modern history essay plans

How to Write a History Essay?

04 August, 2020

10 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

There are so many types of essays. It can be hard to know where to start. History papers aren’t just limited to history classes. These tasks can be assigned to examine any important historical event or a person. While they’re more common in history classes, you can find this type of assignment in sociology or political science course syllabus, or just get a history essay task for your scholarship. This is Handmadewriting History Essay Guide - let's start!

Purpose  of a History Essay

Wondering how to write a history essay? First of all, it helps to understand its purpose. Secondly, this essay aims to examine the influences that lead to a historical event. Thirdly, it can explore the importance of an individual’s impact on history.

However, the goal isn’t to stay in the past. Specifically, a well-written history essay should discuss the relevance of the event or person to the “now”. After finishing this essay, a reader should have a fuller understanding of the lasting impact of an event or individual.

Need basic essay guidance? Find out what is an essay with this 101 essay guide: What is an Essay?

Elements for Success

Indeed, understanding how to write a history essay is crucial in creating a successful paper. Notably, these essays should never only outline successful historic events or list an individual’s achievements. Instead, they should focus on examining questions beginning with what , how , and why . Here’s a pro tip in how to write a history essay: brainstorm questions. Once you’ve got questions, you have an excellent starting point.

Preparing to Write

Evidently, a typical history essay format requires the writer to provide background on the event or person, examine major influences, and discuss the importance of the forces both then and now. In addition, when preparing to write, it’s helpful to organize the information you need to research into questions. For example:

• Who were the major contributors to this event?
• Who opposed or fought against this event?
• Who gained or lost from this event?
• Who benefits from this event today?
• What factors led up to this event?
• What changes occurred because of this event?
• What lasting impacts occurred locally, nationally, globally due to this event?
• What lessons (if any) were learned?
• Why did this event occur?
• Why did certain populations support it?
• Why did certain populations oppose it?

These questions exist as samples. Therefore, generate questions specific to your topic. Once you have a list of questions, it’s time to evaluate them.

Evaluating the Question

Seasoned writers approach writing history by examining the historic event or individual. Specifically, the goal is to assess the impact then and now. Accordingly, the writer needs to evaluate the importance of the main essay guiding the paper. For example, if the essay’s topic is the rise of American prohibition, a proper question may be “How did societal factors influence the rise of American prohibition during the 1920s? ”

This question is open-ended since it allows for insightful analysis, and limits the research to societal factors. Additionally, work to identify key terms in the question. In the example, key terms would be “societal factors” and “prohibition”.

Summarizing the Argument

The argument should answer the question. Use the thesis statement to clarify the argument and outline how you plan to make your case. In other words. the thesis should be sharp, clear, and multi-faceted. Consider the following tips when summarizing the case:

• The thesis should be a single sentence
• It should include a concise argument and a roadmap
• It’s always okay to revise the thesis as the paper develops
• Conduct a bit of research to ensure you have enough support for the ideas within the paper

Outlining a History Essay Plan

Once you’ve refined your argument, it’s time to outline. Notably, many skip this step to regret it then. Nonetheless, the outline is a map that shows where you need to arrive historically and when. Specifically, taking the time to plan, placing the strongest argument last, and identifying your sources of research is a good use of time. When you’re ready to outline, do the following:

• Consider the necessary background the reader should know in the introduction paragraph
• Define any important terms and vocabulary
• Determine which ideas will need the cited support
• Identify how each idea supports the main argument
• Brainstorm key points to review in the conclusion

Gathering Sources

As a rule, history essays require both primary and secondary sources . Primary resources are those that were created during the historical period being analyzed. Secondary resources are those created by historians and scholars about the topic. It’s a good idea to know if the professor requires a specific number of sources, and what kind he or she prefers. Specifically, most tutors prefer primary over secondary sources.

Where to find sources? Great question! Check out bibliographies included in required class readings. In addition, ask a campus Librarian. Peruse online journal databases; In addition, most colleges provide students with free access. When in doubt, make an appointment and ask the professor for guidance.

Writing the Essay

Now that you have prepared your questions, ideas, and arguments; composed the outline ; and gathered sources – it’s time to write your first draft. In particular, each section of your history essay must serve its purpose. Here is what you should include in essay paragraphs.

Introduction Paragraph

Unsure of how to start a history essay? Well, like most essays, the introduction should include an attention-getter (or hook):

• Relevant fact or statistic
• Rhetorical Question
• Interesting quotation
• Application anecdote if appropriate

Once you’ve captured the reader’s interest, introduce the topic. Similarly, present critical historic context. Namely, it is necessary to introduce any key individuals or events that will be discussed later in the essay. At last, end with a strong thesis which acts as a transition to the first argument.

