us history argumentative essay

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American History Argumentative Essay Topics

The argumentative essay is a type of composition that entails investigating a topic. You generate and collect, and assess evidence as well as establish a stand on the matter in a transparent manner. When it comes to discussing American history, you are looking at presenting an essay that helps to understand the diverse culture and how complicated history is. 

When tasked to write an essay about American history, you will need to conduct research, make arguments, and develop connections. When choosing a topic, do not limit yourself to the subjects that are popular and easy. It may be challenging to create great ideas on what to write about, attributed to the broad nature of the matter. Some factors to remember when choosing is: brainstorm on existing topics, research on the subject, come up with different thesis in advance, and find reliable sources. 

Choose a unique topic that is interesting and inspiring to you. Having an issue that you can relate to inspires you, and the same inspiration will be on your audience. Narrow down your topic to a specific and narrow point. These ensure that the subject for discussion is manageable. You can come up with your best argumentative American history essay topic ideas when you have a single focus and present your essay in a more detailed way.

The following American history theme proposal examples of argumentative American history essay topics can help you to brainstorm and settle with a topic that works for you. The list is not conclusive and should act as a guide for you.

American History Essay Topics

• The reasons behind the creation of labor unions 
• The necessity of the Korean War to the United States of America
• What are the reasons behind the effectiveness of the civil rights movement in the United States of America? 
• The reasons behind the killing of Martin Luther King
• Why and How the American Revolution started
• What was the reason behind the American Settlers used the Oregon Trail?
• What were the reasons behind America entering the First World War?
• Who were the pilgrims?
• American revolutionary war and the results it had
• The reasons North America went through British colonization
• What were the differences between the southern and northern colonies?
• The factors that led to the Vietnam war
• What factors led to the Salem Witch trials 
• In the constitution what purpose does the first amendment serve
• What was the nature of the conflicts between the colonists and the native Americans?
• What was the cold war?
• The life of the early settlers in America 
• What were the implications of the California gold rush? 
• Would the United States of America enter the world war two if the Japanese had not attacked Pearl harbor?
• What were the causes that led to the great depression?
• Can the My Lai Massacre put in the category as a military crime
• How significant is the contribution of women in the civil war?
• What was the justification behind the bombing of Hiroshima?
• What was the success of national prohibition?
• Discovering the truth of the mystery of the colony of Roanoke
• Colonies and the roles of women in them
• The part that the United States of America played in the second world war
• The mistake that was the Iraq War
• How did slavery happen in America?
• The mystery behind the death of John F Kennedy 
• The discovery of the North American continent
• Ways, the United States, benefitted from the Mexican War
• United States: Rise to superpower
• The influence that the puritans have on American society 
• How the San Francisco earthquake affected the city

Ensure that you made a quality argument in your essay but also that you follow the right structure when writing the essay.

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Navigating Historical Debates: History Argumentative Essay Topics

Dipping your toes into the vast ocean of history is an adventure. Each dive deep into its depths brings a new perspective, a fresh understanding, or a challenging contradiction. As a student of history, you don’t just learn about the past; you argue, debate, and discuss it. That’s where “history argumentative essay topics” come in, giving you the perfect platform to exhibit your persuasive skills while furthering your historical understanding.

Table of content

The Importance of Studying History

History isn’t just a record of ancient days; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with countless threads, each representing a story, an era, a civilization, or an individual. Understanding history empowers us to make sense of our present, forecast future patterns, and appreciate humanity’s collective journey. Delving into argumentative essays adds depth to this exploration, honing your critical thinking, research understanding, and writing prowess.

The Art of Writing an Argumentative History Essay

In a history argumentative essay, your task goes beyond presenting facts. It would help to form an opinion, defend it with strong evidence, and persuade your reader to view history through your lens. Such essays often explore controversial issues, diverse interpretations, or underrepresented perspectives, making them thrilling.

Remember, an effective argumentative essay balances rigor with creativity. Your arguments should be based on solid research, but your writing style should maintain the reader’s interest. Short sentences, active voice, and transitional words will help ensure your essay is clear, concise, and captivating.

History Argumentative Essay Topics: Your Guide to an Engaging Argument

Picking the right history argumentative essay topics is crucial. Your topic should spark your curiosity, offer ample sources for research, and pose a challenge that motivates you to explore, argue, and persuade. The past is brimming with potential argumentative essay topics, from historical events and famous figures to social movements and cultural trends.

Here are a collection of history argumentative essay topics spanning different eras, regions, and themes to get you started. Use them as they are, or let them inspire you to develop your own.

• The Crusades: Religious Devotion or Political Expediency?
• Was the Bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki Justifiable?
• The Impact of Colonialism: Development or Exploitation?
• The Role of Women in World War II: Homefront or Battlefield?
• The American Civil War: Slavery or States’ Rights?
• The French Revolution: Fight for Liberty or Reign of Terror?
• The Renaissance: A Cultural Rebirth or a Period of Conflict?
• Martin Luther King Jr. vs. Malcolm X: Who Had a Greater Impact on the Civil Rights Movement?
• The Age of Exploration: Discovery or Destruction?
• The Industrial Revolution: Progress or Plight?
• The Fall of the Roman Empire: Invaders or Internal Decay?
• Was the Cold War Inevitable Post-World War II?
• Christopher Columbus: Hero or Villain?
• The Impact of the Protestant Reformation: Unity or Division?
• The Age of Imperialism: Prosperity or Oppression?
• The Vietnam War: A Necessary Stand or a Futile Endeavor?
• The American Revolution: Liberty or Economic Motives?
• The Russian Revolution: People’s Uprising or Bolshevik Coup?
• The Enlightenment: Philosophical Breakthrough or Social Disruption?
• The Emancipation Proclamation: Sincere or Strategic?
• The Role of Propaganda in Nazi Germany
• Was Alexander the Great Really Great?
• The Partition of India: Religious Freedom or Colonial Divide-and-Rule?
• Did the Suffragette Movement Achieve Its Goals?
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: Near-Apocalypse or Diplomatic Triumph?
• The Influence of the Printing Press: Information Revolution or Religious Turmoil?
• The Crusades: A Pathway to Enlightenment or a Dark Age Misstep?
• The Atomic Age: A New Era or a Dangerous Precedent?
• The Impact of the Ming Dynasty on China’s Global Presence
• The American Westward Expansion: Manifest Destiny or Brutal Displacement?
• The British Raj in India: Beneficial or Destructive?
• The War of 1812: Forgotten War or Critical Conflict?
• The Cultural Revolution in China: Necessary Purge or Disastrous Policy?
• Slavery: The True Cause of the American Civil War?
• The Role of Espionage in the Cold War
• The Contributions of Nikola Tesla: Overlooked or Overrated?
• The Great Depression: Natural Economic Cycle or Result of Poor Policy?
• Was the League of Nations Doomed to Fail?
• The Impact of Napoleon’s Reign on Europe
• The Salem Witch Trials: Mass Hysteria or Religious Extremism?
• The Influence of the Ottoman Empire on Modern Middle East
• Did the Treaty of Versailles Cause World War II?
• The Role of the Catholic Church in Medieval Europe
• Manifest Destiny: Expansionism or Cultural Imperialism?
• The Impact of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire
• The Spanish Inquisition: Religious Persecution or Political Power Play?
• The Influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African American Culture
• The Ethics of Using Atomic Bombs in WWII
• The Role of Britain in the Creation of Israel
• The Egyptian Revolution of 2011: A Springboard for Democracy?
• The Effect of the Gold Rush on California’s Development
• The Role of Social Media in the Arab Spring
• The Implications of the Scramble for Africa
• The Battle of Stalingrad: Turning Point in World War II?
• The Meiji Restoration: Western Influence or Japanese Initiative?
• The Role of Women in the French Revolution
• The Impact of the Black Death on European Society
• The Effect of the Viking Raids on European History
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall: Inevitable or Surprising?
• The Contributions of the Ancient Greeks to Modern Society
• The Influence of the Catholic Church on the European Age of Discovery
• The Impact of Gunpowder on Medieval Warfare
• The Influence of the Spanish Civil War on WWII
• The Causes and Consequences of the Thirty Years’ War
• The Role of the Railroad in the Expansion of the United States
• The Significance of the Magna Carta in the Modern Legal System
• The Impact of the Silk Road on the Exchange of Cultures
• The Role of the Mafia in Prohibition
• The Effect of Charlemagne’s Reign on Europe
• The Implications of the Columbian Exchange
• The Influence of the Persian Empire on the Modern Middle East
• The Impact of Marco Polo’s Travels on Europe
• The Effect of the French Revolution on European Politics
• The Influence of the Great Schism on Christianity
• The Impact of the Space Race on the Cold War
• The Legacy of the Aztec Empire
• The Effect of the Transatlantic Slave Trade on Africa
• The Role of the Knights Templar in the Crusades
• The Influence of Gutenberg’s Printing Press on the Reformation
• The Impact of the Han Dynasty on China
• The Causes and Effects of the Boxer Rebellion
• The Significance of the Pax Romana
• The Influence of Confucianism on East Asian Cultures
• The Impact of the Opium Wars on China
• The Role of the French Foreign Legion in Colonial France
• The Effect of the Suez Crisis on the Middle East
• The Influence of the Renaissance on Modern Art
• The Impact of the Zulu Nation on South Africa
• The Causes and Consequences of the Irish Potato Famine
• The Role of the Samurai in Feudal Japan
• The Effect of the Hundred Years’ War on England and France
• The Influence of the Roman Republic on Modern Democracies
• The Impact of the US Constitution on the French Revolution
• The Role of the Huns in the Fall of the Roman Empire
• The Causes and Effects of the Haitian Revolution
• The Influence of the Enlightenment on the US Constitution
• The Impact of the Homestead Act on the American West
• The Effect of the Plague of Justinian on the Byzantine Empire
• The Role of the Medici Family in the Italian Renaissance

Remember, the goal is not just to recount history but to form an argument and defend it persuasively. Use reliable sources like scholarly articles, credible news outlets, and respected history websites for your research ( History.com , JSTOR , Fordham University’s Internet History Sourcebooks Project , etc.).

