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300+ American History Research Paper Topics

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

American History Research Paper Topics

American History Research Paper Topics are as follows:

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

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Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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American history research guide, american history: smithsonian institution resources, american immigration history, american industrial history.

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The Smithsonian Libraries and Archives' American History Research Guide is a select list of resources for students, teachers, and researchers to learn about various topics of American History. 

• Anacostia Community Museum
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• From Smithson to Smithsonian: The Birth of an Institution :  Bibliography on the History of the Smithsonian Institution
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• Balch Institute for Ethnic Studies : The Balch Institute for Ethnic Studies which documents and interprets the ethnic and immigrant experience in the United States. Balch Institute for Ethnic Studies has recently merged into the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
• Bracero History Archive : The Bracero History Archive collects and makes available the oral histories and artifacts pertaining to the Bracero program, a guest worker initiative that spanned the years 1942-1964. Millions of Mexican agricultural workers crossed the border under the program to work in more than half of the states in America.
• Ellis Island : The Ellis Island Immigration Museum and their online American Family Immigration History Center (AFIHC) allows visitors to explore the collection of immigrant arrival records stored in the Ellis Island Archives.
• Immigrant Arrivals: A Guide To Published Sources : Library of Congress bibliography of print and web based resources.
• Immigration History Research Center : The IHRC develops and maintains a library and archival collection, provides research assistance, produces publications, and sponsors academic and public programs. Its work supports the parent institution, the University of Minnesota.
• Immigration to the United States, 1789-1930 : Immigration to the United States, 1789-1930, is a web-based collection of selected historical materials from Harvard's libraries, archives, and museums that documents voluntary immigration to the US from the signing of the Constitution to the onset of the Great Depression.
• I mmigration: The Changing Face of America : A Library of Congress site for teachers and students.
• National Archives & Records Administration Immigration Records: Immigration Records : NARA has immigration records for arrivals to the United States from foreign ports between approximately 1800 and 1959. The records are arranged by Port of Arrival.
• Beyond Steel: An Archive of Lehigh Valley Industry and Culture : This Lehigh University Digital Library site highlights the Lehigh Valley's mid nineteenth-century boom, late twentieth-century decline and continuing community readjustment. Through the digitization and presentation of letters, books, photographs, maps, essays, and oral histories the site will aid researchers in understanding not only the lives of railroad barons and steel titans, but also the experiences of average folks who worked and lived in the community.
• Inside an American Factory: Westinghouse Works Collection : A part of the Library of Congress American Memory Project, this collection of films, images and text. The collection contains 21 films showing various views of Westinghouse companies. Most prominently featured are the Westinghouse Air Brake Company, the Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company, and the Westinghouse Machine Company.
• U.S. Steel Gary Works Photograph Collection : The Indiana University Digital Library Program is produced this series of more than 2,200 photographs of the Gary Works steel mill and the corporate town of Gary, Indiana held by the Calumet Regional Archives at Indiana University Northwest.

American Music History Resources

• African-American Sheet Music, 1850-1920 : The sheet music in this digital collection has been selected from the Sheet Music Collection at the John Hay Library at Brown University. The full collection consists of approximately 500,000 items, of which perhaps 250,000 are currently available for use. It is one of the largest collections of sheet music in any library in the United States.
• Azúcar! The Life and Music of Celia Cruz

A bibliography of monographs and lesson plans for teachers from K to 12.

• Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments : Features descriptions and images of many items in the collection and publication lists.
• Historic American Sheet Music : The Historic American Sheet Music Project provides access to digital images of 3,042 pieces from the Rare Book, Manuscript, and Special Collections Library at Duke University, published in America between 1850 and 1920.
• Historic Sheet Music, 1800-1922 : This sheet music collection from the Library of Congress consists of approximately 9,000 items published from 1800 to 1922, although the majority is from 1850 to 1920. The bulk was published in many different cities in the United States, but some of the items bear European imprints. Most of the music is written for voice and piano; a significant minority is instrumental. Notable in this collection are early pieces by Irving Berlin and Jerome Kern, as well as music by other popular composers such as Victor Herbert, Jean Schwartz, Paul Dresser, Ernest R. Ball, Gussie L. Davis, Charles K. Harris, and George M. Cohan. Numerous arrangements of classical tunes by Bach, Beethoven, Schubert and other famous classical composers are also well-represented.
• Lester S. Levy Collection of Sheet Music : This collection, at the Milton S. Eisenhower Library of The Johns Hopkins University, contains over 29,000 pieces of music and focuses on popular American music spanning the period 1780 to 1960. All pieces of the collection are indexed on this site and a search will retrieve a catalog description of the pieces and an image of the cover and each page of music.
• RoJaRo Index : An index to more than 300,000 entries, covering 250 music magazines from 20 countries, covering all types of contemporary popular music: rock, jazz, roots, blues, rap, soul, gospel, country, reggae, etc.

The Sheet Music Consortium : The Archive of Popular American Music is a non-circulating research collection covering the history of popular music in America from 1790 to the present. The collection is one of the largest in the country, numbering almost 450,000 pieces of sheet music, anthologies, and arrangements for band and orchestra, and 62,500 recordings on disc, tape, and cylinder. Subject strengths within twentieth-century holdings include music for theater, motion picture, radio and television, as well as general popular, country, rhythm and blues, and rocksongs.

• A Century of Lawmaking for a New Nation : A Century of Lawmaking for a New Nation consists of a linked set of published Congressional records of the United States of America from the Continental Congress through the 43rd Congress, 1774-1875.  A select number of documents and reports from the monumental U.S. Congressional Serial Set are available as well.
• American Presidency : This online exhibition from the National Museum of American History has a bibliography under the Resources and Teacher Materials which are age and grade specific.
• American Presidency Project : The American Presidency Project was established in 1999 as a collaboration between John Woolley and Gerhard Peters at the University of California, Santa Barbara. The archives contain 75,117 documents related to the study of the Presidency.
• American President : This resource is sponsored by the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia. Launched originally in 2000 as the online companion to "The American President" -- the six-part PBS television series -- American President is a resource on the history of the presidency and the nature of contemporary policy making.
• Biographical Directory of the U.S. Congress : Online publication of the Biographical Directory of the U.S. Congress, published by the Senate Historical Office and the Legislative Resource Center of the House of Representatives. Includes images from the Senate Historical Office. Database is searchable by name, position, and state.
• Center for the Study of the Presidency : The Center is a non-profit educational institution devoted to the study of the presidency, government, and politics.
• Data.gov : The purpose of Data.gov is to increase public access to high value, machine readable datasets generated by the Executive Branch of the Federal Government. Data.gov includes searchable data catalogs providing access to data in three ways: through the "raw" data catalog, the tool catalog and the geodata catalog.
• Encyclopædia Britannica's profile of the American Presidency : Read about the presidents and explore the electoral process, election results, images, video, and important documents related to the evolution of the nation's highest office.
• I Do Solemnly Swear... Presidential Inaugurations : This Library of Congress collection offers approximately 400 items or 2,000 digital files from each of the 54 inaugurations from George Washington's in 1789 to George W. Bush's inauguration of 2001. This includes diaries and letters of presidents and of those who witnessed inaugurations, handwritten drafts of inaugural addresses, broadsides, inaugural tickets and programs, prints, photographs, and sheet music.
• JFK Assassination Records Collection Reference System : Over 170,000 assassination-related documents. Contributing agencies include: the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); the Department of Justice; and the Department of State.
• Miller Center of Public Affairs : The Scripps Library and Multimedia Archive serves as a research facility for scholars of U. S. public policy. The Library’s collection is a specialized one focused on American politics and history with special attention paid to the American Presidency.
• POTUS: Presidents of the United States : This resource you will find background information, election results, cabinet members, notable events, and some points of interest on each of the presidents. Links to biographies, historical documents, audio and video files, and other presidential sites are also included.
• Presidential Libraries of the National Archives & Records Administration : The Presidential Library system is made up of ten Presidential Libraries. This nationwide network of libraries is administered by the Office of Presidential Libraries, which is part of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), located in College Park, MD. These are not traditional libraries, but rather repositories for preserving and making available the papers, records, and other historical materials of U.S. Presidents since Herbert Hoover.
• The Role of the Vice President : A brief history of the role of the Vice President as President of the U.S. Senate.
• THOMAS - The Library of Congress : THOMAS has the Congressional Record and full text of legislation available from 1989 (101st Congress) to the present. In addition, THOMAS has summaries (not full text) of legislation from 1973 (93rd Congress). From the Library of Congress.
• Voting America: United States Politics, 1840-2008 : This University of Richmond project examines the evolution of presidential politics in the United States across the span of American history. It offers a wide spectrum of cinematic and interactive visualizations of how Americans voted in presidential elections at the county level over the past 164 years. There are expert analysis and commentary videos that discuss some of the most interesting and significant trends in American political history.
• Voting and Registration (U.S. Census Bureau Data) : Contains information on reported voting and registration by various demographic and socioeconomic characteristics for the United States.
• White House Historical Association : The White House Historical Association is a charitable nonprofit institution whose purpose is to enhance the understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the White House.
• The White House Building : Information on the White House, including historical details.
• Women in Congress : This web site, based on the book Women in Congress, 1917–2006, contains biographical profiles of former women Members of Congress, links to information about current women Members, essays on the institutional and national events that shaped successive generations of Congresswomen, and images of each woman Member, including rare photos.
• American Jewish Historical Society : The American Jewish Historical Society is the oldest national ethnic historical organization in the United States. The Society’s library, archives, photograph, and art and artifacts collections document the American Jewish experience.
• American Religion Data Archive : The ARDA collection includes data on churches and church membership, religious professionals, and religious groups (individuals, congregations and denominations).
• Divining America: Religion and the National Culture : Divining America: Religion and the National Culture is designed to help teachers of American history bring their students to a greater understanding of the role religion has played in the development of the United States.
• Journal of Southern Religion : JSR is an online journal targeted toward scholars, students, and others who are engaged in or interested in the study of Southern religion and culture.
• Material History of American Religion Project : The Material History of American Religion Project studied (1995-2001) the history of American religion in all its complexity by focusing on material objects and economic themes.
• North Star: A Journal of African-American Religious History : An online journal sponsored by Princeton University.
• Religion and the Founding of the American Republic (Library of Congress) : Encompassing over 200 objects including early American books, manuscripts, letters, prints, paintings, artifacts, and music from the Library’s collections and complemented by loans from other institutions, Religion and the Founding of the American Republic explores the role religion played in the founding of the American colonies, in the shaping of early American life and politics, and in forming the American Republic.
• Religious Movements Homepage Project at the University of Virginia : This Web site presents detailed profiles of more than two hundred different religious groups and movements in the United States.
• Santos: Substance and Soul : There are nine separate reading lists on topics related to the history, culture, preservation, and identification of Santos objects.
• Brooklyn Daily Eagle Online  (1841-1902) : The Brooklyn Daily Eagle was published from October 26, 1841 to 1955 and was revived for a short time from 1960 to 1963. Currently, the digitized newspaper collection includes the period from October 26, 1841 to December 31, 1902, representing half of the Eagle's years of publication.
• Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers : This Library of Congress site allows you to search and read newspaper pages from 1900-1910 and find information about American newspapers published between 1690-present.
• Common-Place: The Interactive Journal of Early American Life : Common-Place is an electronic quarterly journal about early American history and culture before 1900.
• Documenting the American South - University of North Carolina : Documenting the American South (DocSouth) is a digital publishing initiative that provides Internet access to texts, images, and audio files related to southern history, literature, and culture. Currently DocSouth includes ten thematic collections of books, diaries, posters, artifacts, letters, oral history interviews, and songs.
• Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History : The Gilder Lehrman Collection is the largest private collection of American history documents in the world. It preserves, exhibits, and disseminates archival resources chronicling the history of the United States from the beginning of European colonization, with emphasis on the period from 1760 through 1876. The collection contains resources on the history of colonial settlement, Indian relations, the American Revolution and its origins, the Constitution, the struggle over slavery, and the Civil War.
• H-Net Web Site : H-Net Web Site includes archived copies of all history related listserv discussion lists and vacancy announcements for various fields in the humanities.
• Making of America - Cornell University : Materials accessible here are Cornell University Library's contributions to Making of America (MOA), a digital library of primary sources in American social history from the antebellum period through reconstruction. The collection is particularly strong in the subject areas of education, psychology, American history, sociology, religion, and science and technology.
• The G.I. Roundtable Series : The American Historical Association produced the G.I. Roundtable Series to help win World War II. The site is comprised of three main sections. Section I: The pamphlets, reproduced here as primary documents, provide a unique insight into what Americans were thinking about at the end of the war, and how the recent past was seen as a prelude to the future. Section II: A still-evolving selection of Background documents and related readings to provide context on the origins and production of the series and the historiography of the period. Section III: The site provides an extensive analysis of the origins of the series, and how it fit into both the Army's larger program of preparation for postwar changes as well as the larger culture in which they were produced.
• Within These Walls : An annotated reading list for elementary and middle school students and an extensive bibliography for older students interested in the themes related to the Ipswich House exhibition.
• Cookery and Foodways Collection : The University of Denver Cookery and Foodways Collection is particularly strong in American regional cookery, and contains a large number of privately published fund-raising cookbooks from churches, service organizations, and other community groups.
• Heaven Will Protect the Working Girl: Immigrant Women in the Turn-of-the-Century City : This web site is based upon curriculum materials produced by American Social History Project as part of the Who Built America? series.
• National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) Collection : The complete National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) Collection is a library of 700-800 titles collected between 1890 and 1938 by members of NAWSA and donated to the Rare Books Division of the Library of Congress on November 1, 1938. The bulk of the collection is derived from the library of Carrie Chapman Catt, president of NAWSA from 1900-1904, and again from 1915-1920. Additional materials were donated from the libraries of other members and officers, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone, Alice Stone Blackwell, Julia Ward Howe, Elizabeth Smith Miller, and Mary A. Livermore.
• Online Biographical Dictionary of the Woman Suffrage Movement in the United States : This free crowd-sourced project contains over 3,000 biographical sketches of grassroots women suffragists, including a special section focused on nearly 400 Black Women Suffragists.
• Sophia Smith Collection at Smith College : The Sophia Smith Collection at Smith College is an internationally recognized repository of manuscripts, photographs, periodicals and other primary sources in women's history.
• Women & Social Movements in the United States, 1775-2000 : The Women and Social Movements website is a project of the Center for the Historical Study of Women and Gender at the State University of New York at Binghamton and includes roughly 900 documents, 400 images, and 350 links to other websites.
• Women in America: 1820-1842 : During the first half of the nineteenth century, Tocqueville and Beaumont were joined by scores of other European travelers curious about the new republic, and anxious to fill the European demand for accounts of American life. One of the most striking was the status of women--their domestic roles, their freedom in youth, their responsibilities in marriage, and their importance to the moral and religious life of the republic. Tocqueville and Beaumont observed all manner of social gatherings and recorded the conversations with prominent American citizens on a number of matters, including morality and the status of women.
• Women Working, 1800 - 1930 : Women Working, 1800 - 1930 focuses on women's role in the United States economy and provides access to digitized historical, manuscript, and image resources selected from Harvard University's library and museum collections. The collection features approximately 500,000 digitized pages and images.