Body Paragraphs

Indeed, each body paragraph should offer a single idea to support the argument. Then, after writing a strong topic sentence, the topic should be supported with correctly cited research. Consequently, a typical body paragraph is arranged as follows:

• Topic sentence linking to the thesis
• Background of the topic
• Research quotation or paraphrase #1
• Explanation and analysis of research
• Research quotation or paraphrase #2
• Transition to the next paragraph

Equally, the point of body paragraphs is to build the argument. Hence, present the weakest support first and end with the strongest. Admittedly, doing so leaves the reader with the best possible evidence.

Conclusion Paragraph

You’re almost there! Eventually, conclusion paragraphs should review the most important points in the paper. In them, you should prove that you’ve supported the argument proposed in the thesis. When writing a conclusion paragraph keep these tips in mind:

• Keep it simple
• Avoid introducing new information
• Review major points
• Discuss the relevance to today

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

Proofreading Your Essay

Once the draft is ready and polished, it’s time to proceed to final editing. What does this process imply? Specifically, it’s about removing impurities and making the essay look just perfect. Here’s what you need to do to improve the quality of your paper:

• Double check the content. In the first place, it’s recommended to get rid of long sentences, correct vague words. Also, make sure that all your paragrahps contain accurate sentences with transparent meaning. 
• Pay attention to style. To make the process of digesting your essay easier, focus on crafting a paper with readable style, the one that is known to readers. Above all, the main mission here is to facilitate the perception of your essay. So, don’t forget about style accuracy.
• Practice reading the essay. Of course, the best practice before passing the paper is to read it out loud. Hence, this exercise will help you notice fragments that require rewriting or a complete removal.  

History Essay Example

Did you want a history essay example? Take a look at one of our history essay papers. 

Make it Shine

An A-level essay takes planning and revision, but it’s achievable. Firstly, avoid procrastination and start early. Secondly, leave yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, outline, research and write. Finally, follow these five tips to make your history essay shine:

• Write a substantial introduction. Particularly, it’s the first impression the professor will have of the paper.
• State a clear thesis. A strong thesis is easier to support.
• Incorporate evidence critically. If while researching you find opposing arguments, include them and discuss their flaws.
• Cite all the research. Whether direct quotations or paraphrases, citing evidence is crucial to avoiding plagiarism, which can have serious academic consequences.
• Include primary and secondary resources. While primary resources may be harder to find, the professor will expect them—this is, after all, a history essay.

History Essay Sample

Ready to tackle the history essay format? Great! Check out this history essay sample from an upper-level history class. While the essay isn’t perfect, the professor points out its many strengths.

Remember: start early and revise, revise, revise . We can’t revise history, but you can revise your ideas until they’re perfect.

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How to Write a History Essay with Outline, Tips, Examples and More

Samuel Gorbold

Before we get into how to write a history essay, let's first understand what makes one good. Different people might have different ideas, but there are some basic rules that can help you do well in your studies. In this guide, we won't get into any fancy theories. Instead, we'll give you straightforward tips to help you with historical writing. So, if you're ready to sharpen your writing skills, let our history essay writing service explore how to craft an exceptional paper.

What is a History Essay?

A history essay is an academic assignment where we explore and analyze historical events from the past. We dig into historical stories, figures, and ideas to understand their importance and how they've shaped our world today. History essay writing involves researching, thinking critically, and presenting arguments based on evidence.

Moreover, history papers foster the development of writing proficiency and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. They also encourage students to engage with primary and secondary sources, enhancing their research skills and deepening their understanding of historical methodology. Students can benefit from utilizing essay writers services when faced with challenging assignments. These services provide expert assistance and guidance, ensuring that your history papers meet academic standards and accurately reflect your understanding of the subject matter.

History Essay Outline

The outline is there to guide you in organizing your thoughts and arguments in your essay about history. With a clear outline, you can explore and explain historical events better. Here's how to make one:

Introduction

• Hook: Start with an attention-grabbing opening sentence or anecdote related to your topic.
• Background Information: Provide context on the historical period, event, or theme you'll be discussing.
• Thesis Statement: Present your main argument or viewpoint, outlining the scope and purpose of your history essay.

Body paragraph 1: Introduction to the Historical Context

• Provide background information on the historical context of your topic.
• Highlight key events, figures, or developments leading up to the main focus of your history essay.

Body paragraphs 2-4 (or more): Main Arguments and Supporting Evidence

• Each paragraph should focus on a specific argument or aspect of your thesis.
• Present evidence from primary and secondary sources to support each argument.
• Analyze the significance of the evidence and its relevance to your history paper thesis.

