effects on France
Exploring the socio-economic causes leading to the Revolution
Impact of the French Revolution on global history
Analysis of the importance of trading agreements to France's economy
The significance of US support for the French Revolution
Was the Declaration of Rights just a political move?

Related: Read this rubric for historical essays to craft a compelling essay

History Project Topics

The history of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
The impact of World War II on the global economy
The rise and fall of the British Empire
The history of apartheid in South Africa
The impact of the French Revolution on European politics and society
The history of the Cold War
The role of women in the American Revolution
The impact of the Industrial Revolution on labor and society
The history of the American Westward Expansion
The legacy of colonialism in Latin America

Great Depression Research Topics

The role of the US government in alleviating poverty during the Great Depression
Impact of trade policies on global economies
Discuss Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal
The effects of the economic downturn on women and minorities
Analysis of Hoovervilles and its impact on public opinion
Exploring the role of the media in shaping public opinion during the Great Depression
Discuss the gold standard and its impact on global markets
Examining US foreign policies during the Great Depression
Impact of labor unions on wages and working conditions during the Great Depression
Significance of Jazz music, literature, and art during the era.

World War II Topics

Analyzing the roles of military intelligence in Allied victory
Examining the role of women during World War II
The significance of rationing programs to the war effort
Discuss Japanese internment camps and their implications
Exploring how different countries participated in World War II
Analysis of the tactics used in major battles
The role of propaganda in influencing public opinion during the war
Impact of German Blitzkrieg tactics on Allied forces
Significance of technology in World War II
Discuss the impact of Holocaust on European culture.

European and United States History

Examining the role of the Medici family in Italian Renaissance
Exploring the causes and consequences of the French Revolution
Impact of colonialism on African countries
Discussing the roles played by European women during WWI and WWII
Analyzing how different religions influenced medieval Europe
The significance of the industrial revolution in Europe
Exploring how the slave trade affected economies of European countries
Discussing the role and impact of NATO on world politics
Analyzing US foreign policies during the Cold War
Impact of various civil rights movements on American society.

American Revolution Battles & Key Events

The Battle of Bunker Hill
The Siege of Yorktown
Exploring the role of General Washington's leadership in the Revolution
Discussing the impact of French involvement in the war
Analysis of British naval tactics used during the war
Examining how loyalists participated in the American Revolution
Discussing the significance of the Declaration of Independence
The role of African Americans and Native Americans during the war
Impact of taxes on public opinion prior to the revolution
Exploring Continental Army tactics and strategies used in battles.

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Industrial Revolution Essay Paper Topics

The impact of industrialization on working class lives
Examining the role of steam power in boosting production
Discussing how inventions changed people's lives during this period
Exploring the role of migrant workers in the industrial revolution
Analysis of factories and their effects on society
Discussing how industrialization benefited wealthy landowners
Examining the role of unions in promoting labor rights
Impact of new technologies on transportation and communication
Exploring how cities were affected by industrialization
Discussing successes and failures of the industrial revolution.

Related: List of good research paper topics for your history paper.

Tips for Choosing the Best History Research Paper Topic

The following are the tips for choosing the best history research paper topic that our writers recommend. This will give you an idea of which research topic is considered good.

Choose a topic that meets your teacher's requirements.
Pick a topic that is relevant and unique.
Do some research and then pick the topic for your research paper.
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Avoid choosing a topic that is too broad and simple.
Get help from the paper writing service writers.
Keep the audience's interest in mind and then choose the topic.

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US History Research Paper Topics: Moments that Shaped a Nation

Table of contents

1.1 Interesting US History Topics for Research Paper Before 1877
1.2 US History Paper Topics on the Civil War
1.3 American History Topics for Research Paper on Industrialization
1.4 American History Research Topics on Reconstruction
1.5 20th-Century American History Paper Topics
1.6 US History Term Paper Topics in World War I and II
1.7 American History Paper Topics about the Civil Rights Movement
1.8 Native American History Thesis Topics
2 Which Topics to Choose for History Research?
3 Conclusion: Reflections on America’s Past

Exploring the rich and complex narrative of the United States, this article is designed as a resource for students and researchers embarking on assignments that require a deep dive into American history. Perfect for term papers, thesis projects, and detailed historical analyses, the guide presents a curated selection of interesting US history research paper topics.

We provide a comprehensive guide for students, researchers, and history enthusiasts seeking engaging and insightful topics for their research papers on American history.
These topics cover critical eras and events shaping America, from the early days before 1877 to the transformative 20th century.

With these good US history research topics in mind, let’s go over each one in-depth, creating a foundation for smart research and analysis.

List of 160 American History Research Paper Topics

History is a rich and complex subject, ripe for exploration in academic research. Whether you’re a student seeking a topic for an assignment or a history enthusiast looking to delve deeper into America’s past, this list offers a diverse range of subjects. From early colonial times to the modern era, each topic provides a unique lens through which to examine the nation’s history.

Interesting US History Topics for Research Paper Before 1877

The impact of European colonization on Native American societies.
The Salem Witch Trials: Causes and effects.
The role of the Seven Years’ War in shaping early American society.
The Declaration of Independence: Context and legacy.
The Articles of Confederation: Strengths and weaknesses.
The Constitutional Convention of 1787: Key debates and outcomes.
The Federalist vs. Anti-Federalist debate: Impact on the US Constitution.
The Louisiana Purchase: Motivations and consequences.
The War of 1812: Causes, course, and outcomes.
Manifest Destiny: Ideology and impact on westward expansion.
The Trail of Tears and Native American Removal Policies.
The role of slavery in antebellum America.
The Mexican-American War: Origins and effects.
The Gold Rush of 1849 and its impact on American expansion.
The Compromise of 1850 and its role in the lead-up to the Civil War.
The Dred Scott Decision: Implications and controversy.
The Underground Railroad: Key figures and operations.
The election of 1860 and its role in the secession crisis.
The role of women in antebellum America.
Early American foreign policy: Principles and practices.

US History Paper Topics on the Civil War

The causes of the American Civil War: A comprehensive analysis.
Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and its impact on the Civil War.
The role of slavery in sparking the Civil War.
Military strategies of the Union and the Confederacy.
The Emancipation Proclamation: Intentions and effects.
Key battles of the Civil War: Gettysburg, Antietam, and others.
The role of technology in the Civil War.
The impact of the Civil War on civilian life in the North and South.
The role of African American soldiers in the Civil War.
The diplomatic dimensions of the Civil War.
Reconstruction plans: Lincoln vs. Johnson.
The assassination of Abraham Lincoln: Impact on post-war America.
The economic consequences of the Civil War for the South.
The role of women during the Civil War.
The Draft Riots of 1863: Causes and impact.
The impact of the Civil War on American literature and art.
The role of nurses and medical practices during the Civil War.
The use of propaganda in the Civil War.
The transition from slavery to freedom during and after the Civil War.
The legacy of the Civil War in American memory.

American History Topics for Research Paper on Industrialization

The Second Industrial Revolution: Key innovations and their impact.
The rise of American industrial tycoons: Carnegie, Rockefeller, and others.
The impact of the railroad expansion on American society and economy.
Urbanization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Labor movements and strikes of the late 19th century.
The rise of monopolies and antitrust laws in the United States.
The impact of immigration on American industrial growth.
The role of women and children in industrial labor.
Technological advancements and their societal impact during industrialization.
The emergence of consumer culture in the late 19th century.
The environmental impact of industrialization.
Social Darwinism and its influence on American society.
The rise of organized labor and the American Federation of Labor.
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and its aftermath.
The Homestead Strike: Causes and consequences.
The impact of the Industrial Revolution on American agriculture.
The role of education during the Industrial Revolution.
Transportation innovations and their impact on American life.
The evolution of American business practices during industrialization.
The Gilded Age: Wealth, poverty, and social disparity.

American History Research Topics on Reconstruction

The Reconstruction Amendments: Impact and limitations.
Presidential vs. Congressional Reconstruction: A comparative analysis.
The role of the Freedmen’s Bureau in post-Civil War America.
Sharecropping and tenant farming: Continuation of slavery by another name?
The rise and impact of the Ku Klux Klan during Reconstruction.
The Compromise of 1877 and the end of Reconstruction.
The Black Codes: Purpose and effects.
The impeachment of President Andrew Johnson: Causes and consequences.
The role of African Americans in politics during Reconstruction.
Economic challenges of the South during Reconstruction.
The establishment of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
The legacy of Reconstruction in the South.
The Jim Crow laws: Origins and impact.
The role of women during Reconstruction.
The Slaughterhouse Cases and their impact on civil rights.
The Enforcement Acts and their effectiveness in protecting African American rights.
The impact of Reconstruction on Northern society and politics.
Education reform in the South during Reconstruction.
The role of the U.S. military in enforcing Reconstruction policies.
The long-term effects of Reconstruction on American race relations.

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20th-Century American History Paper Topics

The Progressive Era: Reforms and key figures.
The impact of World War I on American society and politics.
The Roaring Twenties: Culture, economics, and politics.
The Great Depression: Causes and the New Deal response.
The impact of World War II on the American home front.
The Cold War: Key events and American foreign policy.
The Civil Rights Movement: Key figures and legislative milestones.
The Vietnam War: Causes, course, and impact on American society.
The Women’s Rights Movement of the 1960s and 1970s.
The Watergate Scandal and its impact on American politics.
The Space Race: Technological advancements and Cold War implications.
The rise of environmentalism in the 20th century.
The impact of the automobile on 20th-century American life.
The rise of the American suburbs in the post-World War II era.
The counterculture of the 1960s and its impact on American society.
The Reagan Era: Policies and impact on the United States.
The War on Drugs: Origins, strategies, and consequences.
The impact of technological advancements on late 20th-century life.
The rise of the internet and its impact on society and culture.
The 9/11 attacks and their aftermath on American foreign policy.

US History Term Paper Topics in World War I and II

The causes and consequences of American entry into World War I.
The impact of the Treaty of Versailles on post-war America.
American isolationism between World War I and World War II.
The Lend-Lease Act and American support for the Allies before entering World War II.
The attack on Pearl Harbor: Causes and immediate effects.
The home front during World War II: Women, minorities, and the war effort.
The role of propaganda in American support for World War II.
The development and use of the atomic bomb.
The impact of World War II on American foreign policy.
The internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.
The role of African Americans in World War II.
The D-Day invasion: Planning, execution, and significance.
The Battle of Midway: Turning point in the Pacific War.
American military strategy in the European and Pacific theaters.
The Holocaust and American responses to it.
The post-war world order and the establishment of the United Nations.
The GI Bill and its impact on post-war American society.
The Nuremberg Trials: Legal and moral implications.
The Marshall Plan and American post-war economic policy.
The start of the Cold War: Origins and early confrontations.

American History Paper Topics about the Civil Rights Movement

The Montgomery Bus Boycott: Causes and outcomes.
The role of Martin Luther King Jr. in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Little Rock Nine and school desegregation.
The Freedom Rides: Objectives and impact.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964: Development and effects.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965: Importance and consequences.
The role of women in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Black Power Movement: Ideals and key figures.
The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on other minority groups.
The assassination of Malcolm X: Context and aftermath.
The Selma to Montgomery marches: Significance and outcomes.
The role of the NAACP in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Birmingham Campaign and the use of nonviolent protest.
The role of the media in shaping public perception of the Civil Rights Movement.
The Civil Rights Movement in the North: Challenges and Achievements.
The Economic Bill of Rights proposed by the Poor People’s Campaign.
The role of music in the Civil Rights Movement.
The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on American law and society.
The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC): Contributions and challenges.
The legacy of the Civil Rights Movement in contemporary America.

Native American History Thesis Topics

The impact of European colonization on Native American cultures.
The Trail of Tears: Causes, course, and consequences.
Native American resistance movements: King Philip’s War, Pontiac’s Rebellion, and others.
The impact of the Indian Removal Act of 1830.
Native American life on reservations in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The role of Native Americans in American wars.
The Ghost Dance Movement and the Wounded Knee Massacre.
Native American boarding schools: Policies and impact on culture.
The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 and its implications.
The American Indian Movement (AIM): Goals and major actions.
The impact of the Dawes Act on tribal land and culture.
The role of Native American women in their societies.
Contemporary Native American issues: Sovereignty, land rights, and cultural preservation.
The Native American Renaissance: A cultural and literary overview.
The impact of environmental changes on Native American communities.
The repatriation of Native American artifacts and remains.
The role of treaties in Native American history.
Native American spiritual beliefs and practices.
The impact of the fur trade on Native American societies.
Contemporary Native American political activism.

Which Topics to Choose for History Research?

Given the breadth and diversity of US history topics, choosing one to write about can be difficult. To reduce your options, think about your interests and the extent of your investigation. Look for themes that provide a balance of available materials and new perspectives to explore.

When choosing a topic, consider its significance in the larger context of American history. Consider how the topic has influenced or reflected societal, political, or economic trends. For example, topics such as the Civil Rights Movement and World War II provide insights into moments of revolutionary change and struggle.

Also, examine the availability of primary and secondary sources. A well-documented topic provides for a more thorough study and a stronger argument. Always ensure that your chosen topic adheres to the criteria and objectives of your assignment or research aim.

Conclusion: Reflections on America’s Past

In this journey through American history, we have explored various topics that offer a window into the nation’s complex and multifaceted past. From the struggles and triumphs of early American society to the transformative events of the 20th century, these topics provide a foundation for understanding how the United States has evolved. Engaging with these topics enriches our historical knowledge and deepens our understanding of the present. As students, scholars, or simply curious minds, delving into these aspects of America’s past can provide valuable insights and perspectives on the nation’s journey and its ongoing story.

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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.

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.

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.

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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.