Automobile and Transportation History

• America on the Move : Teachers and parents can use the resource guides, lessons, and activity plans to teach children (K- Middle School) about transportation in American history.
• Antique Automobile Club of America : The Antique Automobile Club of America, founded in 1935, is dedicated to perpetuating the memories of early automobiles by encouraging their history, collection and use.
• Automobile in American Life and Society : This site was created and developed by the University of Michigan-Dearborn and the Henry Ford Museum. Each of the site’s five sections (design, environment, gender, labor, race) contains two essays—an overview of the topic and a more focused case study—plus a select annotated bibliography or bibliographic essay to guide further reading.
• Carriage Association of America : The Carriage Association of America is an organization devoted to the preservation and restoration of horse drawn carriages and sleighs. The site features information about the organization and links to related sites.
• Hemmings Motor News : This is the online resource of the advertising monthly that is devoted to antique, classic, vintage, muscle, street rod, and special interest automobiles, catering to car collectors and restorers. HMN also features the hobby's most complete calendar of upcoming events, hobbyists' legislative alerts, and a monthly listing of stolen collector cars.
• Henry Ford Museum : The Henry Ford Museum began as Henry Ford's personal collection of historic objects. Today, the 12 acre site is primarily a collection of antique machinery, pop culture items, automobiles, locomotives, aircraft, and other items. 
• Rural Heritage : The online version of the print journal in support of small farmers and loggers who use draft horse, mule and ox power. It features articles and dialogues on animals, equipment, health information, and other resources.
• Society for Commercial Archeology : Established in 1977, the SCA is the oldest national organization devoted to the buildings, artifacts, structures, signs, and symbols of the 20th-century commercial landscape.
• Best of History Web Sites
• Documents in Law, History, and Diplomacy
• Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History  
• History Matters: The U. S. Survey Course on the Web
• National Archives Research Room
• National History Day
• Smithsonian History Explorer
• Using Primary Sources on the Web
• Architecture and Urbanism of the Southwest : Architecture and Urbanism of the Southwest, is an illustrated essay by John Messina (AIA, Research Architect) and the University of Arizona Southwest Studies Center and the School of Architecture. The site also provides a recommended readings list of books and articles.
• Bata Shoe Museum : Located in Toronto, the Bata Shoe Museum holds over 10,000 shoes in the collection.
• Built in America: Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) and the Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) 1933 to present : The Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) and the Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) collections are among the largest and most heavily used in the Prints and Photographs Division of the Library of Congress. This online presentation of the HABS/HAER collections includes digitized images of measured drawings, black-and-white photographs, color transparencies, photo captions, data pages including written histories, and supplemental materials.
• City Beautiful: The 1901 Plan for Washington, DC : A University of Virginia American Studies project, this site documents the first explicit attempt to utilize the vaguely classical Beaux-Arts architectural style, which emerged from the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893, for the explicit intent of beautification and social amelioration was the Senate Park Commission's redesign of the monumental core of Washington D.C. to commemorate the city's centennial. The McMillan Plan of 1901-02, named for Senator James McMillan, the commission's liaison and principal backer in Congress, was the United States' first attempt at city planning.
• Corning Museum of Glass : The Corning Museum of Glass's home page begins with its local address and phone numbers and provides a menu of places to visit within the museum site, including, "A Resource for Glass," a collection of information developed to answer questions about glass, and "Glossary of Glassmaking Terms," an alphabetical list of terms with in-depth definitions.
• Digital Library for the Decorative Arts and Material Culture : The Digital Library for the Decorative Arts and Material Culture collects electronic resources for study and research of the decorative arts, with a particular focus on Early America. Included are electronic texts and journals, image databases, and information on organizations, museums and research facilities. The site was created and is maintained at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries.
• Digital Library for the Decorative Arts and Material Culture: Image and Text Collections : The Digital Library for the Decorative Arts and Material Culture collects and creates electronic resources for study and research of the decorative arts, with a particular focus on Early America. Included are electronic texts and facsimiles, image databases, and Web resources. Made possible by the Chipstone Foundation, the project is produced at the University of Wisconsin Madison General Library System.
• Furniture Glossary : A compilation of terms and acronyms on furniture styles, design and construction.
• Harper's Bazaar Magazine : A browse-able collection of issues from the 19th Century magazine, Harper's Bazaar (1867-1900). 
• MAD: Maine Antique Digest : MAD's bulletin board, with table of contents from current issues, and over 90 book reviews of books dealing with antiques and collectibles.
• Museum of Glass: International Center for Contemporary Art : The Museum of Glass: International Center for Contemporary Art in Tacoma Washington presents contemporary art with a sustained concentration on the medium of glass. The Museum exhibition schedule includes works by internationally known artists and trends in contemporary art. The exhibition program offers artists and audiences the opportunity to experiment with and experience a full range of media in the visual arts.
• National Building Museum : Created by an act of Congress in 1980, the National Building Museum is America’s premier cultural institution dedicated to exploring and celebrating architecture, design, engineering, construction, and urban planning.
• National Register of Historic Places : The National Register of Historic Places is the Nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation.  Authorized under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Register is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect our historic and archeological resources. Properties listed in the Register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. The National Register is administered by the National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
• The Noble Craftsman We Promote: The Arts and Crafts Movement in the American Midwest : An online version of the Toledo University exhibition, looks at four particular areas of Arts and Crafts in the Midwest: the book arts, architecture, interior and exterior design, and the decorative arts and attempts to explain how the movement in the heartland differed from its purer British counterpart.
• Paint by Number: Accounting for Taste in the 1950s : A brief resource list for a unique subject.
• Quilt Index : The Quilt Index aims to be a central resource that incorporates a wide variety of sources and information on quilts, quiltmakers and quiltmaking. The Quilt Index was conceived and developed by The Alliance for American Quilts and implemented in collaboration with Michigan State University's MATRIX: The Center for Humane Arts, Letters and Social Sciences Online and the Michigan State University Museum.
• Sears Modern Homes : This site features a history of the Sears Modern Homes program, photos, catalog advertisements, references and a registry of owners. More than 100,000 Sears ready-made houses were sold from 1908 to 1940.
• Skyscraper Museum : Founded in 1996, THE SKYSCRAPER MUSEUM is a private, not-for-profit, educational corporation devoted to the study of high-rise building, past, present, and future. Located in New York City, the world's first and foremost vertical metropolis, the museum celebrates the city's rich architectural heritage and examines the historical forces and individuals that have shaped its successive skylines. Through exhibitions, programs and publications, the museum explores tall buildings as objects of design, products of technology, sites of construction, investments in real estate, and places of work and residence.
• Society of Architectural Historians (SAH) : Founded in 1940, the Society encourages scholarly research in the field and promotes the preservation of significant architectural monuments that are an integral part of the worldwide historical and cultural heritage.  They publish the quarterly Journal of the Society of Architectural Historians and bimonthly Newsletter.  There are several bibliographies and links to related organizations.
• Stained Glass Magazine : Stained Glass Magazine on the World Wide Web, featuring the Stained Glass Association of America's conference schedule, professional announcements, calls for papers, and lists of useful catalogues and resources of interest to collectors and historians of stained glass.
• Strong Museum (Rochester, NewYork) : The Strong Museum's more than 500,000 objects include the world's largest and most historically significant collection of dolls and toys, America's most comprehensive collections of homecrafts and souvenirs, and nationally important collections of home furnishings and advertising materials.
• Textile Society of America : The Textile Society of America provides a forum for the exchange and dissemination of information about all aspects of textiles: historic, artistic, cultural, social, political, economic, and technical.
• Urban Planning, 1794-1918: An International Anthology of Articles, Conference Papers, and Reports : These documents are primary source material for the study of how urban planning developed up to the end of World War I. They include statements about techniques, principles, theories, and practice by those who helped to create a new professional specialization. This new field of city planning grew out of the land-based professions of architecture, engineering, surveying, and landscape architecture, as well as from the work of economists, social workers, lawyers, public health specialists, and municipal administrators.
• Vernacular Architecture Forum : The term "vernacular architecture" applies to traditional domestic and agricultural buildings, industrial and commercial structures, twentieth-century suburban houses, settlement patterns and cultural landscapes.  The Vernacular Architecture Forum was formed in 1980 to encourage the study and preservation of these informative and valuable material resources.
• Victoria & Albert Museum (London) : The Museum's ceramics, glass, textiles, dress, silver, ironwork, jewellery, furniture, sculpture, paintings, prints and photographs span the cultures of Europe, North America, Asia and North Africa, and date from ancient times to the present day. There are 2000 images of the collection available for online viewing.
• Winterthur Museum & Library (Delaware) : The Winterthur Library contains approximately half a million imprints, manuscripts, visual materials, and printed ephemera for research from the 17th century to the early 20th century. The museum collections include 85,000 domestic artifacts and works of art made or used in America to 1860.
• Work of Charles and Ray Eames: A Legacy of Invention : This site is in association with the Eames exhibition tour
• American Environmental Photographs, 1891-1936: Images from the University of Chicago Library : This collection consists of approximately 4,500 photographs documenting natural environments, ecologies, and plant communities in the United States at the end of the nineteenth and the beginning of the twentieth century. The photographs were taken by Henry Chandler Cowles (1869-1939), George Damon Fuller (1869-1961), and other Chicago ecologists on field trips across the North American continent.
• Bureau of Reclamation History : The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation History site is a collection of oral histories, photographs, and papers on the agency and it's work.
• Conservation and Environment - Library of Congress : The historic and more recent maps contained in this category show early exploration and subsequent land use in various areas of the United States. These maps show the changes in the landscape, including natural and man-made features, recreational and wilderness areas, geology, topography, wetland area, vegetation, and wildlife. Specific conservation projects such as the growth and development of U.S. National Parks are included in this category.
• Evolution of the Conservation Movement, 1850-1920 : The Evolution of the Conservation Movement, 1850-1920 documents the historical formation and cultural foundations of the movement to conserve and protect America's natural heritage, through books, pamphlets, government documents, manuscripts, prints, photographs, and motion picture footage drawn from the collections of the Library of Congress. The collection consists of 62 books and pamphlets, 140 Federal statutes and Congressional resolutions, 34 additional legislative documents, excerpts from the Congressional Globe and the Congressional Record, 360 Presidential proclamations, 170 prints and photographs, 2 historic manuscripts, and 2 motion pictures.
• Forest History Society Databases : The Forest History Society has six databases that are searchable on the website via InMagic's Web Publisher software. All of the databases provide useful, detailed information about primary or secondary resource materials that aid research in the broad fields of forest, conservation, and environmental history.
• H-Environment - H-NET, the Humanities & Social Sciences Online initiative : This website is intended as a general resource for people interested in environmental history. Much of its content is compiled from the discussion list H-Environment and includes book reviews, conference announcements, a course syllabus library, and a survey of films. There are also links to other organizations and websites where you can find materials of interest.
• History of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service : Official website of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with links to their archival collections, oral histories, and other information sources.
• Love Canal Collection : The University Of Buffalo Library holds the records of the Ecumenical Task Force, 1979-1991 which contain extensive documentation of the toxic waste controversies associated with the Love Canal and related toxic waste sites in Niagara County, New York. The ETF assembled a resource file of government and other reports concerning the Love Canal and related environmental issues. The reports in the resource file and elsewhere in the records include draft documents, photocopied statements prepared by Love Canal residents, scientists and ETF members for hearings on the Love Canal, speeches, consultant reports, articles, as well as printed and online reports.
• Bon Appétit! Julia Child's Kitchen at the Smithsonian : The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History website of their Julia Child's Kitchen exhibition.
• Doubtless as Good: Thomas Jefferson's Dreams of American Wines Fulfilled : This short bibliography, prepared by staff at the National Museum of American History, includes books on the material culture of viniculture, some historic works on American winemaking not included in the Gabler bibliography, and some relevant works on American culture and taste.
• Feeding America: The Historic American Cookbook Project : The Michigan State University Library and the MSU Museum have created an online collection of some of the most influential and important American cookbooks from the late 18th to early 20th century.
• Food Reference Website : A fairly comprehensive private website that provides links to articles, information, food history dates, and a wide range of useful information on food.
• Food Timeline : A resource about food history, social history, manners and menus covering Prehistory through modern day.
• Janice Bluestein Longone Culinary Archive : The Janice Bluestein Longone Culinary Archive at the William L. Clements Library on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor contains thousands of items from the 16th to 20th centuries - books, ephemera, menus, magazines, graphics, maps, manuscripts, diaries, letters, catalogues, advertisements, and reference works. It is a work in progress, and material is being added and catalogued daily.
• New York Food Museum : A new and developing web-based resource on New York City foodways and food history.
• Peacock Harper Culinary Collection - Virginia Tech University : The Peacock Harper Culinary Collection is a collection of cookbooks and related items housed in the Virginia Tech Library. The VT Image Base contains over 700 images pertaining to culinary history and the collection. They publish an online newsletter called the Virginia Culinary Thymes
• Southern Foodways Alliance : The Southern Foodways Alliance website contains links to ongoing research projects, symposiums and their oral history texts. It is a subsidiary of the University of Mississippi's, Center for the Study of Southern Culture.
• Taking America to Lunch : This Smithsonian exhibition in the National Museum of American History features samples from the museum's collection of lunch boxes from the 19th century plain metal buckets to 20th century popular culture images on boxes made of synthetic materials.

Graphic Art

• American Printing History Association : The American Printing History Association was founded to encourage the study of printing history and its related arts and skills, including calligraphy, typefounding, typography, papermaking, bookbinding, illustration, and publishing. APHA is especially, but by no means exclusively, interested in American printing history.
• Fine Press Book Association : The Fine Press Book Association is an organization formed by individuals interested in the art of fine printing to promote printing skills and the appreciation of beautiful books.
• Graphic Artists Guild
• Robert C. Williams Paper Museum : This Web site traces the history, art, and science of paper making.
• Society for the History of Authorship, Reading & Publishing : The Society (SHARP) provides a global network for book historians, 1000 members in over 20 countries, including professors of literature, historians, librarians, publishing professionals, sociologists, bibliophiles, classicists, booksellers, art historians, reading instructors, and independent scholars.
• Separate Is Not Equal: Brown vs. Board of Education : The annotated bibliography includes information about related Web resources and teacher materials, as well as fiction and non-fiction books for children, young adults, and adults.
• Slates, Slide Rules, and Software: Teaching Math in America : A collection of reference resources on the tools used in teaching mathematics in the United States from the 1800s onward.

History of Technology - Invention and Inventors

• Canada Science and Technology Museum : This site links you to the various collections within the Canada Science and Technology Museum.
• Edison After Forty : This listing includes Edison's Papers, book-length studies, children's books, and museums.
• Edison Papers Web Site : The Edison Papers Web Site is a searchable database, based on the University Press of America's editions of Thomas Edison's papers, which detail the first 31 years of his life.
• Hagley American Patent Models : The largest privately-owned collection of United States patent models in the world. Containing nearly 4,000 patent models and related documents, the collection spans America's Industrial Revolution.
• Lighting a Revolution: A Bibliography of Lighting : A collection of books, articles, and web sites on the history and technology of electrical lighting.
• National Inventors Hall of Fame : Web site for the National Inventors Hall of Fame, in Akron, Ohio. Features a collection of biographies of members of the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
• Powering a Generation of Change : This bibliography lists books, journal articles, and reports documenting the story of electrical power restructuring in North America.
• Society for the History of Technology (SHOT) : The Society for the History of Technology (SHOT) is dedicated to the historical study of technology and its relations with politics, economics, labor, business, the environment, public policy, science, and the arts.
• The Office Museum : This commercial website engages in research on the history and evolution of offices, antique office machines and equipment, and business technology based on original documents and artifacts.
• U.S. Patent & Trademark Office : The official web site of the USPTO has a searchable database. Patents issued between 1790 and 1976 are searchable only by patent number and current US classifications.
• Yesterday's Office : This site contains articles on antique or redundant office technology and links to related sites.
• Charles Babbage Institute, University of Minnesota : CBI is dedicated to promoting study of the history of information technology and information processing and their impact on society.
• Chronology of Events in the History of Microcomputers : A timetable of significant events in the history of computing, with product announcements and delivery dates from a variety of sources.
• Computer Museum History Center (Silicon Valley) : The Computer Museum History Center is a non-profit entity dedicated to the preservation and celebration of computing history. It holds one of the largest collections of computing artifacts in the world.
• Intel Museum (Santa Clara) : This museum documents the development and construction of computer chips by one of the leading manufacturers of chip technology.
• Internet Archive : The Internet Archive is a non-profit that was founded to build an Internet library, with the purpose of offering permanent access for researchers, historians, and scholars to historical collections that exist in digital format. Founded in 1996 and located in the Presidio of San Francisco, the Archive has been receiving data donations from Alexa Internet and others. In late 1999, the organization started to grow to include more well-rounded collections. Now the Internet Archive includes texts, audio, moving images, and software as well as archived web pages in the collections.
• Internet Histories : A collection of links about the history of the Internet, from the ISOC , the Internet Society, a non-governmental international organization, committed to global cooperation and coordination for the Internet.
• Making the Macintosh: Technology and Culture in Silicon Valley : "Making the Macintosh" is an online project documenting the history of the Macintosh computer. This project collects and publishes primary material on the Macintosh's development and early reception. It draws on the extensive holdings of the Stanford University Library's Department of Special Collections, the personal papers of engineers and technical writers involved in the Macintosh project, and interviews conducted for the project.
• Discovering Lewis and Clark : This comprehensive website contains more than 1,400 pages, and is updated monthly with additional material. This website includes a nineteen-part synopsis of the expedition's story by historian Harry W. Fritz, illustrated with selections from the journals of the expedition, photographs, maps, animated graphics, moving pictures, and sound files.
• Kansas State Historical Society: Lewis and Clark : This website provides the user with information about the history of the expedition in Kansas.
• Lewis and Clark Expedition: Selected Resources : The Smithsonian Institution has created this directory of sites on the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
• Lewis and Clark Across Missouri : The Geographic Resources Center at the Department of Geography, University of Missouri partnered with the Missouri State Archives to create this website offering campsite maps, photo-realistic images of important river landmarks, and animated virtual Missouri River travel to trace Lewis and Clark's expedition. 
• Lewis and Clark in North Dakota : Lewis and Clark in North Dakota is one of most informative websites available about the expedition. A highlight is the In North Dakota Link that includes personal profiles of the individuals involved in the expedition, background information about the sites that Lewis and Clark visited, an expedition chronology, a facts and trivia section, maps, and a bibliography.
• Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation Inc. : The mission of the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation is to stimulate public appreciation of the Lewis and Clark Expedition's contributions to America's heritage, and to support education, research, development, and preservation of the Lewis and Clark experience. Their website includes a detailed history of the expedition with a bibliography. The site also includes a link to the The Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation Library. The Library  has about 800 book titles and 300 articles relating to the Lewis & Clark Expedition. The library also has maps, genealogical information, sound, and video recordings. Users can search the library's catalog online.
• Lewis and Clark: Indiana Bicentennial Commission : This site outlines Indiana's important role in the expedition and lists events to commemorate the expedition.
• Lewis and Clark: Mapping the West : This Smithsonian site reviews the cartographic work of the Corps of Discovery.
• Monticello, The Home of Thomas Jefferson: Jefferson's West : This website has a special section on Lewis and Clark that includes an expedition timeline, bibliography, website links, and online study resources for teachers and students. This site is particularly recommended for users who are interested in researching the role that President Thomas Jefferson played in the expedition.
• PBS Online: Lewis and Clark : This website is a companion resource to the Ken Burns film: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery and contains several special features that will appeal to users. It provides users with a search engine enables users to search the expedition journals by author, date, or year. It contains transcripts of unedited interviews with various experts and historians about their perspectives on the expedition. It also includes expedition timelines, maps, a bibliography, and related links.
• Rivers, Edens, Empires: Lewis & Clark and the Revealing of America : This site provides a small sampling of primary materials (maps and journal entries) related to the Lewis and Clark expedition that are housed in the Library of Congress.
• The Journals of the Lewis and Clark Expedition : The Journals of the Lewis and Clark Expedition website makes available for users the text of the celebrated Nebraska edition of the journals, edited by by Gary M. Moulton. Moulton's edition is considered to be the most accurate and inclusive version published. Currently, the site offers almost two hundred pages from volume 4. In the future, the site will provide access to the full set of journals, almost 5000 pages of primary source material. This site also includes a full text search engine.
• Artificial Anatomy: Papier-Mâché Anatomical Models : Resources on Anatomy, Papier- Mâché, Preservation, and Trade Catalogs.
• DeWitt Stetten, Jr., Museum of Medical Research (NIH) : Established in 1986 as a part of the NIH centennial observance, the Stetten Museum collects and exhibits biomedical research instruments and NIH memorabilia.
• Human Radiation Experiments (DOE) : A website from the US Department of Energy offering a "roadmap" to the stories and records of the cold-war story of radiation research on human subjects.
• Medical Antiques & Pre-1900 Antique Surgical Sets : From the Arbittier Museum of Medical History, examples of medical antiques, amputation, and surgical sets by some of the most famous makers of the 1800's. Of particular interest are those surgical antiques used in the Civil War. There is a section on pricing and valuation of early surgical sets and kits as well as extensive topics on antique medical collecting.
• Medical Heritage Library : The Medical Heritage Library is a digital curation collaborative among some of the world’s leading medical libraries. The collection resides at the Internet Archive.
• Medicine in the Americas, 1619-1914 : The Medicine in the Americas website provides access to a number of key primary historical documents that deal with a number of areas, such as women’s health, public health, and clinical works of enduring historical value. Currently, there are a total of eight works in the archive, and they include Clara Barton’s “The Red Cross of the Geneva Convention” from 1878 and L. Emmett Holt’s 1894 work “The Care and Feeding of Children: A Catechism for the Use of Mothers and Children’s Nurses”.
• National Library of Medicine : National Library of Medicine home page, with links to a variety of sites on the Internet.
• Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) : This database is a catalog of human genes and genetic disorders authored and edited by Dr. Victor A. McKusick and his colleagues at Johns Hopkins and elsewhere, and developed for the World Wide Web by NCBI, the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
• The Medical Heritage Library : The Medical Heritage Library (MHL) is a digital curation collaborative among some of the world’s leading medical libraries. The collection resides at the Internet Archive.
• Access to Military Service and Pension Records : The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is the official repository for records of military personnel who have been discharged from the U.S. Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard.
• Air University Library's Index to Military Periodicals : The Air University Library's Index to Military Periodicals is a subject index to significant articles, news items, and editorials from English language military and aeronautical periodicals. The Index contains citations since 1988 and is updated continuously. A comprehensive list of all journals covered by AULIMP since 1949 is available as the Historical Index of AULIMP titles.
• Company of Military Historians : The web site for the journal with several useful links and color plates of uniforms.
• Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms : Sets forth standard US military and associated terminology to encompass the joint activity of the Armed Forces of the United States in both US joint and allied joint operations, as well as to encompass the Department of Defense as a whole.
• Historic U.S. Government Publications from World War II : This Southern Methodist University Libraries site allows users to search or browse a collection of over 300 United States government documents produced during World War II.
• Index to the Uniforms of the American Revolution : This site is provided by the Sons of the Revolution in the State of California and contains several images of American Revolutionary War uniforms.
• Military Review - English Edition Archives : Archival collection of the professional journal of the U.S. Army Combined Arms Center (CAC) and the Command and General Staff College (CGSC).
• Military Women Veterans : This site documents the contributions of American women to the Armed Forces of the United States.
• Papers of the War Department, 1784-1800 : Papers of the War Department is a project of the Center for History and New Media, George Mason University and the National Historical Publications and Records Commission. This collection of more than 55,000 documents is in an online format with extensive and searchable metadata linked to digitized images of each document.
• Price of Freedom: Americans at War : This online exhibition from the National Museum of American History presents a timeline of American military conflicts from the War of Independence through the War in Iraq, 2003. It also includes information on hundreds of artifacts related to America’s military history, along with learning resources for educators.
• Redstone Hyper-media Historical Information : Designed by the MICOM Historical Office, this home page features the Redstone Arsenal Complex Chronological Highlights such as; The Pre-Missile Era (1941-1949) and Women at War: Redstone's WWII Female
• United States Army Center of Military History : CMH Online is an information and education service provided by the U.S. Army Center of Military History.
• Valley of the Shadow : The Institute for Advanced Technology in the Humanities (IATH) at the University of Virginia's Web page featuring Edward Ayers's material on the Great Valley in the Civil War.
• Veterans History Project - Library of Congress : The Veterans History Project covers World War I, World War II, and the Korean, Vietnam, and Persian Gulf wars. It includes all participants in those wars--men and women, civilian and military. It documents the contributions of civilian volunteers, support staff, and war industry workers as well as the experiences of military personnel from all ranks and all branches of service--the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard and Merchant Marine.
• War Times Journal : The War Times Journal is a free online magazine which covers all periods of military history and military science.
• West Point in the Making of America : There are eight subject categories from this exhibition reading list on West Point graduates and their contributions to the nation in peace and war.
• World War I Edition of Stars and Stripes - Library of Congress : From February 8, 1918, to June 13, 1919, by order of General John J. Pershing, the United States Army published a newspaper for its forces in France, The Stars and Stripes. This online collection, presented by the Serial and Government Publications Division of the Library of Congress, includes the complete seventy-one-week run of the newspaper's World War I edition.