Counterarguments (optional)

• Address potential counterarguments or alternative perspectives on your topic.
• Refute opposing viewpoints with evidence and logical reasoning.
• Summary of Main Points: Recap the main arguments presented in the body paragraphs.
• Restate Thesis: Reinforce your thesis statement, emphasizing its significance in light of the evidence presented.
• Reflection: Reflect on the broader implications of your arguments for understanding history.
• Closing Thought: End your history paper with a thought-provoking statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

References/bibliography

• List all sources used in your research, formatted according to the citation style required by your instructor (e.g., MLA, APA, Chicago).
• Include both primary and secondary sources, arranged alphabetically by the author's last name.

Notes (if applicable)

• Include footnotes or endnotes to provide additional explanations, citations, or commentary on specific points within your history essay.

History Essay Format

Adhering to a specific format is crucial for clarity, coherence, and academic integrity. Here are the key components of a typical history essay format:

Font and Size

• Use a legible font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
• The recommended font size is usually 12 points. However, check your instructor's guidelines, as they may specify a different size.
• Set 1-inch margins on all sides of the page.
• Double-space the entire essay, including the title, headings, body paragraphs, and references.
• Avoid extra spacing between paragraphs unless specified otherwise.
• Align text to the left margin; avoid justifying the text or using a centered alignment.

Title Page (if required):

• If your instructor requires a title page, include the essay title, your name, the course title, the instructor's name, and the date.
• Center-align this information vertically and horizontally on the page.
• Include a header on each page (excluding the title page if applicable) with your last name and the page number, flush right.
• Some instructors may require a shortened title in the header, usually in all capital letters.
• Center-align the essay title at the top of the first page (if a title page is not required).
• Use standard capitalization (capitalize the first letter of each major word).
• Avoid underlining, italicizing, or bolding the title unless necessary for emphasis.

Paragraph Indentation:

• Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches or use the tab key.
• Do not insert extra spaces between paragraphs unless instructed otherwise.

Citations and References:

• Follow the citation style specified by your instructor (e.g., MLA, APA, Chicago).
• Include in-text citations whenever you use information or ideas from external sources.
• Provide a bibliography or list of references at the end of your history essay, formatted according to the citation style guidelines.
• Typically, history essays range from 1000 to 2500 words, but this can vary depending on the assignment.

How to Write a History Essay?

Historical writing can be an exciting journey through time, but it requires careful planning and organization. In this section, we'll break down the process into simple steps to help you craft a compelling and well-structured history paper.

Analyze the Question

Before diving headfirst into writing, take a moment to dissect the essay question. Read it carefully, and then read it again. You want to get to the core of what it's asking. Look out for keywords that indicate what aspects of the topic you need to focus on. If you're unsure about anything, don't hesitate to ask your instructor for clarification. Remember, understanding how to start a history essay is half the battle won!

Now, let's break this step down:

• Read the question carefully and identify keywords or phrases.
• Consider what the question is asking you to do – are you being asked to analyze, compare, contrast, or evaluate?
• Pay attention to any specific instructions or requirements provided in the question.
• Take note of the time period or historical events mentioned in the question – this will give you a clue about the scope of your history essay.

Develop a Strategy

With a clear understanding of the essay question, it's time to map out your approach. Here's how to develop your historical writing strategy:

• Brainstorm ideas : Take a moment to jot down any initial thoughts or ideas that come to mind in response to the history paper question. This can help you generate a list of potential arguments, themes, or points you want to explore in your history essay.
• Create an outline : Once you have a list of ideas, organize them into a logical structure. Start with a clear introduction that introduces your topic and presents your thesis statement – the main argument or point you'll be making in your history essay. Then, outline the key points or arguments you'll be discussing in each paragraph of the body, making sure they relate back to your thesis. Finally, plan a conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces your history paper thesis.
• Research : Before diving into writing, gather evidence to support your arguments. Use reputable sources such as books, academic journals, and primary documents to gather historical evidence and examples. Take notes as you research, making sure to record the source of each piece of information for proper citation later on.
• Consider counterarguments : Anticipate potential counterarguments to your history paper thesis and think about how you'll address them in your essay. Acknowledging opposing viewpoints and refuting them strengthens your argument and demonstrates critical thinking.
• Set realistic goals : Be realistic about the scope of your history essay and the time you have available to complete it. Break down your writing process into manageable tasks, such as researching, drafting, and revising, and set deadlines for each stage to stay on track.

Start Your Research

Now that you've grasped the history essay topic and outlined your approach, it's time to dive into research. Here's how to start:

• Ask questions : What do you need to know? What are the key points to explore further? Write down your inquiries to guide your research.
• Explore diverse sources : Look beyond textbooks. Check academic journals, reliable websites, and primary sources like documents or artifacts.
• Consider perspectives : Think about different viewpoints on your topic. How have historians analyzed it? Are there controversies or differing interpretations?
• Take organized notes : Summarize key points, jot down quotes, and record your thoughts and questions. Stay organized using spreadsheets or note-taking apps.
• Evaluate sources : Consider the credibility and bias of each source. Are they peer-reviewed? Do they represent a particular viewpoint?