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

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Doing Historical Research [without getting hysterical!] In addition to being a scholarly investigation, research is a social activity intended to create new knowledge. Historical research is your informed response to the questions that you ask while examining the record of human experience. These questions may concern such elements as looking at an event or topic, examining events that lead to the event in question, social influences, key players, and other contextual information. This step-by-step guide progresses from an introduction to historical resources to information about how to identify a topic, craft a thesis and develop a research paper. Table of contents: The Range and Richness of Historical Sources Secondary Sources Primary Sources Historical Analysis What is it? Who, When, Where, What and Why: The Five "W"s Topic, Thesis, Sources Definition of Terms Choose a Topic Craft a Thesis Evaluate Thesis and Sources A Variety of Information Sources Take Efficient Notes Note Cards Thinking, Organizing, Researching Parenthetical Documentation Prepare a Works Cited Page Drafting, Revising, Rewriting, Rethinking For Further Reading: Works Cited Additional Links So you want to study history?! Tons of help and links Slatta Home Page Use the Writing and other links on the lefhand menu I. The Range and Richness of Historical Sources Back to Top Every period leaves traces, what historians call "sources" or evidence. Some are more credible or carry more weight than others; judging the differences is a vital skill developed by good historians. Sources vary in perspective, so knowing who created the information you are examining is vital. Anonymous doesn't make for a very compelling source. For example, an FBI report on the antiwar movement, prepared for U.S. President Richard Nixon, probably contained secrets that at the time were thought to have affected national security. It would not be usual, however, for a journalist's article about a campus riot, featured in a local newspaper, to leak top secret information. Which source would you read? It depends on your research topic. If you're studying how government officials portrayed student activists, you'll want to read the FBI report and many more documents from other government agencies such as the CIA and the National Security Council. If you're investigating contemporary opinion of pro-war and anti-war activists, local newspaper accounts provide a rich resource. You'd want to read a variety of newspapers to ensure you're covering a wide range of opinions (rural/urban, left/right, North/South, Soldier/Draft-dodger, etc). Historians classify sources into two major categories: primary and secondary sources. Secondary Sources Back to Top Definition: Secondary sources are created by someone who was either not present when the event occurred or removed from it in time. We use secondary sources for overview information, to familiarize ourselves with a topic, and compare that topic with other events in history. In refining a research topic, we often begin with secondary sources. This helps us identify gaps or conflicts in the existing scholarly literature that might prove promsing topics. Types: History books, encyclopedias, historical dictionaries, and academic (scholarly) articles are secondary sources. To help you determine the status of a given secondary source, see How to identify and nagivate scholarly literature . Examples: Historian Marilyn Young's (NYU) book about the Vietnam War is a secondary source. She did not participate in the war. Her study is not based on her personal experience but on the evidence she culled from a variety of sources she found in the United States and Vietnam. Primary Sources Back to Top Definition: Primary sources emanate from individuals or groups who participated in or witnessed an event and recorded that event during or immediately after the event. They include speeches, memoirs, diaries, letters, telegrams, emails, proclamations, government documents, and much more. Examples: A student activist during the war writing about protest activities has created a memoir. This would be a primary source because the information is based on her own involvement in the events she describes. Similarly, an antiwar speech is a primary source. So is the arrest record of student protesters. A newspaper editorial or article, reporting on a student demonstration is also a primary source. II. Historical Analysis What is it? Back to Top No matter what you read, whether it's a primary source or a secondary source, you want to know who authored the source (a trusted scholar? A controversial historian? A propagandist? A famous person? An ordinary individual?). "Author" refers to anyone who created information in any medium (film, sound, or text). You also need to know when it was written and the kind of audience the author intend to reach. You should also consider what you bring to the evidence that you examine. Are you inductively following a path of evidence, developing your interpretation based on the sources? Do you have an ax to grind? Did you begin your research deductively, with your mind made up before even seeing the evidence. Historians need to avoid the latter and emulate the former. To read more about the distinction, examine the difference between Intellectual Inquirers and Partisan Ideologues . In the study of history, perspective is everything. A letter written by a twenty- year old Vietnam War protestor will differ greatly from a letter written by a scholar of protest movements. Although the sentiment might be the same, the perspective and influences of these two authors will be worlds apart. Practicing the " 5 Ws " will avoid the confusion of the authority trap. Who, When, Where, What and Why: The Five "W"s Back to Top Historians accumulate evidence (information, including facts, stories, interpretations, opinions, statements, reports, etc.) from a variety of sources (primary and secondary). They must also verify that certain key pieces of information are corroborated by a number of people and sources ("the predonderance of evidence"). The historian poses the " 5 Ws " to every piece of information he examines: Who is the historical actor? When did the event take place? Where did it occur? What did it entail and why did it happen the way it did? The " 5 Ws " can also be used to evaluate a primary source. Who authored the work? When was it created? Where was it created, published, and disseminated? Why was it written (the intended audience), and what is the document about (what points is the author making)? If you know the answers to these five questions, you can analyze any document, and any primary source. The historian doesn't look for the truth, since this presumes there is only one true story. The historian tries to understand a number of competing viewpoints to form his or her own interpretation-- what constitutes the best explanation of what happened and why. By using as wide a range of primary source documents and secondary sources as possible, you will add depth and richness to your historical analysis. The more exposure you, the researcher, have to a number of different sources and differing view points, the more you have a balanced and complete view about a topic in history. This view will spark more questions and ultimately lead you into the quest to unravel more clues about your topic. You are ready to start assembling information for your research paper. III. Topic, Thesis, Sources Definition of Terms Back to Top Because your purpose is to create new knowledge while recognizing those scholars whose existing work has helped you in this pursuit, you are honor bound never to commit the following academic sins: Plagiarism: Literally "kidnapping," involving the use of someone else's words as if they were your own (Gibaldi 6). To avoid plagiarism you must document direct quotations, paraphrases, and original ideas not your own. Recycling: Rehashing material you already know thoroughly or, without your professor's permission, submitting a paper that you have completed for another course. Premature cognitive commitment: Academic jargon for deciding on a thesis too soon and then seeking information to serve that thesis rather than embarking on a genuine search for new knowledge. Choose a Topic Back to Top "Do not hunt for subjects, let them choose you, not you them." --Samuel Butler Choosing a topic is the first step in the pursuit of a thesis. Below is a logical progression from topic to thesis: Close reading of the primary text, aided by secondary sources Growing awareness of interesting qualities within the primary text Choosing a topic for research Asking productive questions that help explore and evaluate a topic Creating a research hypothesis Revising and refining a hypothesis to form a working thesis First, and most important, identify what qualities in the primary or secondary source pique your imagination and curiosity and send you on a search for answers. Bloom's taxonomy of cognitive levels provides a description of productive questions asked by critical thinkers. While the lower levels (knowledge, comprehension) are necessary to a good history essay, aspire to the upper three levels (analysis, synthesis, evaluation). Skimming reference works such as encyclopedias, books, critical essays and periodical articles can help you choose a topic that evolves into a hypothesis, which in turn may lead to a thesis. One approach to skimming involves reading the first paragraph of a secondary source to locate and evaluate the author's thesis. Then for a general idea of the work's organization and major ideas read the first and last sentence of each paragraph. Read the conclusion carefully, as it usually presents a summary (Barnet and Bedau 19). Craft a Thesis Back to Top Very often a chosen topic is too broad for focused research. You must revise it until you have a working hypothesis, that is, a statement of an idea or an approach with respect to the source that could form the basis for your thesis. Remember to not commit too soon to any one hypothesis. Use it as a divining rod or a first step that will take you to new information that may inspire you to revise your hypothesis. Be flexible. Give yourself time to explore possibilities. The hypothesis you create will mature and shift as you write and rewrite your paper. New questions will send you back to old and on to new material. Remember, this is the nature of research--it is more a spiraling or iterative activity than a linear one. Test your working hypothesis to be sure it is: broad enough to promise a variety of resources. narrow enough for you to research in depth. original enough to interest you and your readers. worthwhile enough to offer information and insights of substance "do-able"--sources are available to complete the research. Now it is time to craft your thesis, your revised and refined hypothesis. A thesis is a declarative sentence that: focuses on one well-defined idea makes an arguable assertion; it is capable of being supported prepares your readers for the body of your paper and foreshadows the conclusion. Evaluate Thesis and Sources Back to Top Like your hypothesis, your thesis is not carved in stone. You are in charge. If necessary, revise it during the research process. As you research, continue to evaluate both your thesis for practicality, originality, and promise as a search tool, and secondary sources for relevance and scholarliness. The following are questions to ask during the research process: Are there many journal articles and entire books devoted to the thesis, suggesting that the subject has been covered so thoroughly that there may be nothing new to say? Does the thesis lead to stimulating, new insights? Are appropriate sources available? Is there a variety of sources available so that the bibliography or works cited page will reflect different kinds of sources? Which sources are too broad for my thesis? Which resources are too narrow? Who is the author of the secondary source? Does the critic's background suggest that he/she is qualified? After crafting a thesis, consider one of the following two approaches to writing a research paper: Excited about your thesis and eager to begin? Return to the primary or secondary source to find support for your thesis. Organize ideas and begin writing your first draft. After writing the first draft, have it reviewed by your peers and your instructor. Ponder their suggestions and return to the sources to answer still-open questions. Document facts and opinions from secondary sources. Remember, secondary sources can never substitute for primary sources. Confused about where to start? Use your thesis to guide you to primary and secondary sources. Secondary sources can help you clarify your position and find a direction for your paper. Keep a working bibliography. You may not use all the sources you record, but you cannot be sure which ones you will eventually discard. Create a working outline as you research. This outline will, of course, change as you delve more deeply into your subject. A Variety of Information Sources Back to Top "A mind that is stretched to a new idea never returns to its original dimension." --Oliver Wendell Holmes Your thesis and your working outline are the primary compasses that will help you navigate the variety of sources available. In "Introduction to the Library" (5-6) the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers suggests you become familiar with the library you will be using by: taking a tour or enrolling for a brief introductory lecture referring to the library's publications describing its resources introducing yourself and your project to the reference librarian The MLA Handbook also lists guides for the use of libraries (5), including: Jean Key Gates, Guide to the Use of Libraries and Information Sources (7th ed., New York: McGraw, 1994). Thomas Mann, A Guide to Library Research Methods (New York: Oxford UP, 1987). Online Central Catalog Most libraries have their holdings listed on a computer. The online catalog may offer Internet sites, Web pages and databases that relate to the university's curriculum. It may also include academic journals and online reference books. Below are three search techniques commonly used online: Index Search: Although online catalogs may differ slightly from library to library, the most common listings are by: Subject Search: Enter the author's name for books and article written about the author. Author Search: Enter an author's name for works written by the author, including collections of essays the author may have written about his/her own works. Title Search: Enter a title for the screen to list all the books the library carries with that title. Key Word Search/Full-text Search: A one-word search, e.g., 'Kennedy,' will produce an overwhelming number of sources, as it will call up any entry that includes the name 'Kennedy.' To focus more narrowly on your subject, add one or more key words, e.g., "John Kennedy, Peace Corps." Use precise key words. Boolean Search: Boolean Search techniques use words such as "and," "or," and "not," which clarify the relationship between key words, thus narrowing the search. Take Efficient Notes Back to Top Keeping complete and accurate bibliography and note cards during the research process is a time (and sanity) saving practice. If you have ever needed a book or pages within a book, only to discover that an earlier researcher has failed to return it or torn pages from your source, you understand the need to take good notes. Every researcher has a favorite method for taking notes. Here are some suggestions-- customize one of them for your own use. Bibliography cards There may be far more books and articles listed than you have time to read, so be selective when choosing a reference. Take information from works that clearly relate to your thesis, remembering that you may not use them all. Use a smaller or a different color card from the one used for taking notes. Write a bibliography card for every source. Number the bibliography cards. On the note cards, use the number rather than the author's name and the title. It's faster. Another method for recording a working bibliography, of course, is to create your own database. Adding, removing, and alphabetizing titles is a simple process. Be sure to save often and to create a back-up file. A bibliography card should include all the information a reader needs to locate that particular source for further study. Most of the information required for a book entry (Gibaldi 112): Author's name Title of a part of the book [preface, chapter titles, etc.] Title of the book Name of the editor, translator, or compiler Edition used Number(s) of the volume(s) used Name of the series Place of publication, name of the publisher, and date of publication Page numbers Supplementary bibliographic information and annotations Most of the information required for an article in a periodical (Gibaldi 141): Author's name Title of the article Name of the periodical Series number or name (if relevant) Volume number (for a scholarly journal) Issue number (if needed) Date of publication Page numbers Supplementary information For information on how to cite other sources refer to your So you want to study history page . Note Cards Back to Top Take notes in ink on either uniform note cards (3x5, 4x6, etc.) or uniform slips of paper. Devote each note card to a single topic identified at the top. Write only on one side. Later, you may want to use the back to add notes or personal observations. Include a topical heading for each card. Include the number of the page(s) where you found the information. You will want the page number(s) later for documentation, and you may also want page number(s)to verify your notes. Most novice researchers write down too much. Condense. Abbreviate. You are striving for substance, not quantity. Quote directly from primary sources--but the "meat," not everything. Suggestions for condensing information: Summary: A summary is intended to provide the gist of an essay. Do not weave in the author's choice phrases. Read the information first and then condense the main points in your own words. This practice will help you avoid the copying that leads to plagiarism. Summarizing also helps you both analyze the text you are reading and evaluate its strengths and weaknesses (Barnet and Bedau 13). Outline: Use to identify a series of points. Paraphrase, except for key primary source quotations. Never quote directly from a secondary source, unless the precise wording is essential to your argument. Simplify the language and list the ideas in the same order. A paraphrase is as long as the original. Paraphrasing is helpful when you are struggling with a particularly difficult passage. Be sure to jot down your own insights or flashes of brilliance. Ralph Waldo Emerson warns you to "Look sharply after your thoughts. They come unlooked for, like a new bird seen on your trees, and, if you turn to your usual task, disappear...." To differentiate these insights from those of the source you are reading, initial them as your own. (When the following examples of note cards include the researcher's insights, they will be followed by the initials N. R.) When you have finished researching your thesis and you are ready to write your paper, organize your cards according to topic. Notecards make it easy to shuffle and organize your source information on a table-- or across the floor. Maintain your working outline that includes the note card headings and explores a logical order for presenting them in your paper. IV. Begin Thinking, Researching, Organizing Back to Top Don't be too sequential. Researching, writing, revising is a complex interactive process. Start writing as soon as possible! "The best antidote to writer's block is--to write." (Klauser 15). However, you still feel overwhelmed and are staring at a blank page, you are not alone. Many students find writing the first sentence to be the most daunting part of the entire research process. Be creative. Cluster (Rico 28-49). Clustering is a form of brainstorming. Sometimes called a web, the cluster forms a design that may suggest a natural organization for a paper. Here's a graphical depiction of brainstorming . Like a sun, the generating idea or topic lies at the center of the web. From it radiate words, phrases, sentences and images that in turn attract other words, phrases, sentences and images. Put another way--stay focused. Start with your outline. If clustering is not a technique that works for you, turn to the working outline you created during the research process. Use the outline view of your word processor. If you have not already done so, group your note cards according to topic headings. Compare them to your outline's major points. If necessary, change the outline to correspond with the headings on the note cards. If any area seems weak because of a scarcity of facts or opinions, return to your primary and/or secondary sources for more information or consider deleting that heading. Use your outline to provide balance in your essay. Each major topic should have approximately the same amount of information. Once you have written a working outline, consider two different methods for organizing it. Deduction: A process of development that moves from the general to the specific. You may use this approach to present your findings. However, as noted above, your research and interpretive process should be inductive. Deduction is the most commonly used form of organization for a research paper. The thesis statement is the generalization that leads to the specific support provided by primary and secondary sources. The thesis is stated early in the paper. The body of the paper then proceeds to provide the facts, examples, and analogies that flow logically from that thesis. The thesis contains key words that are reflected in the outline. These key words become a unifying element throughout the paper, as they reappear in the detailed paragraphs that support and develop the thesis. The conclusion of the paper circles back to the thesis, which is now far more meaningful because of the deductive development that supports it. Chronological order A process that follows a traditional time line or sequence of events. A chronological organization is useful for a paper that explores cause and effect. Parenthetical Documentation Back to Top The Works Cited page, a list of primary and secondary sources, is not sufficient documentation to acknowledge the ideas, facts, and opinions you have included within your text. The MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers describes an efficient parenthetical style of documentation to be used within the body of your paper. Guidelines for parenthetical documentation: "References to the text must clearly point to specific sources in the list of works cited" (Gibaldi 184). Try to use parenthetical documentation as little as possible. For example, when you cite an entire work, it is preferable to include the author's name in the text. The author's last name followed by the page number is usually enough for an accurate identification of the source in the works cited list. These examples illustrate the most common kinds of documentation. Documenting a quotation: Ex. "The separation from the personal mother is a particularly intense process for a daughter because she has to separate from the one who is the same as herself" (Murdock 17). She may feel abandoned and angry. Note: The author of The Heroine's Journey is listed under Works Cited by the author's name, reversed--Murdock, Maureen. Quoted material is found on page 17 of that book. Parenthetical documentation is after the quotation mark and before the period. Documenting a paraphrase: Ex. In fairy tales a woman who holds the princess captive or who abandons her often needs to be killed (18). Note: The second paraphrase is also from Murdock's book The Heroine's Journey. It is not, however, necessary to repeat the author's name if no other documentation interrupts the two. If the works cited page lists more than one work by the same author, include within the parentheses an abbreviated form of the appropriate title. You may, of course, include the title in your sentence, making it unnecessary to add an abbreviated title in the citation. > Prepare a Works Cited Page Back to Top There are a variety of titles for the page that lists primary and secondary sources (Gibaldi 106-107). A Works Cited page lists those works you have cited within the body of your paper. The reader need only refer to it for the necessary information required for further independent research. Bibliography means literally a description of books. Because your research may involve the use of periodicals, films, art works, photographs, etc. "Works Cited" is a more precise descriptive term than bibliography. An Annotated Bibliography or Annotated Works Cited page offers brief critiques and descriptions of the works listed. A Works Consulted page lists those works you have used but not cited. Avoid using this format. As with other elements of a research paper there are specific guidelines for the placement and the appearance of the Works Cited page. The following guidelines comply with MLA style: The Work Cited page is placed at the end of your paper and numbered consecutively with the body of your paper. Center the title and place it one inch from the top of your page. Do not quote or underline the title. Double space the entire page, both within and between entries. The entries are arranged alphabetically by the author's last name or by the title of the article or book being cited. If the title begins with an article (a, an, the) alphabetize by the next word. If you cite two or more works by the same author, list the titles in alphabetical order. Begin every entry after the first with three hyphens followed by a period. All entries begin at the left margin but subsequent lines are indented five spaces. Be sure that each entry cited on the Works Cited page corresponds to a specific citation within your paper. Refer to the the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers (104- 182) for detailed descriptions of Work Cited entries. Citing sources from online databases is a relatively new phenomenon. Make sure to ask your professor about citing these sources and which style to use. V. Draft, Revise, Rewrite, Rethink Back to Top "There are days when the result is so bad that no fewer than five revisions are required. In contrast, when I'm greatly inspired, only four revisions are needed." --John Kenneth Galbraith Try freewriting your first draft. Freewriting is a discovery process during which the writer freely explores a topic. Let your creative juices flow. In Writing without Teachers , Peter Elbow asserts that "[a]lmost everybody interposes a massive and complicated series of editings between the time words start to be born into consciousness and when they finally come off the end of the pencil or typewriter [or word processor] onto the page" (5). Do not let your internal judge interfere with this first draft. Creating and revising are two very different functions. Don't confuse them! If you stop to check spelling, punctuation, or grammar, you disrupt the flow of creative energy. Create; then fix it later. When material you have researched comes easily to mind, include it. Add a quick citation, one you can come back to later to check for form, and get on with your discovery. In subsequent drafts, focus on creating an essay that flows smoothly, supports fully, and speaks clearly and interestingly. Add style to substance. Create a smooth flow of words, ideas and paragraphs. Rearrange paragraphs for a logical progression of information. Transition is essential if you want your reader to follow you smoothly from introduction to conclusion. Transitional words and phrases stitch your ideas together; they provide coherence within the essay. External transition: Words and phrases that are added to a sentence as overt signs of transition are obvious and effective, but should not be overused, as they may draw attention to themselves and away from ideas. Examples of external transition are "however," "then," "next," "therefore." "first," "moreover," and "on the other hand." Internal transition is more subtle. Key words in the introduction become golden threads when they appear in the paper's body and conclusion. When the writer hears a key word repeated too often, however, she/he replaces it with a synonym or a pronoun. Below are examples of internal transition. Transitional sentences create a logical flow from paragraph to paragraph. Iclude individual words, phrases, or clauses that refer to previous ideas and that point ahead to new ones. They are usually placed at the end or at the beginning of a paragraph. A transitional paragraph conducts your reader from one part of the paper to another. It may be only a few sentences long. Each paragraph of the body of the paper should contain adequate support for its one governing idea. Speak/write clearly, in your own voice. Tone: The paper's tone, whether formal, ironic, or humorous, should be appropriate for the audience and the subject. Voice: Keep you language honest. Your paper should sound like you. Understand, paraphrase, absorb, and express in your own words the information you have researched. Avoid phony language. Sentence formation: When you polish your sentences, read them aloud for word choice and word placement. Be concise. Strunk and White in The Elements of Style advise the writer to "omit needless words" (23). First, however, you must recognize them. Keep yourself and your reader interested. In fact, Strunk's 1918 writing advice is still well worth pondering. First, deliver on your promises. Be sure the body of your paper fulfills the promise of the introduction. Avoid the obvious. Offer new insights. Reveal the unexpected. Have you crafted your conclusion as carefully as you have your introduction? Conclusions are not merely the repetition of your thesis. The conclusion of a research paper is a synthesis of the information presented in the body. Your research has led you to conclusions and opinions that have helped you understand your thesis more deeply and more clearly. Lift your reader to the full level of understanding that you have achieved. Revision means "to look again." Find a peer reader to read your paper with you present. Or, visit your college or university's writing lab. Guide your reader's responses by asking specific questions. Are you unsure of the logical order of your paragraphs? Do you want to know whether you have supported all opinions adequately? Are you concerned about punctuation or grammar? Ask that these issues be addressed. You are in charge. Here are some techniques that may prove helpful when you are revising alone or with a reader. When you edit for spelling errors read the sentences backwards. This procedure will help you look closely at individual words. Always read your paper aloud. Hearing your own words puts them in a new light. Listen to the flow of ideas and of language. Decide whether or not the voice sounds honest and the tone is appropriate to the purpose of the paper and to your audience. Listen for awkward or lumpy wording. Find the one right word, Eliminate needless words. Combine sentences. Kill the passive voice. Eliminate was/were/is/are constructions. They're lame and anti-historical. Be ruthless. If an idea doesn't serve your thesis, banish it, even if it's one of your favorite bits of prose. In the margins, write the major topic of each paragraph. By outlining after you have written the paper, you are once again evaluating your paper's organization. OK, you've got the process down. Now execute! And enjoy! It's not everyday that you get to make history. VI. For Further Reading: Works Cited Back to Top Barnet, Sylvan, and Hugo Bedau. Critical Thinking, Reading, and Writing: A Brief Guide to Argument. Boston: Bedford, 1993. Brent, Doug. Reading as Rhetorical Invention: Knowledge,Persuasion and the Teaching of Research-Based Writing. Urbana: NCTE, 1992. Elbow, Peter. Writing without Teachers. New York: Oxford University Press, 1973. Gibladi, Joseph. MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. 4th ed. New York: Modern Language Association, 1995. Horvitz, Deborah. "Nameless Ghosts: Possession and Dispossession in Beloved." Studies in American Fiction , Vol. 17, No. 2, Autum, 1989, pp. 157-167. Republished in the Literature Research Center. Gale Group. (1 January 1999). Klauser, Henriette Anne. Writing on Both Sides of the Brain: Breakthrough Techniques for People Who Write. Philadelphia: Harper, 1986. Rico, Gabriele Lusser. Writing the Natural Way: Using Right Brain Techniques to Release Your Expressive Powers. Los Angeles: Houghton, 1983. Sorenson, Sharon. The Research Paper: A Contemporary Approach. New York: AMSCO, 1994. Strunk, William, Jr., and E. B. White. The Elements of Style. 3rd ed. New York: MacMillan, 1979. Back to Top This guide adapted from materials published by Thomson Gale, publishers. For free resources, including a generic guide to writing term papers, see the Gale.com website , which also includes product information for schools.