Naval and Maritime History

• Advisory Council on Underwater Archaeology : The Advisory Council on Underwater Archaeology has been at the forefront of underwater archaeology for over 35 years. The ACUA serves as an international advisory body on issues relating to underwater archaeology, conservation, and submerged cultural resources management.It is working to educate scholars, governments, sport divers, and the general public about underwater archaeology and the preservation of underwater resources.
• All Hands Magazine Archives : Each issue of this U. S. Navy bulletin and magazine (1922-2011) has been scanned and digitized in Adobe Acrobat format.  Free access.
• American Merchant Marine at War : The U.S. Maritime Service Veterans complied this collection of war service related topical links.
• Council of American Maritime Museum : The Council of American Maritime Museums (CAMM) is an organization dedicated to preserving North America's maritime history. The Members include museums, museum professionals, and scholars from United States, Mexico, Bermuda, Australia and Canada. CAMM works to promote high professional standards in the preservation and interpretation of maritime history. Our Members seek to convey and preserve this history through collections, sites, vessels, projects, exhibitions, and research.
• Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships : The Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, commonly known as DANFS, is the foremost reference regarding U.S. naval vessels. Published in nine volumes (from 1959 to 1991), it gives histories for virtually every U.S. naval vessel.
• Fast Attacks & Boomers: Submarines in the Cold War : Selections for further reading on the growth and development of the U.S. Nuclear Navy.
• Historic Naval Ships Association : The purpose of the Historic Naval Ships Association is to facilitate the exchange of information and provide mutual support among those who are working hard to maintain their aging vessels physically and financially. The ships of HNSA are located in the United States, Canada, Western Europe, and Australia. The ships are organized into three categories on the site: name of ship, type of ship, and location.
• Index to Ships in Books -- Search Page : This index allows researchers to search the names of commercial and naval vessels that were published in a variety of books and serials. A bibliography of those printed resources is included.
• International Congress of Maritime Museums : The International Congress of Maritime Museums is a professional guild of associations, organizations, and individuals in the maritime preservation field. Their website includes a news section that provides information about recently discovered wrecks, upcoming museum exhibits, and other developments in the field.
• Maritime History Links on the Net : This comprehensive list covers a variety of subjects related to Maritime History.
• Nautical Research Guild, Inc. : The Nautical Research Guild links researchers, collectors, and builders of the highest quality ship models. The Guild emphasizes learning about ships and maritime history through academic research, as applied and expressed in the process of ship model building and other artistic and academic endeavors.
• Steamship Historical Society of America : The Steamship Historical Society (SSHSA) is an organization dedicated to preserving artifacts and memories from the steamship days of the past.
• U.S. Naval Historical Center : The Naval Historical Center is the official history program of the Department of the Navy. The Center now includes a museum, art gallery, research library, archives, and curator as well as research and writing programs.
• U.S. Naval Vessel Register : The Naval Vessel Register contains information on ships and service craft that comprise the official inventory of the U.S. Navy from the time of vessel authorization through its life cycle and disposal. It also includes ships that have been stricken but not disposed.
• American Numismatic Society : Official website of the American Numismatic Society offers a list of online resources , including MANTIS , a searchable database of over 600,000 objects from the Society's collections of international coins, paper money, tokens, ‘primitive’ money, medals and decorations.
• American Numismatics Association : Features information about ANA, a membership form, a link to ANA's ftp site, and links to an educational and museum directory. The FTP site includes press releases; ANA's library catalog; ANA's classification system; video list; and slide lists. The educational and museum directory features ANA's exhibits online; scholarship information; and convention updates.
• Coins of Colonial and Early America : This University of Notre Dame site features discussions, descriptions and images of the coins and tokens used in Colonial and Confederation America based on examples in the Department of Special Collections. A companion project features Colonial and Confederation era paper currency.
• Money - Past, Present & Future : Sources of information on monetary history, contemporary developments, and the prospects for electronic money.
• National Numismatic Collection, Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History : The Smithsonian's National Numismatic Collection (NNC) is America's collection of monetary and transactional objects. This diverse and expansive global collection contains objects that represent every inhabited continent and span more than three thousand years of human history.
• U.S. Department of the Treasury : U.S. Department of Treasury's Home Page includes press releases and updates on new programs and seminars being offered by the Department.
• Freeze Frame: Eadweard Muybridge’s Photography of Motion : Information on the collection, links, and readings on Muybridge and his work on locomotion.
• George Eastman Museum: International Museum of Photography and Film : The George Eastman Museum collects and interprets images, films, literature, and equipment in the disciplines of photography and motion pictures and cares for the George Eastman legacy collections.
• International Center of Photography : The International Center of Photography is a museum, a school and a center for photographers and photography, whose mission is to present photography's vital and central place in contemporary culture and to lead in interpretation issues central to its development.
• Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Collection : Link to the "Collection Finder" page of the Library of Congress American Memory site.
• LIFE Magazine photo archive hosted by Google : Search millions of photographs from the LIFE photo archive, stretching from the 1750s to today. Most were never published and are now available for the first time through the joint work of LIFE and Google.
• Museum of Photographic Arts : The Museum of Photographic Arts (MoPA) is one of the first museum facilities in the United States designed exclusively to collect and present the world's finest examples photographic art.
• National Stereoscopic Association : The association promotes the study, collection and use of stereographs, stereo cameras and related materials for collectors and students of stereoscopic history. There is a link to the Oliver Wendell Holmes Stereoscopic Research Library.
• NYPL Digital : The New York Public Digital Library is a continually expanding collection of digitized images and text selected from throughout the Research Libraries' collections.
• Stereoscopy : Stereoscopy.com provides information about stereoscopic imaging (3-D) for both amateurs and professionals.
• The Daguerreian Society : The Daguerreian Society is an organization of individuals and institutions sharing a common interest in the art, history and practice of the daguerreotype.
• UCR Arts : This museum features contemporary exhibitions, digital and web art online, and a vast historical photograph collection.
• Building the Washington Metro : This site tells the story of the Washington Metro, a 103-mile rapid transit system serving Washington, D.C., and the surrounding areas of Maryland and Virginia.
• Center For Railroad Photography & Art : The center's focus is on the preservation and presentation of railroad-related photography and art.
• Central Pacific Railroad Photographic History Museum : This expansive website has an online library of 19th century pictures (more than 2,300), maps and descriptions of railroad construction and travel.
• Great Northern Railway Historical Society : The Society works to preserve and promote the history of the Great Northern Railway, which was created in September 1889 from several predecessor railroads in Minnesota and eventually stretched from Lake Superior at Duluth and Minneapolis/St.Paul west through North Dakota, Montana and Northern Idaho to Washington State at Everett and Seattle.
• National Railway Historical Society : Founded in 1935, the National Railway Historical Society has nearly 18,000 members and over 177 Chapters spread throughout the United States, Canada and Great Britain. It is now the United States' largest rail enthusiast organization.
• Railroad Maps, 1828-1900 : The maps presented here are a selection from the Library of Congress Geography and Map Division holdings, based on the cartobibliography, Railroad Maps of the United States: A Selective Annotated Bibliography of Original 19th-century Maps in the Geography and Map Division of the Library of Congress. This annotated list reveals the scope of the railroad map collection and highlights the development of railroad mapping in 19th-century America. Described are 623 maps chosen from more than 3,000 railroad maps and about 2,000 regional, state, and county maps, and other maps which show "internal improvements" of the past century.
• Railroads and the Making of Modern America : This University of Nebraska project seeks to document and represent the rapid and far-reaching social effects of railroads and to explore the transformation of the United States to modern ideas, institutions, and practices in the nineteenth century. Railroads and the Making of Modern America seeks to use the digital medium to investigate, represent, and analyze this social change and document episodes of the railroad's social consequence.
• Academic Info: The American West : Academic Info, an educational organization, created this directory of Internet resources on the history of the American West. This list covers a variety of subjects including Native Americans, women, religious history, the Gold Rush, Asian Americans, and railroads.
• History of the American West, 1860-1920 : This site contains over 30,000 photographs, drawn from the holdings of the Western History and Genealogy Department at Denver Public Library. These photos illuminate many aspects of the history of the American West. Most of the photographs were taken between 1860 and 1920. They illustrate Colorado towns and landscape, document the place of mining in the history of Colorado and the West, and show the lives of Native Americans from more than forty tribes living west of the Mississippi River.
• New Perspectives on the West : This is the companion website to the Ken Burns documentary series, the West. This site contains selected documentary materials, archival images and commentary, as well as links to background information and other resources.
• The First American West: The Ohio River Valley, 1750-1820 : This Library of Congress site consists of 15,000 pages of original historical material documenting the land, peoples, exploration, and transformation of the trans-Appalachian West from the mid-eighteenth to the early nineteenth century. The collection is drawn from the holdings of the University of Chicago Library and the Filson Historical Society of Louisville, Kentucky
• The Oregon Territory and its Pioneers : This website focuses on the pioneers of the Oregon Territory up to and including 1855...The first section is called THE SETTLING OF OREGON and is a compilation of information [including pioneer lists by year of emigration] extracted from a variety of sources. The second section lists the UPDATES that are in progress. The third section is devoted to RESEARCHING THE PIONEERS and provides links to research and historic sites that may be of interest."
• The Oregon Trail : This website is a comprehensive source of information about the historic Oregon Trail. It includes primary source documents such as Trail diaries and memoirs. The site was created by Prof. Mike Trinklein and Steve Boettcher, creators of The Oregon Trail, the award-winning documentary film which aired nationally on PBS.
• Canadian Centre for Architecture  CCA Library: Special Collections Trade Catalogues : Approximately 5,600 trade catalogues documenting building technology and construction methods from the late eighteenth century to the present. Core of the collection formed through acquisition of the relevant portions of the Franklin Institute trade catalogue collection. Coverage is broad and includes such categories as concrete and lumber, metalwork and woodwork, flooring, heating and insulation, plumbing and electricity, windows and roofing.
• Columbia University. Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library : The American collection is one of the most extensive in existence. It begins with the first pertinent book to be published in the colonies, Abraham Swan's British Architect (Philadelphia, 1775), and includes a large number of titles listed in H.R. Hitchcock's basic bibliography, American Architectural Books. In the seventies and eighties the scope of the American collection was expanded to include printed source materials not previously collected. These include early trade catalogs from the manufacturers of building products (1840-1950).
• Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum Library Reference Collection : There are over 4,500 trade catalogs in the Cooper-Hewitt Library collection, some dating from the 17th century.
• Corning Museum of Glass. Rakow Research Library : The Juliette K. and Leonard S. Rakow Research Library of The Corning Museum of Glass has a wide-ranging collection including books, magazines, trade and auction catalogues, personal and corporate archives, videotapes, microforms, sound recordings, drawings, prints, photographs, and slides. Its mission is to acquire and preserve all informational resources on the art, history and early science and technology of glass, in all languages and all formats.
• D'Arcy Collection : The D'Arcy Collection of the Communications Library of the University of Illinois is a collection of almost two million original advertisements published between 1890 and 1970. The collection, which was donated by the D'Arcy, MacManus & Masius advertising agency (now D'Arcy Masius Benton & Bowles) in 1983, is a rich source of research information on products advertised by many agencies. While the vast majority of these advertisements appeared in newspapers, magazines and trade journals, there are a few in other forms such as brochures, signs, and programs. Most of the clippings advertise standard consumer products, but there are a number of obsolete categories such as spats, bathing shoes, and Prohibition.
• Digital Collections & Trade Catalogs from the Indiana Historical Society : This collection concentrates on catalogs from businesses that were either headquartered in Indiana or had a substantial presence in the state. Items in this collection date from the 1840s through the 1990s. The catalogs document the wide range of commodities that have come out of Indiana.
• Hagley Museum and Library : The library houses an important collection of books, pamphlets, trade catalogs, manuscripts, photographs, ephemera, and audiovisual materials documenting the history of American business and technology. Hagley's main strength is in the Middle Atlantic region, but the scope of collecting includes business organizations and companies with national and international impact.
• Instruments for Science, 1800-1914: Scientific Trade Catalogs in Smithsonian Collections : Digital collection of scientific instrument trade catalogs
• John W. Hartman Center for Sales, Advertising, and Marketing History : The Ad*Access Project presents images and database information for over 7,000 advertisements printed in U.S. and Canadian newspapers and magazines between 1911 and 1955. Ad*Access concentrates on five main subject areas: Radio, Television, Transportation, Beauty and Hygiene, and World War II. The advertisements are from the J. Walter Thompson Company Competitive Advertisements Collection of the John W. Hartman Center for Sales, Advertising & Marketing History in Duke University's David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library.
• Marketing in the Modern Era : Marketing in the Modern Era: Trade Catalogs and the Rise of 19th-Century American Advertising: an online exhibit at the Baker Library at Harvard University.
• National Museum of American History Library Trade Literature Collection : This collection contains more than 460,000 catalogs, technical manuals, advertising brochures, price lists, company histories and related materials representing over 36,000 companies.
• National Museum of American History -- Archives Center, Warshaw Collection of Business Americana : The National Museum of American History purchased the Warshaw Collection of Business Americana, ca. 1724-1977 in 1967. The collection was assembled by Isadore Warshaw and represents the largest advertising ephemera collection in the United States, occupying more than 1,020 cubic feet of storage space.  Organization, re-housing, and description of the Warshaw Collection are a long-term project. Most portions of the collection are open to researchers in the Archives Center.
• New Jersey Trade and Manufacturers' Catalogs : Housed in Special Collections and University Archives, the Rutgers University Libraries collection of New Jersey trade and manufacturers catalogs represents part of the University's effort "to collect, preserve and make available for research, primary and secondary materials in various formats, documenting all aspects of New Jersey's history, from its founding to the present."
• Otis Historical Archives, National Museum of Health and Medicine, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology : Particularly strong collections within the OHA include the areas of medical illustration, including anatomical drawings and paintings, photographs, and photomicrographs; reconstructive surgery and prosthetics; tropical and infectious disease research; trade literature and advertisements; medical technology and battlefield surgery from the Civil War through to the present conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. 
• Seed Catalogs from the Smithsonian Libraries Trade Literature Collection : The Smithsonian Libraries has a unique trade catalog collection that includes about 10,000 seed and nursery catalogs dating from 1830 to the present, documenting the history of the seed and agricultural implement business in the United States, as well as providing a history of botany and plant research such as the introduction of plant varieties into the US. Additionally, the seed trade catalogs are a window into the history of graphic arts in advertising, and a social history, through the text and illustrations, showing changing fashions in flowers and vegetables.
• Sewing Machine Galleries : Created by David and Lin Best, this site comprises photographs of over 130 sewing machines from their collection, together with information about the manufacturers that produced them.
• Sewing Machines: Historical Trade Literature in Smithsonian Institution Collections : This guide illustrates the range of materials published by and about sewing machine companies in the United States, starting in the 1840s. Sewing machine catalogs and other industry materials are just one portion of the remarkable collections of manufacturers' trade literature held in the libraries, archives and curatorial units of the Smithsonian Institution. 
• Shedding Light on New York: Edward F. Caldwell & Co. : The E. F. Caldwell & Co. Collection at the Cooper-Hewitt Museum Library, Smithsonian Institution Libraries, contains more than 50,000 images consisting of approximately 37,000 black & white photographs and 13,000 original design drawings of lighting fixtures and other fine metal objects that they produced from the late 19th to the mid-20th centuries.
• The Virtual Laboratory (Max Planck Institute for the History of Science) : The digital library of the Virtual Library contains scans of historical books, journals, laboratory notebooks and instrument catalogues. Furthermore, it provides bibliographical information based on tables of contents (overview) and on existing personal bibliographies which have been checked for consistency. Every item can be acessed by author, title, year or word contained in the title.
• University of California, Santa Barbara. Library. Special Collections. Romaine Trade Catalog Collection : Lawrence B. Romaine (1900-1967) was an antiquarian book dealer, who bought and sold rare books, manuscripts, trade catalogs, and other Americana. Romaine was recognized as the leading expert in the U.S. on trade catalogs, and was the author of A Guide to American Trade Catalogs, 1774-1900 (New York: R. R. Bowker Company, 1960), the standard reference work in this field.  Romaine spent approximately 30 years collecting over 41,000 trade catalogs from the 19th and early 20th centuries, on every imaginable product from agricultural implements, clothes, medical and surgical instruments to weathervanes and windmills. The bulk of his collection focused on machines, tools, engines and other hardware used in agriculture and manufacturing industries.
• University of Delaware Trade Catalogs: An online exhibition : The University of Delaware Library Special Collections Department houses an extensive collection of trade catalogs and advertising ephemera produced in the United States from the middle of the eighteenth century until the present day. The trade catalog collection also complements the Special Collections Department's traditional strengths in the history of horticulture, science and technology, printing and publishing, and the book arts. Companies selling printing supplies, agricultural implements and nursery stock, type founders, publishing companies, and booksellers are particularly well-represented as are the catalogs of Delaware businesses.
• Victoria and Albert Museum, National Art Library : The National Art Library holds numerous examples of trade catalogues within its collections. Some items entered the NAL during the 19th century, and both current and retrospective examples of trade catalogues have been added to the collections throughout the 20th century. Since 1983 the policy has been to actively collect both current and retrospective examples of trade literature in areas broadly in line with the research interests of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
• Winterthur Museum Library : WinterCat is the Winterthur Library's online catalogue and includes nearly 60,000 bibliographic records, representing the holdings of the four collections that constitute the Winterthur Library. Records for imprints, periodicals, rare printed materials, manuscript and ephemera holdings, photographs, and archival resources are all in one database, which researchers can use to determine the library's holdings on any given topic, person, or organization through one search. WinterCat features hyperlinks to manuscript finding aids and selected images.
• Women Working, 1800-1930: trade catalogs : To illustrate the world of women working, the Open Collections Program of Harvard University Library has digitized a group of trade catalogs. These colorful works illustrate the dramatic changes that were taking place between 1870 and 1930 in the home, in the workplace, and in the minds of retailers and manufacturers. 
• Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) : This site contains approximately two million physical and cultural geographic features in the United States and its territories. The Federally recognized name of each feature described in the data base is identified, and references are made to a feature's location by State, county, and geographic coordinates.
• Library of Congress Map Collection 1500-2004 : The Library of Congress' map collection contains the topical areas of cities and towns, conservation and environment, discovery and exploration, cultural landscapes, military battles and campaigns, as well as transportation and communication.
• Mapping History: American History : The maps cover a variety of historical topics from pre-1500 Native American culture, to the Civil War and Reconstruction, to 20th century health. Some of these maps are interactive.
• National Map Small-Scale Collection : The site from the U.S. Geological Survey offers a collection of small-scale datasets available for free download, along with hundreds of printable reference maps developed as part of the 1997-2014 edition of the National Atlas. 
• University of Georgia Libraries Hargrett Rare Books and Manuscripts : The collection encompasses 500 years including maps on Georgia, the New World, the Colonial America, the revolutionary America, the revolutionary Georgia, the Union and expansion, the American Civil War, the frontier to the new South, Savannah and the coast, and transportation.
• University of Illinois Historical Maps Online : These maps mainly focus from 1650 to 1994 on North America and the Northwest Territory, Maps of the Midwest, Illinois and Champaign County, and the Warner & Beers Atlas of 1876.
• University of Texas at Austin's Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection : This collection contains maps arranged by state, city, and topical. Many of the maps are from the late 1700s through the early 1900s.
• US History by Online Highways : The topical maps include the areas of early America, Colonial Period, Revolutionary America, young republic, and election maps of the early 1900s.

World's Fairs and Expositions

• A Century of Progress: The 1933-34 Chicago World's Fair : The John Crerar Library (which is now part of the University of Chicago Libraries) collected various official publications, press releases, guidebooks, and other related materials pertaining to this world exposition. Approximately 350 of those collected items are now available on this website. The collection may be browsed by publication author, publication title, and the general subject of each publication.
• Alaska Yukon Pacific Exposition Centennial : This University of Washington Libraries digital collection contains more than 1200 photographs of the 1909 fair held on the grounds of the University of Washington, depicting buildings, grounds, entertainment and exotic attractions.
• Donald G. Larson Collection on International Expositions and Fairs, 1851-1940 : The Donald G. Larson Collection at Cal-State Fresno, consists of approximately 1,600 books and more than 6,500 pamphlets, postcard, sheet music, and other materials.
• ExpoMuseum : ExpoMuseum was first created as a web site in 1998 by Urso S. A. Chappell, and is maintained by him.The site pays tribute to the past, present, and future of these immensely popular expositions, and also includes a number of fun features, such as a discussion area and a special section dedicated to the architecture of these places.
• Hyper-text Thesis on the World's Columbian Exposition : A Masters thesis, by Julie K. Rose, M.A. English, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA on the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893, in Chicago, Illinois, which features a virtual tour of the Fair and offers analysis of social and cultural importance of the World's Columbian Exposition.
• Paris 1900 - The Exhibit of American Negroes : The Exhibit of American Negroes is a reconstruction of highlights from an exhibit of the same name put together by W. E. B. DuBois, Thomas Calloway and the Historic Black Colleges for the Paris 1900 International Exposition.
• Progress Made Visible: American World's Fairs and Expositions : The Special Collections Department of the University of Delaware Library holds a wide variety of primary source materials relating to the World's Fairs and Expositions held in the United States between 1876 and 1939.
• Revisiting World's Fairs and International Expositions: A Selected Bibliography, 1992 - 1999 : This Smithsonian Institution Library bibliography supplements Bridget Burke's bibliography, "World's Fairs and International Expositions: Selected References 1987-1993," which was published as part of Fair Representations: World's Fairs and the Modern World, edited by Robert Rydell and Nancy Gwinn. It focuses on secondary materials that were published between 1992 and mid-summer 1999, but also includes some entries for materials prior to 1992 that were not included in the Burke's bibliography.
• The 1904 World's Fair: Looking Back at Looking Forward : An online exhibition in association with the Missouri Historical Society's 2004 centennial celebration of the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair.
• The History of World Expositions : An EXPO 2000 resource on twenty previous World's Fairs and Expositions from 1851 to 2000.
• The Iconography of Hope: The 1939-40 New York World's Fair : Created by John C. Barans, this site features historical information and digitized photographs chronicling the 1939-40 New York World's Fair.