Conclusion: Your Historical Argument Awaits

Choosing from these argumentative history essay topics is just the beginning. You can turn your chosen topic into a compelling essay with thorough research, careful planning, and passionate writing. As you debate the past, you’re not just learning history but contributing to its discussion. Let these argumentative essay topics be your first step toward a thrilling historical discourse.

📎 Related Articles

1. Hot Topic History: A Journey Through Pivotal Moments 2. Engaging 8th Grade Research Paper Topics for Budding Historians 3. Dive Deep into Western Civilization Research Paper Topics 4. Navigating Through the Labyrinth of Ancient History Topics 5. Stirring the Pot: Controversial Topics in History for Research Paper

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If you are a student with literature as your subject, then you must be familiar with the idea of different types of essays. Sometimes, let alone knowing how to write one, it is difficult to identify the different kinds of essays. So, let’s talk about argumentative essays. According to general definition, an argumentative essay seeks to state a position on an issue and give several reasons, supported by evidence, for agreeing with that position.

American history is one that is filled with several emotions and moments. Right from its discovery, its revolution, the developments, the leadership, the war, and the general American culture, this nation’s history presents a wide range of topics that you can write about in your argumentative essay.

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How to Choose an Argumentative Essay Topic

• Choose a topic that you have a strong and well-informed opinion on
• Choose a topic you can see both sides of
• Choose a topic with a reasonable amount of focus
• Choose a topic that has accessible date to back all your opinions
• Take your reader into account

How to Structure a Historical Argumentative Essay?

• Gathering of data
• Formation of an opinion
• Stating of your claim
• Providing evidence to prove it

How To Write An Argumentative Essay?

The Beginning

Your introductory paragraph should be written around your argument or statement, providing background information needed to understand your argument and presenting pieces of evidence that back up that argument.

Begin with an Interesting Fact

Try to lead with an interesting fact or statistic, a quote, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question. Your first sentence should be able to draw the reader in and get them interested about the topic you’re writing on.

Try to Provide Some Background and Context

When a reader is reading your essay, they would want to know more about the situation, and specifically about the context leading to that argumentative situation. Give enough background on your topic so that the reader can understand your argument.

Definitely State Your Thesis

The background of your essay should transition smoothly into your main argument. This is important, so that the reader’s focus doesn’t shift from your main argument.

Introduce Your Evidence for the Argument

Always state the main points that back up your argument and end it there. Leave the actual argument and analysis for the body paragraphs for the sake of clarity.

Essay Introduction Ideas for An Argumentative Essay

• Try and tell a true story.
• You can present a hypothetical situation that illustrates the problem.
• You can also ask a thought-provoking question.
• Maybe state a startling fact or statistic (cite a reputable source).
• You can simply explain the problem as well.
• Finally, if nothing strikes you, then go for compare and contrast.

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American History

American history is subdivided into subsections that have impacted the nation differently. The history can be subdivided into the following sections:

• Pre-Columbian era
• The European settlement
• Road to independence
• The American revolution
• The early years of the republic
• Sectional conflict and civil war
• War, prosperity, and depression
• Post-war America
• The 21st century

American History Argumentative Essay Topics

• The conflict between the Native Americans and the colonists.
• The opposition of the Mormons.
• The impact of Mormons to American society and western development.
• The reasons for the American Revolution.
• The factors leading to the American Civil War.
• The cause of the Great Depression.
• The effects of the Great Depression.
• Reaganomics and the Great Depression.
• The role of the USA in the First World War.
• The role of the USA in the Second World War.
• Did the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor push the USA into the Second World War?
• The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were unjustified.
• How necessary was the Korean War to the United States?
• The United States and the Cuban Missile Crisis.
• The United States’ mistake with the Iraq War.
• What were the American merits from the Mexican War?
• Did America prove the Mexican Word?
• The causes and effects of the Mexican War to America.
• The role of women in the American Civil War.
• The Cold War.
• The reasons for the Vietnam War.
• Was America justified to invade Vietnam?
• The role of the anti-war movement in changing the opinions of the American government towards the war.
• The influence of the media on public policy surrounding the Vietnam War.
• The British colonization of North America.
• The differences between the Northern and Southern colonies.
• The lost colony of Roanoke.
• The military crime of the Lai Massacre.

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• How the United States became a superpower.
• Is the United States’ status as a superpower under threat.
• The creation of labor unions.
• The influence of Martin Luther King on America.
• How women in the military are overcoming discrimination.
• Significant contributions made by African Americans in the military.
• How African Americans in the military have overcome discrimination.
• Was John F. Kennedy an effective president?
• How does Barack Obama fit into American history?
• The reasons for Martin Luther King’s assassination.
• The changes in the American security policies post 9/11.
• The effects of 9/11 on American foreign policy.
• The injustices suffered by Muslims post 9/11.
• National Prohibition was a huge American mistake.
• How did National Prohibition lead to an increase in crime and lawlessness?
• Did the framers of the American constitution have the American people’s interests in mind?
• The effectiveness of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States.
• The impact of John F. Kennedy on the United States.
• The Mystery surrounding John F. Kennedy’s assassination.
• How did the 9/11 tragedy change the outlook of the United States’ society?
• Could the 9/11 attacks have been prevented?
• The framers of the American constitution were more Aristocratic than Democratic minded.
• The second amendment is the most controversial amendment in the American constitution.
• How did slavery affect the American economy?
• Should the government of the United States pay reparations to the African American families that suffered enslavement?
• Slavery in America: how did it happen?
• The effects of slavery on African American families.
• Pre-Civil War conflicts over slavery: Nat Turner Rebellion.
• Pre-Civil War conflicts over slavery: John Brown’s raid.
• How did Dred Scott impact the issue of slavery?
• The Pilgrims.

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• The influence of the Puritans to American society.
• How were the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation remedies by the United States Constitution?
• The main differences prior to the ratification of the constitution.
• The outcome of the federalists versus anti-federalists.
• The reasons behind Abraham Lincoln’s assassination.
• The impact of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination on the reconstruction of the nation after the Civil War.
• The impact electric power had on the American economy.
• The challenges of developing inventions in the 19th century: (choose an inventor from the 19th century).
• The impact of developing inventions in the 19th century: (choose an inventor from the 19th century).
• The causes of the Harlen Renaissance.
• The effects of the Harlem Renaissance.
• The economic effects that led to the crash of the stock market in 1929.
• Why the New Orleans flooding got so severe during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
• The political impact Hurricane Katrina had on the United States.
• How have the changes in women’s employment role in society in the 21st century?
• Motivations towards the Oklahoma City Bombing.
• Significant contributions made by women in the military.
• George Washington and Abraham Lincoln should be equally held as America’s founding fathers.
• The truth by Al Gore on the future of our environment and climate.
• Why were Bill Clinton’s scandals so overlooked?
• Jimmy Carter vs. Ronald Reagan: how the economy affected their campaign presidency and the results.
• The impact of the Watergate scandal on American politics.
• The Reagan Revolution and its influence on conservative policies.
• The end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union.
• The challenges and achievements of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
• The War on Drugs and its impact on minority communities.
• The role of technology in shaping the 21st-century economy.
• The impact of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on U.S. foreign policy.
• The election and presidency of Barack Obama.
• The challenges and responses to climate change in the modern era.
• The Black Lives Matter movement and the fight against police brutality.
• The impact of Brown v. Board of Education on desegregation.
• The role of Martin Luther King Jr. in the Civil Rights Movement.
• The Freedom Rides and the challenges to segregation in interstate travel.
• The March on Washington and the significance of the “I Have a Dream” speech.
• The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution and U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War.
• The counterculture movement and the protests against the war.
• The impact of the Tet Offensive on public perception of the Vietnam War.
• The assassination of President John F. Kennedy and its aftermath.
• The space race achievements and the Apollo moon landing.
• The feminist movement and the fight for women’s rights in the 1960s and 1970s.

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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/

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

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

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

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

• 🚧 History Essay Challenges
• 📜 Top 15 Topics
• ✊ Revolution Topics
• 🗺️ Regional Topics
• 🤴 Key Figures Topics
• 🏳️‍🌈 Key Movements
• 📿 Topics on Traditions
• 👁️‍ Topics on Mysteries
• 📝 Historical Topics – 2024

📢 History Persuasive Essay Topics

• 👉 Choosing a Topic
• ♟️ Writing Strategies

🚧 History Essay Topics Main Challenges

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

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

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

📜 Top 15 History Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

⚔️ History Essay Topics on War

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

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

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

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

Intercountry Wars

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

Religious Wars

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

✊ History Essay Topics on Revolution

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

Political Revolutions

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

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

Social Revolutions

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

🗺️ World History Argumentative Essay Topics

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

US History Essay Topics

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

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

Latin America History Essay Topics

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

European History Essay Topics

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

Asian History Essay topics

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

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

Russian History Essay Topics

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

African History Essay Topics

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

Australian History Essay Topics

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

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

🤴 History Essay Topics on Key Figures

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

Central Figures of Ancient History

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

Central Figures of Medieval Ages

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

Central Figures of Modern Period

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

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

Central Figures of Contemporary History

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

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

🏳️‍🌈 Argumentative History Topics on Significant Movements

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

Political Movements

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

Social Movements

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

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

Art Movements

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

Religious and Spiritual Movements

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

📿 Interesting History Essay Topics on Traditions

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

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

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

👁️‍ Essay Topics on Historical Mysteries

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

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

📝 Historical Topics to Write About – 2024

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

👉 History Essay Topics: How to Choose

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

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

♟️ Strategies for Historical Argument Topics

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

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

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

And we are done here.