Home » Historical Research – Types, Methods and Examples

Historical Research – Types, Methods and Examples

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Historical Research

Definition:

Historical research is the process of investigating and studying past events, people, and societies using a variety of sources and methods. This type of research aims to reconstruct and interpret the past based on the available evidence.

Types of Historical Research

There are several types of historical research, including:

Descriptive Research

This type of historical research focuses on describing events, people, or cultures in detail. It can involve examining artifacts, documents, or other sources of information to create a detailed account of what happened or existed.

Analytical Research

This type of historical research aims to explain why events, people, or cultures occurred in a certain way. It involves analyzing data to identify patterns, causes, and effects, and making interpretations based on this analysis.

Comparative Research

This type of historical research involves comparing two or more events, people, or cultures to identify similarities and differences. This can help researchers understand the unique characteristics of each and how they interacted with each other.

Interpretive Research

This type of historical research focuses on interpreting the meaning of past events, people, or cultures. It can involve analyzing cultural symbols, beliefs, and practices to understand their significance in a particular historical context.

Quantitative Research

This type of historical research involves using statistical methods to analyze historical data. It can involve examining demographic information, economic indicators, or other quantitative data to identify patterns and trends.

Qualitative Research

This type of historical research involves examining non-numerical data such as personal accounts, letters, or diaries. It can provide insights into the experiences and perspectives of individuals during a particular historical period.

Data Collection Methods

Data Collection Methods are as follows:

Archival research : This involves analyzing documents and records that have been preserved over time, such as government records, diaries, letters, newspapers, and photographs. Archival research is often conducted in libraries, archives, and museums.
Oral history : This involves conducting interviews with individuals who have lived through a particular historical period or event. Oral history can provide a unique perspective on past events and can help to fill gaps in the historical record.
Artifact analysis: This involves examining physical objects from the past, such as tools, clothing, and artwork, to gain insights into past cultures and practices.
Secondary sources: This involves analyzing published works, such as books, articles, and academic papers, that discuss past events and cultures. Secondary sources can provide context and insights into the historical period being studied.
Statistical analysis : This involves analyzing numerical data from the past, such as census records or economic data, to identify patterns and trends.
Fieldwork : This involves conducting on-site research in a particular location, such as visiting a historical site or conducting ethnographic research in a particular community. Fieldwork can provide a firsthand understanding of the culture and environment being studied.
Content analysis: This involves analyzing the content of media from the past, such as films, television programs, and advertisements, to gain insights into cultural attitudes and beliefs.

Data Analysis Methods

Content analysis : This involves analyzing the content of written or visual material, such as books, newspapers, or photographs, to identify patterns and themes. Content analysis can be used to identify changes in cultural values and beliefs over time.
Textual analysis : This involves analyzing written texts, such as letters or diaries, to understand the experiences and perspectives of individuals during a particular historical period. Textual analysis can provide insights into how people lived and thought in the past.
Discourse analysis : This involves analyzing how language is used to construct meaning and power relations in a particular historical period. Discourse analysis can help to identify how social and political ideologies were constructed and maintained over time.
Statistical analysis: This involves using statistical methods to analyze numerical data, such as census records or economic data, to identify patterns and trends. Statistical analysis can help to identify changes in population demographics, economic conditions, and other factors over time.
Comparative analysis : This involves comparing data from two or more historical periods or events to identify similarities and differences. Comparative analysis can help to identify patterns and trends that may not be apparent from analyzing data from a single historical period.
Qualitative analysis: This involves analyzing non-numerical data, such as oral history interviews or ethnographic field notes, to identify themes and patterns. Qualitative analysis can provide a rich understanding of the experiences and perspectives of individuals in the past.

Historical Research Methodology

Here are the general steps involved in historical research methodology:

Define the research question: Start by identifying a research question that you want to answer through your historical research. This question should be focused, specific, and relevant to your research goals.
Review the literature: Conduct a review of the existing literature on the topic of your research question. This can involve reading books, articles, and academic papers to gain a thorough understanding of the existing research.
Develop a research design : Develop a research design that outlines the methods you will use to collect and analyze data. This design should be based on the research question and should be feasible given the resources and time available.
Collect data: Use the methods outlined in your research design to collect data on past events, people, and cultures. This can involve archival research, oral history interviews, artifact analysis, and other data collection methods.
Analyze data : Analyze the data you have collected using the methods outlined in your research design. This can involve content analysis, textual analysis, statistical analysis, and other data analysis methods.
Interpret findings : Use the results of your data analysis to draw meaningful insights and conclusions related to your research question. These insights should be grounded in the data and should be relevant to the research goals.
Communicate results: Communicate your findings through a research report, academic paper, or other means. This should be done in a clear, concise, and well-organized manner, with appropriate citations and references to the literature.

Applications of Historical Research

Historical research has a wide range of applications in various fields, including:

Education : Historical research can be used to develop curriculum materials that reflect a more accurate and inclusive representation of history. It can also be used to provide students with a deeper understanding of past events and cultures.
Museums : Historical research is used to develop exhibits, programs, and other materials for museums. It can provide a more accurate and engaging presentation of historical events and artifacts.
Public policy : Historical research is used to inform public policy decisions by providing insights into the historical context of current issues. It can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of past policies and programs.
Business : Historical research can be used by businesses to understand the evolution of their industry and to identify trends that may affect their future success. It can also be used to develop marketing strategies that resonate with customers’ historical interests and values.
Law : Historical research is used in legal proceedings to provide evidence and context for cases involving historical events or practices. It can also be used to inform the development of new laws and policies.
Genealogy : Historical research can be used by individuals to trace their family history and to understand their ancestral roots.
Cultural preservation : Historical research is used to preserve cultural heritage by documenting and interpreting past events, practices, and traditions. It can also be used to identify and preserve historical landmarks and artifacts.

Examples of Historical Research

Examples of Historical Research are as follows:

Examining the history of race relations in the United States: Historical research could be used to explore the historical roots of racial inequality and injustice in the United States. This could help inform current efforts to address systemic racism and promote social justice.
Tracing the evolution of political ideologies: Historical research could be used to study the development of political ideologies over time. This could help to contextualize current political debates and provide insights into the origins and evolution of political beliefs and values.
Analyzing the impact of technology on society : Historical research could be used to explore the impact of technology on society over time. This could include examining the impact of previous technological revolutions (such as the industrial revolution) on society, as well as studying the current impact of emerging technologies on society and the environment.
Documenting the history of marginalized communities : Historical research could be used to document the history of marginalized communities (such as LGBTQ+ communities or indigenous communities). This could help to preserve cultural heritage, promote social justice, and promote a more inclusive understanding of history.

Purpose of Historical Research

The purpose of historical research is to study the past in order to gain a better understanding of the present and to inform future decision-making. Some specific purposes of historical research include:

To understand the origins of current events, practices, and institutions : Historical research can be used to explore the historical roots of current events, practices, and institutions. By understanding how things developed over time, we can gain a better understanding of the present.
To develop a more accurate and inclusive understanding of history : Historical research can be used to correct inaccuracies and biases in historical narratives. By exploring different perspectives and sources of information, we can develop a more complete and nuanced understanding of history.
To inform decision-making: Historical research can be used to inform decision-making in various fields, including education, public policy, business, and law. By understanding the historical context of current issues, we can make more informed decisions about how to address them.
To preserve cultural heritage : Historical research can be used to document and preserve cultural heritage, including traditions, practices, and artifacts. By understanding the historical significance of these cultural elements, we can work to preserve them for future generations.
To stimulate curiosity and critical thinking: Historical research can be used to stimulate curiosity and critical thinking about the past. By exploring different historical perspectives and interpretations, we can develop a more critical and reflective approach to understanding history and its relevance to the present.

When to use Historical Research

Historical research can be useful in a variety of contexts. Here are some examples of when historical research might be particularly appropriate:

When examining the historical roots of current events: Historical research can be used to explore the historical roots of current events, practices, and institutions. By understanding how things developed over time, we can gain a better understanding of the present.
When examining the historical context of a particular topic : Historical research can be used to explore the historical context of a particular topic, such as a social issue, political debate, or scientific development. By understanding the historical context, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of the topic and its significance.
When exploring the evolution of a particular field or discipline : Historical research can be used to explore the evolution of a particular field or discipline, such as medicine, law, or art. By understanding the historical development of the field, we can gain a better understanding of its current state and future directions.
When examining the impact of past events on current society : Historical research can be used to examine the impact of past events (such as wars, revolutions, or social movements) on current society. By understanding the historical context and impact of these events, we can gain insights into current social and political issues.
When studying the cultural heritage of a particular community or group : Historical research can be used to document and preserve the cultural heritage of a particular community or group. By understanding the historical significance of cultural practices, traditions, and artifacts, we can work to preserve them for future generations.

Characteristics of Historical Research

The following are some characteristics of historical research:

Focus on the past : Historical research focuses on events, people, and phenomena of the past. It seeks to understand how things developed over time and how they relate to current events.
Reliance on primary sources: Historical research relies on primary sources such as letters, diaries, newspapers, government documents, and other artifacts from the period being studied. These sources provide firsthand accounts of events and can help researchers gain a more accurate understanding of the past.
Interpretation of data : Historical research involves interpretation of data from primary sources. Researchers analyze and interpret data to draw conclusions about the past.
Use of multiple sources: Historical research often involves using multiple sources of data to gain a more complete understanding of the past. By examining a range of sources, researchers can cross-reference information and validate their findings.
Importance of context: Historical research emphasizes the importance of context. Researchers analyze the historical context in which events occurred and consider how that context influenced people’s actions and decisions.
Subjectivity : Historical research is inherently subjective, as researchers interpret data and draw conclusions based on their own perspectives and biases. Researchers must be aware of their own biases and strive for objectivity in their analysis.
Importance of historical significance: Historical research emphasizes the importance of historical significance. Researchers consider the historical significance of events, people, and phenomena and their impact on the present and future.
Use of qualitative methods : Historical research often uses qualitative methods such as content analysis, discourse analysis, and narrative analysis to analyze data and draw conclusions about the past.

Advantages of Historical Research

There are several advantages to historical research:

Provides a deeper understanding of the past : Historical research can provide a more comprehensive understanding of past events and how they have shaped current social, political, and economic conditions. This can help individuals and organizations make informed decisions about the future.
Helps preserve cultural heritage: Historical research can be used to document and preserve cultural heritage. By studying the history of a particular culture, researchers can gain insights into the cultural practices and beliefs that have shaped that culture over time.
Provides insights into long-term trends : Historical research can provide insights into long-term trends and patterns. By studying historical data over time, researchers can identify patterns and trends that may be difficult to discern from short-term data.
Facilitates the development of hypotheses: Historical research can facilitate the development of hypotheses about how past events have influenced current conditions. These hypotheses can be tested using other research methods, such as experiments or surveys.
Helps identify root causes of social problems : Historical research can help identify the root causes of social problems. By studying the historical context in which these problems developed, researchers can gain a better understanding of how they emerged and what factors may have contributed to their development.
Provides a source of inspiration: Historical research can provide a source of inspiration for individuals and organizations seeking to address current social, political, and economic challenges. By studying the accomplishments and struggles of past generations, researchers can gain insights into how to address current challenges.

Limitations of Historical Research

Some Limitations of Historical Research are as follows:

Reliance on incomplete or biased data: Historical research is often limited by the availability and quality of data. Many primary sources have been lost, destroyed, or are inaccessible, making it difficult to get a complete picture of historical events. Additionally, some primary sources may be biased or represent only one perspective on an event.
Difficulty in generalizing findings: Historical research is often specific to a particular time and place and may not be easily generalized to other contexts. This makes it difficult to draw broad conclusions about human behavior or social phenomena.
Lack of control over variables : Historical research often lacks control over variables. Researchers cannot manipulate or control historical events, making it difficult to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
Subjectivity of interpretation : Historical research is often subjective because researchers must interpret data and draw conclusions based on their own biases and perspectives. Different researchers may interpret the same data differently, leading to different conclusions.
Limited ability to test hypotheses: Historical research is often limited in its ability to test hypotheses. Because the events being studied have already occurred, researchers cannot manipulate variables or conduct experiments to test their hypotheses.
Lack of objectivity: Historical research is often subjective, and researchers must be aware of their own biases and strive for objectivity in their analysis. However, it can be difficult to maintain objectivity when studying events that are emotionally charged or controversial.
Limited generalizability: Historical research is often limited in its generalizability, as the events and conditions being studied may be specific to a particular time and place. This makes it difficult to draw broad conclusions that apply to other contexts or time periods.

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100 best history topics to write on in 2022.

July 29, 2020

Many students struggle to find good history topics. And, this makes writing great history papers difficult. When chosen properly, history essay topics can inspire the authors. This enables them to write papers that the target audience finds interesting to read.

But, what makes good topics for history research paper? Well, several factors can be considered to determine whether a paper is good for a writer. For instance, ideal history paper topics should be easy to find the correct information and verified sources for. They should also enable the authors to accomplish the goals of their research and writing projects.

Defining Good History Topics

When looking for interesting history research paper topics, learners should select topics they will be happy and comfortable to research and write about. They should be topics they can come up with a strong argument or thesis statement for.

Remember that you will work on the topic that you choose for several days or even months. That’s why students are advised to choose the most interesting topics in history. But, how do I choose history topic? Here are the attributes of great history research topics.

Relevant and easy to come up with a clear statement for
Easy to find relevant sources for
Easy to find key ideas for

If struggling to find great history research paper topics, here are categories and lists that you should consider.

US History Topics

Perhaps, you would be interested in US history research paper topics. In that case, you should consider the following United States history research paper topics.

What caused the U.S civil war?
How was the United States of America founded?
Why did the U.S use two atomic bombs in 1945 instead of one?
What were the intriguing events during the U.S colonization?
Who were the first people to inhabit the USA?
Explain the fight for independence in the U.S
What were the cherished history and culture of the Native Americans before the Europeans’ arrival?
What led to slavery abolishment?
What experiences did the slaves go through in the U.S?
Explain the process of writing the U.S constitution
Explain the Cold War in the U.S
What are the traditions of Independence Day?
How did 9/11 affect the U.S?
Explain the causes and effects of the Mexican War
Explain how the cotton gin affected slaves labor and the economy
Explain the suffrage movement of women in the U.S
Discuss the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794
Discuss Truman’s Containment policy
Explain the discrimination of African-American soldiers in the Union Army
Discuss the Indian Removal Act

Regardless of your interests, you can choose from a wide range of American history research paper topics. Nevertheless, students should select the most interesting topics in U.S history that will amaze their educators. Taking into account that the United States is the country of immigrants from all over the world, we advise you to consider writing about immigrants .

Interesting History Topics

Perhaps, you want to write papers on interesting US history topics. Maybe you want your papers to spark the interest of your research and encourage them to read more of your work. But, what are interesting history topics? Well, interesting history project topics are debatable. They capture the attention of the readers and get them thinking. Here are some of the best topics in this category.

Discuss the lynching history in the American South
How did colonization sow discord seeds that led to the growth of the Rwandan genocide?
The Nagasaki and Hiroshima bombs shouldn’t have dropped- Discuss
How Columbus’ exploits led to the new world chaos
Nationalism has not become the primary identity source in the Arab States- Explain why
What treatment did women go through in the zones occupied by the Soviets during World War II?
Why has communism been considered bad historically?
Was assimilation resisted by the Native Americans?
What led to immigration from Syria?
Can the Six Days War be described as aggression or a preemptive strike?
Was the British pres free during the 19th century
Did the Spanish Inquisition have a moral justification?
What was the scientific achievement of the Holocaust experiments?
What followed the fall of the Nazis and Hitler in Germany?
Why does the world consider Niccole Machiavelli the political science founder?
What is the story behind John F. Kennedy’s assassination?
Did the state institutions form contribute to Great Divergence?
Did the use of atomic bombs by the U.S on Japan aim to end the war or prevent the influence of the Soviet Union in Asia?
Why is Constantinople fall in 1453 considered the saddest moment in mankind’s history?
How did Salem become synonymous with intolerance?