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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Navigating US History: A Student’s Guide to Research Paper Topics

As a student of history, you’re on a constant journey through time. Writing a research paper is more than just an assignment—it’s an opportunity to delve deeper into the events and periods that shaped the world we live in today. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking for fresh perspectives on well-trodden paths, this guide will provide a comprehensive list of US history research paper topics.

Table of content

The Importance of History Learning

Studying history provides a deeper understanding of societies, cultures, and the human condition. History shapes our collective memory, instilling a sense of identity and understanding of our place in the world. Exploring different eras helps us comprehend the consequences of certain actions, understand patterns, and better anticipate the future. Writing research papers on US history equips us with an analytical lens to critically assess the past, promoting empathy and encouraging informed citizenship.

The Art of Research Writing

Research writing requires a careful synthesis of existing knowledge with original thought. As a historical researcher, you act as a detective, deciphering mysteries, drawing connections, and unveiling the truths hidden in the annals of time. Your research paper is an exploration of your chosen topic and a demonstration of your analytical skills, critical thinking, and the ability to articulate complex ideas coherently.

Crafting your Research Paper Topic

Selecting an engaging and manageable topic is crucial in the research process. Your topic should be both broad enough to offer plenty of study sources and narrow enough to allow in-depth exploration. Below is a list of possible US history research paper topics.

Colonial Period

The Colonial Period, from the late 15th Century to the late 18th Century, marked the beginning of European settlement in what is now the United States. This era saw significant events such as the arrival of the Pilgrims, the establishment of the thirteen colonies, and the interactions between the settlers and the Native American tribes. This period set the stage for America’s diverse cultural, political, and social foundation.

Research Paper Topics for the Colonial Period

• Role of the Church in Colonial Society.
• Jamestown: Successes and Failures.
• Impact of Tobacco Cultivation on Colonial Economy.
• Life of Indigenous Tribes Pre-Colonization.
• The Salem Witch Trials: Causes and Consequences.
• The Role of Women in Colonial America.
• Early Forms of Democracy: The Mayflower Compact.
• Slavery in the Early Colonies.
• The Transatlantic Trade: Its Impact on the Colonies.
• Comparison of Northern and Southern Colonies.
• Analysis of Colonial Laws and Their Impact on Society.
• Evolution of Education in Colonial America.
• The Great Awakening and Its Impact on American Society.
• Indentured Servitude vs. Slavery: A Comparative Study.
• Navigation Acts and Their Influence on the Colonies.
• Impact of European Diseases on Native American Population.
• The Role of the Dutch in New Amsterdam (New York).
• The French and Indian War: Causes and Consequences.
• The Influence of the Enlightenment in the Colonies.
• Colonial Architecture: A Reflection of Cultural Identity.
• The Pennsylvania Colony: A Quaker Experiment.
• Cultural Exchange between Colonists and Native Americans.
• The Evolution of Colonial Economies: From Mercantilism to Capitalism.

Revolutionary Era

The Revolutionary Era, roughly from the 1760s to the 1780s, marked a period of political upheaval and radical change. It included events such as the American Revolution and the drafting of the US Constitution. This period represents America’s struggle for independence and the nation’s birth.

Research Paper Topics for the Revolutionary Era

• The Impact of the Stamp Act on the Colonies.
• The Boston Massacre: An Analysis.
• Role of Women in the American Revolution.
• The Philosophical Underpinnings of the Declaration of Independence.
• The Continental Congress: Achievements and Challenges.
• The Role of Propaganda in the American Revolution.
• Significance of the Battle of Saratoga.
• Comparative Analysis of the American and Haitian Revolutions.
• The Treaty of Paris (1783): Implications for America.
• Founding Fathers: Contributions and Controversies.
• The Federalist vs. Anti-Federalist Debate.
• The Role of African Americans in the Revolutionary War.
• The Impact of the Revolutionary War on Native Americans.
• Influence of the Enlightenment on the US Constitution.
• George Washington was a Military Leader.
• The Articles of Confederation: Strengths and Weaknesses.
• The Legacy of Thomas Jefferson.
• The Formation and Influence of the Sons of Liberty.
• Impact of the American Revolution on French Political Thought.
• The Bill of Rights: A Study in Civil Liberties.
• The Northwest Ordinance and Its Impact on American Expansion.
• Impact of the Revolutionary Era on American Literature.
• Loyalists during the American Revolution: Their Experiences and Contributions.

Nineteenth Century

The 19th Century was a time of dramatic transformation in America. From the expansion westward to the abolition of slavery and from the Industrial Revolution to the Civil War, these changes forged a new nation. It was an era defined by innovation, conflict, and expansion.

• The Impact of the Cotton Gin on the Southern Economy.
• The Missouri Compromise: An Analysis.
• The Role of Women in the 19th Century.
• Manifest Destiny and Its Impact on American Identity.
• The Abolitionist Movement: Key Figures and Contributions.
• The Mexican-American War: Causes and Consequences.
• The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on American Society.
• Analysis of the Compromise of 1850.
• The Fugitive Slave Act and Its Implications.
• The Influence of Transcendentalism on American Thought.
• The Homestead Act and Westward Expansion.
• Causes and Consequences of the Civil War.
• The Reconstruction Era: Successes and Failures.
• Role of African Americans in the Civil War.
• The Trail of Tears: Causes and Implications.
• The Emancipation Proclamation: Its Impact and Legacy.
• The Indian Removal Act: An Analysis.
• The Influence of the Gold Rush on American Society.
• The Formation of Labor Unions and Workers’ Rights.
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement: Key Events and Figures.
• The Dred Scott Decision and Its Impact on American Politics.
• The Impact of Railroads on Economic and Social Change.
• The Gilded Age: An Analysis of Social and Economic Disparities.

Twentieth Century

Monumental changes in technology, culture, politics, and social norms marked the 20th Century. The US emerged as a global superpower through its involvement in two World Wars, the Cold War, and numerous other international conflicts. This era also witnessed significant social changes, including the Civil Rights Movement, Women’s Liberation, and the Gay Rights Movement.

Research Paper Topics for the Twentieth Century

• Impact of World War I on American Society.
• The Harlem Renaissance: A Cultural Revolution.
• Causes and Consequences of the Great Depression.
• The Influence of the New Deal on American Government.
• Role of Women in World War II.
• The Atomic Bomb and the End of World War II.
• The Rise of Suburbia in Post-War America.
• The Cold War: An Analysis of US Foreign Policy.
• The Civil Rights Movement: Key Figures and Milestones.
• Impact of the Vietnam War on American Culture.
• The Watergate Scandal and Its Effect on Public Trust.
• The Feminist Movement in the 1960s and 1970s.
• The Space Race and Its Influence on Technology.
• The Impact of Television on American Society.
• The Environmental Movement and the Creation of the EPA.
• The Gay Rights Movement: Key Events and Figures.
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: An Analysis.
• The Immigration Act of 1965 and Its Impact on American Demographics.
• The War on Drugs: Causes and Consequences.
• The AIDS Epidemic and Its Impact on Public Health Policy.
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall and the End of the Cold War.
• The Role of the Internet in the Digital Age.

Final Thoughts

History research can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Remember, the best papers reflect your curiosity and passion for the topic. So, pick a topic that resonates with you, immerse yourself in the research, and enjoy the journey through time.

📎 Related Articles

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General primary source databases for 19th century america.

• American Civil War Letters and Diaries More than 400 sources of diaries, letters, and memoirs, to provide fast access to thousands of views on almost every aspect of the war. This extraordinary electronic collection includes 100,000 pages of re-keyed and indexed text, including 4,000 facsimile pages of previously unpublished manuscript material.
• American Civil War Research Database The definitive online resource for researching the individuals, regiments, and battles of the American Civil War. Originally created by Historical Data Systems, Inc., the database contains indexed, searchable information on over 4 million soldiers and thousands of battles, together with over 17,000 photographs. With thousands of regimental rosters and officer profiles, the database will continue to grow as new information is loaded semiannually.
• American Immigrant Letters, Diaries, and Oral Histories Includes 2,162 authors and approximately 100,000 pages of information, so providing a unique and personal view of what it meant to immigrate to America and Canada between 1800 and 1950. Composed of contemporaneous letters and diaries, oral histories, interviews, and other personal narratives, the series provides a rich source for scholars in a wide range of disciplines.
• American Pamphlets, Series 1, 1820-1922: From the New-York Historical Society Drawn from the pamphlet collection of the New-York Historical Society, this database will eventually provide access to more than 25,000 short printed works from the Jacksonian Era to the Jazz Age. New material is added at the end of every month until December 2014, so please check back.
• Early Encounters in North America This database documents the relationships among peoples in North America from 1534 to 1850. The collection focuses on personal accounts and provides unique perspectives from all of the protagonists, including traders, slaves, missionaries, explorers, soldiers, native peoples, and officials, both men and women. The project brings coherence to a wide range of published and unpublished accounts, including narratives, diaries, journals, and letters.
• The Emergence of Advertising in America: 1850 - 1920 The Emergence of Advertising in America: 1850 - 1920 (EAA) presents over 9,000 images from the Duke University Libraries relating to the early history of advertising in the United States.
• Everyday Life and Woman in America, 1800-1920 A database of primary source material providing a strong basis for research in areas such as American home life, 1800-1920, the history of women, and the history of childhood. There is material relating to: Political and Social Issues, Race, Religion, Family, Popular Fiction & Sensational Literature, Children's Prescriptive Literature, Fashion and beauty, Cookery, medicine, and education.
• Making of the Modern World Offers instant access to the theories, practices, and consequences of economic and business activity in the West, from the last half of the 15th century to the mid-19th century. It combines the strengths of two pre-eminent collections — the Goldsmiths' Library of Economic Literature at the University of London Library and the Kress Collection of Business and Economics at the Harvard Business School — along with supplementary materials from the Seligman Collection at Columbia.
• Networked Infrastructure for Nineteenth-Century Electronic Scholarship (NINES) NINES is a scholarly organization devoted to forging links between the material archive of the nineteenth century and the digital research environment of the twenty-first. They offer a portal to many digital archives and serve as a peer-reviewing body for digital work in the long 19th-century (1770-1920), British and American. NINES also is home to Juxta, a tool for comparing and collating multiple documentary instances of the same work; and to Ivanhoe, a collaborative game-space for interpreting textual and other cultural materials. Other interpretive tools and applications are in the planning stages
• ProQuest Civil War Era Contains 2,000 pamphlets and complete runs of eight newspaper titles, covering 1840-1865. Southern Titles: Richmond Dispatch (Virginia), Charleston Mercury (South Carolina), New Orleans Times Picayune (Louisiana); Northern Titles: Boston Herald, New York Herald, Columbus State Journal(Ohio); Border State/Mississippi Valley Titles: The Kentucky Daily Journal, Memphis Daily Appeal. Also includes the collection of Slavery and Anti-Slavery Pamphlets from the Libraries of Salmon P. Chase & John P. Hale.
• Travel Writing, Spectacle and World History, 1819-1972 Women's Travel Diaries and Correspondence from The Schlesinger Library at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, Harvard University
• Wilbur H. Siebert Underground Railroad Collection The Wilbur H. Siebert Collection contains correspondence, notes, manuscripts, student papers, maps, and photographs related to the Underground Railroad.
• Women and Social Movements International, 1840-Present Collection of primary source materials related to women's movements and activism in a global context.
• Yale Indian Papers Project The Yale Indian Papers Project’s efforts will culminate in a searchable electronic document collection known as the New England Indian Papers Series. The Series will consist of various manuscript materials from Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and parts of Eastern New York and Long Island. The first set of records to be published will consist of documents relating to Connecticut’s Native people.
• 19th Century U.S. Newspapers With digital facsimile images of both full pages and clipped articles for hundreds of 19th century U.S. newspapers
• African American Newspapers, 1827-1998 African American Newspapers, 1827-1998 provides online access to approximately 270 U.S. newspapers chronicling a century and a half of the African American experience. This unique collection features papers from more than 35 states—including many rare and historically significant 19th century titles.
• America's Historical Newspapers A large collection of digital newspapers from the 18th through 19th centuries. Formerly titled Early American Newspapers, this database contains the entire collection from Readex, series 1-7.
• American Civil War Newspapers A large collection of American newspapers from the years 1861-1865.
• Caribbean Newspapers, Series 1, 1718-1876: From the American Antiquarian Society Includes 140 newspapers from 22 islands, mostly in English, and contains material on US-Caribbean relations.
• Chronicling America This is a digital library project run by the Library of Congress. It contains selected newspapers between 1836-1922. Many of the papers covered here are local periodicals.
• Hispanic American Newspapers, 1808-1980 Hispanic American Newspapers, 1808-1980 represents the single largest compilation of Spanish-language newspapers printed in the U.S. during the 19th and 20th centuries
• ProQuest News and Newspapers A major database including many historical U.S. newspapers, usually spanning the 19th to 21st c. Titles include the New York Times, Hartford Courant, Chicago Defender, and about 50 additional newspapers.
• Secession Era Editorials Project Includes transcriptions of editorials on four important incidents: the Nebraska bill debates, the caning of Charles Sumner, Dred Scott, and John Brown's Raid on Harper's Ferry.
• Times of London A full, digital run of the London Times newspaper, from 1785-1985.

Government Documents

• American State Papers, 1789-1838 The American State Papers, comprising a total of thirty-eight physical volumes, contain the legislative and executive documents of Congress during the period 1789 to 1838.
• Google Patents Links to millions of US patents and patent applications from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, dating back to the eighteenth century and including patents as recent as the last few months. The google interface makes this rich collection readily searchable.
• House and Senate Journals, 1789-1817 From its inaugural session, the United States House of Representatives has kept a journal of its proceedings. They are available in digitized form here.
• Making of Modern Law, 1800-1926 Contains legal treatises published from 1800-1926, from the Nineteenth-Century Legal Treatises and Twentieth-Century Legal Treatises microfilm collections. Includes more than 21,000 works on U.S. and British Commonwealth law.
• ProQuest Congressional One of the best sources for U.S. government documents. Contains the Congressional Record and numerous hearings, reports and other documents from the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Tip: limit searches to individual Congresses to narrow searches. Also, choose advanced search to select different parts of the database, such as the large map collection (Serial Set Maps). Also includes Executive Branch Documents 1789-1932, which includes all of the 200,000+ executive branch titles listed in the 1909 Checklist that were not included in the U.S. Serial Set, as well as an additional well-chosen 200,000 titles from 1910-1932.
• Senate Executive Journals, 1789-1866 From its inaugural session, the United States Senate kept a journal of its proceedings. They are available in digitized form here from 1789-1866.
• U.S. Congressional Serial Set The U.S. Congressional Serial Set, commonly referred to as the Serial Set, contains the House and Senate Documents and the House and Senate Reports bound by session of Congress. It began publication with the 15th Congress, 1st Session (1817). Documents before 1817 may be found in the American State Papers.

Books and Magazines

• American Antiquarian Society Historical Periodicals Collection: Series 1 EBSCO partners with American Antiquarian Society (AAS), the premier library documenting the life of America's people from the Colonial Era through the Civil War and Reconstruction, to provide digital access to the most comprehensive collection of American periodicals published between 1691 and 1877.
• American Broadsides and Ephemera American Broadsides and Ephemera, based on the American Antiquarian Society's collection, offers searchable facsimile images of broadsides printed between 1820 and 1900 and pieces of ephemera printed between 1760 and 1900.
• American Periodical Series A large database of American magazines, especially strong in 19th century collections. Many of the 19th century publications reflect on the growing debate over slavery, including the serialization of Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom’s Cabin in National Era, the Civil War (1861-1865) and Reconstruction (1865-1877), and the settling of the West and the emergence of modern America during the Gilded Age.
• American Periodicals from the Center for Research Libraries American Periodicals from the Center for Research Libraries is a full-text resource containing full-color scans of original documents archived by the Center for Research Libraries.
• Early American Imprints, Series 1, Evans,1639-1800 (including Library Company of Philadelphia Supplement) Digitized from one of the most important collections ever produced on microform, Early American Imprints, Series I is based on Charles Evans’ renowned “American Bibliography” and Roger Bristol’s supplement. Including more than 36,000 printed works and 2.3 million pages, Series I also offers new imprints not available in microform editions.
• Early American Imprints, Series II, Shaw-Shoemaker, 1801-1819 (including Library Company of Philadelphia Supplement) Provides full-text access to the 36,000 American books, pamphlets and broadsides published in the first nineteen years of the nineteenth century.
• Harpers Magazine, 1850-present Since 1850, Harper's Magazine has been one of the leading periodicals of culture and opinion. This digital archive makes every issue of Harper's monthly allows users to browse individual issues or search the database by keyword.
• Harpers Weekly, 1857-1912 Searchable full-text database of all the pages of Harper's Weekly from 1857-1912 with scanned images, together with a series of indexes. The subject index provides information on domestic and foreign news, editorials, and people.
• Making of America Making of America is a digital library of primary sources in American social history from the antebellum period through reconstruction. The collection is particularly strong in the subject areas of education, psychology, American history, sociology, religion, and science and technology. The collection currently contains approximately 10,000 books and 50,000 journal articles with 19th century imprints.
• Nineteenth Century Index This database contains several key British sources, including the Nineteenth Century Short Title Catalogue, The Wellesley Index, Poole's Index and Periodicals Index Online, to create integrated bibliographic coverage of over 1.5 million British books and official publications, 71,000 archival collections and 18.9 million articles published in over 2,500 journals, magazines and newspapers.
• Last Updated: Apr 18, 2023 1:55 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.yale.edu/nineteenthcenturyus

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19th Century

Though the 19th century saw the rise of populism, the labor movement and Jacksonian democracy, it also ushered in the Gilded Age, when men like Cornelius Vanderbilt and J. P. Morgan wielded vast control over politics and business.

The Gilded Age describes the tumultuous years between the Civil War and the turn of the 20th century when America saw unprecedented growth in industry and technology and when greedy, corrupt industrialists, bankers and politicians enjoyed extraordinary wealth.

Oregon Trail

Missionaries Blaze the Oregon Trail By the 1840s, the Manifest Destiny had Americans in the East eager to expand their horizons. While Lewis and Clark had made their way west from 1804 to 1806, merchants, traders and trappers were also among the first people to forge a path across the Continental Divide. But it was […]

Buffalo Soldiers

Who Were the Buffalo Soldiers? No one knows for certain why, but the soldiers of the all-Black 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments were dubbed “buffalo soldiers” by the Native Americans they encountered. One theory claims the nickname arose because the soldiers’ dark, curly hair resembled the fur of a buffalo. Another assumption is the soldiers […]

Klondike Gold Rush

The Klondike Gold Rush, often called the Yukon Gold Rush, was a mass exodus of prospecting migrants from their hometowns to the Canadian Yukon Territory and Alaska after gold was discovered there in 1896.

Labor Movement

Analyze the impact of the labor movement in America throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.

Migrants Travel West on the Oregon Trail

Over 400,000 people travel West to start a new life and claim new land along the Oregon Trail, including Lucinda Brown. One-hundred seventy years later, one of her descendants sees a kettle from her journey for the first time.

Kansas-Nebraska Act

Get a crash course on the causes and consequences of the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 with historian Matthew Pinsker.

Manifest Destiny

Historian Matthew Pinsker gives a crash course on the concept of “manifest destiny” and the seeds of westward American expansion.

How Yellowstone Became America’s First National Park

Yellowstone’s stunning natural beauty inspired the 19th-century push to set aside the land, where Indigenous people had been present for millennia.

The 1877 Strike That Brought US Railroads to a Standstill

Thousands of rail workers in states across the country protested poor pay and working conditions in a massive—and violent—uprising.

7 Gilded Age Inventions That Changed the World

Some of the modern world’s most groundbreaking technologies emerged during this 30-year period.

The Political Cartoonist Who Helped Lead to ‘Boss’ Tweed’s Downfall

Thomas Nast gleefully—and bravely—mocked the Tammany Hall boss in multiple cartoons, prompting newspapers and authorities to investigate.

This Day in History

Frederick Douglass is born

“good housekeeping” goes on sale for the first time, the new orleans massacre.

The Colfax Massacre

23 die in collapse of ford’s theatre, site of lincoln assassination, chinese gold miners are slaughtered in the hells canyon massacre.

• USC Libraries
• Research Guides

19th Century U.S. History

19th century newspapers & magazines.

• Encyclopedias & Background Sources
• Books & Book Reviews
• Databases & Journals

Finding 19th Century Newspapers

• Primary Sources
• Citing Sources

If you are looking to see if USC has access to a specific newspaper, start by searching the Journals option on the Libraries' homepage and then enter the title of the newspaper for which you are looking to see if we have access to the publication online or in print

Databases that index historical newspapers:

• California Newspaper Project (CNP) This link opens in a new window The California Newspaper Project is an 18 year effort by the CBSR to identify, describe and preserve California newspapers. more... less... Close to 9,000 California newspapers were inventoried in over 14,000 repositories throughout the state, 1.5 million pages of California newspapers were preserved and made available on microfilm, and 100,000 rolls of negative microfilm rolls are being processed for permanent storage at the UC Regional Library Storage Facilities.
• Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers This link opens in a new window This site allows you to search and view newspaper pages from 1836-1922 and find information about American newspapers published between 1690-present. Chronicling America is sponsored jointly by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Library of Congress as part of the National Digital Newspaper Program (NDNP).