Establish a Viewpoint

By establishing a clear viewpoint and supporting arguments, you'll lay the foundation for your compelling historical writing:

• Review your research : Reflect on the information gathered. What patterns or themes emerge? Which perspectives resonate with you?
• Formulate a thesis statement : Based on your research, develop a clear and concise thesis that states your argument or interpretation of the topic.
• Consider counterarguments : Anticipate objections to your history paper thesis. Are there alternative viewpoints or evidence that you need to address?
• Craft supporting arguments : Outline the main points that support your thesis. Use evidence from your research to strengthen your arguments.
• Stay flexible : Be open to adjusting your viewpoint as you continue writing and researching. New information may challenge or refine your initial ideas.

Structure Your Essay

Now that you've delved into the depths of researching historical events and established your viewpoint, it's time to craft the skeleton of your essay: its structure. Think of your history essay outline as constructing a sturdy bridge between your ideas and your reader's understanding. How will you lead them from point A to point Z? Will you follow a chronological path through history or perhaps dissect themes that span across time periods?

And don't forget about the importance of your introduction and conclusion—are they framing your narrative effectively, enticing your audience to read your paper, and leaving them with lingering thoughts long after they've turned the final page? So, as you lay the bricks of your history essay's architecture, ask yourself: How can I best lead my audience through the maze of time and thought, leaving them enlightened and enriched on the other side?

Create an Engaging Introduction

Creating an engaging introduction is crucial for capturing your reader's interest right from the start. But how do you do it? Think about what makes your topic fascinating. Is there a surprising fact or a compelling story you can share? Maybe you could ask a thought-provoking question that gets people thinking. Consider why your topic matters—what lessons can we learn from history?

Also, remember to explain what your history essay will be about and why it's worth reading. What will grab your reader's attention and make them want to learn more? How can you make your essay relevant and intriguing right from the beginning?

Develop Coherent Paragraphs

Once you've established your introduction, the next step is to develop coherent paragraphs that effectively communicate your ideas. Each paragraph should focus on one main point or argument, supported by evidence or examples from your research. Start by introducing the main idea in a topic sentence, then provide supporting details or evidence to reinforce your point.

Make sure to use transition words and phrases to guide your reader smoothly from one idea to the next, creating a logical flow throughout your history essay. Additionally, consider the organization of your paragraphs—is there a clear progression of ideas that builds upon each other? Are your paragraphs unified around a central theme or argument?

Conclude Effectively

Concluding your history essay effectively is just as important as starting it off strong. In your conclusion, you want to wrap up your main points while leaving a lasting impression on your reader. Begin by summarizing the key points you've made throughout your history essay, reminding your reader of the main arguments and insights you've presented.

Then, consider the broader significance of your topic—what implications does it have for our understanding of history or for the world today? You might also want to reflect on any unanswered questions or areas for further exploration. Finally, end with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action that encourages your reader to continue thinking about the topic long after they've finished reading.

Reference Your Sources

Referencing your sources is essential for maintaining the integrity of your history essay and giving credit to the scholars and researchers who have contributed to your understanding of the topic. Depending on the citation style required (such as MLA, APA, or Chicago), you'll need to format your references accordingly. Start by compiling a list of all the sources you've consulted, including books, articles, websites, and any other materials used in your research.

Then, as you write your history essay, make sure to properly cite each source whenever you use information or ideas that are not your own. This includes direct quotations, paraphrases, and summaries. Remember to include all necessary information for each source, such as author names, publication dates, and page numbers, as required by your chosen citation style.

Review and Ask for Advice

As you near the completion of your history essay writing, it's crucial to take a step back and review your work with a critical eye. Reflect on the clarity and coherence of your arguments—are they logically organized and effectively supported by evidence? Consider the strength of your introduction and conclusion—do they effectively capture the reader's attention and leave a lasting impression? Take the time to carefully proofread your history essay for any grammatical errors or typos that may detract from your overall message.

Furthermore, seeking advice from peers, mentors, or instructors can provide valuable insights and help identify areas for improvement. Consider sharing your essay with someone whose feedback you trust and respect, and be open to constructive criticism. Ask specific questions about areas you're unsure about or where you feel your history essay may be lacking. If you need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out and ask for help. You can even consider utilizing services that offer to write a discussion post for me , where you can engage in meaningful conversations with others about your essay topic and receive additional guidance and support.

History Essay Example

In this section, we offer an example of a history essay examining the impact of the Industrial Revolution on society. This essay demonstrates how historical analysis and critical thinking are applied in academic writing. By exploring this specific event, you can observe how historical evidence is used to build a cohesive argument and draw meaningful conclusions.

FAQs about History Essay Writing

How to write a history essay introduction, how to write a conclusion for a history essay, how to write a good history essay.