Taking a stand in history topics is important for learners that opt to pick ideas in this category. What’s more, extensive research and analysis of facts are required before writing.

Conflict and Compromise History Topics

These are some of the most common world history topics. They address some of the conflicting issues and compromises that have been made in history. Here are some of the best conflict and compromise in history topics to consider.

Top issues that have maintained the Arab-Israeli conflict
Explain the causes of World War I and II
Discuss the 100-year war between France and England
Explain how the 7-year French-Indian War escalated into a worldwide war
Discuss the American Revolution
Discuss the Declaration of Independence
Explain why the American Civil War between the South and North was the bloodiest
Discuss Iran and American conflict in 2020
Discuss the Mexican-American War
Discuss the Vietnam War
What is the cause of the conflict between Palestine and Israel?
What caused the Soviet-Afghan War
What caused the U.S-Afghan War?
What led to the Cold War?
What were the effects of the Cold War?
Discuss the role of women in the military
Discuss troops segregation and conflicting loyalty
Social conflict during the war- The Japanese Interment
Discuss civil protest and Vietnam military policy
Discuss General Sherman’s War

This category has some of the best U.S history topics. Nevertheless, most of them are largely world history research paper topics.

Art History Research Paper Topics

Maybe you don’t want to write about US history essay topics. In that case, you could be interested in breaking barriers in history topics. Here are some of the art history topics to consider.

Discuss the history of the Korean pottery
Explain the Great Wall in China construction
Explain the effects of the Mughal paintings of India
What were the religious motifs of Cambodian art?
Explain how Hinduism influenced the early Indian art
Discuss the Tibet art
Discuss the Chinese and Japanese traditional costumes
Explain the Islamic ascendancy in the Indian art
Explain the Buddhist art
Explain the Scythian gold adornment
Explain the development of the Greek theater
Discuss the Mesopotamian art
Explain the Greek and Egyptian canons of proportions
How did the Ancient sculptures in Greece influence modern art?
Analyze the effects of famous artists on the world
What are the major differences in the Northern Renaissance and Italian Renaissance art forms?
How do different art forms portray sexism?
How did the slaves’ music shape modern music in America?
How has the media changed how it portrays the minorities?
Discuss the evolution of rap music in history

This category also has some of the best American history argumentative essay topics. You can also find some triumph and tragedy in history topics in this category.

US History Regents Thematic Essay Topics

Maybe you’re interested in the US history regents essay topics. In that case, consider the following ideas.

Using two historical circumstances, explain how the government limits or expands human rights
Explain the negative and positive impacts of the U.S government actions on its people using two examples
Describe how the US acquired two of its territories, as well as, the negative and positive effects of the actions.
Using two cases, describe the historical impacts and circumstances of the decisions of the Supreme Court.
Discuss the foreign crises that resulted from the Mexican-American War
Discuss the historical circumstances, effects, and presidential actions of the U.S regarding foreign crises.
How does the media affect intellectual and cultural life in the U.S
Describe how the media has historically affected U.S society
Discuss the presidential battles and proposals with Congress
Describe two major changes that took place in the U.S after World War II
How did World War II affect the U.S?
Discuss the major impact and ideas of the Gettysburg address
Discuss the historical circumstances and presidential actions that led to the dropping of atomic bombs
How did women, Chinese immigrants, and Native Americans affect west development?
Analyze historical circumstances of two major foreign policy of the U.S in the Western Hemisphere
Were the U.S foreign policies in the Western Hemisphere a success or a failure?
Describe the reform movements that were rampant between 1820 and 1933
Discuss the causes and effects of the Korean War
Discuss the causes and impacts of the Spanish-American War
Choose two major laws and discuss their effect on American society

In addition to these topics, learners also have topics to write about for black history month. These are topics that discuss the plight of black people in the world. Don’t hesitate to ask our research paper writers for more topics and writing help.

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200 History Research Paper Topics That Will Inspire and Engage

History is a fascinating subject that allows us to delve into the events, people, and civilizations that have shaped the world we live in today. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a student seeking assistance with a research paper topic, we’re here to provide the necessary paper help and support. This interesting article covers various topics from way back to now, like ancient societies, modern conflicts, political revolutions, and cultural movements.

A professional History Research Paper Writing Service can help, but these history term paper topics may get you started on your own. Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Why is a History Research Paper Important?

Before we get to reading interesting topics, let’s try to understand the significance of historical research investigations. A history research paper is important for several reasons, including:

Understanding the Past

Studying and writing a history research paper allows us to look back and gain insight into the past. We can use this knowledge to avoid repeating mistakes, be inspired by successes, and develop a more rounded point of view on the world we inhabit.

Preserving Knowledge

Doing history research can help keep knowledge alive and ensure that important historical data isn’t forgotten. It’s all about doing research, analyzing it, and documenting it properly. This info is key for future generations, so they can learn from the past and make wise choices.

Enhancing Research and Analytical Skills:

Engaging in this type of research not only aids in enhancing critical thinking skills but also cultivates analytical thinking and improves your ability to articulate ideas effectively, particularly within finance research topics . These are important skills and can be used in many academic and career settings.

Unique and High Scoring Topics for Your History Research Paper

Now that you understand the significance of history research, let’s guide you in selecting a topic or two to initiate the process of writing your research paper, including how to write an 8-page paper effectively. Here you go with the first list of interesting history research paper topics for your assignments:

Medieval History Research Paper Topics

Explore the amazing world of medieval history by delving into one of these fascinating topics that make the Middle Ages come alive.

Rise of the Catholic Church in Europe
Feudal Rulers and Kings in Medieval Europe
Medieval hagiography: Words and concepts
The concepts of time and memory in the ‘MIDDLE AGES.’
Forms of Representation in the Middle Ages
Peace and War in the Middle Ages
Powers and Institutions in Medieval Europe
Empires, King Domes, and Principalities in Medieval Europe
Role of The Clergy and Religion in the Middle Ages
Chivalry and Nobility in the Medieval Ages
Rise and Fall of the Mongolian Empire
Seljuks, Ottomans, and Other Turk Bodies of Power: A Comparative Study
Military Orders and Crusades in The Middle Ages
Miracles, Saints, and Religious Symbols in Medieval History
Teachings, Knowledge, and Universities in Medieval Europe
Middle Ages and Medievalism
Classical Islamic Societies
Pastures and herds in the domains of the military orders in the Middle Ages
Methods and Perspectives of Research in Medieval History
Methods for the Study of Settlement and rural communities in the Late Middle Ages
Sensory Approaches to the medieval world
Ways of Approaching the Medieval Past
Medieval history: 3rd to 15th centuries
Sensory landscapes. Sounds and Silences of the Middle Ages
Eastern Fund of the Royal Academy of History
Mythology and State Power in Early Medieval Ireland
The psychological and social transformation of Christianity through the middle to the late medieval era
The phenomenon of medieval philosophy and the utopian thinking
Early Interactions between Science and Religion in Europe
Pre-Columbian American Civilizations in Light of Religion and Culture

Good history research topics allows students to dig for more knowledge and educate themselves as well as their readers.

History Topics for Research Paper (Politics)

Dive into the fascinating world of political History and explore the complexities of power, politics, and government with these good research topics. We know our topics for history research paper will make your day!

Causes and Peculiarities of the American Civil War
The horror of the First World War
Devastating consequences of the second world war
Reasons, Impacts, and Consequences of The Holocaust
Protest Movements and Social Networks
Role of Social Networks in Arab Spring
Repression of Syrians by The Government
Political Powers at Play in Ukraine
Immigrant Crisis of Mexicans and other nations
Political Conflict in Afghan and the War on Terror
Cold War of the Middle East
Role of Iran and Saudi Arabia in the Yemeni Civil War
Politics of Canada: Trudeau as a Reformist
The Cold War was an opportunity
Western European imperial powers
The Importance of International Court of Justice
Political and Ideological Aspects of Mentalities in International Relations
Politics of the USA in the 20th Century
Political Culture and Sociability in the United States during the 20th Century
Trump Mentality and the Effects on Public
The federal system: Dynamics of provincial power, political leaders, and Bureaucracies
Studies on Political History
The Places of Politics in the Recent History of America
A shift of political paradigm in a post-9/11 World
Social Movements and Political Systems in Modern America
The Government and the Opposition: Establishment and political practices
Post-War-on terror America

Islamic History Research Paper Topics

Use these research topics to unveil the splendors of the Islamic world:

Events in the time of the Prophet of Islam
Rashidun Caliphate: Rise and Fall
First Islamic Civil War
The Second Islamic Civil War: Motives and Consequences
Umayyad Caliphate: Expansions and Progress
Scientific Progress in Fatimid Caliphate
Rise of Philosophy, Science, and Liberal Arts in the Abbasid Caliphate
Muslim Historiography
Islam in MENA (the Middle East and North Africa)
A Study of Islam in Latin America
Humanities in Islamic Age
Rise of Mathematical Studies in the Islamic Golden Age
Detailed Comparison between Greek and Islamic Renaissance
Timurid Renaissance
Spain and the Arab-Islamic world: History of a diversity of relations
Islam: religious foundations and cultural diversity
The geographical diversity of Islam
Islamism, political power, and Contestation in the Arab World
Reform in Islam: religious legitimacy and political struggle
Cold War Between Turk and Arab Global View
Political Islam in Times of Turmoil
Global Islam: the economic, political, and social dimension
Approach to the economic development plans of the Arab Countries
Development of the Islamic Economy and Banking: historical evolution and current situation
Critical Reading on Islamic Leadership and Movements in Western Europe
Immigration, integration, and Muslim Communities
Islam and Muslims in Spain
Islam in the Iberian Peninsula
Spain and its Relationship with the Arab-Islamic World

History Of War Research Paper Topics

Let’s take a deep dive into the past and check out some modern history topics to research on.

Literature and history books to understand World War I
Polemology: the science of Wars
Historiographical studies of war: a long discussion
The History of War and Polemology: an interpretive possibility
The Cold War Vs. Civil War
War and Peace: Comparison of Religious Values in Islam and Christianity
A New History of the Cold War
Diplomacy and War
War in Vietnam
Consequences of the Vietnam War
War on Terror: Causes and Effects
War in Afghanistan: Results and Futility
Violence as A Subject Of Study in the First World War
Maritime Geopolitics
Multinational Military Operations
NATO Military Operations
National Security
Foreign Policy for Global Threats

Unique History Research Paper Topics

These topics will enable you to uncover the untold stories and analyze the cultural shifts shaping our present and future trajectory.

Absolutism in The Modern Age
Philosophy of Modern Age
How Philosophy formed The Modern Age
How religion formed the modern age
Humanism and Society of The Renaissance
Imperial China
Italian Imperialism
European Colonialism and Persecution in the Middle East
Persecution of Sub-Continent in The Colonial Era
The domestic sphere in the Old European Regimes
The Heyday of Europe: Modern History
Financial System in The 18th Century
Holocaust and World War II
Rise and Fall of Communism
The Thirty Years’ War
History of The Ottoman Empire
Supernatural History of Wallachia: Myth and The Truth
Louis XIV and Europe
The English Revolutions of the 17th Century and the Transformation of the British Isles
Military History of Modern Europe
India in the modern age
Political and social ideas in the Modern Age
Catholic Reformation and Renewal
Markets and merchants in the 16th and 17th centuries
Scientific expeditions in the 17th and 18th centuries

Ancient History Research Paper Topics

Let’s unearth the secrets of antiquity with this list of ancient world history term paper topics for your research.

Evolution of empires, kingdoms, and cities
Chronological tables to locate and summarize the main historical milestones.
Ancient civilizations of East Asia
Pre- Columbian America
The High Middle Ages
History of Rome
Chronicles of Ancient Greece
Impacts of Greek Civilization on the Modern Age
Ancient Egypt
Crisis and Instability in the Ancient World
Empires and the Barbarian: immigrants, fugitives, and Outcasts in the Ancient World
Imaginary Worlds in the Geography of Antiquity
Resistance, submission, and Internalization of dependency In the Ancient World
Christianity and Power in Antiquity
Studies of the ancient economy in the Iberian Peninsula
Societies and Borders in the ancient world
The rural environment in Roman Lusitania
Israel-Palestine: Ancient and Contemporary History
Judaism; early Christianity; Christianity and paganism in the late imperial period and the high Middle Ages
reek mythology from the perspective of Greek culture and society
Greek Mythology: Centered on the figure of the hero
History of Archaic Rome

coming up with amazing research paper topics history related is a cumbersome job. Our professional team has helped you in navigating this tough terrain as well.

Roman History Research Topics

Pick one of these good history research paper topics to explore the rise and fall of one of the greatest empires in History. It’s not always about modern history topics to research on. You can go with these as well:

The Third Century
Roman Empire: The Third Century
Principalities in The Roman Empire
Low Romans and Christianity
The Time of The External Expansion of Rome
Roman War with Hannibal Barca in The Carthage
Origin and Constitutional Development of The Roman Empire
Survival and Classic Tradition of the Roman Empire
Latin Philosophy
Greek Philology and Indo-European Studies
Roman Archeology and Heritage
Ancient History Regarding the Roman Empire
The initial stage of the History of Rome: Myths vs. Facts
Legend of Romulus and Remus
The Monarchy (753 BC – 509 BC)
The Republic (509 BC – 27 BC)
The Roman Empire: Rise and Fall
Rome as the capital of Italy
The Papacy in Rome
The Black Legend of Nero
Lixus, The Roman City Producing Garum in Northern Morocco
The Career of a Roman Nobleman
Ancient Roman Breweries
The Privileges of Being A Roman Citizen
Magic and Witchcraft in The Ancient Rome
Seven Kings of Ancient Rome

Historical Research Paper Topics

If Greek History is something that sparks your interest, go for picking up a topic from this list.

The delimitation and construction of citizenship in the polis
Ideology, territory, and religious identity in the Greek Civilization
Interstate conflicts in the archaic and classical Greek world
Archaic Greece: Relationships and Alliances
The Peloponnesian War
Greek cities of Sicily in classical times
Minassian cities in the Hellenistic period
Integration/exclusion of Women in the Greek Civilization
Archaic Athens, studying the processes of formation of the Athenian polis
Gender Studies Concerning the Civic and religious identity of Women in Ancient Greece
5th and 4th centuries BC and the construction of Greek identity
Athenian imperialist ideology
The Peloponnese and Sicily in archaic and classical times
European Greece, the south of the Balkan peninsula
Asian Greece in Asia Minor (in the Anatolian peninsula)
Why was maritime trade more important than land trade in Greece?
Greek colonization
Sparta, Athens, and Democracy
How is the political system of Athens different from that of Sparta?
Detailed Study of Hellenism
Historical stages of the Greek territory

Modern History Topics To Research

Dig up the untold stories, turn up the volume on female voices, and get a better idea of women’s huge effect on forming cultures and inspiring people for years. Here you go:

From the History of Women to the History of Gender
Stages of the Historiography of Women
Gender and its Relationship with the History of Women
Gender and Power
Rise of modern feminism
Development of Gender Studies as a field of study
Gender and Cultural History
Feminist Anthropology and the ”Gender”
Gender: some theoretical conceptual precisions
New Dimensions in the History of Women
Rethinking History: Women and Gender in Contemporary History
History and Women: History as a Place for the Feminine
Studying women as historical subjects
The Emergence of Gender History
Development of the History of Women in the World
Women as scientific researchers
The inclusion of the female sex in biomedical research
1953 Convention on the Political Rights of Women
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

Environmental History Research Topics

Still, if you are wandering to land on a good topic or history research question, check out this list.

Environmental History of America
The Historical Construction of the Environment
Urban environmental History
Socio-Ecological Transitions in America from the 18th to 19th Century
Consolidation of environmental perspectives in the human sciences
The History of Origin of the Environment
Objectives of Environmental History
Human Relations with the Environment
Perspectives, Methodology, and Sources of Environmental History
Importance of Environmental History
Environmental History: Background
Historical research on the environment and the environmental movement
Forest ordinances, forest crimes, and balance.
A critical point: The Relationship with the natural sciences
The Genesis of Environmental History
Promotion of food self-sufficiency by taking up the agroecological principles

Cultural History Research Topics

What’s better than blending culture with History in your research paper? Check out this list:

Notes on the History of Culture
Application in the fundamentalist community
Interpretive Keys of the Cultural History of the Modern Age
Diachronic structure of historical processes in the specific case of History
Culture of the Modern Age
Manage the concepts and methods of historiographical analysis related to Cultural History
Consistently develop oral and written works in which the keys of a
The subject of cultural History in the modern period
Connecting the individual and collective cultural processes
The historical role of ethnic minorities and Women in the Society of the Modern Age
Themes and Problems of Cultural History
Concepts and Methods of historiographical analysis related to Cultural History
Hunger, disease, violence, and death. Everyday fragility
Identity and Otherness: attitudes and Behaviors in the Face of Difference
Evolution and dynamics of cultures
The Triumph of written culture
Leisure and entertainment

European Renaissance Research Topics

Check out loads of history research topics that’ll take you on an exciting trip through the European Renaissance.

Imitation of classical Greece-Roman art in all disciplines
Separation of art and craft
The historical context of the Renaissance
From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance
The origin of the Renaissance
Humanism and Anthropocentrism during Renaissance
The reinvention of drama during the Renaissance
Valuation of classical antiquity
Secularization of knowledge and culture
Stages of Renaissance art
Stages of Renaissance Art in Spain
Stages of Renaissance Art in Italy
Artists and works of the Renaissance

Of course, to craft an awesome history research paper, you must pick a good research topic. We hope our list of 200 research paper topics has helped you pick a perfect one to write on.

Still, if you need help choosing a topic or writing a history research paper, order now, and our expert writers will be at your service.