Reference books that index 19th century newspapers:

African-American Newspapers and Periodicals: A National Bibliography  (1998) Covers publications from  1827 to 1990s

Antislavery Newspapers and Periodicals   (1980) 5 vols.

• A History of American   Magazines   (1958) 5 vols.

Index to Black Newspapers  (1984)

Newspaper Indexes: A Location and Subject Guide for Researchers  (1977) 3 vols. - Lists newspapers by county and state, with date ranges and depository designation

Newspapers: A Reference Guide  (1987) This finding aid has information on newspaper indexes

The Wellesley index to Victorian Periodicals, 1824-1900  (1966) 5 vols.

• Arizona Digital Newspaper Program Dates covered: 1859-1978
• Brooklyn Daily Eagle Online Dates covered: 1841-1902
• California Digital Newspaper Collection This link opens in a new window A Freely Accessible Repository of Digitized California Newspapers from 1846 to the Present.
• Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers This link opens in a new window Dates covered: Fulltext - 1836-1922 Directory: 1690-present Sponsored jointly by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Library of Congress, this site allows you to search and view over 600 newspapers from 25 States and the District of Columbia from 1836-1922. Can also search the U.S. Newspaper Directory to find information about American newspapers published between 1690-present.
• Chronicling America: California Newspapers (1873-1913) Newspapers include: - Los Angeles Daily Herald (1873-1876), Daily Los Angeles Herald (1878-1884), Los Angeles Daily Herald (1884-1890), Los Angeles Herald (1890-1893), The Herald (1893-1898), Los Angeles Herald (1905-1910) - Imperial Press (4/20/1901-10/26/1901), The Imperial Press and Farmer(1901-1903), The Imperial Press (1903-1905), Imperial Valley Press and The Imperial Press (1906-1907), and Imperial Valley Press (1907-1910). - The Morning Call (1890-1895), The San Francisco Call (1895-1913), The Call-Chronicle-Examiner (4/19/1906),The San Francisco Call and Post (1913) - Amador Ledger (1900-1910) - Sacramento Daily Record-Union (1880-1891), The Record-Union (1891-1899)
• Colorado's Historical Newspapers Collection Dates covered: 1859 - 1923 more... less... Currently includes more than 500,000 digitized pages, representing 163 individual newspaper titles published in Colorado from 1859 to 1923.
• Georgia Historic Newspapers Dates covered: 1750-1925 more... less... Contains issues of three important historic Georgia newspapers: the Cherokee Phoenix, the Dublin Post, and the Colored Tribune. Currently the only paper being added to this resource is the Cherokee Phoenix.
• Making of America - 19th Century Journals and magazines Provides scanned copies of 991 volumes of 22 popular American magazines and journals published between 1815-1900 more... less... Titles include: The American Missionary (1878 - 1901); The American Whig Review (1845 - 1852); The Atlantic Monthly (1857 - 1901); The Bay State Monthly (1884 - 1886); The Century (1881 - 1899); The Continental Monthly (1862 - 1864); The Galaxy (1866 - 1878); Harper's New Monthly Magazine (1850 - 1899); The International Monthly Magazine (1850 - 1852); The Living Age (1844 - 1900); Manufacturer and Builder (1869 - 1894); The New England Magazine (1886 - 1900); The New-England Magazine (1831 - 1835); New Englander (1843 - 1892); The North American Review (1815 - 1900); The Old Guard (1863 - 1867); Punchinello (1870); Putnam's Monthly (1853 - 1870); Scientific American (1846 - 1869); Scribner's Magazine (1887 - 1896); Scribner's Monthly (1870 - 1881); The United States Democratic Review (1837 - 1859)
• North Carolina Newspaper Digitization Project (1751-1898) more... less... A project of the North Carolina State Archives, this collection contains over 23,000 pages from newspapers. Click on the link "Newspapers Included" to see the current list of titles from 6 towns. The runs are mostly short, sometimes with only 2 or 3 issues from one paper. Advertisements are included, including indexing of the text. In addition to browsing, you can search by keyword, year, or a particular newspaper
• New York State Historic Newspapers Dates covered: 1795-2011
• Oregon Historic Newspapers Dates covered: 1860-1922 more... less... 46 newspapers have been digitized so far, with over 180,000 pages made available.
• Pennsylvania Civil War Newspapers Dates covered: 2/23/1831 - 2/14/1877 more... less... Contains all of the words, photographs and advertisements from selected newspapers published in the years before, during and after the U.S. Civil War
• Utah Digital Newspapers Dates covered: 1850-1969 Access to over 50 digitized Utah titles. Added to monthly
• Washington State Historic Newspapers Dates covered: 1852-2010
• Wyoming Newspaper Project Dates covered: 1849-1922 All of the newspapers printed in Wyoming between 1849 and 1922 are available in this this searchable and browsable collection.
• List of 19th Century Periodicals (freely) available online from Marist College
• << Previous: Databases & Journals
• Next: Primary Sources >>
• Last Updated: Jan 31, 2024 10:06 PM
• URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/hist360

153 US History Topics [2024 US History Essay Ideas]

American history is not as long as the European one. However, it’s one of the richest histories in the world. It’s full of controversies, different opinions, and interesting facts. Those who study American history will find how many voices, perspectives, and points of view can coexist.

When writing an essay about America, you should try to stay as objective as possible. Think creatively and consider historical events from a new perspective.

This abundance of information and events can intimidate anyone. That’s why it can be very challenging to select one single US history topic to write about. There are so many!

To decide on it, students should answer several questions:

• What time period interests me the most?
• What specific event sounds the most appealing to me?
• What historical figure impresses me?

It is indeed a daunting task to attempt to put the remarkable story of the US into an essay list. Fortunately, we’re not trying to do so.

Tired of researching historical encyclopedias? This is the perfect article for you – read through this collection of 153 US history essay topics prepared by our team .

🌎Top 10 American History Topics to Write about

• 🏗️ Topics before 1877
• 🌻 Topics: 1878-1899
• 🏙️ US Topics: 1900s

🧊 Cool American History Topics

• 🧐 US Regents Topics
• ✊ Black History Topics

🎉 Fun US History Essay Topics

👌 easy american history essay topics, ❓ us history essay questions, 📋 how to cite an american history essay.

• The 20th Century.
• America’s Role in Normandy Landings.
• Conquest of California.
• The Great Depression.
• USA: Colonial History.
• The Oregon Trail.
• African American Slave Trade.
• Who was Harriet Tubman?
• America in the Modern World.
• Klondike Gold Rush.

☝️ Good US History Topics by Period

This is the IvyPanda list of American history topics that can help students get inspired!

We divided the history into epochs and organized the US history essay topics accordingly. Besides, this US history topics list structured thematically. It, hopefully, will make it easier to navigate and get started.

One of the best ways to look at history is to examine it from a chronological perspective. The topics in this section are structured based on the time period.

Every period is filled with key events and figures. American society is the product of those events—it’s vital to have a closer look at it.

🏗️ History Topics before 1877

• America before Columbus . In this topic, you can talk about the first people in the Americas and what historians know about them. There are a lot of archeological findings and artifacts that survived thousands of years. Write about Christopher Columbus and how “the discovery” was not a discovery. The Americas have been inhabited and had developed civilizations long before Europeans put their foot there.
• The first landing of Christopher Columbus and the New World

• Christopher Columbus: Biography, Discoveries, Contributions . You can talk about Christopher Columbus and his biography. Track how his image has been changing throughout history. Modern historians see him as a person who contributed to the genocide of Native Americans. What is your opinion about him?
• The British Rule in the Americas and the first British Settlements. Explore the first permanent colony in North America and what English wanted the colonies to be. There were a lot of obstacles, which first settlers had faced before Jamestown became a prosperous city. They suffered from a shortage of food, severe climate conditions, and disease. Plus, there were problems with the Indians. Research what “the middle ground” was and why this concept is relevant to this topic.
• What is Puritanism?
• Puritans in Great Britain
• The Puritan Ethic in the United States . Who the Puritans were? Why were they sent to the New World? What were their religious beliefs? Explore the influence puritans had in the past. Is puritanism still relevant in the US today?
• The Effects of the Spanish Rule and The Conquistadors in the Americas. Spanish Colonization of the Americas laid foundations for the Latin American identity. It is also considered the very first mass genocide in the world. It is indeed a matter of perspective. You can talk about how the contact between the Native Americans and the Spaniards affected both parties.
• The Protestant Reformation and its influence on the US History. Religion was one of the main reasons why the first settlers decided to travel to the New World. Write about the connection between the freedom of religion in the US. What influence did it have on the nation as a whole in the future? Why is it crucial? How did it affect the lifestyle of people in the US?
• Native Americans and “the Middle Ground” . Not everyone knows that the famous Disney cartoon Pocahontas is based on the true story. If this story was told by a Native American, it would be different. In this essay, you can comment on the role that Native Americans played in the European Colonization. Elaborate on the disappearance of “the Middle Ground.”
• The beginning of slavery in British America and the Middle Passage. You can analyze the way this institution was established. Write about the factors that influenced it in the 17th century, try to include first-person accounts of slavery. Use the American Slave Narrative , for instance, Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavus Vassa . This inclusion will demonstrate how inhumane slavery was and will open a good discussion.
• Christianity, slavery, and colonialism in the US
• The witchcraft trials . Elaborate on religious views of the New England public. How such views made it possible for more than 200 people to be accused of witchcraft. Discuss a Puritan code, the structure of the society, and what type of women were prosecuted.

• The Boston Tea Party as the key event of the American Revolution. The Boston Tea Party is a highly celebrated event in the history of the US. Discuss why is that? Why is it so important for the Americans? Talk about the birth of patriotism, resistance and the revolt against colonialism. What did the rebels mean by “taxation without representation?”
• The American Revolutionary War and the Declaration of Independence. This topic is one of the most popular in the history of the United States. First, you could write about a military battle with Great Britain and the reasons for it. Second, talk about political battles within the US at that period. Examine the establishment of the new nation.
• How the Revolutionary war changes American Society
• Why was the Declaration of Independence written?
• Was the American Revolution really revolutionary?
• The meaning of the Constitution. This is one of the most fruitful and fascinating debates in US history. Some people argue that it is written in a very vague way to allow American society to evolve. Others say that its text allows minorities to be deprived of the very things it promises to establish. Elaborate if you find the Constitution to be a liberal, radical, or a conservative document.
• Why the Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution. Talk about the first 10 amendments to the Constitution and explore why these amendments are so important. What did the amendments guarantee? Why was The Bill of Rights added to the Constitution in the first place?

• The Founding Fathers’ influence on the US. The Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence are sacred documents. The Founding Fathers are major figures for the Americans as well. Writing about the influence of the Founding Fathers, select one or two members to focus on. Consider the diversity among the members. How did it help the Founding Fathers in leading the war and framing a sustainable government?
• What is the role of the Founding Fathers in American society and religion?
• European Colonization influence on the Native American population
• Removal of Indian tribes. American History is unjust at times. Explore how unconstitutional the treatment of Indian Americans was and why they find it this way. Look at the way the Founding Fathers addressed this issue. Examining the Indian Removal Act of 1830 will allow you to fully develop this topic. Analyze why the policy was accepted in the first place. Why is it called “ethnic cleansing” by the majority of historians nowadays?
• Native Americans lost their freedom
• The impact of railroads in America. The rapid expansion of America would be impossible without the railroad construction. The railroads triggered the development of the Midwest and the West. Despite that, the construction of the railroads was highly monopolistic and undemocratic. Comment on the richest men in the US – John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, and Cornelius Vanderbilt.
• The role of cotton in the American economy. The American Economy in the 19th century heavily depended on cotton production. There was even a saying “Cotton is King” that was very popular at that time. Besides cotton, it heavily depended on the slaves. This period in American History is called the Antebellum Era. Look at the role of cotton from several perspectives. How profitable was it? How did slaves contribute to the American economy? How financially unviable was the abolition of slavery?

• History of American Transcendentalism.
• Why was Transcendentalism important for American Culture? The essay can start with a broad explanation of what transcendentalism is. Explain where it started and how it evolved. Explore what views the group had on women’s rights, slavery, education, government, and religion. You could write about the most prominent transcendentalists – Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry Thoreau.
• Religions in the 19th Century America. Known as the Second Great Awakening or Christian Revivalism, religion in the 19th century America was altered. Look back at the beginning of the American Revolution. Anglicans, Methodists, and Quackers were the fastest-growing religious groups then. Discuss all of them.
• The abolition of slavery and the Civil War . A lot of historians believe that slavery in itself did not cause the conflict. In this essay, you could elaborate on this idea and consider the other point of view. For a long essay, write about Abraham Lincoln’s thoughts on slavery. His ideas about slavery and racial inequality were one of the most discussed aspects of his entire life. Look at his letters and write about the complexity of his views.
• The causes of the Civil War and the aftermath of war. This essay is one of the easiest American history essays to write. Talk about the causes and effects of the Civil War (1861-1865) in the US. Why did it happen? What was achieved?
• The struggle over the goal and the meaning of the Fourteenth Amendment . You can elaborate on the goal of the amendment. Was it able to protect the rights of black citizens? Why was it still possible for the states to deny them their right to vote?
• How did Reconstruction change the United States after the Civil war?
• The Reconstruction governments. What type of reforms did the reconstruction government implement? What positive reforms happened during the Reconstruction Era? You could discuss radical reconstruction and white supremacy that spawned during the Reconstruction period. Elaborate on the idea of manifest destiny. Why was it so popular in the 19th century in the US?
• The Compromise of 1850 . Why was reaching the compromise necessary? You can describe the terms of the compromise. Explain what results were achieved: political, economic, and cultural.

🌻 American History 1878-1899

The United States was going through many changes during this period: from various social changes and changes in foreign and domestic policies to rapid economic and cultural changes. This time saw the country changing for the best in some aspects and for the worst in others.

• Industrialization after the Civil war. Industrialization of the United States was going on for almost half a century. However, the most impressive growth happened in 1880-1900. The expansion of the steel, iron and oil industries drove the American economy. Comment on all the inventions, technological advancements that happened in the US at that time.
• Immigrants and their ideas of the American Dream
• Social reforms during the Progressive Era
• American Foreign Policy in the 1890s

• The importance of the Progressive Era reforms
• Race relations during the Progressive Era reforms
• Japanese Americans Immigration in the 19th century

🏙️ 20th Century US History Topics

The 20th century for the United States and the world, in general, was highly eventful. Economic crises, two World Wars, the Cold War, and the fight over civil rights. Plus, a huge economic and technological upheaval, the space program.

This list of American History topics after 1900 can be great for those looking for inspiration for a paper.

Here you go:

• The door to America— Ellis Island. What are America’s best features? Economic opportunities, political and religious freedom? An abundance of jobs and opportunities? Land and natural resources? All of these made the United States experience the migration flux from all over the world. Elaborate on how Ellis island is a symbol of American immigration and the American dream.

• The rise of capitalism
• Work environments during the Progressive Era
• Women’s suffrage movement in America
• The causes and effects of women’s suffrage movement in the US
• Changes in American Government after WWI
• Is prohibition to blame for the organized crime in The United States?
• The economic impact of the Great Depression. The Great Depression is one of the longest economic downturns in the history of the United States. You can talk about several main causes of the crisis. Another good approach would be to analyze the way American presidents handled this crisis.
• Japanese American discrimination during the Great Depression
• How did Roosevelt plan to end the Great Depression?
• The Great Depression and what is the new deal?
• The Role of the United States during World War 2
• Why did the United States fight and lose the Vietnam War?
• The war in Vietnam and the Civil Rights Movement
• A Comparison of the traditional and the revisionist arguments regarding the Origins of The Cold War
• The Cold War and US diplomacy
• The Cold War and how it influenced American society

History is tough, but some significant historical events take our breath away even centuries later. Here is our list of cool American history topics. Even if you don’t find any topic that works for you, it can inspire you to look for moments in history that appeal to you personally.

• The true Story of Pocahontas: An untold story of a Native American girl. The true story of Pocahontas is covered with myths. Critically examine the story of her life and death. Try to understand it from a standpoint of a 12 years old Native American girl kidnapped by a white colonizer.
• Native American tribes in the US History
• What was discussed at the Constitutional Convention?
• The history of the Statue of Liberty
• Henry Ford and how his inventions changed America
• Moon landing conspiracy
• The war on drugs in US History
• Illegal immigrants in the US
• The American sense of humor
• American pop culture in the 1920s . This time period is called “the roaring twenties.” It was filled with drastic political and cultural changes in the United States. Jazz, flapper culture, prohibition, and economic abundance are important elements of the 1920s.

• The history of gangs in the US
• What did hippies believe in?
• History of Hippie’s Culture
• Presidential assassinations in the United States History. Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield, William McKinley, and JFK were the only US Presidents murdered while in office. You don’t have to retell the stories of their deaths! Instead, explore how these assassinations triggered some vital political reforms.
• The history of the Fifth Amendment

🙌 Most Interesting American History Topics

Use the following list of most interesting US History topics for your next essay. Choose what US history interesting event or a historic figure captures your attention the most.

🧐 US History Regent Topics

• The Relationships Between Federal and State Governments
• Was there a need to bomb Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
• The Cold War: Origins, Causes, Phases, and the Results
• Why and How the Cold War Was Fought
• The US Army in the Iraq War
• The Iraq War: Background and Issues
• Why did the Iraq War go against the plan?
• Executive Orders and Presidential Power in the United States
• History of the American Constitution
• The Turning points of the American Revolution

✊ Black History Essay Topics

Studying the history of the United States without studying slavery is impossible, mainly because the issue of race is ingrained into the DNA of America.

Black African American history allows students to get a different perspective on the same events. It lets them hear the voices that are so often erased from the history books. These African American history essays can help anyone looking for a good topic to write about.

• Slave Resistance in the Eighteen Century. Continuously throughout history, African American slaves were portrayed as voiceless and victimized. Others presented them as almost indifferent and passive to their own destiny. You can examine a different perspective, an Afrocentric one. The history of slavery was not the history of passivity, it was a history of black resistance.
• African American Music as a Form of Resistance
• African American Religion and Spirituality in the United States
• The 13th Amendment and the End of Slavery
• The Jim Crow Laws in the United States History . Jim Crow Laws were the laws that enforced racial segregation in the country. Dedicate an introduction to discuss where the name “Jim Crow” comes from. Give a historical background to how the laws were used. This topic can make a strong essay because no one can stay indifferent.
• Gender and Jim Crow
• The Role of Martin Luther King, Jr in The Civil Right Movement
• Martin Luther King’s speech “I have a dream”
• Brown vs The Board of Education . The ruling in Brown vs. The Board of Education was one of the most fundamental changes in the US educational system. How did the general public receive the news about the desegregation of public schools? How did the American educational system change after this case?
• The Significance of the Harlem Renaissance
• Barack Obama: The First African American President
• Barack Obama’s healthcare reforms
• Has Obama’s Presidency changed America?

• The Cowboy Culture in the US
• How Did Yellow Journalism Start?
• Why is Superman the most American of all the heroes?
• The History of American Flag
• History of Sports in the United States
• History of Thanksgiving Turkey in the United States
• How Did Highways Change the United States of America?
• American History through Hollywood Film

Sometimes you simply do not have enough time to write a profound essay. These American history topics are relatively easy, and you don’t have to research them a lot. Even if you do, there is a ton of information available.

• British Colonization of the Americas
• Slavery and racism in the United States
• The Puritans Influence on the American Society
• The pilgrims and the puritans
• The Causes of the Vietnam War
• Why Was Martin Luter King Assassinated?
• American Moon Landing
• What Are Major Events in the US History?
• What Started the US History?
• What Is the Most Important Piece of the US History?
• What Is the US History Summary?
• What City Was the First Capital in the US History?
• What Was the First American State in the US History?
• What Are Some Controversies in the US History?
• How Far Was the New Deal a Turning Point in the US History up to 1941?
• How the Airplane Industry Changed US History?
• What Was President Reagan Known For in the US History?
• How Reagan’s Ideology Shaped the US History?
• Why Is the Reagan Revolution in the US History?
• How Richard Nixon Influenced the US History?
• What Vietnam War Showed About US History?
• Did the Concept of Imperialism Exist in the US History?
• Why Did the Wars in the Middle East Go Down in the US History as Unnecessary?
• What Is the Most Popular Ideology in the US History?
• How Does the US History Describe George W. Bush?
• How Did the Use of Nuclear Weapons in Japan Affect the US History?
• What Are Some Horrible and Forgotten Events in the US History?
• Is Donald Trump the Second Worst President in the US History?
• What Was the Biggest Political Miscalculation in the US History?
• Who Is the Most Overrated First Lady in the US History?
• How Well Do US History Teachers Really Know About the US History?
• Who Was the Wimpiest President in the US History?
• Who Are Some of the Great Asian Americans in the US History?
• What Was the Most Corrupt Time in the US History?
• What Was the Bloodiest Single Day Battle in the US History?
• Who Is the Greatest Hero in the US History?
• How Did King Philip’s War Change the US History?