Samuel Gorbold , a seasoned professor with over 30 years of experience, guides students across disciplines such as English, psychology, political science, and many more. Together with EssayHub, he is dedicated to enhancing student understanding and success through comprehensive academic support.

• Plagiarism Report
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Department of History

Farewells to arms war in modern european history, 1815-2015 (hi178), tips on essay writing, first steps.

Read and analyse the essay title. Be as careful and thorough as possible, and answer a set of basic questions: What is the subject matter? What period shall I consider? Which geographic area? Etc… The punctuation, the use of singular/plural, may also be important.

Then, write down your preliminary thoughts and ideas and try to identify the historical problem raised by the question. You will indeed soon realize that history is just as much about questions as it is about answers…

Your tool box

The quality of an essay largely depends on the approach adopted by its author. Much, therefore, hinges on your understanding of the question. As a result, you should pay particular attention to your reading and interpretation of the essay title. An interesting and cogent argument only stems from a sophisticated understanding of the topic under consideration.

As Marc Bloch might have put it, the historian’s craft depends on his/her ability to choose and use the right tools to make sense of the experience of past societies. It is indeed very important for you to create what I would call “a conceptual tool box”, a set of core concepts and definitions you would then be able to draw on to understand and delineate the essay question, to formulate a historical problem, and to construct your own interpretation.

When dealing with issues in British or European history and politics for instance, you need to have in mind a clear and concise definition of notions such as republicanism, conservatism, liberalism, socialism, authoritarianism, sovereignty, polity, citizenry, etc.

Lectures and seminars will give you the opportunity to get acquainted with the most important notions, concepts, and categories of analysis you need. It is however essential for you to build up a personal repository of concepts through your own academic and extra-curricular reading and reflections.

At the end of your course, you will obviously be expected to demonstrate a very good command of the areas and topics covered by the different modules. Yet, you are not only expected to know, but also to prove you know how to think historically, critically about those issues. This is where it gets tricky, challenging and… really good fun! Don’t panic though. You have a couple of years ahead of you and your tutors are here to guide and help you.

How to organize your argument and structure your essay.

The introduction should consist – at least – of the following three points: • First: introduce and present the subject matter in broad terms • Secondly – and most importantly –: identify and clarify the historical problem raised by the essay title. This of course differs from the mere presentation of the topic and goes to the crux of the matter. • Thirdly: signpost your argument

Think about the essay as a walk…

As you are taking your reader on a walk, you first need to invite her/him, to let her/him know where you are both going to (introduce the subject matter). To capture her/his attention, her/his historical imagination, you need to make clear why the walk is worth her/his time and energy (raise the historical problem). Then show her/him the path you have decided to follow… (signpost your argument) Once you have done that, take the reader’s hand and lead the way…

The body of the essay should present and detail your reasoning in a clear and systematic fashion. 1- Make sure that your overall analysis and each of your individual points is buttressed by historical evidence. 2- Make sure your essay follows a logical order; that the succession of points, sections, and paragraphs derives from an intellectual logic. In other words, your essay should not be a mere catalogue of ideas but should present them in a reasoned and coherent way.

It is important to bear in mind that you are working to satisfy a particular type of readership. Your job is indeed to convince your tutor/examiner of the validity and solidity of your argument. And this is why you ought to pay particular attention to the structure of the essay.

Last but not least… do not only think about yourself as the author of the essay, but also as its editor. It is indeed extremely important for you to pause and think critically about your own argument. Once you have built your essay’s plan or structure, take a serious look at it, be your own critic and amend your work accordingly. Repeat the exercise when the writing is done. It is a very good way to refine and improve your argument.

Each seminar session is structured around an essay question, so we will effectively be practicing the methodology of the essay every week.

Essay Writing Template

I designed an essay writing template (download here ) to help you plan your essay and write the introduction. We will talk about the way to use it but you are free to adapt it.

126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions

Modern history covers an impressive number of significant events. It is fascinating but, at the same time, quite complicated. Therefore, the understanding of the key concepts can be challenging.

The unpredicted turn of events and difficulties in setting the exact time frames often confuse people. As a result, they become lost and discouraged. Sometimes, history studying even becomes a real torture for students.

Are you struggling with the search for modern history topics for your essay? You are on the right page! The selection of the appropriate and useful ideas for your successful paper has never been this easy. Our team created a comprehensive modern history topics list. We encourage you to use it to write a well-developed and robust history essay.

🔝 Top-10 Interesting Modern History Topics

📋 historical investigation topics: modern history, 🐉 16th-17th centuries, 🚂18th-19th centuries, ☢️ 20th century, 🚢 16th-17th centuries, ⚔️ 18th-19th centuries, 🏭 20th century, 🏹 16th-17th centuries, 🏗️ 18th-19th centuries, 🚀 20th century, ❓ modern history essay questions.