What could be good topics for history research?

Some good topics for history research include:

The Industrial Revolution and its societal impact.
Causes and consequences of World War I.
The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire.
Women's role in the suffrage movement.
Effects of Colonization on indigenous populations.
Cultural and artistic achievements of the Renaissance.

How to Write a History Research Paper?

To write a research paper for a history, follow these steps:

Select an interesting research question or topic within History.
Conduct extensive research using reputable sources
Organize your findings
Create an outline to structure your paper.
Write an engaging introduction
Develop a clear and logical argument supported by evidence
Use proper citations to credit your sources and avoid plagiarism.
Analyze and interpret the historical evidence
Conclude your paper by summarizing your main points
Revise and edit your paper for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
Format your paper according to the required citation style.
Proofread your paper before submission to ensure it is error-free.

How do I choose a suitable history research paper topic?

Can i write a research paper on a lesser-known historical event or figure, how important is it to use primary sources in history research papers.

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SHSU Library
Research Guides

The History Research Process

Choosing a Topic & Framing a Research Question
Brainstorming Search Terms
Feasibility: Secondary Sources
Feasibility: Primary Source Overview
Example Assessment of Primary Sourcebase #1
Example Assessment of Primary Sourcebase #2
Where and How to Find Primary Sources
Tutorial on Reading Primary Sources
Searching: How-To Videos
Writing History Book Reviews
Find the Historiography of a Topic This link opens in a new window
Evaluating Sources (new window) This link opens in a new window
Reference Sources
Surveying Scholarship
Discussing Scholarship in Your Narrative
Referencing Scholarship in Footnotes
Chicago Citation Style (new window)

Research Topics Versus Research Questions

You will often begin by selecting a research topic, then defining a research question within this topic to investigate. What's the difference?

A simple topic is too broad. For example:

African Americans and the Civil War may be a broad topic that interests you, but this is not yet a question you can attempt to answer.
How did African American participation in the Union and Confederate armies change during the course of the war? is one example of a research question you might create from the previous topic.
How were African Americans participating in the Civil War in eastern Kentucky in June of 1864? is one example of a question which relates to the previous topic, but which is too narrow in scope to be reasonable.

As you explore scholarly secondary sources and historical primary sources, you may need to periodically re-evaluate your research question to ensure that it is neither too broad nor too narrow.

Robert C. Williams suggests that a research question might:

"ask how or why an event happened (causation, explanation)"
"ask what the consequences were of a particular event"
"discuss the intellectual origins of a particular idea"
"ask what the cultural context of an event was";
"ask whether or not an individual was responsible for a certain act"
"ask about the social history of a political event"
"quantify broad trends in a society at a particular time" (52)

Source: Williams, Robert C. The Historian's Toolbox: A Student's Guide to the Theory and Craft of History . Second ed. Armonk, NY: M. E. Sharpe, 2007.

Additional Resources for Selecting Topics

The following books can suggest topic ideas.

Consulting a special encyclopedia in your area of history may also inspire you with ideas for topics and research questions.

Another approach is to start with the primary sources that are available and work backwards to a research question. Browse through sources from the "Primary Sources" tab (or similar). What questions do the documents raise for you? (Maybe regarding the people who created them, the culture in which they were created, etc.) Your research might seek to answer one of your questions.

Tips for Choosing Research Topics

Start with something that interests you. Extreme boredom will make it harder to stay motivated.
Jenny Presnell recommends choosing a topic "that exemplifies a larger phenomenon. For instance, you may be following the current debates on the changing family in twenty-first century America and want to explore what families were like in a different place and time" (8).

This list of tips owes credit to: Presnell, Jenny L. The Information-Literate Historian: A Guide to Research for History Students . New York: Oxford University Press, 2007.

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Last Updated: Jun 10, 2024 8:39 AM
URL: https://shsulibraryguides.org/historyresearch

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If you are just starting out in HPS, this will be the first time for many years – perhaps ever – that you have done substantial library or museum based research. The number of general studies may seem overwhelming, yet digging out specific material relevant to your topic may seem like finding needles in a haystack. Before turning to the specific entries that make up this guide, there are a few general points that apply more widely.

Planning your research

Because good research and good writing go hand in hand, probably the single most important key to successful research is having a good topic. For that, all you need at the beginning are two things: (a) a problem that you are genuinely interested in and (b) a specific issue, controversy, technique, instrument, person, etc. that is likely to offer a fruitful way forward for exploring your problem. In the early stages, it's often a good idea to be general about (a) and very specific about (b). So you might be interested in why people decide to become doctors, and decide to look at the early career of a single practitioner from the early nineteenth century, when the evidence for this kind of question happens to be unusually good. You can get lots of advice from people in the Department about places to look for topics, especially if you combine this with reading in areas of potential interest. Remember that you're more likely to get good advice if you're able to mesh your interests with something that a potential supervisor knows about. HPS is such a broad field that it's impossible for any department to cover all aspects of it with an equal degree of expertise. It can be reassuring to know that your topic will evolve as your research develops, although it is vital that you establish some basic parameters relatively quickly. Otherwise you will end up doing the research for two, three or even four research papers or dissertations, when all you need is the material for one.

Before beginning detailed work, it's obviously a good idea to read some of the secondary literature surrounding your subject. The more general books are listed on the reading lists for the Part II lecture courses, and some of the specialist literature is listed in these research guides. This doesn't need to involve an exhaustive search, at least not at this stage, but you do need to master the fundamentals of what's been done if you're going to be in a position to judge the relevance of anything you find. If there are lectures being offered in your topic, make sure to attend them; and if they are offered later in the year, try to see if you can obtain a preliminary bibliography from the lecturer.

After that, it's usually a good idea to immerse yourself in your main primary sources as soon as possible. If you are studying a museum object, this is the time to look at it closely; if you're writing about a debate, get together the main papers relevant to it and give them a close read; if you're writing about a specific experiment, look at the published papers, the laboratory notebook, and the relevant letters. Don't spend hours in the early stages of research ferreting out hard-to-find details, unless you're absolutely positive that they are of central importance to the viability of your topic. Start to get a feel for the material you have, and the questions that might be explored further. Make an outline of the main topics that you hope to cover, organized along what you see as the most interesting themes (and remember, 'background' is not usually an interesting theme on its own).

At this stage, research can go in many different directions. At some point, you'll want to read more about the techniques other historians have used for exploring similar questions. Most fields have an established repertoire of ways of approaching problems, and you need to know what these are, especially if you decide to reject them. One of the advantages of an interdisciplinary field like HPS is that you are exposed to different and often conflicting ways of tackling similar questions. Remember that this is true within history itself, and you need to be aware of alternatives. This may well involve looking further afield, at classic books or articles that are not specifically on 'your' subject. For example, it may be that you could find some helpful ideas for a study of modern scientific portraiture in a book on the eighteenth century. The best books dealing with educational maps may not be on the astronomical ones you are studying, but on ones used for teaching classical geography. See where the inspiration for works you admire comes from, and have a look at the sources they have used. This will help you develop the kind of focussed questions that make for a successful piece of work.

As you develop an outline and begin to think through your topic in more detail, you'll be in good position to plan possible lines of research. Don't try to find out everything about your topic: pick those aspects that are likely to prove most fruitful for the direction your essay seems to be heading. For example, it may be worth spending a long time searching for biographical details about a person if their career and life are central to your analysis; but in many other cases, such issues may not be very important. If your interest is in the reception of a work, it is likely to be more fruitful to learn a lot about a few commentaries or reviews (where they appeared, who wrote them, and so forth) than to gather in randomly all the comments you can find.

Follow up hints in other people's footnotes. Works that are otherwise dull or outdated in approach are sometimes based on very solid research. One secondary reference to a crucial letter or newspaper article can save you hours of mindless trawling, and lead you straight to the information you need. Moreover, good historians often signal questions or sources that they think would be worth investigating further.

Remember that the best history almost always depends on developing new approaches and interpretations, not on knowing about a secret archive no one has used before. If you give your work time to develop, and combine research with writing, you will discover new sources, and (better still) a fresh importance for material that has supposedly been known for a long time. As you become familiar with your topic, you are likely to find that evidence you dug out at the beginning of your project is much more significant than you thought it was. In historical research, the most important evidence often isn't sitting there on the surface – it's something you need to dig out through close reading and an understanding of the situation in which the document you are studying was written, or in which the object was produced. This is especially true of instruments, paintings and other non-textual sources.

Some standard reference works

Your research should become more focussed as time goes on. Don't just gather randomly: you should always have at least some idea of why you are looking for something, and what you might hope to find. Make guesses, follow up hunches, see if an idea you have has the possibility to work out. At the beginning, it can be valuable to learn the full range of what is available, but eventually you should be following up specific issues, a bit like a detective tracing the clues to a mystery. It is at this stage of research, which is often best done in conjunction with writing up sections of your project, that knowing where to find answers to specific questions is most useful. There is nothing more disheartening than spending a week to find a crucial fact, only to discover that it's been sitting on the shelf next to you all term. The Whipple has a wide variety of guides, biographical dictionaries and bibliographies, so spend a few minutes early on looking at the reference shelves.

Every major country has a national biographical dictionary (the new version of the British one is the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography , available 2004 online). For better-known scientists, a good place to start is Charles C. Gillispie (ed.) Dictionary of Scientific Biography (1970–1980). There are more specialized dictionaries for every scientific field, from entomology to astronomy. The University Library has a huge selection of biographical sources; ask your supervisor about the best ones for your purpose.

Preliminary searching for book titles and other bibliographical information is now often best done online, and every historian should know how to use the British Library's online search facility; COPAC (the UK national library database); and WorldCat (an international database). All of these are accessible through the HPS Whipple Library website (under 'other catalogues'). At the time of writing, the University Library is remains one of the few libraries of its size to have many of its records not available online, so remember that you have to check the green guard-book catalogues (and the supplementary catalogues) for most items published before 1977. It is hoped that this situation will be rectified soon. There are also numerous bibliographies for individual sciences and subjects, together with catalogues of relevant manuscripts. Most of these are listed elsewhere in this guide.

As questions arise, you will want to be able to access books and articles by other historians that touch upon your subject. There are many sources for this listed elsewhere in this guide, but you should definitely know about the Isis Current Bibliography and The Wellcome Bibliography for the History of Medicine . Both are available online, the former through the RLG History of Science, Technology and Medicine database, the latter through the website of the Wellcome Library.

Libraries and museums

Finally, a word in praise of libraries and museums. As the comments above make clear, the internet is invaluable for searching for specific pieces of information. If you need a bibliographical reference or a general reading list from a course at another university, it is an excellent place to begin. If you are looking for the source of an unidentified quotation, typing it into Google (or an appropriate database held by the University Library) will often turn up the source in seconds. Many academic journals are now online, as are the texts of many books, though not always in a paginated or citable form.

For almost all historical topics, however, libraries filled with printed books and journals will remain the principal tools for research, just as museums will continue to be essential to any work dealing with the material culture of past science. The reason for this is simple: what is on the internet is the result of decisions by people in the past decade, while libraries and museums are the product of a continuous history of collecting over several thousand years. Cambridge has some of the best collections for the history of science anywhere. Despite what is often said, this is not because of the famous manuscripts or showpiece books (these are mostly available in other ways), but because of the depth and range of its collections across the whole field. The Whipple Library is small and friendly, and has an unparalleled selection of secondary works selected over many years – don't just go for specific titles you've found in the catalogue, try browsing around, and ask the librarians for help if you can't see what you are looking for. Explore the Whipple Museum and talk to the curator and the staff. There are rich troves of material in these departmental collections, on topics ranging from phrenology and microscopy to the early development of pocket calculators. Become familiar with what the University Library has to offer: it is large and sometimes idiosyncratic, but worth getting to know well if you are at all serious about research. It is a fantastic instrument for studying the human past – the historian's equivalent of CERN or the Hubble Telescope. And all you need to get in is a student ID.

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Finding Joy as a Manager — Even on Bad Days

Daisy Auger-Domínguez

Four strategies to instill hope, curiosity, and meaning back into your workday.

When work and life are overwhelming, it can be difficult to reclaim a sense of joy at work. Research has shown the benefits of incorporating joy, hope, and optimism into the workplace to combat burnout and improve well-being. The author recommends four strategies to reconnect with joy at work on your toughest days: 1) Find your why: Reconnect with your passion and purpose by aligning your work with what brings you joy, what you are good at, and what the world needs. 2) Embrace a beginner’s mindset: Approach challenges with curiosity and openness, fostering a sense of wonder. 3) Sprinkle gratitude and joy like confetti: Actively recognize and celebrate contributions to build a supportive and cohesive team culture. 4) Fuel your joy: Maintain positive reminders and practice self-compassion to sustain energy and enthusiasm in your role.

Several months into the pandemic, I found myself feeling persistently down as the new leader of a global team. Each day, I faced a wave of challenges for colleagues I’d never met and planned strategies for offices I had never seen. The rising tide of crushing workloads and interpersonal tensions threatened to pull us under. At the same time, the lack of face-to-face interactions left me yearning for the teamwork that could sustain us through difficult times. With uncertainty and fear everywhere, finding inspiration felt nearly impossible.

DA Daisy Auger-Domínguez is a Chief People Officer, workplace strategist, speaker, and author on future readying the workforce and building high-performing teams that deliver a competitive advantage without burning out. Daisy serves on the Board of Trustees of Bucknell University, her alma mater, was named one of Hispanic Executive’s Top 10 Leaders, and lives in Brooklyn, NY.

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Research Paper Topics for 2024: Explore Ideas Across Various Fields

When you start writing a research paper, it’s like diving into a big pool of exploration and analysis. A good research paper goes beyond just gathering facts. It’s more about exploring a topic, asking the right questions, and coming up with thoughtful answers. Whether you're looking at historical events, scientific discoveries, or cultural trends, the trick is to find interesting research topics that catch your interest and keep you motivated throughout the process.

This article is here to help with that sometimes tricky job of picking a topic. We’ll cover a variety of interesting research topics from different areas, making it easier for you to find one that not only fits your assignment but also grabs your attention.

But let’s be honest, picking the right topic isn’t always easy. If you’re still unsure after reading this article, EssayService is a great place to turn for help, whether you need assistance choosing a topic or writing the entire paper.

How to Pick a Topic for a Research Paper

Choosing the right topic can make or break your research paper. Here's how to make it easier:

Start with your interests: Pick a few areas or subjects that genuinely interest you. Narrow it down to the one that excites you the most. If you’re interested, it’ll show in your writing.
Check for resources: Before committing, do a quick search to ensure there are enough references available. You’ll want a topic that’s well-discussed so you have plenty of material to work with.
Stick to guidelines: Make sure your topic fits within any guidelines your teacher has set. Whether it's avoiding certain subjects or meeting specific requirements, this step is crucial for getting your paper off to a good start.

If you’re looking for easy research paper topics, keep these tips in mind to ensure you choose one that’s both manageable and engaging.

What Are Good Research Topics?

Choosing a successful research topic isn’t just about what sounds interesting — it’s about finding a topic that will help you produce a strong, insightful paper. Good research topic ideas should tick a few key boxes to ensure they’re both impactful and manageable.

Feature	Description
🔍 Specific and Focused	Narrow down broad areas like “climate change” to something more specific, like “the impact of urban development on local microclimates.” This gives your research a clear direction.
✨ Unique Angle	Instead of rehashing well-covered topics like “social media and mental health,” explore a niche, such as “the effects of social media detox on productivity in college students.”
🌍 Significant Impact	Choose topics that matter, like “renewable energy adoption in developing countries,” which could contribute to important discussions in your field or society.
📚 Accessible Sources	Make sure there’s enough material available by checking databases for studies on topics like “the history of vaccine development” to ensure you have the resources you need.
🔥 Current and Relevant	Focus on emerging issues, such as “the role of AI in cybersecurity,” which are timely and likely to interest both readers and reviewers.

Best Research Paper Topics for 2024

In 2024, new challenges and innovations are shaping the world around us, making it an exciting time to dive into research. Here are 15 detailed and highly relevant topics that will keep your paper ahead of the curve:

The impact of remote work on urban development in major U.S. cities.
Ethical implications of AI-driven decision-making in healthcare.
The role of social media algorithms in shaping public opinion during elections.
Effects of climate change on global food security and crop yields.
The influence of blockchain technology on supply chain transparency.
Mental health outcomes related to long-term social media use among teenagers.
Renewable energy adoption in emerging economies and its impact on local communities.
The rise of electric vehicles and its effect on traditional automotive industries.
Privacy concerns surrounding the use of biometric data in consumer devices.
The evolution of cybersecurity threats in the age of quantum computing.
Gender disparities in STEM education and their long-term effects on the workforce.
The economic impact of climate migration on coastal regions.
Implications of CRISPR technology in human genetic modification.
The effectiveness of universal basic income trials in reducing poverty.
The role of telemedicine in improving access to healthcare in rural areas.

College Research Paper Topics

These topics explore some of the most relevant and intriguing issues facing college students today, offering plenty of angles to explore in your research:

How student loan debt shapes career paths and financial stability after graduation.
Comparing online learning to traditional classrooms: What works best for today’s college students?
Social media’s influence on mental health and academic success among college students.
Diversity and inclusion: How initiatives are changing campus life and student experiences.
University sustainability efforts: How climate change is driving new campus policies.
The rise of esports: Transforming college athletics and student engagement.
Campus housing: How living arrangements affect academic success and student retention.
Balancing part-time jobs with academics: The impact on college students’ grades and well-being.
Navigating controversial topics: The importance of academic freedom in college debates.
Digital vs. traditional libraries: How technology is reshaping student research habits.
Study abroad programs: Enhancing global awareness and boosting future career opportunities.
Evaluating campus mental health services: Are they meeting students’ needs?
Fraternities and sororities: Examining their influence on college culture and student life.
Free college tuition: Exploring the economic and social outcomes in different countries.
Standardized testing: How it’s affecting college admissions and the diversity of student bodies.