Your citation will depend on the type of requirements your instructor will provide you with. You can ask your teacher which style of citation is preferable before the essay writing. The school itself may have specific guidelines for every typeof academic writing.

For history essays, there are two key methods of referencing both primary and secondary sources:

• In-text citation. In this method, you mention the author and the year in the body of the essay. The list of references is placed at the end of the essay.
• Footnote Referencing. In this method, you put a number in the body. It corresponds with the reference at the bottom of each page. At the end of the essay, a list of works read rather than cited should be included.

All the citation entries should be listed in alphabetical order. If you mention the same author multiple times with different works, use chronological order.

Keeping track of all the sources, both read and cited, is time-consuming. For that, students can try to use different online software systems. These systems can help arrange the list alphabetically and correctly organize all the citations.

These digital tools are worth checking out:

Thank you for reading so far! Now you’re ready to start an amazing paper on US history. Share this article with those who may find it helpful, and leave a comment below.

🔗 References

• U.S. History and Historical Documents: USAGov, the Official Guide to Government Information and Services.
• All Topics: National Museum of American History.
• TIMELINE, United States History: World Digital Library.
• How Do I Cite Sources: Plagiarism.org.
• Citing Primary Sources, Chicago: Teacher Resources, Library of Congress.
• Black History, Topical: National Archives.
• Black History Month: National Geographic Society.
• College Writing: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
• Writing Historical Essays, A Guide for Undergraduates: Department of History, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.
• Writing an Essay Introduction: Research & Learning Online.
• Research and Citation Resources: Purdue Writing Lab, College of Liberal Art.
• Citing Your Sources, Citing Basics: Research Guides at Williams College Libraries.
• Citing Electronic Sources: Academic Integrity at MIT, a Handbok for Students.
• Generate Topic Ideas Quickly and Easily: Online Research Library Questia.
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, March 12). 153 US History Topics [2024 US History Essay Ideas]. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/us-history-essay-topics/

"153 US History Topics [2024 US History Essay Ideas]." IvyPanda , 12 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/us-history-essay-topics/.

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197 Fascinating US History Research Topics To Top The Class

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

Classic US History Research Topics

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

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

Neo-Classical US History Research Topics

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

Read More:  Social Work Research Topics

American History Research Topics For High School

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

Explore some more  history research paper topics

US History Research Topics for College

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

Read More:  Nursing Research Topics

Political US History Research Topics

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

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

US Industry History Research Topics

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

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

International Relations: History of US Research Topics

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

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

History of Hollywood Research Topics

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

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

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

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• Zachary Taylor Papers

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• Microfilm edition of the papers of the Maryland State Colonization Society
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Event: Civil War

• Abraham Lincoln Historical Digitization Project
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• Southern Homefront, 1861-1865
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• The War of the Rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies
• William T. Sherman Papers
• Wisconsin in the Civil War
• Wm. Oland Bourne Papers
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101 Exciting US History Research Paper Topics: Quick Ideas

People have many ideas of US history topics to write about but crafting them to an appealing and thrilling level is the problem. You, however, are lucky because you are going to have exclusive access into some of the most top drawer US history research paper topics.

Before we move into the juicy part, let’s have some quick tips to help you forge ahead like a soldier.

Tips for Finding History Research Paper Topics

• Have an outline
• Consult credible and authentic sources
• Have a look at previous research topics
• Avoid plagiarism at all costs

United States history research paper topics will also follow the same guidelines listed above. You must be anxious about the issues, are you?

Let’s cut the anxiety short.

101 US History Topics to Write About

The following US history research paper topics are categorized to give you ample time in choosing one according to your assignment needs.

World War 1

• US entry into WW1
• The Zimmermann telegram
• US declaration of war on Germany
• Authorization of the Selective Service Act of 1917
• The 19th Amendment ratification
• The Espionage Act of 1917
• US advocates for the League of Nations
• The sinking of the British ocean liner by Germany
• Declaration of ceasefire
• Expansion of the US government.

World War II

• Attack on Pearl Harbor
• The Quarantine Speech of 1937
• The replacement of British invasion forces in Iceland by the US
• The Lend-Lease Act of 1941
• The shoot on sight order
• The American Prisoners of war
• The Pacific war
• The bombing of Japanese home islands
• The North African campaign
• The Italians surrender
• The invasion of France
• Fall of Berlin to the Soviets
• The cost of world war II on America
• The number of casualties the US suffered in the war
• Operation Cobra

The Civil Wars in the US

• The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854
• The threat by the confederate forces
• What led to the surrender of Major Robert?
• The First Battle of Bull Run
• Replacement of General Winfield Scott
• The Second Manassas
• The Battle of Antietam
• The effect of the Emancipation Proclamation
• The Battle of Chancellorsville
• The aftermath of the Battle of Chattanooga
• The Battle of the Wilderness
• The Postwar politics
• Civil War commemoration
• Evolution of the modern navy
• The role of women in the civil war
• Prisoners of the civil war
• The causes of secession
• Features of the civil war
• The economic impact of the civil war
• Diplomacy as a method to solve the American civil war

The Reconstruction Era

• The devastation of material in the South
• Restoration of the South to the Union
• The reconstruction of Lincoln’s presidency
• February 1865 Peace conference
• The enactment of Black codes
• The legalization of slave marriages
• The state constitutional conventions of 1867-1869
• The congressional investigation
• The split of the republican nationally
• Panic of 1873
• The US elections of 1876
• The military reconstruction acts (1867)
• Formation of religious organizations
• The establishment of public schools
• Change in the taxation

The Federal Era

• Establishment of a new government
• The assumption of state debts
• The Quasi-War taxation
• The rise of political parties
• The Whiskey rebellion
• The Northwest Indian war
• The Jay treaty
• The Quasi-war with France
• The Alien and Sedition Acts
• The fall of the federalists
• Election on 1800
• The 12th Amendment
• The Louisiana purchase
• The Judiciary Act of 1802 approved
• Impeachment of the district judge, John Pickering

The Great Depression Era

• The impact of the stock market crash
• The desperation of urban politics
• The tight monetary policy
• Consequences of the Hoover policy
• How the US responded politically to the depression era
• The recession of 1937-1938
• The massive military spending of 1940
• The impact on industrial production
• Number of banks affected by the depression era
• The Mexican Repatriation program
• The Hams and Eggs movement
• The timeline of the Great Depression
• Penny Auction
• The US census of 1930
• The impact of the National Labor Relations Board

The Civil Rights Era

• The end of Liberalism
• Formation of the Civil Rights Movement
• Impact of the 1964 elections on civil rights
• The climax of the Space Race
• The Vietnam War
• The creation of the Women’s Movement
• Effects of Nixon’s administration
• The 1973 oil crisis
• The Watergate scandal
• Factors that led to the sexual revolution
• President Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon

The United States is the envy of many. It is the dream of many to visit it and just gaze at the beauty of this magnificent country. However, writing on it would be an excellent start to achieving this dream.

Get Help With US Hisrtory Research Paper Topics Today!

American history research paper topics are like the sand of the sea. I mean, a whole 50 states with a population of over 320 million people – who can miss something to write? However, good history research topics are not easy to come by. That is why this article is explicitly set to help you achieve that.

US history paper topics are not limited to the ones listed above. There are many others which remain of significant significance to the country’s history.

The list above is to trigger your mind to exploring more American history research paper topics. However, you can start by testing yourself using one or two of the two problems provided above. Let the issues you come up be as concise as possible to attract the reader’s eye to the rest of your history essay.

You can also seek expert writing help from our pro writers . Don’t worry about the tight deadlines; we can meet even the closest of them.

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• Old News: Historical Newspapers and Periodicals by Scholars Commons Staff Last Updated Apr 12, 2024 1369 views this year

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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?

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• Here are some things to consider when choosing the topic for a history research paper.
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• 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.

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Exploring Fascinating 19th Century Topics: A Dive into History’s Forgotten Gems

Welcome to 19th Century , where we delve into the intriguing world of the past! Join us as we explore a variety of 19th century topics , from significant historical events and cultural movements, to influential figures and technological advancements. Get ready for an immersive journey through this remarkable era!

Table of Contents

Exploring the Fascinating World of 19th Century: Unveiling Key Topics and Events

The 19th century was a period of immense change and progress, shaping the course of history in numerous ways. From political revolutions to scientific advancements, this era witnessed a range of key topics and events that continue to captivate our fascination.

Political Revolutions: One of the most significant aspects of the 19th century was the wave of political revolutions that swept across the globe. The French Revolution, which began in 1789, set the stage for the revolutionary spirit that would dominate much of the century. Other notable revolutions include the American Revolution, which led to the birth of the United States, and the Latin American Wars of Independence, which saw various countries breaking free from colonial rule.

Industrial Revolution: The 19th century also saw the rise of the Industrial Revolution, a pivotal period marked by significant advancements in manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation. This period witnessed the transition from an agrarian society to an industrialized one, fueled by innovations such as the steam engine, mass production, and the development of railways. These advancements transformed societies and economies, leading to urbanization and the growth of cities.

Colonialism and Imperialism: The 19th century was characterized by fierce competition between European powers for colonial territories and resources. This era witnessed the scramble for Africa, as European nations sought to establish colonies and exploit the continent’s vast resources. Imperialism also extended to Asia, with countries such as Britain and France acquiring territories in India, China, and Southeast Asia. This expansion had profound implications for both the colonizers and the colonized, shaping geopolitical dynamics that continue to impact the world today.

Scientific and Technological Advancements: The 19th century was a time of remarkable discoveries and inventions. Scientific advancements, such as Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and Gregor Mendel’s laws of inheritance, revolutionized our understanding of biology and genetics. Technological innovations, such as the telegraph and the telephone, transformed communication and connected people across great distances. Meanwhile, medical breakthroughs, such as the development of anesthesia and the understanding of germ theory, greatly improved healthcare practices.

The Rise of Nationalism: Throughout the 19th century, nationalism emerged as a powerful force, driving movements for self-determination and political independence. Nations such as Italy and Germany unified during this period, while others, like Poland and Ireland, fought for their own sovereignty. Nationalist sentiments also played a significant role in the decline of empires, as subject peoples sought to assert their own identities and demand political autonomy.

The 19th century was a time of incredible transformation, marked by revolutions, industrialization, colonization, scientific progress, and the rise of nationalism. This captivating era continues to shape the world we live in today, with its legacies and influences still felt across various realms of society.

The Industrial Revolution: Crash Course History of Science #21

Playlist of the creative elite of the 19th century., what were the predominant ideas during the 19th century.

During the 19th century , several predominant ideas emerged that shaped the political, social, and cultural landscape of the time. Nationalism was a powerful force, emphasizing loyalty and pride in one’s nation and fostering a sense of national identity. It influenced political movements and the creation of nation-states across Europe and beyond.

Liberalism gained prominence, advocating for constitutional government, individual liberty, and free markets. It aimed to limit the powers of monarchies and uphold individual rights and freedoms.

Industrialization was a defining characteristic of the 19th century, with rapid advancements in technology, manufacturing, and transportation. This led to urbanization and the rise of the working class, as well as significant social and economic changes.

Imperialism saw European powers expanding their territories and influence around the world, driven by notions of economic and strategic interests. This led to colonialism and the exploitation of resources and labor in many regions.

Romanticism emerged as a dominant cultural movement, rejecting the rationality of the Enlightenment and embracing emotion, individuality, and nature. It influenced literature, art, and music, emphasizing imagination and the expression of personal feelings.

Scientific progress accelerated during this period, with breakthroughs in physics, chemistry, and biology. Influential figures such as Charles Darwin and Albert Einstein revolutionized our understanding of the natural world, challenging traditional religious beliefs.

These predominant ideas of nationalism, liberalism, industrialization, imperialism, romanticism, and scientific progress continue to have lasting impacts on our modern world, shaping political systems, societal values, and cultural expressions.

What significant event occurred in the 19th century?

The Industrial Revolution was a significant event that occurred in the 19th century . This period brought about major changes in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and transportation, leading to the rapid industrialization of Western countries. It marked a shift from manual labor to machine-based production, revolutionizing industries and transforming economies. The introduction of new machinery and technologies led to increased productivity and efficiency, creating wealth and urbanization. The Industrial Revolution also had profound social and cultural impacts, including the emergence of the working class, the rise of capitalism, and the spread of urbanization.

What were the main concerns during the late 19th century?

During the late 19th century , there were several main concerns that shaped the era. Industrialization was a significant issue as many countries were experiencing rapid economic growth and an expansion of factories and urban areas. This led to urban overcrowding , poor working conditions, and the rise of labor movements advocating for workers’ rights.

Another major concern was imperialism , with European powers vying for control over colonies in Africa and Asia. This period saw the scramble for Africa, where European countries sought to exploit the continent’s resources and establish political dominance. Imperialism also sparked tensions between European powers, resulting in the arms race and the formation of alliances that would later contribute to World War I.

Social inequality was a pressing concern during this time as well. The disparities between the wealthy and the working class were stark and gave rise to social and political movements such as socialism and labor unions . Workers demanded better wages, shorter hours, and improved working conditions.

Furthermore, the late 19th century was marked by political unrest and nationalism . Many countries were undergoing significant political transformations, with movements towards democracy and calls for national self-determination. This period witnessed the decline of monarchies and the formation of nation-states.

Lastly, scientific and technological advancements were a major focus during this time. The industrial revolution brought about innovations such as electricity, the telephone, and transportation advancements like the steam engine and railroad systems.

Overall, the late 19th century was characterized by a combination of rapid industrialization, global power struggles, social inequalities, political changes, and technological advancements. These concerns laid the groundwork for the significant changes and challenges that would shape the 20th century.

What were the societal problems in the 19th century?

In the 19th century, there were several societal problems that emerged and posed significant challenges for various countries and regions:

1. Industrialization: The rapid pace of industrialization brought about numerous social problems. Poor working conditions, including long hours, low wages, and unsafe environments, led to widespread exploitation of workers. This prompted the rise of labor movements and calls for improved worker rights and protections.

2. Urbanization: The growth of cities as centers of industry resulted in overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions. Urban slums emerged, characterized by poverty, crime, and disease. Issues such as inadequate housing, lack of sanitation facilities, and limited access to basic services plagued urban populations.

3. Social inequality: The 19th century witnessed significant disparities between different social classes. The upper classes enjoyed privileges and wealth while the lower classes faced poverty and limited upward mobility. This inequality fueled social unrest and discontent among the working class, leading to various social movements and demands for egalitarianism.

4. Gender inequality: Women faced significant challenges and discrimination during this period. They lacked many basic rights, including suffrage and equal access to education and employment opportunities. However, the 19th century also saw the emergence of the feminist movement, which sought to address these issues and advocate for women’s rights.

5. Racial discrimination: The 19th century was marked by racial prejudices and discrimination across many societies. Slavery and racial segregation were prevalent in parts of the world, particularly in the United States and European colonies. Movements for abolition and civil rights gained momentum during this time, striving for equality and justice for marginalized racial groups.

6. Political unrest: The 19th century witnessed numerous political upheavals, including revolutions, nationalist movements, and struggles for independence. These conflicts often arose due to oppressive governance, territorial disputes, and the desire for self-determination.

7. Poor public health: Advances in medical science were limited during this period, leading to widespread outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, tuberculosis, and typhoid. Lack of proper sanitation, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and limited access to clean water contributed to poor public health conditions.

It is important to note that these societal problems varied in severity and persistence across different countries and regions during the 19th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main political developments and conflicts during the 19th century.

Throughout the 19th century, there were several significant political developments and conflicts that shaped the course of history:

1. Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815): This series of wars fought between Napoleon Bonaparte’s French Empire and a coalition of European powers altered the political landscape of Europe. The conflicts led to the rise of nationalism and the spread of revolutionary ideas.

2. Congress of Vienna (1814-1815): Following the defeat of Napoleon, the Congress of Vienna was held to reshape Europe’s political boundaries. It aimed to restore stability and maintain a balance of power among the major European powers.

3. The Revolutions of 1848: In this year, several European countries experienced a wave of revolutions driven by popular discontent with social and political conditions. These uprisings sought democratic reforms, national unification, and economic improvements but were ultimately suppressed in most cases.

4. Unification of Italy (1815-1871): Italy was fragmented into various city-states and kingdoms during the early 19th century. Under the leadership of figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi and Count Camillo di Cavour, Italy gradually unified into a single nation-state by the late 19th century.

5. German Unification (1864-1871): Similar to Italy, Germany was a collection of independent states until the late 19th century. Otto von Bismarck played a crucial role in uniting these states under Prussian leadership, culminating in the formation of the German Empire in 1871.

6. American Civil War (1861-1865): This conflict between the northern Union states and southern Confederate states was primarily driven by issues of slavery and state sovereignty. The Union’s victory led to the abolition of slavery and strengthened the power of the federal government.

7. Colonialism and Imperialism: During the 19th century, European powers expanded their empires through colonization and imperialism. This led to conflicts and tensions between colonial powers, as well as resistance and uprisings from colonized peoples seeking independence.

8. The Scramble for Africa (1881-1914): European powers competed for control over African territories, leading to a period of intense colonization and division of the continent. This had long-lasting effects on Africa’s political and social dynamics.

These are just a few examples of the main political developments and conflicts during the 19th century. The era was marked by immense change, including the rise of nationalism, the spread of democracy, and the consolidation of colonial empires.

How did industrialization shape society and economy in the 19th century?

Industrialization had a profound impact on both society and the economy in the 19th century. It transformed traditional agrarian societies into industrialized nations, leading to significant changes in how people lived and worked.

One of the most significant effects of industrialization was the urbanization of previously rural areas. As factories and industries emerged, people flocked to cities in search of employment opportunities. This mass migration of people from rural to urban areas resulted in the growth of cities, with overcrowded slums and poor living conditions becoming common. Social structures also shifted, as the working class emerged and became a prominent force in society.

The economy was also greatly impacted by industrialization. Traditional cottage industries and small-scale production methods were replaced by large-scale factories and mass production techniques. This led to increased productivity and the ability to produce goods on a much larger scale. The introduction of new technologies, such as the steam engine and electricity, revolutionized manufacturing processes and brought about significant advancements in transportation and communication.

Furthermore, industrialization brought about major changes in the class structure of society. The industrial bourgeoisie, who owned the means of production, emerged as a new powerful social class, while the working class, who labored in factories and mines, formed the majority of the population. This created a stark contrast between the wealthy elite and the working poor, leading to social inequalities and class struggles.

The overall impact of industrialization on society and the economy in the 19th century was both transformative and disruptive. While it brought about unprecedented economic growth and technological advancements, it also resulted in social and environmental problems. These included poor working conditions, child labor, and the degradation of the natural environment. Ultimately, industrialization shaped the modern world and laid the groundwork for the globalized, technologically advanced society we live in today.

What were the major social movements and reforms that emerged during the 19th century?

During the 19th century, several major social movements and reforms emerged that had a significant impact on society. These movements represented various demands for change and progress in response to the challenges and transformations brought about by industrialization and urbanization.

The Abolitionist Movement: One of the most prominent social movements of the 19th century was the abolitionist movement, which fought for the emancipation of slaves and the end of the transatlantic slave trade. Prominent figures like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, and William Lloyd Garrison played crucial roles in advocating for the abolition of slavery.

The Women’s Rights Movement: Another significant social movement during this period was the women’s rights movement. Activists such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, and Sojourner Truth fought tirelessly for women’s suffrage, equal rights, and opportunities in education and employment.

The Labor Movement: As industrialization progressed, workers faced numerous challenges, including long working hours, low wages, unsafe working conditions, and child labor. The labor movement emerged as a response to these issues, advocating for better working conditions, fair wages, and the right to form labor unions. Figures like Samuel Gompers and Eugene V. Debs played key roles in organizing and mobilizing workers.

The Temperance Movement: The temperance movement aimed to reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption in society. Advocates believed that alcohol abuse led to various social problems, such as domestic violence and crime. Organizations like the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and the Anti-Saloon League were instrumental in promoting the movement.

The Education Reform Movement: The 19th century also saw significant advancements in education reform. Horace Mann, often referred to as the “Father of American Education,” played a crucial role in advocating for public education and educational reform. Efforts were made to establish free, compulsory education and improve educational opportunities for all.

The Prison Reform Movement: The prison reform movement aimed to improve the conditions of prisons and advocate for more humane treatment of prisoners. Prominent figures like Dorothea Dix and Elizabeth Fry were instrumental in bringing attention to the harsh conditions faced by inmates and working towards reform.