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

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

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

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

Good luck, friends 🍀

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

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

543 American History Essay Topics & Good Ideas

18 January 2024

last updated

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

Cool American History Essay Topics

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

Easy American History Research Topics

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

Interesting US History Topics

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

US History Topics for High School

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

US History Topics for College Students

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

US History Topics for University

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

American History Essay Topics on Revolution Battles and Key Events

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

American Essay History Topics Before 1865

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

US Research Paper Topics on Black History

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

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

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

American History Essay Topics on Cold War and McCarthyism

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

American History Topics on Civil Rights Movement

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

US History Essay Topics on Immigration & Ethnic

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

American Industrial Revolution History Topics

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

Latin American History Essay Topics

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

American History Topics on Progressive Era

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

American History Essay Topics on Roaring Twenties

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

American Reconstruction History Essay Topics

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

LGBTQ+ American History Research Paper Topics

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

Native American History Essay Topics

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

American History Research Paper Topics About World War I & II

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

American History Essay Topics About Founding Fathers and the Constitution

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

American History Topics About Space Race and NASA’s Contributions

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

US Civil War Research Paper Topics

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

American History Research Paper Topics on Vietnam War

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

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

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

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135 US History Essay Topics

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

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

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

How To Write a US History Essay?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How To Structure a US History Essay?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

US History Essay Topics About the Civil War

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

US History Essay Topics About the Native Americans

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

US History Essay Topics About the Great Depression

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

US History Essay Topics About WW1 & WW2

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

US History Essay Topics About Women’s Rights

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

US History Essay Topics About Immigration

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

US History Essay Topics About Labor and Strikes

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

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

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40+ Best Argumentative Essay Topics On American History

Sourav Mahahjan

What is an American history argumentative essay?

As a student, different types of essays need to be prepared during the academic life cycle. An argumentative essay is such a kind of essay which the students make. 

Argumentative essays are those types of essays that consist of investigating a specific topic or phenomenon. The writer generally conducts a large amount of evidence to describe their viewpoint unbiased. To prepare an argumentation essay on the history of America, it becomes necessary to understand America's cultural diversity and complexity. 

American history is filled with many different types of feelings and emotions. From the very beginning of American history to the other revolutions it faced, from its development stories to changing leadership, from the various wars the country fought to the daily lifestyle of the Americans, American history provides multiple different types of topics for the preparation of an argumentative essay. 

Steps for selecting an argument easy:

• It is essential to select which large amount of information is available, and the student has their own opinion on the topic chosen. 
• Selecting a topic on which you can provide both the positive and negative sides of the issue or situation is essential. 
• Select a topic on which the writer can provide a reasonable focus for delivering detailed information. 
• Moreover, it is also essential to select a topic on which the writer can provide evidence regarding the writer's arguments on the chosen topic. 
• Also, it is essential to select a topic relevant to the essay's audience,   a historical argumentative essay.
• Collecting information: To prepare a highly informative argumentative essay on American history containing a vast amount of relevant information is essential. 
• Creating an opinion: The writer needs to develop a statement regarding the topic or issue selected in the argumentative essay. 
• Making your claim: In the argumentative essay, it is important for the writer to make their claims as it helps connect with the essay's audience. 
• Backing with evidence: To impact the readers' minds, the writer needs to provide evidence and proof regarding the arguments made by the writer in the essay. Providing evidence helps increase the reliability of the information in the essay.

Tips for writing an argumentative essay:

The following easy tips can be constructive in writing a quality argumentative essay on American history.

1. Introduction 

The first paragraph of the argumentative essay should begin with the statement, provide the background of the topic explained in the argument made by the writer, and provide evidence regarding the ideas created by the writer. 

2. Starting with an interesting fact

It is advisable to begin the topic with statistical information and personal information. A provoking thought and a quote. The essay's first sentence should attract the readers' attention to the information provided in the argumentative essay. 

3. Importance of giving evidence regarding the context of the topic

The readers generally take an interest in the topic when reading the essay and want to know more about the context of the incident on which the writer makes the argument. Proving the situation's background helps the readers understand the different opinions 

made by the writer regarding the topic selected in the essay. 

4. Stating the thesis of the argument

 It is essential to smoothly transition from the background to the main body in the argumentative essay.  This prohibits shifting the reader's attention from the main argument made in the essay. 

5. Providing evidence regarding the arguments made in the essay 

It is essential to provide reinvent information regarding the statements made by the writer in the essay at the end of the paragraph. This helps increase the clarity of the statements made by the writer in the essay. 

Tips for writing the introduction of an argumentative essay:

• It is essential to sell the topic of the essay to the readers.
• To increase the readers' interest, the introduction should begin with a hypothetical situation and provide information regarding the problem and situation. 
• The introduction can also benefit from stating a provoking question, which helps grab the readers' attention toward the information provided in the argumentative essay on American history.
• The introduction can also begin by explaining the problem or situation discussed in detail in the essay.
• Also, a good introduction for an argumentative essay can begin with a contrast and compare.

American History:

The American history can be divided into the following section:

• “Pre-Columbian era”
• “The European Settlement”
• “Road to Independence”
• “The American Revolution”
• “The early years of the republic”
• “Sectional conflict and civil war”
• “War, prosperity, and depression”
• “Post-war America”
• “The 21st century”

Before you head over to the best argumentative essay topics on American history, don't forget to check out these argumentative essay topics of 2023 .

Essay topics for argumentative essay on American history:

• The conflict between the colonists and Native Americans
• The opposition of the Mormons.
• How did the Mormons affect Western development and American society?
• Factors responsible for the American Revolution.
• Causes for the beginning of the American Civil War.
• Factors responsible for the Great Depression.
• Great Depression and its impact on the American history
• Great Depression and  the Reaganomics 
• How did the USA influence the  First World War?
• How the USA influenced the Second World War.
• Role of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour for involving the USA in the “Second World War.”
• Why the bombings made on  Hiroshima and Nagasaki were unjustified?
• Importance of the  Korean War for the United States?
• Cuban Missile Crisis and the Role of the USA
• The Iraq War was one of the biggest mistakes made by the USA in recent history.
• What does America gain from the Mexican War?
• Role of America in proving the Mexican Word?
• What were the effects of the Mexican War on  America?
• How did women influence the American Civil War?
• What was the Cold War movement's role in changing the American government's opinions on the invasion of Vietnam?
• How did the anti-war movement change the opinion of the American government toward war?
• How did the media influence public policy around the  Vietnam War?
• North America under British colonisation.
• What are the differences between the Southern and Northern colonies?
• Roanoke and its Lonely Colony
• Lai Massacre and its military crime

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234+ American History Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

Sep 22, 2023 | 0 comments

Sep 22, 2023 | Topics | 0 comments

 Exploring American History Argumentative Essay Topics offers students a captivating journey through pivotal moments and debates that have shaped the nation. In this collection of thought-provoking topic ideas, students will find rich opportunities to write essays and research papers that delve into the depths of American history. From the profound impact of Abraham Lincoln’s leadership to the complexities of the American Revolution and the enduring influence of Pearl Harbor, these topics invite students to engage critically with the nation’s past and reflect on its enduring impact on American culture and society. Whether you want to write an essay that reexamines historical events or tackles issues of historical significance, these topics provide a compelling starting point for your exploration of American history.

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✅ How to Write a History Paper

You are writing a history paper, whether an essay or a research paper, can be a fascinating journey into the past. To start, you’ll need a good topic, and when it comes to United States history, there’s no shortage of interesting ideas. Whether you’re exploring African American history, the American Revolution, or any other historical period or event, the first step is to choose a topic that genuinely captivates you. This enthusiasm will make the research and writing process much more enjoyable.

Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to research. Gather information from reliable sources like books, articles, and reputable websites. Take notes, highlighting key facts, quotes, and ideas you might want to include in your paper.

When structuring your history paper, start with a clear introduction that introduces your topic and provides some context. In the body of your essay, present your arguments or findings logically, supporting them with evidence from your research. Make sure to cite your sources properly to avoid plagiarism.

Don’t forget to address counterarguments if you’re writing an argumentative history paper. This shows that you’ve considered multiple perspectives on the topic. In your conclusion, summarize your main points and restate your thesis, leaving a lasting impression on your reader.

Finally, take the time to revise and proofread your paper. Check for clarity, coherence, and grammar errors. Your history paper should inform and engage your readers, leaving them with a deeper understanding of the past and the significance of your chosen topic. So, choose wisely, research diligently, and let your passion for history shine through in your writing.

How to Structure a Historical Argumentative Essay?

Structuring a historical argumentative essay is crucial to effectively convey your ideas about an interesting US history research paper topic. Start with a clear introduction that sets the stage, providing context and stating your thesis—the main argument you’ll prove.

In the body of your essay, organize your points logically. Each paragraph should present a single argument or evidence supported by research. Make sure your arguments flow smoothly, with one leading to the next.

Consider addressing counterarguments, showing that you’ve thought critically about your topic. Refute these opposing views with evidence and reasoning.

Use transitions to guide your reader through your essay, ensuring it’s easy to follow. In your conclusion, summarize your main arguments and restate your thesis, leaving a lasting impression.

Remember, clarity and conciseness are key. Avoid jargon and complex language, striving for clarity to engage a wider audience. Lastly, proofread your essay for grammar and coherence.

American History Argumentative Essay Topics

• The Impact of the American Revolution on Modern Democracy
• The Legacy of Abraham Lincoln: Emancipator or Tyrant?
• The Role of Women in Shaping Early American History
• The Significance of the Civil Rights Movement in Achieving Racial Equality
• The Controversy Surrounding the Founding Fathers: Heroes or Villains?
• The Effects of Westward Expansion on Native American Communities
• The Influence of the Industrial Revolution on American Society
• The Battle of Gettysburg: Turning Point of the Civil War?
• The Immigration Debate: Contributions and Challenges of Immigrants
• The Causes and Consequences of the Great Depression
• The Vietnam War: Justified Conflict or Costly Mistake?
• The Impact of Pearl Harbor on U.S. Involvement in World War II
• The Underground Railroad: Heroes and Heroines of the Abolitionist Movement
• The Cold War and the Cuban Missile Crisis: Averting Nuclear Disaster
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement: Struggle for Political Equality
• The Trail of Tears: Forced Relocation of Native American Tribes
• The Salem Witch Trials: Mass Hysteria or Legal Injustice?
• The Gold Rush and Its Effects on Western Migration and Culture
• The Harlem Renaissance: Cultural and Artistic Resurgence in African American History
• The Watergate Scandal: Corruption and Accountability in U.S. Government.