Research Paper Topics By Subject

Choosing a good research topic that aligns with your academic focus can make your work more relevant and engaging. Below, you’ll find topics organized by subject to help you get started.

Research Paper Topics on Health

Health is a dynamic field with ongoing developments and challenges, making it a rich area for research. These topics cover a range of health-related issues, from public health policies to advancements in medical technology:

How COVID-19 has changed the approach to mental health care.
Adoption rates of telemedicine among different age groups.
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria: Exploring new treatment options.
Barriers to healthcare access in low-income neighborhoods.
Ethical dilemmas in using genetic testing for personalized treatments.
Success rates of mental health programs in high schools.
Comparing dietary patterns in managing type 2 diabetes across cultures.
Teen vaping trends and their connection to lung health issues.
Strategies for supporting healthcare needs in rapidly aging populations.
Tracking climate-related health issues in coastal communities.
Innovations in vaccine development for emerging diseases.
Social isolation during pandemics and its link to anxiety disorders.
Recent changes in U.S. healthcare laws and their influence on patient choices.
Exploring how traditional beliefs shape approaches to medical treatment.
Evaluating progress in global vaccination campaigns against childhood diseases.

Research Paper Topics on Medicine

Medicine is a vast field with plenty of areas to explore. Here are some specific topics that focus on medical advancements, practices, and challenges:

New techniques in minimally invasive surgery for heart conditions.
Developments in gene therapy for treating inherited diseases.
Challenges in diagnosing and treating rare diseases.
The role of AI in improving diagnostic accuracy in radiology.
Progress in personalized cancer treatments based on genetic profiling.
The rise of antibiotic alternatives in treating infections.
Stem cell research advancements for spinal cord injuries.
Managing chronic pain: Exploring non-opioid treatment options.
Trends in telemedicine for rural healthcare delivery.
Breakthroughs in vaccine technology for emerging viruses.
Long-term outcomes of organ transplants in pediatric patients.
Advances in robotic surgery and their impact on patient recovery.
New approaches to treating drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Innovations in prenatal care and fetal surgery techniques.
The future of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

Research Paper Topics on Media

Explore the ever-changing world of media with these fresh and relevant topics. Each one dives into the trends and challenges shaping how we consume and create content today.

Analyze the impact of TikTok on modern marketing strategies.
Investigate the role of influencers in shaping public opinion during elections.
Explore the effects of streaming services on traditional cable TV viewership.
Examine how social media platforms handle misinformation and its consequences.
Study the rise of podcasts and their influence on news consumption.
Compare the portrayal of mental health in TV shows across different cultures.
Track the evolution of digital journalism and its impact on print media.
Look into the ethics of deepfake technology in video production.
Research the effects of binge-watching on viewer behavior and mental health.
Explore the relationship between video game streaming and the gaming industry.
Analyze the shift from traditional news outlets to social media for breaking news.
Investigate how algorithms curate personalized content and influence user behavior.
Study the changing landscape of advertising in the age of ad-blockers.
Examine the role of memes in political discourse and cultural commentary.
Explore the use of virtual reality in media and entertainment.

Research Paper Topics on Politics

Politics is a field that’s constantly evolving, with new issues and debates emerging all the time. Whether you're interested in global dynamics, domestic policies, or the role of technology in politics, there’s no shortage of interesting topics to explore:

How social media is influencing voter behavior in recent elections.
The rise and impact of grassroots movements on political change.
Fake news and its role in shaping public perception of political events.
The effects of immigration policies on relationships between countries.
Populism’s growth in global politics and what it means for the future.
How economic inequality contributes to political instability.
The power of political lobbying in creating and shaping laws.
Challenges faced by democracies under authoritarian regimes.
Youth activism and its growing influence in modern politics.
How climate change policies are impacting national security.
The role of technology in improving election security and voter turnout.
Government approval ratings and their connection to pandemic responses.
Influence of international organizations on a country’s domestic policies.
Shifts in global trade agreements and their effects on international relations.
The impact of gerrymandering on election results and fairness.

Research Paper Ideas on Technology

Technology is rapidly transforming our world, offering endless opportunities for research. Here are some intriguing ideas to explore:

The ethics of artificial intelligence in decision-making processes.
How blockchain technology is revolutionizing financial transactions.
The role of 5G networks in shaping the future of communication.
Cybersecurity challenges in the era of smart homes and IoT devices.
The environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining.
Virtual reality’s influence on education and training programs.
How autonomous vehicles are changing urban planning and infrastructure.
The potential of quantum computing in solving complex global problems.
Social media algorithms and their impact on public discourse.
The digital divide: Access to technology in rural versus urban areas.
How wearable tech is transforming personal health management.
The implications of deepfake technology in media and politics.
The future of remote work and its long-term effects on productivity.
Advancements in drone technology for disaster management and rescue operations.
The role of big data in personalizing online shopping experiences.

Research Topic Ideas on Culture

Whether you’re interested in examining specific cultural practices or looking at how modern trends reshape traditional customs, these research topics will provide you with a focused and detailed starting point:

Adoption of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies in contemporary urban settings.
Practices of food preservation among Inuit communities in the Arctic.
The revival of Celtic languages in Wales and Ireland through education programs.
Depiction of queer relationships in Netflix original series from 2015 to 2024.
Evolution of traditional African hairstyles in Black communities across the U.S.
Transformation of street art in Berlin post-German reunification.
Cultural significance of Día de los Muertos celebrations in Mexican-American neighborhoods.
Popularity of Korean skincare routines among Western beauty bloggers.
Modern interpretations of Norse mythology in Scandinavian literature.
Changes in wedding rituals among Indian diaspora in the UK.
Resurgence of indigenous Australian painting techniques in contemporary art.
Representation of disability in children’s books published in the last decade.
Use of traditional Māori patterns in New Zealand’s fashion industry.
Changes in burial customs in urbanized areas of Southeast Asia.
Incorporation of First Nations symbols in Canadian public architecture.

Research Paper Topics on Math

If you're looking to explore the depth and applications of math, these research topics are both specific and engaging:

Applications of fractal geometry in modeling natural phenomena.
Mathematical approaches to solving complex optimization problems in logistics.
Development of new algorithms for large-scale data encryption.
Mathematical modeling of population dynamics in ecology.
The use of game theory in economic decision-making processes.
Exploring the mathematics behind machine learning algorithms.
Advancements in numerical methods for solving partial differential equations.
Topological data analysis and its applications in computational biology.
Mathematical analysis of voting systems and fairness.
The role of number theory in modern cryptography.
Predictive models for financial markets using stochastic calculus.
Mathematical foundations of quantum computing and quantum algorithms.
Applications of chaos theory in weather prediction.
Geometry of space-time in the context of general relativity.
Mathematical techniques for analyzing big data in social networks.

Research Paper Topics on Art

Art is full of fascinating details and stories waiting to be explored. If you’re into art research, here are some research topics that might catch your interest:

How Caravaggio used light and shadow in his religious paintings.
The way Cubism shaped Picasso’s "Les Demoiselles d’Avignon."
Gustav Klimt’s "The Kiss" and its ties to Viennese culture.
Hokusai’s woodblock techniques in "The Great Wave off Kanagawa."
Bauhaus principles that still influence graphic design today.
Emotions and color in Mark Rothko’s abstract paintings.
Leonora Carrington’s role in the Surrealist movement.
Gaudí’s architectural genius in designing La Sagrada Familia.
Industrial scenes captured in Charles Sheeler’s Precisionist art.
Jean-Michel Basquiat’s take on graffiti and cultural identity.
Frida Kahlo’s evolving self-portraits through her life.
Claude Monet’s unique use of light in his Impressionist works.
Diego Rivera’s murals as powerful political statements.
The simplicity and impact of Donald Judd’s minimalist sculptures.
How African art influenced Henri Matisse during his Fauvist period.

Research Topics on Sports

Sports offer a wide range of topics that are both intriguing and highly relevant. Here are some specific research ideas to consider if you're looking to explore the world of sports:

The biomechanics behind sprinting techniques in elite athletes.
The psychological effects of team sports on adolescent development.
Injury prevention strategies in professional football (soccer).
The impact of altitude training on endurance performance in marathon runners.
Gender equity in sports: The evolution of women’s participation in the Olympics.
The role of nutrition in recovery and performance for endurance athletes.
How advanced analytics are changing strategies in basketball.
The effects of early specialization in youth sports on long-term athletic development.
The influence of sports media coverage on public perceptions of athletes.
Technology in sports: The use of wearable devices to monitor athlete performance.
Doping scandals and their long-term impact on athletes' careers.
Mental health challenges faced by retired professional athletes.
The economics of hosting major sporting events like the World Cup or Olympics.
How climate change is affecting outdoor sports events and training schedules.
The evolution of sports science in enhancing athlete training programs.

In 2024, some of the most popular research topics include the impact of technology on sports, the psychological aspects of team dynamics, and the evolution of gender equity in athletics.

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Interesting American History Research Paper Topics

In this page, we present a comprehensive guide to finding and selecting interesting American history research paper topics . Whether you are a history student or an academic researcher, this resource aims to provide you with a wealth of options and insights to uncover the captivating stories and significant events that have shaped the American experience. With a focus on engaging and thought-provoking subject matter, our list of interesting American history research paper topics covers a wide range of categories and subtopics. By delving into these captivating areas, you can delve into the rich tapestry of American history and develop a research paper that offers fresh perspectives and compelling narratives.

100 Interesting American History Research Paper Topics

Exploring the fascinating realms of American history offers students and researchers a multitude of opportunities to delve into captivating topics. In this section, we present a comprehensive list of interesting American history research paper topics, carefully organized into 10 categories. From political milestones to social movements, cultural shifts, and economic transformations, these topics provide a broad spectrum of ideas for conducting in-depth research and analysis. Let’s dive into the rich tapestry of interesting American history research paper topics and discover the intriguing topics that await exploration.

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The impact of the Mayflower Compact on the development of self-governance in early America
The Salem Witch Trials: Causes, consequences, and the cultural context of witchcraft accusations
The role of religious freedom in the establishment of the thirteen colonies
Slavery in Colonial America: Origins, expansion, and resistance
The influence of the Great Awakening on the religious landscape of Colonial America
The founding of Jamestown: Challenges, triumphs, and the establishment of the first permanent English settlement
The interaction between Native American tribes and European colonizers in early America
The impact of the French and Indian War on the relationship between the American colonies and the British Empire
The evolution of the Puritan society in New England: Ideals, conflicts, and legacy
The Boston Tea Party: Causes, significance, and its role in igniting the American Revolution

Revolutionary Era and the Founding of the Nation

The ideological roots of the American Revolution: Enlightenment philosophy and its influence on the Founding Fathers
The role of women in the American Revolution: Activism, contributions, and challenges
The drafting and impact of the Declaration of Independence: Ideas, influences, and its enduring legacy
The Constitutional Convention: Debates, compromises, and the creation of the U.S. Constitution
Alexander Hamilton and the economic policies that shaped early America
The Federalist vs. Anti-Federalist debates: Perspectives on government and the formation of political parties
The impact of the American Revolution on slavery and the abolitionist movement
The Battle of Yorktown: Turning point of the Revolutionary War and its consequences
The emergence of political cartoons during the Revolutionary Era and their role in shaping public opinion
The Whiskey Rebellion: Causes, consequences, and its significance in early American history

Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny

The Lewis and Clark Expedition: Goals, challenges, and their impact on westward expansion
The Louisiana Purchase: Motivations, negotiations, and the consequences for American expansion
The Oregon Trail: Challenges, hardships, and the experiences of pioneers
The Mexican-American War: Causes, outcomes, and its impact on territorial expansion
The Gold Rush of 1849: Socioeconomic effects and its influence on westward migration
Native American displacement and resistance during westward expansion
The completion of the Transcontinental Railroad: Technological advancements, economic implications, and cultural transformations
The Homestead Act of 1862: Promises, challenges, and its effects on settlement in the West
The Battle of Little Bighorn: Perspectives, myths, and the clash of cultures
The closing of the American frontier: Consequences and the legacy of westward expansion

Civil War and Reconstruction

The causes and consequences of the Civil War: Political, economic, and social factors
The Emancipation Proclamation: Impact, limitations, and its significance for African Americans
The role of women during the Civil War: Nurses, spies, and activists
Abraham Lincoln: Leadership, speeches, and the legacy of his presidency
Reconstruction policies: Successes, failures, and their long-term effects on the nation
The impact of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments on the rights of African Americans
The Freedmen’s Bureau: Mission, challenges, and its efforts to assist newly emancipated slaves
The Ku Klux Klan: Origins, activities, and its influence on racial tensions during Reconstruction
The assassination of Abraham Lincoln: Conspiracies, aftermath, and its impact on national healing
The Compromise of 1877: Resolving the disputed presidential election and its implications for Reconstruction

Progressive Era and the Gilded Age

The rise of industrialization in America: Technological advancements, urbanization, and social transformations
The Progressive Movement: Goals, reforms, and its impact on American society and politics
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire: Tragedy, labor activism, and the fight for workplace safety regulations
The Populist Party: Origins, demands, and its influence on political discourse
The role of women in the suffrage movement: Leaders, strategies, and the fight for voting rights
Theodore Roosevelt and the conservation movement: Policies, national parks, and environmental advocacy
The Haymarket Affair: Labor unrest, anarchist influences, and the impact on labor movements
The Spanish-American War: Motivations, outcomes, and its impact on American imperialism
The Great Railroad Strike of 1877: Causes, consequences, and its significance in labor history
The Panama Canal: Construction, geopolitical implications, and its role in international trade

World War I and the Roaring Twenties

America’s entry into World War I: Motivations, consequences, and the impact on American society
The Treaty of Versailles: Negotiations, implications, and the U.S. decision not to ratify
The Harlem Renaissance: Cultural movements, artistic achievements, and the African American experience
Prohibition and the rise of organized crime: Causes, enforcement, and social consequences
The Scopes Trial: Evolution vs. creationism, the clash of science and religion, and its legal ramifications
The Red Scare: Anti-communist hysteria, political repression, and its effects on civil liberties
The Jazz Age: Music, fashion, and the changing social dynamics of the 1920s
Women’s suffrage and the 19th Amendment: Struggles, victories, and the changing role of women in society
The Great Migration: Causes, experiences, and the impact of African Americans moving from the South to urban centers
The Wall Street Crash of 1929: Causes, consequences, and its role in the onset of the Great Depression

The Great Depression and New Deal Era

The causes and impact of the Great Depression on American society and the global economy
The Dust Bowl: Environmental disaster, migration, and government responses
The New Deal: Programs, policies, and their effectiveness in addressing the economic crisis
The role of Eleanor Roosevelt: Activism, advocacy, and her influence on social reform
The Bonus Army: Protests, the military response, and its impact on public opinion
The Federal Writers’ Project: Literary contributions, folklore collection, and the preservation of American culture
The art of the Great Depression: Visual expressions of hardship, resilience, and social commentary
The Wagner Act: Labor rights, unionization, and its impact on workers’ rights
The Social Security Act: Origins, provisions, and its legacy in social welfare programs
The Dust Bowl migration and its influence on the demographic and cultural landscape of the West Coast

World War II and Post-War America

America’s entry into World War II: Pearl Harbor, the home front, and the war effort
The Manhattan Project: Development of the atomic bomb, ethical implications, and its role in ending the war
Japanese internment during World War II: Causes, consequences, and the violation of civil liberties
The GI Bill: Educational opportunities, housing benefits, and its impact on returning veterans
The Marshall Plan: Reconstruction of Europe, containment policy, and America’s role in post-war recovery
The Cold War: Origins, conflicts, and the impact on American society and foreign policy
The Civil Rights Movement: Leaders, strategies, and the fight for racial equality
McCarthyism and the Red Scare: Communist witch hunts, political repression, and the Hollywood blacklist
The Korean War: Causes, outcomes, and its impact on the balance of power in Asia
The Baby Boom: Population growth, suburbanization, and the changing dynamics of American family life

Civil Rights Movement and Social Change

Brown v. Board of Education: Segregation, desegregation, and the landmark Supreme Court decision
The Montgomery Bus Boycott: Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and the power of nonviolent resistance
The March on Washington: Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech and its impact on civil rights legislation
The Black Panther Party: Activism, community organizing, and the struggle for racial justice
The Feminist Movement: Women’s liberation, reproductive rights, and the fight for gender equality
The Stonewall Riots: LGBTQ+ activism, the birth of the gay rights movement, and the fight for equal rights
The Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968: Native American sovereignty, activism, and the pursuit of self-determination
The Chicano Movement: Immigration, labor rights, and the fight for social and political equality
The Counterculture of the 1960s: Anti-war protests, hippie culture, and the quest for social change
The Environmental Movement: Rachel Carson, Earth Day, and the fight for environmental awareness and conservation

Modern America and Contemporary Issues

The Watergate Scandal: Political corruption, investigative journalism, and its impact on American politics
The Reagan Era: Conservative politics, economic policies, and the redefinition of American conservatism
The 9/11 Attacks: Causes, consequences, and the impact on national security and foreign policy
The rise of social media: Transformations in communication, privacy concerns, and the influence on society
The Black Lives Matter movement: Racial justice, police brutality, and the fight against systemic racism
The #MeToo movement: Sexual harassment, gender equality, and the call for social change
The opioid crisis: Causes, consequences, and the efforts to address the epidemic
The presidency of Barack Obama: Historical significance, policies, and the impact on American society
Immigration policy in the 21st century: Debates, challenges, and the changing demographics of America
Climate change and environmental activism: The scientific consensus, policy debates, and the quest for sustainable solutions

This comprehensive list of interesting American history research paper topics provides a wide array of options for students and researchers to explore the captivating stories and pivotal moments in American history. From the early colonial period to modern-day issues, these topics offer abundant opportunities for in-depth research, critical analysis, and engaging writing. By selecting a topic aligned with personal interests and academic goals, students can embark on a rewarding journey of discovery and contribute to the rich tapestry of American historical scholarship.