These social movements and reforms of the 19th century played a vital role in shaping modern society and laying the foundation for greater equality, justice, and social progress.

The 19th century was a period of immense change and transition, shaping the world as we know it today. From the industrial revolution to scientific advancements, political revolutions to cultural movements, this century laid the foundation for the modern era. The 19th century was marked by great progress and innovation, but also witnessed significant social and economic disparities that sparked movements for equality and justice. Through the lens of history, we can gain valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of this transformative era. It is crucial to study and understand the complexities of the 19th century in order to appreciate the impact it has had on our present-day society. By examining the 19th century topics from various perspectives, we can deepen our understanding of this era and draw parallels to the issues we face today. As we continue to navigate through the 21st century, let us remember the lessons of the past and use our knowledge to forge a better future.

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20th Century History Research Paper Topics

This page serves as a guide to navigate the fascinating world of 20th century history research paper topics , providing students with a plethora of ideas and insights for their academic pursuits. From examining the political upheavals to analyzing social transformations, economic developments, and cultural shifts, this collection of research paper topics offers a diverse range of subjects to explore. Whether students are interested in dissecting the consequences of global conflicts, investigating the impacts of scientific advancements, or exploring the contributions of individuals and communities, this page presents an array of thought-provoking ideas that delve into the depths of 20th century history. With careful consideration and scholarly exploration, students can uncover hidden narratives, challenge existing narratives, and contribute to the ever-expanding understanding of this transformative period in human history.

100 20th Century History Research Paper Topics

The 20th century was a period of immense historical significance, witnessing a plethora of transformative events and social changes that continue to shape the world we live in today. This comprehensive list of 20th century history research paper topics aims to provide students with a diverse range of captivating subjects to explore and analyze. Organized into 10 categories with 10 topics in each, this list covers various aspects of 20th century history, encompassing political developments, social movements, cultural shifts, technological advancements, and much more. Whether you are intrigued by the world wars, the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, or the rise of globalization, this list offers a wealth of research paper topics to inspire and guide your academic journey.

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World Wars and their Impact

• The Causes and Consequences of World War I
• The Role of Women in World War II
• The Impact of World War II on Global Politics and Society
• The Holocaust: Understanding the Genocide of the 20th Century
• The Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki: Ethical Considerations
• The Role of Propaganda in World War II
• The Rise of Fascism and Nazism
• The Versailles Treaty: Shaping the Post-War World
• The Liberation Movements in Europe: Resistance and Collaboration
• The Marshall Plan: Rebuilding Europe After World War II

Cold War and Global Conflicts

• The Origins and Dynamics of the Cold War
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: A Tense Standoff
• The Vietnam War: Causes, Strategies, and Outcomes
• The Korean War: Forgotten Conflict or Pivotal Moment?
• The Space Race: Superpower Rivalry in the Skies
• The Berlin Wall: Symbol of Division and Unity
• The Arms Race: Nuclear Proliferation and Deterrence
• The Proxy Wars of the Cold War Era
• The Non-Aligned Movement: A Quest for Independence
• The Fall of the Soviet Union: End of an Era

Civil Rights and Social Movements

• The Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• Women’s Liberation Movement: Striving for Equality
• The LGBTQ+ Rights Movement: Progress and Challenges
• Indigenous Rights Movements: Reclaiming Cultural Identity
• The Anti-Apartheid Movement in South Africa
• The Black Power Movement: Reimagining Black Identity
• Environmental Movements: Conservation and Activism
• Disability Rights Movements: From Marginalization to Inclusion
• Student Protests and Activism in the 20th Century
• Labor Movements: Workers’ Rights and Unionization

Technological Advancements and Scientific Discoveries

• The Space Exploration and Moon Landing
• The Internet Revolution: Shaping the Digital Age
• The Green Revolution: Agricultural Innovations and Food Security
• The Development of Nuclear Energy: Promises and Perils
• The Rise of Computers and Information Technology
• The Mapping of the Human Genome: Implications for Medicine and Genetics
• The Invention of Television: Transforming Communication and Entertainment
• The Discovery of Antibiotics: Revolutionizing Medicine
• The Evolution of Transportation: From Automobiles to Supersonic Jets
• The Technological Innovations of the Industrial Revolution

Cultural Shifts and Artistic Movements

• The Roaring Twenties: Jazz Age and the Lost Generation
• The Beat Generation: Literature, Poetry, and Counterculture
• The Pop Art Movement: Redefining Art in Consumerist Society
• The Surrealist Movement: Exploring the Depths of the Unconscious
• The Harlem Renaissance: Celebrating African-American Culture
• Postmodernism: Challenging Conventions in Art and Literature
• The Feminist Art Movement: Reclaiming Women’s Narratives
• The Birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll: Music, Rebellion, and Cultural Fusion
• The Influence of Cinema: From Silent Films to Blockbusters
• The Evolution of Fashion: From Flappers to Global Brands

Economic Transformations and Globalization

• The Great Depression: Causes, Impact, and Lessons Learned
• The Rise of Consumer Culture: Advertising and Mass Production
• The Globalization of Trade and Commerce
• Economic Boom and Post-War Reconstruction
• The Bretton Woods System: Shaping the Global Financial Order
• The Oil Crisis: Energy, Politics, and Economic Consequences
• The Rise of Multinational Corporations
• The Dot-Com Bubble: E-Commerce and Technological Speculation
• The Asian Financial Crisis: Causes, Contagion, and Recovery
• Economic Inequality: Challenges and Debates in the 20th Century

Political Shifts and World Events

• The Rise and Fall of Fascism and Totalitarian Regimes
• The Cold War in Latin America: Ideology and Intervention
• The Decolonization Movements in Africa and Asia
• The Fall of Colonial Empires: Post-Colonialism and Nationalism
• The Arab-Israeli Conflict: Historical Roots and Ongoing Tensions
• The Cuban Revolution: Fidel Castro and the Socialist Experiment
• The Iranian Revolution: Islamism and Political Change
• The End of Apartheid in South Africa: Nelson Mandela and Reconciliation
• The Formation of the European Union: Integration and Cooperation
• The United Nations: Challenges and Achievements

Women’s History and Feminist Movements

• The Suffragette Movement: Struggles for Women’s Right to Vote
• The Second Wave Feminism: Changing Perceptions and Legal Rights
• Women in War: From Nurses to Combatants
• Women in Science: Breaking Barriers and Advancing Knowledge
• Women in Politics: Leadership and Representation
• Women in Sports: Challenging Gender Norms
• Women’s Health and Reproductive Rights Movements
• Women in Literature and the Arts: Shaping Cultural Expression
• Women in the Workforce: Challenges and Achievements
• Intersectionality and the Study of Women’s History

Social Movements and Counterculture

• Hippie Movement: Peace, Love, and the Anti-War Movement
• Student Protests: Challenging Authority and Seeking Change
• Environmental Activism: From Silent Spring to Climate Change
• Civil Rights Movements: Advocating for Racial Equality
• Punk Culture and the DIY Ethic: Subversion and Resistance
• Anti-Nuclear Movements: Peaceful Resistance to Atomic Weapons
• LGBTQ+ Rights Movements: Fighting for Equal Rights and Acceptance
• Disability Rights Movements: Advocacy and Accessibility
• Animal Rights and Welfare Movements: Ethics and Activism
• Indigenous Rights Movements: Land, Sovereignty, and Cultural Preservation

War and Conflict

• The First World War: Causes, Impact, and Legacies
• The Second World War: Global Conflict and the Holocaust
• The Cold War: Superpower Rivalry and the Threat of Nuclear War
• The Korean War: Forgotten Conflict or Proxy War?
• The Vietnam War: Causes, Strategies, and Consequences
• The Gulf War: International Conflict in the Middle East
• The Rwandan Genocide: Ethnic Violence and International Response
• The Falklands War: Sovereignty Dispute and Military Conflict
• The Iraq War: The War on Terror and its Aftermath
• The War in Afghanistan: Ongoing Conflict and Counterterrorism Efforts

This comprehensive list of 20th century history research paper topics encompasses a wide range of fascinating subjects within the realm of political, social, cultural, economic, and technological developments. From the tumultuous events of world wars to the transformative social movements and scientific advancements, students of 20th century history have a rich tapestry of research paper topics to explore. By delving into these subjects, students can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities, challenges, and triumphs of the 20th century and its lasting impact on our contemporary world.

20th Century History: Exploring the Range of Research Paper Topics

The 20th century stands as one of the most eventful and transformative periods in human history. From the dramatic shifts in global politics to the profound societal changes, this era witnessed a myriad of significant events that continue to shape the world we live in today. Exploring the range of research paper topics within 20th century history provides students with an opportunity to delve into the complexities, controversies, and triumphs of this dynamic era. In this article, we will embark on a journey through various facets of 20th century history, highlighting key themes and research areas that can ignite the curiosity and critical thinking of students studying this captivating subject.

• World Wars and their Impact : The world wars of the 20th century left an indelible mark on human history. Research paper topics within this category may include the causes and consequences of World War I, the role of women in World War II, the impact of the wars on global politics and society, the Holocaust and its ethical considerations, the use of propaganda, the rise of fascism and Nazism, the significance of the Versailles Treaty, the liberation movements in Europe, and the post-war reconstruction efforts such as the Marshall Plan.
• Cold War and Global Conflicts : The Cold War era shaped the geopolitical landscape of the 20th century. Research paper topics within this category may explore the origins and dynamics of the Cold War, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War and its causes and outcomes, the Korean War, the Space Race, the Berlin Wall, the arms race and nuclear proliferation, the proxy wars of the Cold War era, the non-aligned movement, and the fall of the Soviet Union.
• Civil Rights and Social Movements : The 20th century witnessed significant social and civil rights movements that challenged inequality and fought for justice. Research paper topics within this category may include the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, women’s liberation movement, LGBTQ+ rights movement, indigenous rights movements, the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, the black power movement, environmental movements, disability rights movements, student protests and activism, and labor movements.
• Technological Advancements and Scientific Discoveries : The 20th century was marked by remarkable technological advancements and scientific breakthroughs. Research paper topics within this category may encompass the exploration of space and moon landing, the internet revolution, the green revolution and agricultural innovations, the development of nuclear energy, the rise of computers and information technology, the mapping of the human genome, the invention of television, the discovery of antibiotics, the evolution of transportation, and the technological innovations of the industrial revolution.
• Cultural Shifts and Artistic Movements : Art, literature, and cultural expressions played a significant role in shaping the identity of the 20th century. Research paper topics within this category may explore the Roaring Twenties and the Lost Generation, the Beat Generation, the pop art movement, the surrealism movement, the Harlem Renaissance, postmodernism, the feminist art movement, the birth of rock ‘n’ roll, the influence of cinema, and the evolution of fashion.
• Economic Transformations and Globalization : The 20th century witnessed major economic transformations and the rise of globalization. Research paper topics within this category may include the Great Depression and its impact, the rise of consumer culture, globalization of trade and commerce, economic boom and post-war reconstruction, the Bretton Woods system, the oil crisis, the rise of multinational corporations, the dot-com bubble, the Asian financial crisis, and debates on economic inequality.
• Political Shifts and World Events : The 20th century was marked by significant political shifts and world events that reshaped nations and international relations. Research paper topics within this category may explore the rise and fall of fascism and totalitarian regimes, the Cold War in Latin America, the decolonization movements in Africa and Asia, the fall of colonial empires, the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Cuban revolution, the Iranian revolution, the end of apartheid in South Africa, the formation of the European Union, and the United Nations.
• Women’s History and Feminist Movements : The role of women and the feminist movements throughout the 20th century had a profound impact on society. Research paper topics within this category may include the suffragette movement, the second-wave feminism, women in war, women in science, women in politics, women in sports, women’s health and reproductive rights movements, women in literature and the arts, women in the workforce, and the study of intersectionality.
• Social Movements and Counterculture : The 20th century witnessed the rise of various social movements and counterculture that challenged traditional norms and values. Research paper topics within this category may include the hippie movement, student protests, environmental activism, civil rights movements, punk culture and the DIY ethic, anti-nuclear movements, LGBTQ+ rights movements, disability rights movements, animal rights and welfare movements, and indigenous rights movements.
• War and Conflict : The 20th century was marked by significant wars and conflicts that shaped the course of history. Research paper topics within this category may include the First and Second World Wars, the Cold War, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the Rwandan genocide, the Falklands War, the Iraq War, the War in Afghanistan, and other conflicts and their causes, strategies, and outcomes.

Conclusion: The rich and diverse landscape of 20th century history offers a wide array of research paper topics for students to explore. From global conflicts to social movements, scientific advancements to cultural transformations, the events and developments of this era provide ample opportunities for historical inquiry and analysis. By selecting a research topic from this comprehensive list, students can embark on a rewarding journey of uncovering the intricacies and complexities of the 20th century and its enduring significance in shaping our present world.

Choosing 20th Century History Research Paper Topics

Introduction: Selecting a research paper topic in 20th century history can be both exciting and challenging. The vast scope of this era offers a multitude of fascinating subjects to explore, but it can also be overwhelming to narrow down your focus. To help you in this process, we have compiled expert advice and practical tips to guide you in choosing the most compelling and relevant 20th century history research paper topics.

• Identify Your Interests : Start by reflecting on your personal interests within the field of 20th century history. Consider the historical events, themes, or regions that intrigue you the most. Is there a particular period or aspect of 20th century history that you find captivating? Identifying your interests will not only make the research process more enjoyable but will also allow you to delve deeper into a topic that resonates with you.
• Narrow Down Your Focus : Once you have identified your interests, it is essential to narrow down your research focus. The 20th century encompasses a vast range of topics, so selecting a specific aspect will ensure that your research paper has a clear and focused argument. For example, instead of choosing a broad topic like “World War II,” you could narrow it down to “The Role of Women in World War II” or “The Impact of Technology on Warfare in World War II.”
• Consider Relevance and Significance : When choosing a 20th century history research topic, consider its relevance and significance in shaping the course of history. Look for topics that have had a profound impact on society, politics, culture, or technological advancements. By selecting a topic of historical significance, you can explore its causes, consequences, and long-term effects, providing a deeper understanding of the era.
• Explore Untold Stories : While popular events and figures of the 20th century attract attention, consider exploring lesser-known or untold stories. Digging into lesser-explored topics can provide a fresh perspective and contribute to historical scholarship. Look for marginalized voices, overlooked events, or hidden narratives that offer a new understanding of the complexities of the 20th century.
• Consult Primary and Secondary Sources : To ensure a strong research paper, make use of both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources, such as archival documents, diaries, photographs, and interviews, provide firsthand accounts and unique insights into historical events. Secondary sources, such as scholarly books, articles, and analyses, offer critical interpretations and contextual information. By combining both types of sources, you can present a well-rounded and evidence-based argument.
• Consider Controversial Topics : Controversial topics in 20th century history can spark intellectual debates and offer opportunities for critical analysis. However, it is important to approach these topics with sensitivity and respect for different perspectives. Engage with differing viewpoints, evaluate evidence objectively, and present a balanced argument that acknowledges different interpretations of historical events.
• Connect History to Contemporary Issues : Another approach to selecting a research topic is to connect 20th century history to contemporary issues. Investigate how events and developments from the past continue to shape the present. By exploring the historical roots of current social, political, or cultural issues, you can highlight the relevance and ongoing significance of 20th century history in understanding today’s world.
• Collaborate with Your Peers and Professors : Engage in discussions with your peers and seek guidance from your professors or advisors. Sharing ideas, exchanging perspectives, and receiving feedback can help you refine your research topic and enhance the overall quality of your work. Collaborative discussions can also lead to new insights and provide additional research resources or directions.
• Balance Accessibility and Originality : While it is important to choose a research topic that is accessible and has a sufficient amount of existing scholarly literature, don’t be afraid to explore original angles or contribute fresh perspectives. Strive to strike a balance between engaging with existing research and offering a unique contribution to the field. Aim to fill gaps in knowledge or shed new light on previously studied topics.
• Follow Your Passion : Above all, choose a 20th century history research paper topic that ignites your passion and curiosity. A genuine interest in your chosen subject will fuel your motivation, making the research process more enjoyable and rewarding. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing, captivating your readers and enhancing the overall quality of your research paper.

Conclusion: Selecting a research paper topic in 20th century history requires careful consideration, curiosity, and a balance between relevance and personal interest. By following the expert advice provided above, you can identify a compelling and significant topic that aligns with your interests and contributes to the scholarly discourse. Remember to narrow down your focus, consult various sources, and connect history to contemporary issues to create a research paper that makes a meaningful contribution to the field of 20th century history.

How to Write a 20th Century History Research Paper

Introduction: Writing a research paper on 20th century history requires careful planning, extensive research, and effective writing skills. In this section, we will provide you with valuable guidance on how to approach and craft your 20th century history research paper. By following these steps, you can produce a well-structured and compelling piece of academic writing.

• Understand the Assignment : Begin by thoroughly understanding the requirements of your research paper assignment. Take note of the specific guidelines, word count, formatting style, and deadline. Clarify any uncertainties with your instructor to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the expectations for your paper.
• Select a Strong Thesis Statement : Craft a strong thesis statement that presents the main argument or central idea of your research paper. Your thesis statement should be clear, concise, and specific, guiding the direction of your paper and informing the reader of your intentions. Ensure that your thesis statement is supported by evidence and provides a focus for your research.
• Conduct In-Depth Research : To write a comprehensive 20th century history research paper, conduct thorough research using a variety of primary and secondary sources. Utilize libraries, archives, online databases, and scholarly journals to gather relevant information. Take meticulous notes and cite your sources properly to ensure accuracy and maintain academic integrity.
• Organize Your Ideas : Create an outline to organize your ideas and structure your research paper. Divide your paper into sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology (if applicable), main body, and conclusion. Within each section, outline the key points and arguments you plan to address. This will provide a roadmap for your writing and ensure a logical flow of ideas.
• Write a Captivating Introduction : Begin your research paper with an engaging introduction that hooks the reader’s attention. Provide background information on the topic, highlight its significance, and present your thesis statement. Consider using a compelling anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a relevant quote to grab the reader’s interest from the start.
• Develop Well-Structured Body Paragraphs : In the main body of your research paper, develop your arguments and present supporting evidence in a series of well-structured paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a specific idea or subtopic, and should begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main point. Support your arguments with relevant evidence, examples, and citations from your research.
• Analyze and Interpret : A successful 20th century history research paper goes beyond simply presenting facts. Analyze and interpret the information you have gathered to offer critical insights and perspectives. Engage with different viewpoints, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of various arguments, and provide a well-rounded analysis of the topic.
• Use Proper Citations : Accurately cite all the sources you have referenced in your research paper. Follow the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) consistently throughout your paper. Proper citations not only avoid plagiarism but also give credit to the original authors, enhancing the credibility of your research.
• Revise and Edit : Once you have completed the initial draft of your research paper, take the time to revise and edit it. Review the content for clarity, coherence, and logical progression of ideas. Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Consider seeking feedback from peers or professors to gain valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.
• Craft a Strong Conclusion : Conclude your research paper by summarizing your main arguments and restating the significance of your findings. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion and instead provide a concise synthesis of your research. Reflect on the implications of your research and suggest avenues for further study or exploration.

Conclusion: Writing a 20th century history research paper requires careful planning, thorough research, and effective communication skills. By understanding the assignment, developing a strong thesis statement, conducting in-depth research, organizing your ideas, and following the proper structure and citation guidelines, you can create a compelling and well-researched paper. Remember to revise and edit your work to ensure clarity and accuracy. With these guidelines in mind, you are well-equipped to tackle your 20th century history research paper with confidence and produce a piece of academic writing that contributes to the scholarly discourse in the field.

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• Colorado State University Libraries
• Research Guides
• Modern Latin American History (1800-)
• Finding Background Information
• Finding Books
• Finding Articles
• Finding Online Primary Sources
• Finding Primary Sources at Morgan Library
• Evaluating Information
• Reading in History
• Citing Your Research

Modern Latin American History (1800-) Introduction

This page has information to help with the HIST411 course Latin America Since Independence. The time period is beginning 19th century to the present. Area focus is on Mexico, Central America, Cuba, Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. Anyone doing research on this and related historical topics should find this page useful. See also Latin American Art for that particular aspect of Latin American history (art depicts a lot of everyday life and also topics of interest to those commissioning or creating the objects).

Reference Resources

Reference Resources--Encyclopedias & More Encyclopedias can be a great place to start your research, get an overview of your topic, or help you narrow your area of focus. Morgan Library has a number of encyclopedia sets that may be useful to you as you begin your research. Encyclopedias are located in the Reference collection, so they may not be checked out. General encyclopedias can also be extremely useful.