🌎Top 10 American History Topics to Write About

• The Founding Fathers and the Creation of the Constitution
• The Boston Tea Party and Its Role in the American Revolution
• The Lewis and Clark Expedition: Exploration of the American West
• The Battle of Gettysburg: Key Events and Significance
• The Civil Rights Movement: Leaders and Achievements
• The Great Depression: Causes and Effects on American Society
• The Manhattan Project: Development of the Atomic Bomb
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement: Struggles and Triumphs
• The Industrial Revolution in America: Transformation of the Economy
• The Prohibition Era: Rise of Organized Crime
• The Underground Railroad: Network of Freedom for Escaped Slaves
• The Space Race: Competition Between the United States and Soviet Union
• The Vietnam War: Causes and Controversies
• The Harlem Renaissance: Cultural Flourishing in African American History
• The Japanese Internment during World War II: Civil Rights Violations
• The Gold Rush and Westward Expansion: Impact on American Development
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: Tensions between the U.S. and Soviet Union
• The Watergate Scandal: Political Scandal and Presidential Resignation
• The 9/11 Attacks and Their Effect on U.S. National Security.

🎉 Fun U.S. History Essay Topics

• Jazz Age Icons: Exploring the Lives of Roaring Twenties Celebrities
• Time Traveler’s Dilemma: Which Historical Era Would You Visit and Why?
• Unsung Heroes of American History: Individuals Who Made a Difference
• The Myth of the Wild West: Separating Fact from Fiction
• Timeless American Folklore: Legends and Tall Tales
• American Inventors and Their Impact on Everyday Life
• The Artistic Revolution: Influence of American Artists on the World
• The Secret Lives of First Ladies: Beyond the White House
• Hollywood’s Influence on American Culture and Society
• The Birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll: Music’s Evolution in America
• Food for Thought: The Evolution of American Cuisine
• The Space Race: America’s Journey to the Stars
• Hidden Treasures of American Museums: Artifacts and Artworks
• Iconic American Landmarks: Stories Behind the Structures
• U.S. Presidential Scandals: From Teapot Dome to Watergate
• Ghost Towns: Exploring Abandoned American Settlements
• The Evolution of American Fashion: From Flappers to Hipsters
• The Legacy of Prohibition: Speakeasies and Bootlegging
• Famous American Outlaws: Jesse James to Bonnie and Clyde
• American Humorists and Satirists: The Wit and Wisdom of Comedy Legends.

👌 Easy American History Essay Topics

• The Impact of the Declaration of Independence on American Society
• The Boston Tea Party: Causes and Consequences
• The Lewis and Clark Expedition: Exploring the Louisiana Purchase
• The Civil Rights Movement: Key Figures and Achievements
• The Great Depression: Causes and Effects on Everyday Life
• The Industrial Revolution in America: Changes in Work and Technology
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement: Struggles for Equality
• The Space Race: America’s Race to the Moon
• The Vietnam War: Reasons for U.S. Involvement
• The Harlem Renaissance: Cultural and Artistic Flourishing
• The Gold Rush and Westward Expansion: Pioneers and Challenges
• The Prohibition Era: Impact on Society and Crime
• The Underground Railroad: Efforts to Aid Escaped Slaves
• The Japanese Internment during World War II: Civil Liberties Violations
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: U.S.-Soviet Standoff
• The Watergate Scandal: Political Crisis and Resignation
• The 9/11 Attacks: Implications for U.S. National Security
• The Founding Fathers and the U.S. Constitution: Framing the Nation
• American Inventors and Their Contributions to Innovation.

💬 Debatable U.S. History Topics to Research

• Reconstruction Era: Successes and Failures in Rebuilding the South
• The New Deal: Assessing Its Impact on the U.S. Economy
• The Salem Witch Trials: Causes and Consequences of the Hysteria
• The Alien and Sedition Acts: Balancing National Security and Civil Liberties
• The Red Scare and McCarthyism: Communist Fears in America
• The Civil Rights Act of 1964: Transformation of Racial Equality
• The Louisiana Purchase: Jefferson’s Constitutional Dilemma
• The Mexican-American War: Controversy over Manifest Destiny
• The Indian Removal Act: Jackson’s Policy and the Trail of Tears
• The Cuban Revolution: U.S. Involvement in Cuban Affairs
• The Battle of Little Bighorn: Custer’s Last Stand and Native American Resistance
• The Teapot Dome Scandal: Corruption in the Harding Administration
• The My Lai Massacre: War Crimes in the Vietnam War
• The Bonus Army March: Veterans’ Protests during the Great Depression
• The Kent State Shootings: Anti-War Protests and Tragedy
• The Stonewall Riots: Catalyst for the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement
• The Oregon Trail: Challenges and Adventures of Westward Migration
• The Bay of Pigs Invasion: U.S. Intervention in Cuba
• The Wounded Knee Massacre: Conflict at Pine Ridge Reservation
• The Zoot Suit Riots: Racial Tensions in World War II Los Angeles.

🙌 Most Interesting American History Topics

• The Founding Fathers’ Vision for America: Idealism vs. Reality
• Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad: A Heroic Journey to Freedom
• The Battle of Antietam: Bloodiest Day in American History
• The Roaring Twenties: Jazz, Flappers, and Prohibition
• The Dust Bowl: Environmental Catastrophe and the Great Migration
• The Alamo: Heroes and Legends in the Fight for Texas Independence
• The Manhattan Project: Building the Atomic Bomb
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement: Pioneers of Gender Equality
• The Oregon Trail: Pioneers’ Perilous Trek Westward
• The Civil Rights Act of 1964: Breaking Barriers for African Americans
• The Transcontinental Railroad: Uniting a Nation, Transforming an Economy
• The Prohibition Era: Gangsters, Speakeasies, and Bootlegging
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: The Cold War’s Tensest Standoff
• The Gilded Age: Wealth, Inequality, and Technological Progress
• The Battle of Gettysburg: Turning Point of the Civil War
• The Lewis and Clark Expedition: Mapping the Uncharted West
• The Teapot Dome Scandal: Political Corruption in the 1920s
• The Manhattan Project: Science, Secrecy, and the Atomic Age
• The Vietnam War: Controversy, Protests, and Legacy
• The American Revolution: Patriots, Loyalists, and the Birth of a Nation.

☮️ Essay Topics About the Civil Rights Movement

• Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott: Catalysts for Change
• Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” Speech: Impact and Legacy
• Malcolm X and the Nation of Islam: Radical Activism in the Civil Rights Movement
• Freedom Riders: Challenging Segregation in Public Transportation
• Birmingham Campaign: Nonviolent Protests and Police Brutality
• Voting Rights Act of 1965: Expanding Access to the Ballot
• Brown v. Board of Education: Desegregating America’s Schools
• Selma to Montgomery March: Struggle for Voting Rights in Alabama
• Medgar Evers: Civil Rights Leader and Martyr
• Little Rock Nine: Integration of Central High School
• March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom: A Historic Gathering
• James Meredith and the Integration of the University of Mississippi
• Civil Rights Act of 1964: Combating Discrimination in Public Places
• Freedom Summer: Activists and the Fight for Voting Rights in Mississippi
• Black Panther Party: Militancy and Community Empowerment
• Greensboro Sit-Ins: Student-Led Protests Against Segregation
• Cesar Chavez and the United Farm Workers: Labor Rights for Agricultural Workers
• Civil Rights Movement in Chicago: Challenges in the North
• Fannie Lou Hamer: Voice of Mississippi Freedom
• Mississippi Burning: Civil Rights Workers’ Murders and the Pursuit of Justice.

🗺️ World History Argumentative Essay Topics

• The Impact of Ancient Greece on Modern Democracy
• The Fall of the Roman Empire: Multiple Explanations and Theories
• The Crusades: Holy War or Colonial Ambition?
• The Age of Exploration: Conquest, Trade, and Cultural Exchange
• The French Revolution: Catalyst for Social and Political Change
• The Industrial Revolution: Technological Advancements and Social Transformation
• The Scramble for Africa: European Imperialism and Its Consequences
• The Silk Road: Ancient Globalization and Trade Routes
• The World Wars: Causes, Effects, and Lessons Learned
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: Cold War Tensions and Diplomacy
• The Collapse of the Soviet Union: End of the Cold War
• The Cultural Revolution in China: Mao Zedong’s Impact on Society
• The Holocaust: Genocide and the Responsibility to Protect
• The Arab-Israeli Conflict: A Complex History of Disputes
• The Rwandan Genocide: Ethnic Conflict and International Intervention
• The Apartheid Era in South Africa: Struggles for Equality
• The Iranian Revolution: Theocratic Rule and Regional Influence
• The Opium Wars: Western Imperialism and Chinese Resistance
• The Reformation: Religious Reform and the Split from the Catholic Church
• The Great Depression: Global Economic Crisis and Recovery Efforts.

🔫 Topics about America in World Wars I & II

• The United States Entry into World War I: Causes and Consequences
• The Role of American Doughboys in World War I: Contributions and Sacrifices
• The Treaty of Versailles and Its Impact on U.S. Foreign Policy
• The Roaring Twenties and the Interwar Period: Effects of World War I
• Isolationism vs. Interventionism: Debates Leading to World War II
• Pearl Harbor Attack: Catalyst for U.S. Involvement in World War II
• The Home Front during World War II: Rationing, Rosie the Riveter, and More
• D-Day and the Normandy Invasion: Turning Point in World War II
• The Manhattan Project: America’s Race to Develop the Atomic Bomb
• The Pacific Theater of World War II: Battles and Strategies
• The Holocaust and America’s Response: Rescue Efforts and Refugee Policies
• Japanese Internment in the United States during World War II: Civil Liberties Violations
• The Yalta Conference: Postwar Agreements and Superpower Relations
• The United Nations and Its Role in International Peacekeeping
• The Nuremberg Trials: Prosecuting Nazi War Criminals
• The Marshall Plan: Rebuilding Europe after World War II
• The Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki: Moral and Ethical Considerations
• The United States and the Creation of Israel: Impact on Middle East Relations
• The GI Bill: Benefits for Veterans and Its Influence on Postwar America
• The Cold War began tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.