American History: Exploring the Range of Interesting Research Paper Topics

American history is a captivating and diverse subject that encompasses a vast array of fascinating topics. From the early colonization of the continent to the modern era, the history of the United States is filled with remarkable events, influential figures, and transformative social movements. In this article, we will explore the breadth and depth of interesting American history research paper topics, providing students with a rich tapestry of subjects to investigate and analyze. By delving into these topics, students can gain a deeper understanding of the nation’s past, its complexities, and its enduring impact on the present.

Colonial America : Colonial America serves as the foundation of American history, and exploring its various aspects can offer valuable insights. Topics in this category may include the establishment and development of the Jamestown settlement, the religious beliefs and social structure of Puritanism in early New England, the causes and consequences of the Salem Witch Trials, the impact of Native American-European encounters, and the role of women in colonial society.
Revolutionary Period and the Founding Fathers : The Revolutionary Period marked a significant turning point in American history. Research paper topics in this category can focus on the causes and significance of the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence and its impact on American identity, the role of key Founding Fathers such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin, the Revolutionary War’s military strategies and key battles, and the transition from the Articles of Confederation to the U.S. Constitution.
Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny : The concept of Manifest Destiny and westward expansion played a pivotal role in shaping America. Research topics may include the motivations and impact of the Louisiana Purchase, the experiences and challenges of pioneers on the Oregon Trail, the social and economic transformations brought about by the California Gold Rush, the impact of the Mexican-American War on territorial expansion, and the resistance and struggles of Native American tribes.
Civil War and Reconstruction : The Civil War and Reconstruction era remain critical periods in American history. Students can explore topics such as the causes and consequences of the Civil War, key battles and military strategies, the leadership and speeches of Abraham Lincoln, the Emancipation Proclamation and its significance in ending slavery, and the policies and impact of the Reconstruction period on the nation.
Industrialization and the Gilded Age : The Gilded Age witnessed rapid industrialization and significant social changes. Research paper topics in this category may include the rise of industrialization and its technological advancements, the labor movement and the fight for workers’ rights, the Progressive Era’s social reforms and political changes, the women’s suffrage movement and the struggle for gender equality, and the challenges and contributions of immigration and urbanization.
World Wars and the Interwar Period : The World Wars and the interwar period shaped America’s position on the global stage. Students can explore topics such as America’s involvement in World War I, the cultural developments and societal changes of the Roaring Twenties, the causes and impact of the Great Depression, America’s role in World War II and the home front experience, and the post-war era marked by the Cold War and the rise of the United States as a global superpower.
Civil Rights Movement and Social Change : The Civil Rights Movement and other social movements brought about significant change in American society. Research paper topics may include key events and figures of the Civil Rights Movement, the struggle for equality and justice, the impact of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., the fight for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights, and the broader social changes of the 1960s and beyond.
Cultural and Intellectual Movements : Exploring cultural and intellectual movements provides insights into American society. Research topics can cover areas such as the Harlem Renaissance, the Beat Generation and counterculture movements, the feminist movement and women’s liberation, the impact of popular culture, and the influence of art, literature, and music on American society.
Economic and Industrial Development : America’s economic and industrial development has had a profound impact on its history. Research paper topics in this category can include the rise of big business and monopolies, the impact of technological advancements such as the automobile and electricity, the evolution of labor and consumerism, the Great Depression and its consequences, and the challenges and transformations of the modern economy.
Foreign Policy and International Relations : American foreign policy and international relations have shaped the nation’s role on the global stage. Topics in this category may include America’s involvement in wars and conflicts, diplomatic relations with other nations, the Cold War and its impact on American society, the evolution of globalization, and contemporary foreign policy challenges.

Exploring the diverse and intriguing aspects of American history through research paper topics allows students to deepen their understanding of the nation’s past. From the early colonization to modern-day challenges, the range of interesting American history research paper topics is vast and captivating. By selecting an interesting research paper topic and delving into the associated historical context, students can develop critical thinking skills, expand their knowledge, and contribute to the ongoing exploration of America’s rich and complex history.

How to Choose an Interesting Topic in American History

Selecting an engaging and thought-provoking research paper topic is essential for a successful study in American history. With such a vast and rich historical landscape, it can be challenging to narrow down your focus and choose a topic that piques your interest while offering ample opportunities for exploration. In this section, we will provide you with valuable tips on how to choose interesting American history research paper topics that align with your academic goals and captivate your audience.

Identify Your Interests and Passions : Start by reflecting on your personal interests and passions within American history. Are you fascinated by a particular period, such as the Revolutionary War or the Civil Rights Movement? Do you have a keen interest in social, political, or cultural aspects of American history? By selecting a topic that genuinely interests you, you will be more motivated to delve into the research and produce a compelling paper.
Consider Unexplored or Understudied Areas : While popular topics in American history are widely discussed, consider exploring lesser-known or understudied areas. Look for hidden narratives, forgotten voices, or overlooked events that offer new perspectives on American history. This approach not only allows you to contribute to the field but also adds novelty and intrigue to your research paper.
Focus on Specific Regions or Communities : American history is diverse and encompasses a wide range of regions, communities, and cultures. Narrowing down your topic to a specific geographic area or community can provide a more focused and nuanced analysis. For example, you may choose to explore the experiences of Native American tribes in a particular region, the contributions of a specific immigrant group, or the impact of a social movement in a particular city.
Examine Social and Cultural Aspects : American history is not just about politics and wars; it encompasses social and cultural aspects that have shaped the nation. Consider topics that delve into art, literature, music, popular culture, and social movements. Analyze the impact of cultural icons, explore the evolution of American identity, or study the connections between art and politics during a particular era.
Analyze Controversial Issues and Debates : Controversial issues and debates in American history offer ample opportunities for in-depth analysis and critical thinking. Select a topic that sparks debate or challenges traditional narratives. For example, you may examine the controversies surrounding the American Revolution, the complexities of Reconstruction, or the ongoing debates about immigration policies throughout history.
Utilize Primary Sources : Incorporating primary sources into your research can add depth and authenticity to your paper. Primary sources include documents, diaries, letters, speeches, photographs, and other materials created during the period you are studying. By analyzing firsthand accounts, you can gain unique insights and provide a fresh perspective on your chosen topic.
Consult Secondary Sources : Secondary sources, such as scholarly books, articles, and research papers, provide a foundation of knowledge and offer different interpretations of historical events. Consult reputable secondary sources to gain a comprehensive understanding of your topic and to situate your research within the broader historical context.
Consider Interdisciplinary Approaches : American history intersects with various disciplines, such as sociology, literature, political science, and economics. Consider adopting an interdisciplinary approach to your research paper by integrating insights from multiple fields. This can add depth and complexity to your analysis and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the chosen topic.
Evaluate Feasibility and Availability of Sources : Before finalizing your topic, assess the feasibility of conducting research and the availability of relevant sources. Ensure that there are sufficient primary and secondary sources accessible to you. If necessary, consult librarians, databases, and archival collections to determine the availability and accessibility of materials related to your chosen topic.
Refine and Narrow Your Topic : Once you have identified a potential research topic, refine and narrow it down to ensure it is manageable within the scope of your research paper. Consider the time frame, geographical boundaries, and specific research questions you wish to explore. This process will help you maintain focus and produce a well-structured and coherent paper.

Choosing an interesting American history research paper topic is an exciting yet challenging task. By identifying your interests, exploring understudied areas, considering specific regions or communities, examining social and cultural aspects, analyzing controversies, utilizing primary and secondary sources, adopting interdisciplinary approaches, evaluating feasibility, and refining your topic, you can select a captivating subject that engages both you and your audience. Remember, a well-chosen topic sets the stage for a compelling research paper that contributes to the ongoing exploration of American history.

How to Write an American History Research Paper

Writing an interesting and captivating research paper on American history requires careful planning, thorough research, and effective writing strategies. Whether you are exploring a significant event, analyzing social movements, or examining the lives of influential figures, the following tips will guide you in crafting a compelling and well-structured research paper that engages your readers and showcases your understanding of American history.

Develop a Clear and Concise Thesis Statement : A strong thesis statement is the foundation of your research paper. It should clearly state your argument or main idea and provide a roadmap for your paper. Ensure that your thesis statement is focused, specific, and supported by evidence from your research.
Conduct In-Depth Research : Thorough research is crucial for an interesting American history research paper. Explore primary and secondary sources to gather relevant information, facts, and perspectives on your chosen topic. Utilize libraries, archives, databases, and reputable online sources to access a wide range of materials.
Analyze Primary and Secondary Sources : Examine primary sources, such as documents, letters, diaries, speeches, and photographs, to gain firsthand insights into the historical context you are studying. Analyze secondary sources, including scholarly books and articles, to understand different interpretations and scholarly debates surrounding your topic. By critically evaluating sources, you can present a well-informed and balanced argument.
Organize Your Research and Create an Outline : Organize your research findings and create a well-structured outline for your research paper. An outline helps you establish a logical flow and ensure that your arguments are presented coherently. Divide your paper into sections, each focusing on a specific aspect of your topic, and use subheadings to further organize your ideas.
Craft Engaging Introductions and Conclusions : Capture your readers’ attention with an engaging introduction that presents the significance of your research topic and provides context for your study. Introduce your thesis statement and outline the key points you will address in your paper. In your conclusion, summarize your main arguments, restate your thesis, and offer some final thoughts or insights.
Use Clear and Concise Language : Write in a clear and concise manner to effectively communicate your ideas. Avoid excessive jargon and complex language that may confuse your readers. Use active voice, straightforward sentences, and transition words to ensure a smooth and coherent flow of information.
Present Strong Evidence and Support Your Claims : Support your arguments and claims with strong evidence from your research. Cite your sources accurately using the appropriate citation style (such as APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian) to give credit to the original authors and to demonstrate the credibility of your work. Use a mix of direct quotes, paraphrases, and summaries to incorporate evidence into your paper.
Provide Historical Context : Place your research within the broader historical context to help readers understand the significance of your topic. Discuss relevant events, social conditions, cultural influences, and political factors that shaped the period you are studying. Providing historical context enhances the depth and understanding of your research paper.
Analyze and Interpret Data : An interesting American history research paper goes beyond presenting facts and data. Analyze and interpret the information you have gathered to provide insightful perspectives and draw meaningful conclusions. Consider different viewpoints, historical interpretations, and the implications of your findings.
Revise and Edit : Revision and editing are essential to polish your research paper and ensure its clarity and coherence. Review your paper for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure errors. Check the flow of your arguments and make sure your ideas are presented logically. Seek feedback from peers, instructors, or writing centers to gain valuable insights and improve your paper.

Writing an interesting American history research paper requires a combination of diligent research, critical thinking, and effective writing skills. By developing a clear thesis statement, conducting in-depth research, analyzing primary and secondary sources, organizing your ideas, using clear language, providing strong evidence, offering historical context, analyzing data, and revising and editing your work, you can create a research paper that engages your readers and contributes to the exploration of American history. Remember, the journey of writing a research paper is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the subject matter and share your knowledge with others.

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If Australians could vote for either Kamala Harris or Donald Trump, the result would be a landslide, says survey

Topic: US Elections

A man in a blue suit and red tie and a woman in a camel-coloured suit and white shirt

Polling suggests Australians would be more likely to support Kamala Harris over Donald Trump if they were able to vote in the US election. ( ABC News/AP/Reuters )

"Kamala is ready. The question is: Are we?"

That was the question the governor of North Carolina Roy Cooper posed ahead of a speech by Kamala Harris on the last night of the Democratic National Convention.

The "we" was addressed, of course, to the American voting public who are deeply polarised over their choice despite a surge of momentum towards US Vice-President Harris, who is now officially the Democratic presidential nominee.

But if we had been asked about us , Australians living in a middle power aligned so closely to the United States and obsessively watching this show as if it were a Hollywood blockbuster, the answer would have been an unequivocal yes .

Harris's campaign HQ is calling for a " Femininomenon " at the polls this November, using the hit song from Chappell Roan in a meme that's flooded the internet. And it looks like Australia — with no woman candidate in sight for PM — has joined the Femininomenon in the US. We have been quietly having our own brat winter.

New polling conducted by consultant and pollsters Talbot Mills Research has found Australians — who won't get a vote in November — are overwhelmingly ready to elect Kamala Harris.

Even Coalition voters prefer Kamala Harris in Australia to Donald Trump. That's right, centre-right voters in our country prefer Harris.

Who would Australians vote for?

If Australian voters decided the US presidential election, Kamala Harris would easily beat Donald Trump by 48 per cent to 27 per cent.

Now to be clear, winning the popular vote wouldn't necessarily determine the outcome. Most US experts argue a popular vote of 30 per cent is about as low as you could go. But some have claimed even lower percentages were possible.

David Talbot, director of Talbot Mills Research which is ANACTA Group 's research partner, served as pollster and strategist for New Zealand's last two Labour prime ministers, Jacinda Ardern and Chris Hipkins. In Australia, he was involved in Labor's successful campaigns in the 2022 federal election and the Victorian state election.

He said in Australia, the support for Harris is very high.

"Australians have taken warmly to Kamala Harris. Even Coalition voters prefer Harris to Trump by 43 per cent to 37 per cent," Talbot told this column.

Last month, a poll conducted by the same firm investigated voter opinions of Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Biden (30 per cent) was barely ahead of Trump (28 per cent).

By vote, Greens (58 per cent to 17 per cent) and Labor (59 per cent to 22 per cent) strongly favoured Harris over Trump.

It was a tighter contest amongst Coalition voters, who favoured Harris by 43 per cent to 37 per cent over Trump.

Pauline Hanson One Nation voters broke decisively (58 per cent to 18 per cent) for Trump.

"We also saw a decided gender gap with men more likely to support Trump and women Harris," Talbot said.

This gender difference is consistent in the United States, too. In fact, I've previously written about the gender voting gap, which sees women voting increasingly to the left and men to the right.

The question in the survey of 1,000 Australians was: If you were eligible to vote in the American election, who would you vote for?

The US is important to Australia and we will have to deal with the consequences of the result, so the purpose of a poll like this was to assess attitudes of Australians toward the two US presidential candidates.

Biden was favoured by one voter group in the US

Anacta's co-founder David Nelson, who travelled to Chicago for last week's Democratic National Convention after working on the successful UK Labour campaign, says Harris has achieved an incredible level of energy and consolidation of support.

But he says it's still unclear if that support will be sufficient to win her the presidency.

Harris's gains to date are with the progressive base that had become disinterested because of Biden's age.

There are concerns Harris is not making gains with independents (people registered to vote but not registered with a party), where President Biden was stronger.

"That said, in the private conversations we were having, strategists are conscious that the race is still essentially a toss-up in the battleground states," he says. "They know the challenge for Harris's campaign will be to take that energy and pivot it to a conversation with suburban voters, especially women, who voted for Trump in 2016 and are still open to voting him this time".

In Australia, polling suggests that for the majority of Australians the answer is obvious. But that isn't necessarily so in the US, Nelson says.

"It remains to be seen if Kamala Harris can demonstrate she shares their values, and will be better for their families, at a time where they're still suffering a cost-of-living crisis they observed as beginning under President Biden," he says.

And while Donald Trump's numbers are much lower in Australia, he has a base of support that demonstrates Australia is not immune from right-wing populist appeal.

The truth is that Australia has yet to see a right-wing populist leader emerge that breaks with convention and traditional right-wing rhetoric to challenge the status quo.

Politics is increasingly wild, in Australia as well as in the US.

This weekend in Australia we had a tiny election by worldwide standards in the Northern Territory — a huge swing against the incumbent Labor government (although expected and probably not as bad as it might have been a year ago) has seen the ALP smashed and denominated.

That volatility wasn't predicted — although it does speak to the underlying anger over cost-of-living pressures and crime. What it also reveals is that voters are ready to act on frustrations. It's an ominous warning for federal Labor.

Back in the US — after Trump survived an assassination attempt and Biden was still the Democratic nominee, practically every analyst declared Trump the inevitable winner of the US election that was at the time still months away.

Now, Harris has up-ended that dynamic.

But the concerns of Americans on immigration and cost of living will ultimately dominate.

And anyone who tells you where the result will land is lying.

Literally anything could happen. So buckle up.

Patricia Karvelas is the presenter of RN Breakfast and co-host of the Party Room podcast. She also hosts Q+A, which returns on ABC TV in August.

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Key things to know about U.S. election polling in 2024

Conceptual image of an oversized voting ballot box in a large crowd of people with shallow depth of field

Confidence in U.S. public opinion polling was shaken by errors in 2016 and 2020. In both years’ general elections, many polls underestimated the strength of Republican candidates, including Donald Trump. These errors laid bare some real limitations of polling.

In the midterms that followed those elections, polling performed better . But many Americans remain skeptical that it can paint an accurate portrait of the public’s political preferences.

Restoring people’s confidence in polling is an important goal, because robust and independent public polling has a critical role to play in a democratic society. It gathers and publishes information about the well-being of the public and about citizens’ views on major issues. And it provides an important counterweight to people in power, or those seeking power, when they make claims about “what the people want.”

The challenges facing polling are undeniable. In addition to the longstanding issues of rising nonresponse and cost, summer 2024 brought extraordinary events that transformed the presidential race . The good news is that people with deep knowledge of polling are working hard to fix the problems exposed in 2016 and 2020, experimenting with more data sources and interview approaches than ever before. Still, polls are more useful to the public if people have realistic expectations about what surveys can do well – and what they cannot.

With that in mind, here are some key points to know about polling heading into this year’s presidential election.

Probability sampling (or “random sampling”). This refers to a polling method in which survey participants are recruited using random sampling from a database or list that includes nearly everyone in the population. The pollster selects the sample. The survey is not open for anyone who wants to sign up.

Online opt-in polling (or “nonprobability sampling”). These polls are recruited using a variety of methods that are sometimes referred to as “convenience sampling.” Respondents come from a variety of online sources such as ads on social media or search engines, websites offering rewards in exchange for survey participation, or self-enrollment. Unlike surveys with probability samples, people can volunteer to participate in opt-in surveys.