• The Great Depression.
• Modern history of Asia.
• The Cold War.
• World War 2.
• The American Revolution.
• The Mexican-American war.
• Modern history of Africa.
• Black Lives Matter Movement.
• Modern Indian history.
• Famous art movements in history.

To find relevant history essay topics, you need to be confident in detecting the time frames. The modern history is divided into three periods:

• Early Modern Period (1500-1750)
• Late Modern Period (1750-1945)
• Contemporary Period (1945-present)

For your convenience, we divided modern history essay questions into several categories. We grouped our ideas according to location and time frames.

For a proper search, first, choose a country of your interest—it can be the USA, for instance. Then, decide on the period that your assignment requires. For example, you may need interesting 20th-century history topics. After that, go to the corresponding section and explore the topic list. Pick one that you find the most fascinating and start creating your successful essay!

🗺️ Modern World History Topics

Starting from the 16th century and moving to the present times, modern history is developing. Think about it: what we have now reflects on what happened in the past. Analyzing the impact of historical events and figures, we cannot deny their significance.

The civilization went through two world wars, the industrial revolution, demographic movements, etc. All these events contribute to world development to a great extent.

Below, you’ll see modern history essay questions and topics. To examine a picked title on a deeper level, you may need to quite a lot of research. Worth it, though.

• Religious symbolism in renaissance paintings .
• China’s Qing Dynasty .
• The growth of Daoism during the late Qing dynasty .
• How did Buddhism become a tool of the Chinese Empire’s transformation?

• The 17th-century Catholic church: the historical authenticity vs. horizon expansion.
• What was the history of the human rights’ evolution vs. violation in the modern world?
• Ottoman–Safavid war of 1623–1639: a great conflict between the Ottoman Empire and Safavid Persia.
• Slavery in Africa . What was the dimension of slavery in Africa? Comment on who and how acquired native population for slavery. What were the roles of salves? Discuss the effects of slavery in Africa.
• Qing dynasty : the last dynasty of China. How was the Qing dynasty developing? Comment on the origins of the Qing dynasty. Investigate political and economic development during the Qing Dynasty. How did the dynasty collapse?
• Renaissance as the Revival of the World. What are the time frames of the Renaissance period? Discuss the origins of the Renaissance. Introduce the leading representatives of the Renaissance period? Explain why humanism was the central concept of the renaissance period.
• The industrial revolution and beyond: culture, work, and social change .
• What was the role of trade unions in the 18th-19th centuries?
• Russo-Turkish war of 1877-1878.
• Evolution of the scientific revolution : the development of science.
• History of Fukuzawa Yukichi: westernization of Japan.
• Industrial revolution history . Briefly introduce the background of the industrial revolution. Which effects did the revolution have on society? Examine the world economy improvement due to the industrial revolution.
• What were the cornerstones of scientific development? Examine the progress in biology studying. Who are the leading representatives of the biology progress of the given period? Comment on the impact of natural strides on the modern world. What are the most significant accomplishments of scientists?

• Durrani Empire – the great empire of the 18th-19th centuries. How was the empire established? Who were the rulers? The Afgan state foundation as a part of the Durrani Empire’s existence. What was the relationship of the Durani Empire with China? Describe the decline of the empire.
• Social studies advancement. What branches of social studies were the most developed in the 16th-17th centuries? Focus your attention on political science, geography, economics, sociology, psychology. Explain the reason for ongoing social studies’ progress.
• Taiping Rebellion in China: the bloodiest conflict of the 19th century. Examine the causes of the conflict. What were the outcomes of the Taiping Rebellion? Discuss why Hong Xiuquan (the leader of the Taiping Rebellion) proclaimed himself Jesus’s younger brother.

The 20th century is one of the most influential and landmark periods in recent history. It focuses mainly on two world wars. The events of this period directly affect current society formation. The list below presents 20th-century world history essay topics. So, take benefit of it! Choose the most appropriate topic for your essay!

• World War I origins (how and why the war started)
• World War II positive and negative repercussions
• Cold War major aspects and events
• Feminist Movement in Canada.
• What is the heritage of the Soviet Union ?

• The communist party in the Soviet Union and China.
• The major causes of the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States.
• What is the King–Byng affair? Consider the constitutional crisis in Canada of 1926. Discuss the causes and effects of the King-Byng affair. Examine how did the King-Byng lead to constitutional reform.
• China’s democracy movement . Examine the beginning of the Chinese democratic movement. Consider the new democratic revolution and the cultural revolution. How do these events reflect on China’s democracy movement? Discover the issue of democracy wall movement. What was the reason for political persecution in China caused by the democratic movement?
• World War I vs. World War II . Examine the differences and similarities of the two world wars. Analyze the causes and the outcomes of both wars. Give your own opinion: which war do you think has more positive effects on social development? Which war has more negative consequences on social development?