List of American History Topics and Ideas

• The Lewis and Clark Expedition: Mapping the West
• The Boston Tea Party: Prelude to Revolution
• The Emancipation Proclamation: Ending Slavery in the Confederate States
• The California Gold Rush: Boom and Bust in the West
• The Great Migration: African American Movement to the North
• The Prohibition Era: Speakeasies, Bootlegging, and Gangsters
• The New Deal: Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Response to the Great Depression
• The Cold War: Superpower Rivalry and the Arms Race
• The Civil Rights Movement: Striving for Racial Equality
• The Vietnam War: U.S. Involvement and Controversy
• The Watergate Scandal: Political Crisis and Presidential Resignation
• The Space Race: America’s Journey to the Moon
• The 9/11 Attacks: Impact on National Security and Foreign Policy
• The Panama Canal: Engineering Marvel and Global Trade Route
• The Salem Witch Trials: Hysteria in Colonial Massachusetts
• The Alamo: Heroes and Legends in Texas History
• The Industrial Revolution: Transforming American Society and Economy.

⚔️ Civil War Topics for Your Paper 

• The Causes of the Civil War: Slavery, States’ Rights, and Sectionalism
• Abraham Lincoln: Leadership and Impact on the Civil War
• The Emancipation Proclamation: Abolition of Slavery in Confederate States
• Women in the Civil War: Contributions on the Home Front and Battlefield
• The Underground Railroad: Escaping Slavery and Aiding Freedom Seekers
• Civil War Medicine: Advances, Challenges, and Innovations
• The Reconstruction Era: Rebuilding the South and Civil Rights
• The Battle of Antietam: Bloodiest Single-Day Battle in American History
• The Gettysburg Address: Lincoln’s Enduring Speech
• Generals of the Civil War: Grant, Lee, Sherman, and Jackson
• Slavery in the South: Plantations, Daily Life, and Resistance
• The Role of African Americans in the Civil War: From Slaves to Soldiers
• The Confederate States of America: Formation and Government
• The Union Blockade: Impact on Confederate Trade and Strategy
• The Vicksburg Campaign: Siege and Surrender
• Civil War Spies and Espionage: Intrigue and Covert Operations
• The Battle of Shiloh: Fierce Combat in Tennessee
• John Brown’s Raid on Harpers Ferry: Prelude to Conflict
• Sherman’s March to the Sea: Total War in Georgia and the Carolinas.

Topics on European History

• The Renaissance: Cultural and Artistic Revival in Europe
• The Age of Exploration: European Voyages and Discoveries
• The Protestant Reformation: Martin Luther and Religious Reform
• The French Revolution: Revolution, Reign of Terror, and Napoleon
• The Industrial Revolution: Economic Transformation in Europe
• The British Empire: Colonization, Expansion, and Legacy
• The Russian Revolution: Fall of the Romanovs and Rise of Communism
• The Enlightenment: Philosophical Ideas and Their Impact
• The Byzantine Empire: Eastern Roman Empire and Byzantine Civilization
• The Black Death: Plague, Pandemic, and Social Consequences
• The Hundred Years’ War: England vs. France and Joan of Arc
• The Treaty of Versailles: Post-World War I Peace Settlement
• The Spanish Inquisition: Religious Persecution and Control
• The Napoleonic Wars: European Conflicts and Napoleon’s Empire
• The Age of Absolutism: Monarchs and Royal Power
• The Reformation in Germany: Lutheranism and Beyond
• The Crusades: Religious Wars and European Expansion
• The Cold War: Superpower Rivalry and the Division of Europe
• The Renaissance Artists: Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael
• The Treaty of Tordesillas: Division of the New World between Spain and Portugal.

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What are some good topics about American history?

Some good topics about American history include the American Revolution, Abraham Lincoln’s presidency, the civil rights movement, and the impact of immigration on the United States.

What is the best topic for an argumentative essay?

The best topic for an argumentative essay can vary based on personal interests, but topics like the impact of the civil rights movement or the role of women in American history can be compelling.

What is a good history topic for an essay?

A good history topic for an essay could be the impact of the Industrial Revolution on American society or the causes and consequences of the Great Depression.

What is an argumentative essay about a historical event?

An argumentative essay about a historical event involves presenting a clear argument or stance on a specific historical event or issue, such as arguing for or against the significance of the American Revolution in shaping the United States.

With a passion for education and student empowerment, I create blog content that speaks directly to the needs and interests of students. From study hacks and productivity tips to career exploration and personal development

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Good argumentative history essay topics, dr. wilson mn.

• July 31, 2022
• Essay Topics and Ideas

Choosing great argumentative history essay topics can be challenging. You want to pick a topic that is debatable and interesting, but also one that you feel passionate about. Here are some ideas to get you started:

The history essay ideas include good Argumentative History Essay Topics , American Argumentative History Essay Topics, World History Argumentative Essay Topics, Historical Argument Topics, and Argumentative History Research Paper Topics.

What You'll Learn

American History Argumentative Essay Topics

• Columbus Day Should Be a National Holiday
• Good Bourgeois and Proletarians Course Work Example
• The New Deal: A Success Or A Failure
• Reconstruction and Protection of The Pyramids of Giza
• Needed Skills For Event Management
• Causes of the Great Depression
• The Widespread Issue Of Child Labor
• Rosie The Riveter, The Popular Image During World War Ii
• The War of 1812 and It is Consequences

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• Working class women – What were their options in the Middle Ages?
• The women of the Middle Ages – How they rose to become leaders
• The development of chivalry in the Middle Ages – Contributing factors
• The “childhood” concept – Did it really exist during the Middle Ages?
• Political thoughts of the Middle Ages – Which are still existing today?
• The Medici – What roles did they play during the Middle Ages and of what importance?
• The Middle Ages – Top reasons why you should read stories of the crusades
• The Middle Ages working class – The best trades options that were open to them
• The importance of marriage in the Middle Ages
• The Moors and the Jews – The relationship between them

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World History Argumentative Essay Topics

• Life in the Middle Ages – What led the urban change then?
• The Middle Ages – Important historical event that says it all
• The University of the Middle Ages – Determining its driving force then
• The Middle Ages – Determining the moment that had the most significant impact on it
• Witchcraft during the Middle Ages – What was their thought then?
• The exploration cities and trade routes by Venice and Bari – what impact did it have on other European nations’ future explorations?
• What was the impact of the fall of Constantinople on Europe and Africa?
• The Roman empire – In what ways did thriving of Christianity contribute to its downfall?

Here are 130 + Best Research Topic About Nursing – Types & How To Choose A Nursing Research Topic

Historical Argument Topics

• Which factors allowed William the Conqueror win in Britain?
• Was there any connection between the result of WWI and the preconditions of WWII?
• What as the influence of the Golden Age on the development of the civilization in America?
• Which factors have neared the end of the South African apartheid?
• How did the relationship between China and Japan develop through time?
• What’s the reason why totalitarian governance should be banned in any of its forms?

Here’s a list of Good Argumentative History Essay Topics

Argumentative History Research Paper Topics

• What was the cause of the industrialization of Europe?
• Why was an average life so short in the Middle Ages?
• What did James Cook expect to find when he discovered Australia?
• Can a war be justified? Have there been any wars in history that can be justified?
• What can the humanity do to prevent tragedies like Holocaust?

Guide to argumentative history essay writing

Read the assignment instructions.

Read the instruction sheet to understand what is needed for your argumentative essay . The instruction will be the pivoting point you use to create the outline. You will know the formatting styles, paper length, and due date. When you got all the instructions at your fingertips, making a working plan will be easier.

Identify the research topic.

Until you know what you are writing about, you can’t start the writing. Look for the best research topic you would love to discuss in your assignment. This applies to those who haven’t been given a specific research topic . 

Brainstorm to come up with the most relevant topic. Additionally, you would get help from recommendations in previous research articles. Always discuss a focused argumentative essay topic .

Do research

It’s an argumentative essay, so there is no shortcut to doing research. As you are researching, look for primary sources, skim them and come up with summary notes. 

You should keep a written record when researching to ensure you don’t omit vital information. Formulate questions you will be answering as you research; that way, the process will be simple.

Find out more on Argumentative Essay Topics About Social Media [Updated]

Have a thesis and paper outline

You have acquired enough knowledge on your research topic and have all the reference materials. Next, you need to have the thesis. 

A thesis sets the objective of your research and is a map for your readers. How are you planning to present our ideas? Following the assignment’s requirements, set an outline that meets all the instructions. 

Be critical when creating the structure to ensure you have an easy way to present your arguments. Never omit the conclusion and introduction paragraphs. The body sections will vary based on the topic you are discussing but make it appealing to the readers.

You can also check out  150+ Top-Notch Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

Write original content

After all this preparation, you can start writing. Your summary notes will be guiding your ideas but make sure you don’t copy-paste. 

Rely on what your brain is synthesizing from the research and write those points in your words. 

Add citations when you are referring to other sources to avoid plagiarism problems. Write clear sentences, use understandable grammar, and active voice tone.

Further read on 50+ Top And Best Argumentative Essay Topics

Edit and proofread

The rough draft is ready and needs editing before submission. Edit the paper for content, grammar, spelling, and other areas that requires refurbishing. 

Never submit the argumentative essay before re-reading it. Proofreading and editing are the last steps of writing a perfect argumentative essay . 

Through proofreading, you enhance the accuracy, consistency, and relevance of your paper.

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520 Excellent American History Topics & Tips for an A+ Paper

How can you define America? If you’ve ever asked yourself this question, studying US history will help you find the answer.

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

This article will help you dive deeper into this versatile subject. Here, you will find:

• Early and modern US history topics to write about. We’ve also got topics for DBQ essays for students taking an AP US history class.
• Tips on how to create a great history paper.

Have you checked out our custom writing service yet? Our experts are always ready to help you with your assignments.

🔝 Top 10 American History Topics

✅ how to write a history paper, ⭐ top 10 us history topics to research.