• Countries and Their Cultures . 4 vols. GN 307 .C68 2001 Reference
• Encyclopedia of Latin American History and Culture . 5 vols. F1406 .E53 1996 Reference
• Encyclopedia of Latin American Politics . F1410 .E56 2002 Reference
• Encyclopedia of Mexico: History, Society, & Culture . 2 vols. F1210 .E63 1992 Reference
• Encyclopedia of the World's Nations & Cultures . 4 vols. G63 .K874 2007 Reference
• Gale Virtual Reference Library . Online.
• Milenios de Mexico . 3 vols. F1204 .M955 1999 Reference
• A Reference Guide to Latin American History . F1410 .R395 2000 Reference
• South America, Central America and the Caribbean (Europa). F1408.29 .S68 Reference
• Worldmark Encyclopedia of Cultures & Daily Life . 4 vols. GN 333 .W67 1998 Reference
• Worldmark Encyclopedia of Nations . Vol 3. Americas . G63 .W67 2004 v.3 Reference

Circulating Items

Circulating Items: Morgan Stacks, Maps

• An Atlas and Survey of Latin American History . G1541.S1 L3 2007 Maps
• The Brazil Reader: History, Culture, Politics . F2521 .B768 1999 Morgan
• Cambridge History of Latin America . 10 vols. F1410 .C1834 1984 Morgan

Terms to Search in Library Catalog

Subject headings are the most efficient search for identifying books in the library catalog. Identify useful books in the library catalog (and the Regional Catalog Prospector) doing a (LC) Subject search for:

Print Indexes

Terms and subjects will vary from source to source. In addition, terminology changes over time, so it will be necessary to be creative (i.e. know your history) in order to succeed in identifying articles of interest.

• Handbook of Latin American Studies . Z 1605 .H23  Reference
• Hispanic American Periodicals Index ( HAPI ). Z 1605 .H3 Reference 1993-2003 and Movable Shelves 1979-1987, 1991-1992
• Readers’ Guide to Periodical Literature . AI 3 .R48 Reference 1900- [KEY index]
• Humanities Index . AI 3 .I495 Reference 1974-1998
• International Index to Periodicals . AI 3 .I49 Reference 1920/1923-1952/1955
• International Index . AI 3 .I49 Reference 1955/1958-1964/1965
• International Political Science Abstracts . JA 36 .I5 Reference 1951-2006
• London Times (various titles: Palmer's , etc.) AI 21 T51 & AI21 .T46 Reference & others nearby 1785-
• Nineteenth Century Readers' Guide to Periodical Literature , 1890-1899; with supplementary indexing, 1900-1922. AI3 .R496 Reference
• Poole 's Index to Periodical Literature . AI3 .P6 Reference 1802-1901
• Social Sciences Index . AI 3 .I496 Reference 1974/75-1998/99

Research Databases

• Academic Search Premier.
• America: History & Life.
• Historical Abstracts.
• International Political Science Abstracts.  IPSAonline
• JSTOR . (keywords, not subjects--contemporary vocabulary is vital for success) Growing number of subject terms.
• Nineteenth Century Masterfile .
• Digital Dissertation Abstracts.
• ProjectMUSE .
• WorldCat. 
• New York Times 1851- . (contemporary vocabulary is vital for success)
• U.S. Congressional Serial Set . 1817-1994.  Topic link has 74 entires for Cold War. Many more as a keyword. Limit by date.
• Web of Science. (Arts & Humanities Citation Index)

Free Online Access Databases

• Handbook of Latin American Studies .
• Castro Speech Data Base . 1959-1996. In English.

Journals Owned by CSU

Journals--Owned or accessed by CSU

Additional titles (many in Spanish), search the library catalog by subject: Latin America Periodicals; Latin America History Periodicals; Brazil History Periodicals; Chile History Periodicals; Argentina History Periodicals (one title); Central America History Periodicals (one title)

• Américas. F 1401 .A57 Movable Shelves assort 1949-2000 and online 1990-
• Bulletin (Cold War International History Project). 1992- online BCWIHP
• Journal of Cold War Studies . Online 1999- in Project Muse
• Journal of Latin American Studies . Online 1969-2002 in JSTOR; 1997- Cambridge
• E-Latina . Online 2002- .
• The Hispanic American Historical Review . F 1401 .H66 Movable Shelves various years 1918-2004. Online 1918- .

Within Academic Search Premier as of March 2018

• Cold War History (most recent 18 months not available)

-->Click here for information about evaluating Web sites.

Bibliographies                 General               Argentina             Brazil               Chile                    Cuba                    Mexico

Bibliographies on Latin America

Librarians in other libraries and historians at other universities have identified, and in some cases annotated, useful resources. CSU does not own all of the items. Check CSU's library catalog and the regional catalog Prospector for local holdings. CSU affiliates may request items from Prospector.

Latin American Collection: General References . Yale University Library. 

Annotated resources in the Yale collection. Extensive. Link goes to General Bibliographies page; the page has links to Biographical Information, Dictionaries and Encyclopedias, Research Guides, and Statistics. See also Selected Internet Sources .

General Bibliography . Latin American Studies Center. University of Maryland. 

"Inter and Intra-state conflict in Latin America and resoultion strategies." Books, journal articles, Web sites (not linked), and films. Extensive.

Latin America Subject Resource Guide . Elena E. Cevallos. University Libraries. Hofstra University. 

This mostly annotated research guide has a large number of general sources listed on it, but there are many that are specific to Latin America. Extensive. Drop down menu at top allows researchers to go directly to desired section of the page. The section on Bibliographies: Guides to the Literature is particularly useful.

Latin American Studies . Melissa Gonzalez. University of West Florida Libraries. 

List of resources arranged by type. Check CSU's catalog for ownership.

A Short Guide to Sources for Latin American Studies . Frank Conaway. University of Chicago Library. 

Annotated resources arranged by type or subject. Of particular interest is the final section on ethnology.

Gender Studies of Latin America and the Caribbean . Molly Ryan and edited by Rafael Dávila-Franco. International and Gender Studies Resources Website. University of California, Berkeley. 

Bibliographies of Andean countries (Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Venezuela); Brasil; The Caribbean; Central America; Latin America General; Mexico; and Paises del Rio de la Plata   -->Reminder for this section of bibliographies : CSU does not own all of the items listed on the Web pages or sites. Check CSU's library catalog and the regional catalog Prospector for local holdings. CSU affiliates may request items from Prospector.

General--Web Pages on Latin America

19th Century Latin America . Internet Modern History Sourcebook. Fordham University.  Topics covered are Latin America in the 19th Century: Independence, Political Development, United States Imperialism, and Immigration; Mexico; Argentina; Brazil; Chile; Colombia/Panama; Cuba; Nicaragua; Peru; and Venezuela. Subsection of Internet History Sources. Links to primary and secondary materials.

Internet Sites with Primary Sources for History: Latin America . Bowling Green State University (BGSU). University Libraries.

An extensive list; unfortunately few, if any annotations. Titles of documents do appear to be descriptive. Bright orange text that could be difficult for some to read. Going out on a limb and saying orange is probably a BGSU color.

Latin America & Mexico . (Section of page.) Alan Liu and a development team. English Department. U. California, Santa Barbara. Voice of the Shuttle. 

Links to pages on Latin America topics. Scroll down for individual country and topical links.

Documents (OAS) . Organization of American States (OAS).

Founding Charter, Inter-American Democratic Charter, and much more. Publications include International Migration in the Americas (English and Spanish) and In Defense of Human Rights (English and Spanish).

Public Domain Databases (section of Internet Resources for Latin America). New Mexico State University. 

Annotated list of databases that were available for free online in 2006. Rest of page has a large number of other links of potential use.

Hispanic Reading Room . Library of Congress. 

Page has links to sites of interest. Own site has Online Collections Presentations & Exhibitions that has material available online.

Latin American Pamphlet Digital Collection . Harvard University Library. 

Pamphlets from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Most represented are items from Chile, Cuba, Bolivia, and Mexico.

Independence in Latin America . Macrohistory and World Report. Frank E. Smitha. 

Summary of events; Latin America's relationship with Spain. Information on juntas of 1810 and 1811 and key events to 1839. Images of some of those involved.

Latin America . casahistoria.net. 

Top of the page serves as a table of contents. There are many briefly annotated links. Broad areas are: Catholic Missions; Independence from Spain; 3. Independence Leaders; 19th century: Society & economics; Immigration; British Involvement in Latin America; US involvement in Latin America; Military conflict: Triple Alliance War; (Guano) War; Pacific War; 20th century: Individual country developments; Revolutions; Liberation Theory; Military dictatorships after 1945; Military conflict: World War 1; Chaco War; Malvinas/Falklands War; Indigenous America: Brazil; Chile; Native American Women; Africans in Latin America; and General Latin American.

Slave Movement During the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries . On-Line Data Archive. ©2008 Data and Information Services Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

"This site provides access to the raw data and documentation which contains information on the following slave trade topics from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries: records of slave ship movement between Africa and the Americas, slave ships of eighteenth century France, slave trade to Rio de Janeiro, Virginia slave trade in the eighteenth century, English slave trade (House of Lords Survey), Angola slave trade in the eighteenth century, internal slave trade to Rio de Janeiro, slave trade to Havana, Cuba, Nantes slave trade in the eighteenth century, and slave trade to Jamaica."

Sources and General Resources in Latin America . Oberlin College. 

Page has two frames. Multiple links (although unfortunately a large number of the attempted links do not work ) to sites on the Web. History section divided by: Latin American History: Historiographic and General Resource Sites; Academic Journals; Pre-Conquest Period; General; Andes; Mexico and Central America; "Discovery" and Conquest; Colonial Latin America: General; The "Columbian Exchange"; The Early Colony; Brazil; The Slave Trade and Slavery; Daily Life in Colonial Latin America; Casta Painting; Bourbon Reforms; Late Colonial Revolts; and The Waging and Winning of Independence. Other sections have national periods by country, the church, human rights, and much more.

Independence in Latin America - A Chronology . Marcelo J. Borges. Dickinson College. 

Chronology starting in 1778-9 through 1828.

Argentina . CIA World Factbook. (.ar) 

Information about Argentina's geography, people, government, economy, communications, transportation, military, and transnational issues.

Timeline Argentina . Algis Ratnikas.  Prehistory to the present.

A Brief History of Buenos Aires . Pablo M. Dotro. Buenos Aires: A Subjective Image of a Modern City. 

Covers independence years of Argentina. Page is white text on black.

The Great Unraveling: Argentina 1973-1991 . Author guess: Klaus (??).  PDF.

Apparent research article about the economy of Argentina with extensive footnotes. Some charts.

Reseña Histórica Museo . Museo Histórico Comunal y de la Colonización Judía "Rabino Aarón Goldman." 

Images of rooms in the museum (click on "sala" 1, 2, etc.). Museum focus is on Jewish agricultural colonization of Argentina. Most of the descriptions and information are in Spanish.

Memoria Abierta .

  Link to map of clandestine detention centers, human rights archive, letters, 4 photos and their histories, posters, and more. Members of Memoria Abierta were mothers, relatives, friends of disappeared, former political prisoners, and former exiled. Selected parts of the site are only in Spanish.

Brazil . CIA World Factbook. (.br)

  Information about Brazil's geography, people, government, economy, communications, transportation, military, and transnational issues.

A Country Study: Brazil . Country studies. Library of Congress. 

Overview of the country. Profile, historical setting, society and its environment, economy, government and politics, national security, science and technology, lengthy bibliography, and more. Chapters have named authors.

Timeline: Brazil . Algis Ratnikas.  Prehistory to the present.

The History of Money in Brazil . Ministry of Finance. Banco Central do Brasil. 

Very brief history of money from colony to republic--not all links work.

Virtual Gallery. National Historical Museum. Brazil. Site still down as of November 2018 due to the devastating fire early in September . Site will be up again once it is available.

The virtual gallery (English language version) has cartoons, paintings, personal objects, communication equipment, photos of Rio de Janeiro by Juan Gutierrez, interiors, and clocks & watches. The museum itself was started in 1922 and has over 287,000 items.

Bem-Vindo Ao Brasil . Sergio Koreisha. University of Oregon 

Take a virtual trip to Brazil. There are sections with Brazil in a nutshell, facts, culture, environment, history , and much more. Extensive. Much of the material is in English, but there are links to items in Portuguese only. Some of the links don't work.

Brazil: History . Global Edge. International Business Center at Michigan State University. 

Summary of information about Brazil, with useful information on cultural groups, language, and forms of government.

Chile . CIA World Factbook. (.cl) 

Information about Chile's geography, people, government, economy, communications, transportation, military, and transnational issues.

A Country Study: Chile . Country studies. Library of Congress. 

Overview of the country. Profile, historical setting, society and its environment, economy, government and politics, national security, lengthy bibliography, and more. Chapters have named authors.

Timeline Chile . Algis Ratnikas. 

Prehistory to the present.

Archivo de Fondos y Colecciones . Museo de la Memoria y Derechos Humanos.

Covers 1973-1990. Plataformas digitales found under Recursos e investigacion. See Archivo MMDH (link for this entry); Biblioteca Digital, Archivo Redial, Archivo Prense, Testimonios, and more.

Outstanding actions in our Naval History . Chilean Navy. Archived copy. 

Brief summaries of exploits of the Chilean navy beginning with its independence. A few images of ships at sea.

Villa Grimaldi . El Parque por la Paz Villa Grimaldi

Archivo Documental de Villa Grimaldi has materials online. In Spanish (search box in English, e.g. digital objects).

Cuba . CIA World Factbook. (.cu) 

Information about Cuba's geography, people, government, economy, communications, transportation, military, and transnational issues.

Cuba Historia . Administración del Sitio del Gobierno de la Republica de Cuba. In Spanish.

Covers Cuba's history.

Timeline: Cuba . Algis Ratnikas  1492 to the present.

The Empire and the Independent Island . Fidel Castro. Countercurrents.org. August 14, 2007.

  Overview of 140 years of Cuba's history. A lot of detail.

Mexico . CIA World Factbook. (.mx)

Information about Mexico's geography, people, government, economy, communications, transportation, military, and transnational issues.

A Country Study: Mexico . Country studies. Library of Congress. 

Overview of the country. Profile, historical setting, society and its environment, economy, government and politics, national security, lengthy bibliography, and more. Chapters have named authors. Click on PDF version for updated profile information.

Timeline Mexico to 1969 . 1970-1997 . 1998-2002 . 2003-2008 . Algis Ratnikas. 

Prehistory to the present; on four separate Web pages.

The History of Coins and Banknotes in Mexico . (PDF) Banco de Mexico. August 2013. 

Paper money was first used in the 19th century, so the entire page is of interest to modern Latin American history. Very clear images showing examples of the banknotes ("bills" as a North American would call them), up to and including the present.

Cold War Era (c. 1947-c. 1990)

Get background on the Cold War (1945-1991) in the Dictionary of American History , Social History of the United States , Gale Encyclopedia of U.S. History , Gale Encyclopedia fo U.S. Economic History , and Worldmark Modern Conflict and Diplomacy . The Cold War Reference Library is an entire reference book (6 volumes in print) on the topic. Volume 5 has primary sources and Volume 6 is the cumulative index. There are a good number of entries under Latin America.

America: History & Life and Historical Abstracts . CSU affiliates only. Up to six users at a time for each.

Subject terms: Latin America; Latin Americans; Cold War, 1945-1991 [& subdivisions e.g. Social Aspects]; Insurgency Latin America; Latin America Foreign economic relations United States; Latin America Foreign relations United States; Soviet Union; International relations; Rhetoric; Organization of American States; Cuban Missile Crisis, 1962; Latin America Politics & government 1948-1980; Nationalism Latin America; Imperialism; Intervention (International law); United States; Latin American history; Brazil; Chile; Mexico; Costa Rica; Argentina; Nicaragua; Human rights Latin America; History of communism 20th century; Brazilian history Naval Revolt 1964; International relations; Charities; Social services; Cultural policy; Cuban Revolution, 1959.

The Cold War. Foreign Affairs . National Archives.

Site has "federal records and presidential materials that document Cold War era activities and concerns of the United States Government." Not everything is online, but useful for identifying materials.

Cold War History: Home . Phillips Library Mount St. Mary's University.

Library guide with overview, Databases and Websites (good list); Reference (CSU does have the Historical New York Times--Under New York Times 1851-2008 on databases list); Books in the Global Context; and Books (use subject headings identified on this guide to find additional titles of interest). Check CSU Libraries library catalog for local holdings of proprietary databases and books.

Cold War Hoover Institution . Stanford University.

Not everything is online, but useful as a way to identify resources. See collections guides for details.

Cold War in Latin America (NMSUL) . Digital Resources on Cold War in Latin America. New Mexico State University Library.

Annotated library guide to items. Check CSU Libraries for access to proprietary databases (CSU has America: History & Life ). Books not owned by CSU should be searched in Prospector and if not there, requested from InterLibrary Loan.

The Cold War in Latin America - Oakland Campus . University Library System. University of Pittsburgh.

Guide to course on Cold War in Latin America. Introduction; Books; Primary Sources; Secondary Sources; Government Information (nice selection of declassified documents--check CSUL for access in some cases).

Cold War Intelligence. BrillOnline Primary Sources. Available via CSUL.

" 2,360 formerly classified U.S. government documents (most of them classified Top Secret or higher) provides readers for the first time with the declassified documentary record about the successes and failures of the U.S. intelligence community in its efforts to spy on the Soviet Union during the Cold War."  A search in the collection for Cuba brings up 215 results. Argentina brings up 27. Chile 30. Mexico 39. Latin America 84. Brazil 30. Nicaragua 28.

Digital Archive. Cold War International History Project . Wilson Center.

Browse, search by collections, and themes. Themes include Sports, Cold War History, and Nuclear History. Themes have timelines.

Documents Relating to American Foreign Policy: The Cold War . Mount Holyoke College.

Some links don't work, but the name of the source does provide a hint of what to seek. Pre-1945 to 1991. An extensive list.

" Guerrilla Movements in Latin America ." Richard L. Worsnop. CQ Researcher July 19, 1967.

Contemporary essay with then current events.

JSTOR . CSU affiliates only.

Topics: Latin American politics; Political corruption; Government corruption; Democracy; Political revolutions; Competitive authoritarianism; Fascism; Communism; Mexican economics; Socialism; Diplomatic relations; Brazilian culture; Cold wars; Imperialism; Nationalism; Latin American governments; International alliances; Political revolutions; Dictatorship; Dictators; Countries; Western hemisphere; War; Third World; National interests;Government; Communist parties; Military aid; Bilateralism; War conflict; Interstate conflict; Territorial disputes; Armed forces; Violence.

Latin America: Primary Sources: Government Documents (HY 430-023) . University of Alabama Libraries.

List of useful sources; CSU has a some of the proprietary databases ( HeinOnline Foreign Relations of the United States; Congressional Publications (listed as ProQuest Congressional on guide); U.S. Congressional Serial Set ), but not others.

The Panama Canal: Riots, Treaties, Elections, and a little Military Madness, 1959­-1973 . National Archives.

United States and the Cold War Research Guide: Home . Dr. C.C. & Mabel L. Criss Library. University of Nebraska Omaha.

Created to support a seminar. Government Documents; Primary Source Databases; Journal and Magazine Articles; Internet Resources, etc. Check CSU Libraries for local access and holdings (books, government documents, etc.). If CSU doesn't have a government publication, CU Boulder should have it.

Articles & Books :

• Borda, Orlando Fals. " The Significance of Guerrilla Movements in Latin America ." CrossCurrents 18, no. 4 (1968): 451-58.
• Castro, Daniel. Revolution and Revolutionaries : Guerrilla Movements in Latin America . Jaguar Books on Latin America ; No. 17. Wilmington, Del.: SR Books, 1999. F1413 .R475 1999 Morgan
• Debray, Régis. Revolution in the Revolution? Armed Struggle and Political Struggle in Latin America. New York: MR Press, 1967. U 240 D2813 Morgan Temp & Prospector
• Garrard, Lawrence, Moreno, Garrard, Virginia, Lawrence, Mark Atwood, and Moreno, Julio. Beyond the Eagle's Shadow : New Histories of Latin America's Cold War .  Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press . 2013. F1414.2 .B46 2013 Morgan
• Gorriti Ellenbogen, Gustavo. “Latin America’s Internal Wars.” Journal of Democracy 2.1 (1991): 85–98.
• Gott, Richard. Guerrilla Movements in Latin America. 1st Ed. in the U.S.A.]. ed. Garden City, N.Y.: Doubleday, 1971. F1414.2 .G65 1971 Morgan
• McPherson, Alan. " From "Punks" to Geopoliticians: U. S. and Panamanian Teenagers and the 1964 Canal Zone Riots ." The Americas 58, no. 3 (2002): 395-418.
• Rabe, Stephen G. The Killing Zone : The United States Wages Cold War in Latin America . Second ed. New York: Oxford University Press, 2016. Requested 3-21-18.
• Wickham-Crowley, Timothy P. Guerrillas and Revolution in Latin America : A Comparative Study of Insurgents and Regimes since 1956 . Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press, 1992. JC491 .W53 1992 Morgan

See also Cuban Revolution 1953-1989 & Revolutionary Biographies .

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