🛠️ European Modern History Research Topics

Modern European history is quite versatile and broad. Therefore, it offers a wide variety of topics to explore. The period of the 16th-20th centuries is full of landmark events. They are the reformation, the age of discovery, various worldwide conflicts, etc.

Our writing team developed a list of modern European history essay topics. So, if you need to compose an outstanding essay, you are more than welcome to use the ideas presented below!

• European Christianity and its decline from the 16th century .
• The significance of Martin Luther and the protestant reformation in the history of western civilization .
• Age of discovery in Europe.
• How and in what ways did the use of print change the lives of early modern Europeans?
• The Spanish Armada: Britain and Spain in Battle of the Seas.
• The centers of Christianity placement: a European approach to Christianity spreading.
• The Enlightenment. How did the enlightenment philosophy affect Europe’s religions in the 16th and 17th centuries? Explain how the enlightenment philosophy impacted Europe’s political institutions. In what way did the enlightenment philosophy influence Europe’s social class in the 16th and 17th centuries?
• Studies of Western Europe: Columbus’ journey. Discuss an account of Columbus’ voyage. How did Columbus’ journey influence the development of geography in the 16th-17th centuries? Examine the theories leading to Columbus’s voyage.
• The Thirty Years War. Indicate the origins of the war. What were the outcomes of the war? Analyze the casualties and diseases caused by the Thirty Years War.
• Reformation and development of the arts. Discuss the spreading of the reformation in Europe. Who were the key players in the reformation era? What was the effect of reformation on the arts?
• The French Revolution and Napoleon’s governance.
• Napoleon’s French army, 1800-1808: motivation and military culture
• The most outstanding philosophers of Europe on the Enlightenment Age.

• The British Empire and international affairs.
• Napoleon Bonaparte: His successes and failures.
• Napoleon: A child and destroyer of the French Revolution.
• James Cook – the first European to land on the Hawaiian Islands . Conduct small research on James Cook’s biography. Examine his three voyages. How did his discovery of the Hawaiian Islands impact Europe? Did the perception of American geography change?
• Irish Rebellion of 1798 as the protest against British rule in Ireland . What was the background of the Irish Rebellion? Provide a detailed description of the timeline of the rebellion. What are the positive and negative outcomes of the Irish Rebellion?
• The scientific progress in the 18th-19th centuries. Discuss the three outstanding inventions listed below: a. The identification of X-Rays by Wilhelm Röntgen. b. How did Joseph Swan invent the first electric lightbulb? c. The Hansen Writing Ball (the first commercially sold typewriter) by Rasmus Malling-Hansen. How did these inventions push the scientific progress forward?
• The Kulturkampf (“Culture War”). Examine the timeline and laws established during the Culture War. What are the differences and similarities of the Culture War in the following countries: a. Germany b. Switzerland c. Austria d. Italy e. Belgium

The 20th Century is a watershed period in European history. The events, which occurred during that time, considerably contribute to European society formation. The list below includes 20th-century European history essay topics. Enjoy using it for your successful work!

• What were the critical technological advancements in Europe during World War I?

• World War II Innovations.
• How useful is the term ‘fascism’ when applied generically to describe the far-right in interwar Europe?
• Role of the Woman during the Spanish Civil War.
• Cold War Consequences for European Countries.
• Has security been the main driver behind European integration since World War Two?
• The Great Depression of 1929–1939 . What is the impact of depression in Eastern Europe and on Western Europe? Explain the role of the League of Nations in dealing with the Great Depression. What are the causes of the Great Depression in Europe?
• How did European poets and writers of the 20th century describe World War I and World War II in the books? The visualization of the conflicts occurred during the wars in the literature.
• Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact. Briefly discuss reforms in the Eastern Europe geographical division. What was the compromise of Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin? Analyze the consequences of Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact for different countries. Consider the effects on Finland, Poland, the Baltic States, and Romania. What was the outcome of the pact?
• The cultural development of Europe in the 20th century. There are two famous influencers of European art advancement: a. Consider Richard Georg Strauss as the key figure of the 20th-century European music. b. Was Pablo Ruiz Picasso a significant figure of 20th-century European art progress? Discuss how these individuals contributed to the cultural flourishing in 20th-century Europe.

📻 US History Topics to Write about

The USA is a relatively young nation. Nevertheless, American history impresses with a wide variety of significant events. During its lifespan, the country faced wars, revolutions, inner and outer conflicts, reformations, and more.

The list of essential episodes of USA history is unbelievably long. So if you are overwhelmed with the oversaturation, don’t be confused and upset. Take a look at our modern American history topics. You will find something useful here.