• 🦅 Topics Before 1865
• ⚔️ Civil War Topics
• 🛠️ Reconstruction & Industrialization
• 🗽 20th Century Topics
• 🔫 Topics on WWI & II
• ☮️ Civil Rights Movement Topics
• 💬 Debatable Topics
• ✊🏿 Black History Topics
• 🏞️ Native American Topics
• ⭐ Topics on Famous People

🔍 References

• The ideology of the Black Panthers
• How did tenements affect America?
• Why was Wilmot Proviso so controversial?
• What characterizes the Roaring Twenties?
• Cause and effect of the Missouri Compromise
• The role of women during the Great Depression
• Did anyone profit from the 1929 Stock Market Crash?
• Michael Collins’ contribution to the space exploration
• How did the US benefit from the Bracero Program?
• Brigham Young’s contribution to the development of the West

History writing is controversial by nature. Selecting questions and topics is already a subjective process. On top of that, you need to interpret the sources. So, there is much to think about when it comes to history papers.

We’ve compiled several tips to make it easier for you. Check it out:

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• Don’t be afraid to disagree . People explain many issues by conventional wisdom. Be skeptical and examine your own bias.
• Explore new terrains . Not all historical events get the attention they deserve. Writing about generally neglected topics can yield fascinating results.
• Consider how situations change over time . Frame your subject with a start- and endpoint.
• Wonder . History is not just descriptions of what happened—it also questions how and why specific events took place.
• Avoid relating everything to the present . Examine the past on its own terms. In doing so, keep the chronological order straight.
• Don’t judge your subject . Your goal is to understand the past. Remember: moral norms might have been different in the period you’re studying.
• Give context . It’s crucial to engage with and interpret your sources. Pinpoint their place in the grand scheme of events.

Finally, you might want to write in the present tense. While this works for other social sciences, it’s not advisable for history. It’s best to keep the past in the past! Also, if you need to construct a MLA title page , there’s nothing wrong in using a specialized tool to do that, as long as it allows you to concentrate on the more important part—writing.

• What caused the Red Scare?
• What did the Loyalists fight for?
• Literacy rates during Puritan times
• The effects of the Great Awakening
• Why was the Boston Tea Party justified?
• The aftermath of the Battle of Bunker Hill
• Why was presidential Reconstruction a failure?
• The causes of the economic recession of the 1780s
• Railroads development role in the Industrial Revolution
• Frederick Douglass’s contribution to the abolition of slavery

🦅 Essay Topics on US History before 1865

The period of colonial America is packed with turmoil. Think of the Boston Tea Party or the American Revolution. And these are only two of that era’s most notable events. In this rubric, you’ll find colonial American history essay topics. The period in question starts with the British arrival in the New World and ends with the Civil War.

• The origins of Thanksgiving . One idea is to find out why the Pilgrims started celebrating it in the first place. Alternatively, you could examine how it became a national holiday.
• Why did the British begin settling in the New World ? This topic allows you to explore the rivalry with Spain. Or you could investigate England’s problem with poverty.
• Discuss the emergence of joint-stock companies. Who profited from them? What is their legacy? You might also want to study their role in early settling attempts.
• Compare and contrast the Jamestown and Plymouth settlements. You can concentrate on areas such as religion and government.

• Why did Americans start revolting? An excellent place to begin might be America’s position in global power struggles. The impact of the European Enlightenment movement is also something to consider.
• The history of African American culture . Ask yourself these questions: How does it differ from the way it is now? What factors influenced its development?
• What problems arose during the drafting of the Constitution ? You might want to write about the economic crisis. Other important factors include different interest groups and their expectations.
• How did the American Revolution influence society? Your essay can be concerned with its immediate or long-term impact. Find out how women, slaves, and other groups reacted to the revolutionary spirit.
• Consequences of the Royal Proclamation of 1783. American settlers didn’t obey the proclamation, but it still proved to be influential. Your paper could discuss why. Perhaps you’d also like to ponder if it was a good idea.
• The role of nationalism in the westward expansion . Explore how Americans justified their belief in Manifest Destiny .

Don’t forget to check out these essay topics on early American history:

• Why did the settlers start importing slaves?
• How did Texas become a sovereign republic?
• Why was the American Revolution successful?
• Discuss the significance of the Louisiana Purchase .
• What events led to the war of 1812 ?
• How did the French Revolution impact America?
• Describe the changes the American Revolution brought to the states.
• What did “American” mean in the 18 th century?
• The role of the Sons and Daughters of Liberty in achieving unity.
• Why was the right to bear arms included in the Bill of Rights ?
• The first President of the United States .
• Investigate the origins of the two-party system.
• Alexander Hamilton’s financial policies: opposition and political consequences .
• How did Washington, DC become the national capital?
• Trace the Lewis and Clark expedition.
• Analyze the importance of cotton for the South’s economy in the 1800s.
• How did the relations between the settlers and Native Americans develop over time?
• Who formed the abolitionist movement , and why?
• How did Kansas become a battleground for proponents and opponents of slavery ?
• Who were the Border Ruffians?
• What was the Compromise of 1850 ?
• Consequences of the Mexican-American war .
• Long-term influences of Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin .
• Compare the real Underground Railroad with the Underground Femaleroad in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale .
• The Declaration of Independence and its legacy.
• What did the philosophy of transcendentalism entail?
• Abigail Adams and the fight for women’s rights in the new republic.
• Who was Daniel Shays?
• Trace the ratification process of the United States’ Constitution .
• What problems arose with the Missouri Compromise ?
• The revival of religion in the US after achieving independence.
• How did the mass immigration of Germans and Irish people impact the US?
• Nativism in the US: riots and the politics of the Know-Nothings.
• How did the South and the North respectively argue for and against slavery?
• Investigate the emergence of the “Old American West.”
• Study the connection of the blue jeans’ invention with the California gold rush .
• Describe a day in a life of a slave .
• Why was the Dred Scott Decision significant?
• How does the 1860 election relate to the southern states seceding from the Union?
• Explain the term “ popular sovereignty .”

⚔️ Civil War Topics for Your Paper

In the pre-war period, tensions in the US over state rights and slavery were high. The differences seemed impossible to overcome. Eventually, this led to several southern states seceding from the Union. What followed was the bloodiest war ever to take place on American ground. In writing about the Civil War, you can explore military, political, and social issues.

• Did the South ever have a chance to win? The conflict seemed to be heavily in favor of the more industrialized North. Still, it took four years of fighting to get the South to surrender. Your essay could examine the South’s underestimated strengths.
• Compare and contrast the South’s and North’s economic situation on the eve of the Civil War . You might want to investigate the following questions: What did they produce? How did this influence the decision to wage war?
• How did the Emancipation Proclamation affect the war? You could focus on the contributions of African American soldiers.
• Discuss the fatal mistakes made on the battlefields of the Civil War . What decisive moments impacted its results the most? Your paper might explore what the generals could have done differently.
• Was the Civil War inevitable ? It may be interesting to contemplate a possible compromise. In doing so, think about whether this would have merely delayed the war.
• The general public’s position on the Civil War . It might be compelling to analyze who supported the effort and why. One focal point could be on differences between social classes.
• The role of beliefs during the Civil War . You could investigate what the South and the North respectively held sacred. Were religious beliefs a crucial motivator for one or both sides?
• The “Angel of the Battlefield”: Clara Barton. An essay could analyze how she contributed to the recognition of women’s war participation . It could also examine how it forwarded the struggle for women’s rights.

• What were the political reasons to fight the Civil War ? Investigating this question might yield surprising insights.
• Contrasting Stonewall Jackson and Ulysses Grant might be engaging for those who are interested in military strategies.

Do you want more? Have a look at the following topic samples for high and middle school students:

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• Analyze why Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address became a critical moment in American history .
• Was the Civil War justified?
• Why was Fort Sumter relevant?
• How did the Civil War battles impact the American social sphere?
• What does the notion of the “Lost Cause” mean?
• Would the election of a different man other than Abraham Lincoln as president have prevented the Civil War?
• Why did many former slaves enlist in the Union army after the Emancipation Proclamation ?
• Describe the consequences of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination .
• Why was slavery essential for the South?
• Foreign US policy during the 1860s.
• European reactions on the American Civil War .
• How did Jefferson Davis’ government differ from Abraham Lincoln’s ?
• Analyze the notion “A rich man’s war and a poor man’s fight.” Why was this especially true in the South?
• Why did the Union rely heavily on blockades to weaken the Confederation ?
• Examine how Mary Boykin Chesnut’s A Diary from Dixie reflects on the war.
• How did the war affect life in the South vs. the North ?
• Investigate the events that led to the Union victory in 1864-65.
• Was the abolitionist movement the catalyst for the war ?
• The impact of industrialization on the battlefield.
• What technologies emerged during the Civil War?
• Discuss the societal effects of war photography .
• How did the Civil War affect the many immigrants who recently entered the United States?
• Did the American Civil War impact the rest of the globe? If so, how?
• Can one consider Abraham Lincoln one of the best presidents in American history? If so, why?
• Compare and contrast the most important generals and their tactics.
• Debate the influence of Manifest Destiny on exacerbating tensions.
• What states were devastated the most after the war, and why?
• Describe the South’s and North’s goals during the Civil War.
• What does the term “Bleeding Kansas” mean?
• Newspaper coverage of the Civil War in the South vs. the North.
• Analyze various letters to understand how people from different backgrounds perceived the Civil War .
• Art and theater in 1860s America.
• Debate how sectionalism and protectionism contributed to pre-war tensions in the US.
• Why did the Crittenden Compromise fail?
• How did the border states perceive the battles of the Civil War?
• Explore the war contributions and legacy of Mary Edwards Walker.
• The importance of the US navy in leading the Union to victory.
• What happened on the West Coast during the Civil War?
• Trace a timeline of the Civil War’s key battles.
• Nation-building and national identity: how did the Civil War shape the idea of “Americanness”?