Nonresponse and nonresponse bias. Nonresponse is when someone sampled for a survey does not participate. Nonresponse bias occurs when the pattern of nonresponse leads to error in a poll estimate. For example, college graduates are more likely than those without a degree to participate in surveys, leading to the potential that the share of college graduates in the resulting sample will be too high.

Mode of interview. This refers to the format in which respondents are presented with and respond to survey questions. The most common modes are online, live telephone, text message and paper. Some polls use more than one mode.

Weighting. This is a statistical procedure pollsters perform to make their survey align with the broader population on key characteristics like age, race, etc. For example, if a survey has too many college graduates compared with their share in the population, people without a college degree are “weighted up” to match the proper share.

How are election polls being conducted?

Pollsters are making changes in response to the problems in previous elections. As a result, polling is different today than in 2016. Most U.S. polling organizations that conducted and publicly released national surveys in both 2016 and 2022 (61%) used methods in 2022 that differed from what they used in 2016 . And change has continued since 2022.

A sand chart showing that, as the number of public pollsters in the U.S. has grown, survey methods have become more diverse.

One change is that the number of active polling organizations has grown significantly, indicating that there are fewer barriers to entry into the polling field. The number of organizations that conduct national election polls more than doubled between 2000 and 2022.

This growth has been driven largely by pollsters using inexpensive opt-in sampling methods. But previous Pew Research Center analyses have demonstrated how surveys that use nonprobability sampling may have errors twice as large , on average, as those that use probability sampling.

The second change is that many of the more prominent polling organizations that use probability sampling – including Pew Research Center – have shifted from conducting polls primarily by telephone to using online methods, or some combination of online, mail and telephone. The result is that polling methodologies are far more diverse now than in the past.

(For more about how public opinion polling works, including a chapter on election polls, read our short online course on public opinion polling basics .)

All good polling relies on statistical adjustment called “weighting,” which makes sure that the survey sample aligns with the broader population on key characteristics. Historically, public opinion researchers have adjusted their data using a core set of demographic variables to correct imbalances between the survey sample and the population.

But there is a growing realization among survey researchers that weighting a poll on just a few variables like age, race and gender is insufficient for getting accurate results. Some groups of people – such as older adults and college graduates – are more likely to take surveys, which can lead to errors that are too sizable for a simple three- or four-variable adjustment to work well. Adjusting on more variables produces more accurate results, according to Center studies in 2016 and 2018 .

A number of pollsters have taken this lesson to heart. For example, recent high-quality polls by Gallup and The New York Times/Siena College adjusted on eight and 12 variables, respectively. Our own polls typically adjust on 12 variables . In a perfect world, it wouldn’t be necessary to have that much intervention by the pollster. But the real world of survey research is not perfect.

Predicting who will vote is critical – and difficult. Preelection polls face one crucial challenge that routine opinion polls do not: determining who of the people surveyed will actually cast a ballot.

Roughly a third of eligible Americans do not vote in presidential elections , despite the enormous attention paid to these contests. Determining who will abstain is difficult because people can’t perfectly predict their future behavior – and because many people feel social pressure to say they’ll vote even if it’s unlikely.

No one knows the profile of voters ahead of Election Day. We can’t know for sure whether young people will turn out in greater numbers than usual, or whether key racial or ethnic groups will do so. This means pollsters are left to make educated guesses about turnout, often using a mix of historical data and current measures of voting enthusiasm. This is very different from routine opinion polls, which mostly do not ask about people’s future intentions.

When major news breaks, a poll’s timing can matter. Public opinion on most issues is remarkably stable, so you don’t necessarily need a recent poll about an issue to get a sense of what people think about it. But dramatic events can and do change public opinion , especially when people are first learning about a new topic. For example, polls this summer saw notable changes in voter attitudes following Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race. Polls taken immediately after a major event may pick up a shift in public opinion, but those shifts are sometimes short-lived. Polls fielded weeks or months later are what allow us to see whether an event has had a long-term impact on the public’s psyche.

How accurate are polls?

The answer to this question depends on what you want polls to do. Polls are used for all kinds of purposes in addition to showing who’s ahead and who’s behind in a campaign. Fair or not, however, the accuracy of election polling is usually judged by how closely the polls matched the outcome of the election.

A diverging bar chart showing polling errors in U.S. presidential elections.

By this standard, polling in 2016 and 2020 performed poorly. In both years, state polling was characterized by serious errors. National polling did reasonably well in 2016 but faltered in 2020.

In 2020, a post-election review of polling by the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) found that “the 2020 polls featured polling error of an unusual magnitude: It was the highest in 40 years for the national popular vote and the highest in at least 20 years for state-level estimates of the vote in presidential, senatorial, and gubernatorial contests.”

How big were the errors? Polls conducted in the last two weeks before the election suggested that Biden’s margin over Trump was nearly twice as large as it ended up being in the final national vote tally.

Errors of this size make it difficult to be confident about who is leading if the election is closely contested, as many U.S. elections are .

Pollsters are rightly working to improve the accuracy of their polls. But even an error of 4 or 5 percentage points isn’t too concerning if the purpose of the poll is to describe whether the public has favorable or unfavorable opinions about candidates , or to show which issues matter to which voters. And on questions that gauge where people stand on issues, we usually want to know broadly where the public stands. We don’t necessarily need to know the precise share of Americans who say, for example, that climate change is mostly caused by human activity. Even judged by its performance in recent elections, polling can still provide a faithful picture of public sentiment on the important issues of the day.

The 2022 midterms saw generally accurate polling, despite a wave of partisan polls predicting a broad Republican victory. In fact, FiveThirtyEight found that “polls were more accurate in 2022 than in any cycle since at least 1998, with almost no bias toward either party.” Moreover, a handful of contrarian polls that predicted a 2022 “red wave” largely washed out when the votes were tallied. In sum, if we focus on polling in the most recent national election, there’s plenty of reason to be encouraged.

Compared with other elections in the past 20 years, polls have been less accurate when Donald Trump is on the ballot. Preelection surveys suffered from large errors – especially at the state level – in 2016 and 2020, when Trump was standing for election. But they performed reasonably well in the 2018 and 2022 midterms, when he was not.

During the 2016 campaign, observers speculated about the possibility that Trump supporters might be less willing to express their support to a pollster – a phenomenon sometimes described as the “shy Trump effect.” But a committee of polling experts evaluated five different tests of the “shy Trump” theory and turned up little to no evidence for each one . Later, Pew Research Center and, in a separate test, a researcher from Yale also found little to no evidence in support of the claim.

Instead, two other explanations are more likely. One is about the difficulty of estimating who will turn out to vote. Research has found that Trump is popular among people who tend to sit out midterms but turn out for him in presidential election years. Since pollsters often use past turnout to predict who will vote, it can be difficult to anticipate when irregular voters will actually show up.

The other explanation is that Republicans in the Trump era have become a little less likely than Democrats to participate in polls . Pollsters call this “partisan nonresponse bias.” Surprisingly, polls historically have not shown any particular pattern of favoring one side or the other. The errors that favored Democratic candidates in the past eight years may be a result of the growth of political polarization, along with declining trust among conservatives in news organizations and other institutions that conduct polls.

Whatever the cause, the fact that Trump is again the nominee of the Republican Party means that pollsters must be especially careful to make sure all segments of the population are properly represented in surveys.

The real margin of error is often about double the one reported. A typical election poll sample of about 1,000 people has a margin of sampling error that’s about plus or minus 3 percentage points. That number expresses the uncertainty that results from taking a sample of the population rather than interviewing everyone . Random samples are likely to differ a little from the population just by chance, in the same way that the quality of your hand in a card game varies from one deal to the next.

A table showing that sampling error is not the only kind of polling error.

The problem is that sampling error is not the only kind of error that affects a poll. Those other kinds of error, in fact, can be as large or larger than sampling error. Consequently, the reported margin of error can lead people to think that polls are more accurate than they really are.

There are three other, equally important sources of error in polling: noncoverage error , where not all the target population has a chance of being sampled; nonresponse error, where certain groups of people may be less likely to participate; and measurement error, where people may not properly understand the questions or misreport their opinions. Not only does the margin of error fail to account for those other sources of potential error, putting a number only on sampling error implies to the public that other kinds of error do not exist.

Several recent studies show that the average total error in a poll estimate may be closer to twice as large as that implied by a typical margin of sampling error. This hidden error underscores the fact that polls may not be precise enough to call the winner in a close election.

Other important things to remember

Transparency in how a poll was conducted is associated with better accuracy . The polling industry has several platforms and initiatives aimed at promoting transparency in survey methodology. These include AAPOR’s transparency initiative and the Roper Center archive . Polling organizations that participate in these organizations have less error, on average, than those that don’t participate, an analysis by FiveThirtyEight found .

Participation in these transparency efforts does not guarantee that a poll is rigorous, but it is undoubtedly a positive signal. Transparency in polling means disclosing essential information, including the poll’s sponsor, the data collection firm, where and how participants were selected, modes of interview, field dates, sample size, question wording, and weighting procedures.

There is evidence that when the public is told that a candidate is extremely likely to win, some people may be less likely to vote . Following the 2016 election, many people wondered whether the pervasive forecasts that seemed to all but guarantee a Hillary Clinton victory – two modelers put her chances at 99% – led some would-be voters to conclude that the race was effectively over and that their vote would not make a difference. There is scientific research to back up that claim: A team of researchers found experimental evidence that when people have high confidence that one candidate will win, they are less likely to vote. This helps explain why some polling analysts say elections should be covered using traditional polling estimates and margins of error rather than speculative win probabilities (also known as “probabilistic forecasts”).

National polls tell us what the entire public thinks about the presidential candidates, but the outcome of the election is determined state by state in the Electoral College . The 2000 and 2016 presidential elections demonstrated a difficult truth: The candidate with the largest share of support among all voters in the United States sometimes loses the election. In those two elections, the national popular vote winners (Al Gore and Hillary Clinton) lost the election in the Electoral College (to George W. Bush and Donald Trump). In recent years, analysts have shown that Republican candidates do somewhat better in the Electoral College than in the popular vote because every state gets three electoral votes regardless of population – and many less-populated states are rural and more Republican.

For some, this raises the question: What is the use of national polls if they don’t tell us who is likely to win the presidency? In fact, national polls try to gauge the opinions of all Americans, regardless of whether they live in a battleground state like Pennsylvania, a reliably red state like Idaho or a reliably blue state like Rhode Island. In short, national polls tell us what the entire citizenry is thinking. Polls that focus only on the competitive states run the risk of giving too little attention to the needs and views of the vast majority of Americans who live in uncompetitive states – about 80%.

Fortunately, this is not how most pollsters view the world . As the noted political scientist Sidney Verba explained, “Surveys produce just what democracy is supposed to produce – equal representation of all citizens.”

Survey Methods
Trust, Facts & Democracy
Voter Files

Scott Keeter is a senior survey advisor at Pew Research Center .

Courtney Kennedy is Vice President of Methods and Innovation at Pew Research Center .

How do people in the U.S. take Pew Research Center surveys, anyway?

How public polling has changed in the 21st century, what 2020’s election poll errors tell us about the accuracy of issue polling, a field guide to polling: election 2020 edition, methods 101: how is polling done around the world, most popular.

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Study reveals the benefits and downside of fasting

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Low-calorie diets and intermittent fasting have been shown to have numerous health benefits: They can delay the onset of some age-related diseases and lengthen lifespan, not only in humans but many other organisms.

Many complex mechanisms underlie this phenomenon. Previous work from MIT has shown that one way fasting exerts its beneficial effects is by boosting the regenerative abilities of intestinal stem cells, which helps the intestine recover from injuries or inflammation.

In a study of mice, MIT researchers have now identified the pathway that enables this enhanced regeneration, which is activated once the mice begin “refeeding” after the fast. They also found a downside to this regeneration: When cancerous mutations occurred during the regenerative period, the mice were more likely to develop early-stage intestinal tumors.

“Having more stem cell activity is good for regeneration, but too much of a good thing over time can have less favorable consequences,” says Omer Yilmaz, an MIT associate professor of biology, a member of MIT’s Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, and the senior author of the new study.

Yilmaz adds that further studies are needed before forming any conclusion as to whether fasting has a similar effect in humans.

“We still have a lot to learn, but it is interesting that being in either the state of fasting or refeeding when exposure to mutagen occurs can have a profound impact on the likelihood of developing a cancer in these well-defined mouse models,” he says.

MIT postdocs Shinya Imada and Saleh Khawaled are the lead authors of the paper, which appears today in Nature .

Driving regeneration

For several years, Yilmaz’s lab has been investigating how fasting and low-calorie diets affect intestinal health. In a 2018 study , his team reported that during a fast, intestinal stem cells begin to use lipids as an energy source, instead of carbohydrates. They also showed that fasting led to a significant boost in stem cells’ regenerative ability.

However, unanswered questions remained: How does fasting trigger this boost in regenerative ability, and when does the regeneration begin?

“Since that paper, we’ve really been focused on understanding what is it about fasting that drives regeneration,” Yilmaz says. “Is it fasting itself that’s driving regeneration, or eating after the fast?”

In their new study, the researchers found that stem cell regeneration is suppressed during fasting but then surges during the refeeding period. The researchers followed three groups of mice — one that fasted for 24 hours, another one that fasted for 24 hours and then was allowed to eat whatever they wanted during a 24-hour refeeding period, and a control group that ate whatever they wanted throughout the experiment.

The researchers analyzed intestinal stem cells’ ability to proliferate at different time points and found that the stem cells showed the highest levels of proliferation at the end of the 24-hour refeeding period. These cells were also more proliferative than intestinal stem cells from mice that had not fasted at all.

“We think that fasting and refeeding represent two distinct states,” Imada says. “In the fasted state, the ability of cells to use lipids and fatty acids as an energy source enables them to survive when nutrients are low. And then it’s the postfast refeeding state that really drives the regeneration. When nutrients become available, these stem cells and progenitor cells activate programs that enable them to build cellular mass and repopulate the intestinal lining.”

Further studies revealed that these cells activate a cellular signaling pathway known as mTOR, which is involved in cell growth and metabolism. One of mTOR’s roles is to regulate the translation of messenger RNA into protein, so when it’s activated, cells produce more protein. This protein synthesis is essential for stem cells to proliferate.

The researchers showed that mTOR activation in these stem cells also led to production of large quantities of polyamines — small molecules that help cells to grow and divide.

“In the refed state, you’ve got more proliferation, and you need to build cellular mass. That requires more protein, to build new cells, and those stem cells go on to build more differentiated cells or specialized intestinal cell types that line the intestine,” Khawaled says.

Too much of a good thing

The researchers also found that when stem cells are in this highly regenerative state, they are more prone to become cancerous. Intestinal stem cells are among the most actively dividing cells in the body, as they help the lining of the intestine completely turn over every five to 10 days. Because they divide so frequently, these stem cells are the most common source of precancerous cells in the intestine.

In this study, the researchers discovered that if they turned on a cancer-causing gene in the mice during the refeeding stage, they were much more likely to develop precancerous polyps than if the gene was turned on during the fasting state. Cancer-linked mutations that occurred during the refeeding state were also much more likely to produce polyps than mutations that occurred in mice that did not undergo the cycle of fasting and refeeding.

“I want to emphasize that this was all done in mice, using very well-defined cancer mutations. In humans it’s going to be a much more complex state,” Yilmaz says. “But it does lead us to the following notion: Fasting is very healthy, but if you’re unlucky and you’re refeeding after a fasting, and you get exposed to a mutagen, like a charred steak or something, you might actually be increasing your chances of developing a lesion that can go on to give rise to cancer.”

Yilmaz also noted that the regenerative benefits of fasting could be significant for people who undergo radiation treatment, which can damage the intestinal lining, or other types of intestinal injury. His lab is now studying whether polyamine supplements could help to stimulate this kind of regeneration, without the need to fast.

“This fascinating study provides insights into the complex interplay between food consumption, stem cell biology, and cancer risk,” says Ophir Klein, a professor of medicine at the University of California at San Francisco and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, who was not involved in the study. “Their work lays a foundation for testing polyamines as compounds that may augment intestinal repair after injuries, and it suggests that careful consideration is needed when planning diet-based strategies for regeneration to avoid increasing cancer risk.”

The research was funded, in part, by Pew-Stewart Scholars Program for Cancer Research award, the MIT Stem Cell Initiative, the Koch Institute Frontier Research Program via the Kathy and Curt Marble Cancer Research Fund, and the Bridge Project, a partnership between the Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT and the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center.

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A new study led by researchers at MIT suggests that fasting and then refeeding stimulates cell regeneration in the intestines, reports Katharine Lang for Medical News Today . However, notes Lang, researchers also found that fasting “carries the risk of stimulating the formation of intestinal tumors.”

Prof. Ömer Yilmaz and his colleagues have discovered the potential health benefits and consequences of fasting, reports Max Kozlov for Nature . “There is so much emphasis on fasting and how long to be fasting that we’ve kind of overlooked this whole other side of the equation: what is going on in the refed state,” says Yilmaz.

MIT researchers have discovered how fasting impacts the regenerative abilities of intestinal stem cells, reports Ed Cara for Gizmodo . “The major finding of our current study is that refeeding after fasting is a distinct state from fasting itself,” explain Prof. Ömer Yilmaz and postdocs Shinya Imada and Saleh Khawaled. “Post-fasting refeeding augments the ability of intestinal stem cells to, for example, repair the intestine after injury.”

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How early-stage cancer cells hide from the immune system

MIT biologists found that intestinal stem cells express high levels of a ketogenic enzyme called HMGCS2, shown in brown.

Study links certain metabolites to stem cell function in the intestine

Intestinal stem cells from mice that fasted for 24 hours, at right, produced much more substantial intestinal organoids than stem cells from mice that did not fast, at left.

Fasting boosts stem cells’ regenerative capacity

“Not only does the high-fat diet change the biology of stem cells, it also changes the biology of non-stem-cell populations, which collectively leads to an increase in tumor formation,” Omer Yilmaz says.

How diet influences colon cancer

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Study reveals the benefits and downside of fasting
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