• The Native Americans’ history.
• Conquest and colonization of America by Europeans.
• How did religion affect the pattern of colonization in America and life in those colonies?
• The importance of the process of colonization and the formation of unique cultures in America to the formation of the United States.
• Royal African Company. Why did a trading company have the greatest impact on the slave trade establishment in the USA?
• What was the impact of European colonization on American culture?
• The colonization of America as one of the most famous early American history topics . What were the goals of the conquest? What countries took part in the colonization of the USA?
• French-Indian War of 1754–1763. Examine the background of the war. Then, describe the course of the war. What were the consequences of the conflict through economic and political perspectives?
• How did the 17th century become the beginning of the slavery era in the USA?

• American History: the Road to Civil War
• The political reforms in 18th-century America.
• How does American literature reflect on the events of the Civil War?
• The Ideas of Freedom and Slavery in Relation to the American Revolution
• Visual art of the USA. Comment on Europe as a significant influencer of American art flourishing.
• Causes of the Civil War in the USA.
• History of the African-Americans Religion During the Time of Slavery
• United States Declaration of Independence of 1776: causes and effects.
• The Opium Trade: the new way of exporting goods from China to Britain through the USA.
• Industrialization as the leading cause of economic growth in the 19th century.
• The War of 1812 in American history .
• Anti-slavery movements in the United States. The people’s desire to abolish slavery: a fiction or a reality? Who were the most outstanding leaders od the anti-slavery movement? Explain how movement pushed the slavery abolishment forward.

You may notice that the 20th century US history topics are diverse. An impressive number of landmark events occurred during the 1900s. They immensely contributed to modern USA development.

The following essay questions will help you investigate. Find the most significant events of 20th-century American history and start your research.

• The American strategic culture in the Vietnam War.
• How did Ellis Island become a hospital for the American army during World War I?

• Cold War Major Aspects and Events .
• What were the USA contributions to the space age?
• The problem of the USA exposed by the Great Depression.
• Latinos’ civil rights’ winning in the post-war U.S.
• America in World War II – experiences and impacts.
• Martin Luther King as the main leader of the civil rights movement.
• Immigration Act of 1924. Examine the provisions of the act. What was the reason for the Immigration Act implementation? What was the result of this event?
• Charles Cough as the key figure of the populism movement in the U. S. Introduce the central concepts of populism. How did it affect America? Analyze Cough’s activities as a populist figure. What role did the National Union for Social Justice play in the movement?
• When Does Modern History Begin?
• What Is Meant by Modern History?
• What Is an Example of Modern History?
• When Did Modern History Start?
• What Are the Features of Modern History?
• Why Is the Study of Modern History Critical?
• What Is the Difference Between Ancient History and Modern History?
• How Is Modern History Different From Contemporary History?
• What Is the Difference Between Medieval History and Modern History?
• When Did Modern History Start and End?
• What Are the Five Eras of Modern History?
• What Are the Four Essential Characteristics of Modern History?
• Who Is Known as the Father of Modern History?
• Is Modern History Helpful?
• What Is the Modern History Concept?
• Who Is the Father of Modern History?
• What Is Greek and Roman Influence on Modern History?
• How Did Human Subjectivity Affect Foundations of Modern History?
• What’s the Role of Liberalism Through Modern History?
• How Modern History Changes the Family?
• How Does the Printing Press Affect Modern History?
• How the Boxer Rebellion Was a Turning Point in China’s Modern History?
• Why Should Modern History Begin With 1815?
• What Are the Similarities Between the History of the Easter Islands and the Modern History of Our Society?
• Who Is Called the Mother of Modern History?

Thank you for visiting our page! We hope the article was helpful for your studies. Don’t forget to leave your comments and share this page with your friends.

🔗References

• Internet Modern History Sourcebook: Paul Halsall for the History Department of Fordham University, New York
• 100 Good Research Paper Topics for History Class: Jule Romans for Owlcation
• Writing Historical Essays: History Department, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
• How To Write a Good History Essay: Robert Pearce for History Today
• The Journal of Modern History, Vol 92, No 1: The University of Chicago Press Journals
• Early Modern Europe: Department of History, Princeton University
• Writing a Thesis and Making an Argument: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, The University of Iowa
• Tips for Writing Essay Exams: LSJ Writing Center, the University of Washington
• Beginning the Academic Essay: Patricia Kain for the Writing Center at Harvard University
• Demographics Topics
• Modernization Theory Research Topics
• Crime Ideas
• Economic Topics
• Culture Topics
• Ethnographic Paper Topics
• Globalization Essay Topics
• Immigration Titles
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, October 27). 126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/

"126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions." IvyPanda , 27 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2023) '126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions'. 27 October.

IvyPanda . 2023. "126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions." October 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions." October 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/.

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IvyPanda . "126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions." October 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/.

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Modern History: How to structure an essay + sample essay paragraphs

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