🛠️ Essay Topics on Reconstruction & Industrialization

After the war, industrialization was rapidly changing the American landscape. Additionally, restoring the order after years of fighting proved a challenge. In abolishing slavery, Republicans took the first step to ensure constitutional rights for African Americans. But not everyone shared the same viewpoints. Dive deeper into these confusing times with one of our topics on American history before 1877:

• Why did scholars initially view the Reconstruction Era in a bad light ? When answering this question, you can focus on the idea of “Black Supremacism.” You also might want to analyze what compelled them to shift their perspective.
• Another option is investigating what caused Reconstruction to fail . You can further argue where it succeeded and perhaps offer a new interpretation.
• Maybe you’d prefer an essay on why the Reconstruction Era mattered . This topic allows you to highlight crucial contemporary debates still relevant today.
• Tracing the origins of the Ku-Klux-Klan has much to offer. You can link this topic to today and question if handling them has changed.
• Why did President Johnson veto the enactment of the Civil Rights Act in 1866? It might be interesting to contrast his political reasoning and his personal beliefs.
• Compare the phases of Reconstruction. How did the concept change from Lincoln’s initial plans to President Johnson’s execution?
• How did urbanization affect American life? Your paper could contrast life in the city and the countryside. You can take economic, social, and health factors into account.
• How did the American landscape change during industrialization? You might want to examine city growth and architecture.
• The invention of electricity was one of the most important events in human history. It might be compelling to wonder what side effects its implementation had.
• Why not investigate the symbolism of skyscrapers? Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead is a fascinating source for this subject.

But wait, that’s not all of it. We’ve got more, including topics on American history since 1877:

• Did the situation for freedmen improve after Reconstruction ?
• How did industrialization affect African Americans?
• Discuss what consequences the Compromise of 1877 had.
• The role of transportation during industrialization .
• How does an assembly line work?

• The invention of the automobile.
• Describe in what ways mass production affected American society.
• What was the Panic of 1873?
• Long-term effects of Plessy v. Ferguson .
• How did the Freedmen’s Bureau help former slaves?
• Why did rebuilding the South prove so difficult?
• Debate the effects of the print revolution on American society.
• What was the primary goal of Reconstruction ?
• How did the Reconstruction Act affect politics in the South?
• What caused the formation of Radical Republicans ?
• The transformation of leisure in late 19 th century America.
• Analyze why landownership was a crucial issue in establishing African American equality .
• Was President Johnson’s attempted impeachment in 1868 justified?
• How did the US government help exacerbate the wealth gap in the late 19 th century?
• What changes did transcontinental railroad transportation bring ?
• How did John D. Rockefeller influence the American economy?
• The role of oil in industrializing America.
• Discuss the relevance of the Great Upheaval.
• Changing gender roles in times of urbanization.
• Industrialization and Education: obstacles and opportunities for women and African Americans.
• Analyze how industrialization and urbanization in the USA challenged old values.
• How did the American newspaper business change in the 19 th century?
• The impact of sensationalism on the American public.
• Why did steel become such a crucial material during the late 1800s?
• What caused the Reconstruction Era to come to an end?
• How did contemporary cartoons attempt to depict the mood during Reconstruction?
• What problems did Ulysses S. Grant have to face with his administration?
• Compare and contrast reconstruction measures in various states.
• Why did cities become increasingly attractive for America’s rural population in the 19 th century?
• Examine the significance of the Slaughterhouse Cases.
• Determine the difference between Presidential Reconstruction and Radical Reconstruction?
• From the black code to Jim Crow: institutionalized racism in the southern states.
• The combined rise of populism and imperialism in the 1800s.
• Discuss the significance of regional differences during industrialization .
• The impact of labor unions on the American work environment.

🗽 20th Century US History Topics to Write About

By the turn of the century, the US was a significant global player. Events such as the Great Depression affected the whole world. In addition, American contributions to the arts changed the cultural sphere forever. If you’re looking for modern US history thematic essay topics, this section is for you.

• Why did the “final frontier” gain such importance in the 20 th century? Your essay could examine if the space race was an extension of Manifest Destiny .
• How did the Titanic’s sinking influence innovation and safety regulations ? The ship was the biggest and most technologically advanced ocean liner at the time. Carrying over 2000 passengers, it sank on its maiden voyage. Investigating its legacy might yield fascinating results.
• How did progressivism shape the political landscape in America at the turn of the century? In the early 1900s, the USA was almost a different country than it was 50 years prior. How did this happen? And who were the leading figures of this process?
• Are you curious about the development of American workplace laws? Write about the consequences of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire .
• If you’re into corporate history, look into the rise and fall of America’s formerly largest retailer, Sears .
• The real William Randolph Hearst vs. his portrayal in David Fincher’s Mank . This topic allows you to combine film theory and the history of American journalism.
• The impact of Citizen Kane on movies around the globe. To this day, Citizen Kane is considered one of the most influential films ever made. In a paper on the 1941 masterpiece, you can focus on what made it special. Which features are still prominent in cinema today?
• How did the eugenics movement affect American society? You might want to investigate marriage laws or forced sterilizations.
• Consequences of the Spanish-American War . The brief battle didn’t last long, but its impact was immense. Your essay could highlight the war as a stepping stone to making the US a global power.
• Escalating racial violence: The Rosewood Massacre. In 1923, the entire town of Rosewood, Florida, was wiped out by white aggressors. How did racial tensions get so far?

Haven’t found anything yet? Here are some other American history thesis topics for you to explore:

• The impact of the Cold War on the American economy.
• What caused the Great Depression ?
• Ellis Island as a beacon of hope for immigrants and refugees.
• The transformation of the American school system in the 1920s.
• What were pop art’s main concepts?
• Moral vs. political considerations during the annexation of Hawaii.
• Who were the Social Gospel preachers?
• John Dewey’s role in advancing education.
• What sources fueled American progressivism ?
• Trace the timeline of Theodore Roosevelt’s presidency.
• What was laissez-faire capitalism?
• How did President Woodrow Wilson reform businesses?
• A dive into the speakeasy culture.
• How did the widespread availability of cars impact American dating life?
• Prohibition : reasons and consequences.
• Connecting arts and civil rights: The Harlem Renaissance .
• Al Capone and the rise of organized crime in the 1920s.
• What was the New Deal, and why was it necessary?
• How did FDR’s “Alphabet Agencies” help the economy after the Great Depression ?
• Explore the funding of the UN .
• Discuss the significance of the Berlin Airlift.
• Screen rebels: how James Dean and Marlon Brando changed American cinema forever.
• Find a connection between McCarthyism and the Salem Witch Trials .
• How did affordable television perpetuate the idea of the ideal American family?
• Analyze the political consequences of the Watergate scandal .
• A new American culture: variety shows in the 1950s.
• The origins of Rock’n’roll .
• What caused the US to slide into inflation in the 1970s?
• Counterculture literature in the middle of the century: The Beat Generation.
• The aftermath of the Vietnam War .
• What made John F. Kennedy a popular president ?
• The development of Hippie culture in the 1960s.
• Reproductive rights and the rise of American feminism in the late 20 th century.
• Intertwining show-business and government: Ronald Reagan’s presidency .
• Outline the tactical maneuvers of Operation Desert Storm.
• How did MTV revolutionize the music industry ?
• Why did drug use become an existential problem in America during the 1970s and 80s?
• American environmental reform policies from 1960 to 1980.
• ’70s fashion as a social and political statement in the US.
• How did the sexual revolution redefine American social life?

🔫 Topics about America in World Wars I & II

America during the World Wars is an engaging writing prompt. But it may be too broad for an essay. That’s why it makes sense to narrow your focus. Which area do you find most interesting about the subject? For example, you can choose between culture, economy, technology, and, of course, the military.

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

• Repressions and progress went hand in hand in the postwar US. Writing about the impact of WWI on domestic American politics would give you various directions to research.
• President Woodrow Wilson was against entering the war until 1917. What events led the US to break its neutrality?
• Many Germans of the time called the Treaty of Versailles a “dictate of shame.” It is often considered a significant reason for World War II. What was the US’ position on the Treaty of Versailles?
• After WWI, America followed isolationist politics. Until 1941, when they declared war on Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor . Could the USA have stayed out of WWII?
• How did WWII affect the American economy? Think about military needs and rationing.
• President Woodrow Wilson was a fierce supporter of the League of Nations . But congress coerced him not to have the USA join. Should America have become a member of this organization?

• How did American civilians contribute to the war effort? Your essay can focus specifically on women. Be sure to examine new arrangements in daily life.
• If you’re more into art, why not analyze how the world wars influenced American art?
• WWII changed all aspects of American life, including their diet. What new methods of food preservation emerged during that time?
• Another fascinating topic to engage in is propaganda and advertisement in the US during WWII. Your focus might lie on how they targeted different members of society.

Don’t forget to read the rest of our topics on this issue:

• Evaluate Woodrow Wilson’s 14 points program.
• How did the American army recruitment work in WWII?
• “Kilroy was here”: examine where the mysterious slogan comes from.
• Outline the history of Japanese Americans in Japanese internment camps.
• US spies: where and how did they operate?
• The Manhattan Project: trace the making of the atomic bomb .
• How did migration shape American society in the 1930s and ‘40s?
• The notion of freedom in America before, during, and after the wars.
• What role did communication play for the military in WWI vs. WWII?
• Canadian-American relations during WWII.
• How did the wars spur transportation developments in the US?
• Discuss the significance of D-Day .
• Could the allies have won WWII without the USA?
• Why did America emerge as a “Global Policeman” after the world wars?
• The effects of National Socialism in America.
• In what ways does the outcome of WWII still influence American society today?
• Compare and contrast military strategies in Europe vs. the Pacific.
• Was the dropping of the atomic bomb necessary?
• After the Little Boy’s devastating results, why did the American government decide to drop Fat Man?
• What made the Zimmerman telegram such a central document for American war participation?
• What happened to prisoner-of-war camps in the US after the fighting was over?
• Compare the leadership styles of Franklin D. Roosevelt in WWII and Woodrow Wilson in WWI.
• Why did the Japanese attack Pearl Harbor ?
• What methods did the American government use to conceal their operations?
• Growing up in the ‘40s: how did the war impact the manufacture of toys?
• Which medical advancements were helpful to American soldiers in WWII that didn’t yet exist in WWI?
• How did the 1940s fashion in the USA reflect the global situation?
• Did the two world wars change the civil rights situation for African Americans ? If so, how?
• How did the war affect employment in the US?
• What was unique about the Higgins boats?
• The role of submarines in WWI.
• How did America cooperate with the allied forces in Europe in WWI?
• Discuss how the American citizens reacted to being drawn into WWI vs. WWII.
• Did anyone in the US profit from the wars? If so, who?
• Describe how American families changed during WWII.
• What stories do letters that soldiers sent to their families back home tell?
• Joseph Heller’s depiction of World War II in the novel Catch-22 .
• Compare and contrast memory culture concerning WWII in Russia vs. the USA.
• How did the perception of America on the global stage change after World War I?
• The role of women in the US military .

☮️ Essay Topics About the Civil Rights Movement

The struggle for African American equality finally intensified in the 1950s and 60s. Influential figures such as Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks emerged. Their resilience inspired countless others. Seventy years later, the fight is far from over. The rights of minorities and people of color are still a crucial topic in American society today.

• Nine months before the Montgomery Bus Boycott , Claudette Colvin refused to give up her seat to a white woman. Yet, Rosa Parks is the one commonly associated with sparking the event. Why is Claudette Colvin often ignored in history?
• Everybody knows Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr , but who were the Civil Rights Movement’s lesser-known figures? Start your research with Aurelia Browder and Susie McDonald.
• Which concepts and themes can you find in Martin Luther King Jr. ’s I Have A Dream speech ? One idea is to focus on how he expresses hope and freedom for black Americans.

• Which committees and organizations were central to the Civil Rights Movement’s success ? Discuss the roles of the SNCC, CORE, and NAACP.
• What makes Malcolm X a controversial figure? Be sure to mention his nationalist ideas and membership in the Nation of Islam.
• The Little Rock Nine: what made their integration into Little Rock Central High School difficult? In your research paper, you can write about harassment issues and military intervention.
• What did the Civil Rights Act of 1957 change? On the one hand, you can talk about the history of voter rights. On the other, you might want to investigate how the public reacted to the new law.
• If you prefer personal stories, you can trace Ruby Bridges’ experiences. She became famous as the first black person to go to an all-white school. She’s still alive today.
• History can be ugly. If you’re not afraid to encounter violence during your research, check out the Freedom Rides. How did they help attract international attention to the Civil Rights Movement ?
• Consequences of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. Did the movement die with him? How did the government respond?

Are you curious for more? Have a look at these prompts:

• Compare the modern Black Lives Matter movement with the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.
• What did the Black Panthers party achieve?
• The best way to teach about the Civil Rights Movement in 8 th grade.
• What happened at the Greensboro sit-ins?
• Why did the civil rights activists encounter so much violence, even though they mostly protested peacefully ?
• Compare and contrast Gandhi’s methods and those of Martin Luther King Jr.
• Why was Bloody Sunday a crucial moment for the Civil Rights Movement ?
• What was the “long, hot summer”?
• Examine the creation of the Kerner Commission.
• The role of students in advancing civil rights for African Americans .
• What rights did black Americans gain through the Civil Rights Movement ?
• Describe the Nation of Islam’s goals.
• Who were the members of the Black Panther Party ?
• What distinguishes the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s from previous movements to establish more rights for African Americans?
• Give a brief overview of the most important Supreme Court decisions concerning the struggle for equality.
• The importance of the church for the Civil Rights Movement.
• Compare the effects of various marches for freedom.
• What made Martin Luther King Jr. a great leader for the movement?
• How did the murder of Emmett Till affect the public’s view on segregation and racism?
• How did the press support or hinder the Civil Rights Movement ?
• Loving v. Virginia: legacy and contemporary significance.
• What did the notion of “miscegenation” entail?
• What were the Jim Crow laws ?
• Describe the goals and achievements of Operation Breadbasket.
• Who was Stokely Carmichael?
• Analyze Ralph Abernathy’s autobiography And the Walls Came Tumbling Down . Why do some people consider it controversial?
• Debate the criticism brought up against the Congress of Racial Equality.
• Why did some civil rights activists in the 1960s radicalize?
• Did the election of Barack Obama mark the end of the struggle for equal rights?
• Discuss the success of the Baton Rouge bus boycott.
• What events led to Lyndon B. Johnson’s signing of the Voting Rights Act?
• Examine Coretta Scott King’s career after her husband’s passing.
• Investigate conspiracy theories concerning James Earl Ray’s role in the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.
• The publishing and writing process of Malcolm X’s autobiography .
• How and why did the 2020 election undermine parts of the Voting Rights Act?
• Is studying the Civil Rights Movement still relevant today? If so, why?
• How did CORE help desegregate schools in Chicago?
• Who is Jesse Jackson?
• Contemporary commemoration of the Civil Rights Movement .
• How did John F. Kennedy’s death impact the Civil Rights Movement?

💬 Debatable US History Topics to Research

Controversy has been a constant companion of American history. And it’s not only questionable segregation practices that are up for debate. Women’s and LGBT rights, as well as welfare programs, are issues still unresolved today. If you want argumentative or persuasive essay topics about American history, check out this section.

• Memories are always socially constructed. “How do various communities around the US perceive monuments of slaveholders?” is an engaging question to explore in your essay.
• In 1995, an exhibition at the Smithsonian centered around the Enola Gay sparked a nationwide controversy. Critics said the exhibit focused too much on the Japanese suffering the nuclear bomb dropped from the aircraft caused. Was that criticism justified?
• In the past, Colonial Williamsburg’s issues with slavery were often overlooked. Instead, when creating and developing the historical site, the focus lay on its democratic values. Is Colonial Williamsburg still a good place to learn about American history?
• What does the Liberty Bell stand for today? You can include recent and older controversies surrounding the location and custody of the bell.
• Tracing the history of LGBT rights will yield many debatable insights. Which court decisions would you consider especially controversial, and why?
• The legacy of the Centralia massacre in 1919: are the events linked to the Red Scare ? How did the town try to obscure the truth?
• In 1887, President Eisenhower supported a campaign to promote patriotism. Part of this was the addition of “under God” to the American Pledge of Allegiance. Analyze the debates surrounding the issue.
• The history of prostitution laws in the US. Your thesis could suggest a connection between decriminalizing sex work and the workers’ wellbeing.
• In the 2020 election, several states voted to legalize not only marijuana but also other drugs. History shows many movements to legalize recreational drug use. What was different now?
• Many older Disney cartoons depict racist stereotypes. The question of adjusting them to modern values sparked much debate. Using this discussion to explore how America should deal with problematic media from the past might be promising.

Keep reading and discover more controversial United States history topics.

• Did President Barack Obama deserve his Nobel Peace Prize?
• What did the US gain from the Iraq War ?
• Would Germany have won WWII without America’s intervention?
• Should the presidents of the previous century have done more to promote animal rights ?
• Given its historical context, should we keep celebrating Thanksgiving?
• Why did it take so long for American women to achieve legally equal rights ?
• Find historical reasons why the US never instituted universal healthcare .
• The necessity of cow’s milk in America: past vs. present.
• Was the annexation of Puerto Rico justified?
• Did the Chicano Movement achieve positive changes for Mexican Americans?
• John F. Kennedy’s most controversial presidential actions.
• The ratification of the 8 th amendment .
• Was the government’s response to 9/11 justified?
• The role of faith in American history before 1877 and after.
• Who or what caused the US’ drug overdose epidemic?
• HIV/AIDS denialism in America in the 1990s.
• What should Locust Grove do to restore its deteriorating African American cemetery? Can the place be considered a historical site?
• Why did some states introduce felon disenfranchisement in 1792? Did the new law spark any outrage?
• Trace the historical timeline of the same-sex marriage debate .
• The USA has always been a country of immigrants. How did this lead to immigration being a fiercely discussed topic nowadays?
• How did the US contribute to the current instability in the Middle East ?
• Was the “Lost Generation” reckless?
• How do US historians influence public opinion?
• Does the Red Scare reflect on Russian-American relations today?
• Should Bill Clinton have stayed in office ?
• Discuss the benefits of being a hippie in the 60s.
• Can the members of the Beat Generation serve as role models for travel enthusiasts today?
• Roe v. Wade : what made the court case a turning point in the fight for women’s reproductive rights?
• Did American feminism become too radical by the late 19 th century?
• The rise and fall of DDT: Why was it allowed in the first place?
• What should US history education for high school students look like?
• From a historical perspective, does the reality in Watchmen seem like a likely scenario for the future?
• Psychiatric methods in early 1900s America.
• The role of performance-enhancing drugs in the history of American sports achievements.
• Why do some people believe that the moon landing was staged?
• Criticism against Ayn Rand’s objectivism and its influence.
• Before opening America’s first women’s hospital, gynecologist J. Marion Sims experimented on slaves. Should he still be celebrated as the ‘father’ of modern gynecology?
• Is the notion of “American Century” accurate?
• American exceptionalism in the 20 th century vs. now.
• Has technological innovation always been beneficial for the American public?

✊🏿 Black History Topics for an Essay

African American experiences are still very different than those of their white compatriots. That’s why it’s crucial to analyze people of color’s perspectives of and contributions to history. Black history includes thematic topics on education, society, and culture.

• Steve McQueen’s 12 Years A Slave adapts the 1853 memoirs of Solomon Northup. Though the film doesn’t shy away from brutal images, critics argued it was too soft. Should film writers surrender accurate historical representation to make their content more accessible?
• After the Civil War, slavery was officially banned in the US. Still, the South continued to find ways to exploit black labor. Examine the consequences of new methods such as convict leasing and sharecropping .
• Many of those who opposed slavery complied with the system by staying silent or inactive. What did this mean for the reality of African Americans ? Why didn’t these people stand up?
• A paper on what caused the Red Summer of 1919 can focus on the South to North migration of African Americans during WWI.
• In the 20 th century, the Great Migration relocated many African Americans. How did this event impact the development of black culture? Your paper could concentrate on art movements or political activism.
• The GI Bill promised financial benefits to veterans. But former black soldiers didn’t profit as much as their white compatriots. To analyze a concrete example of racist inequality, you can write about how the GI Bill affected African American veterans.
• For decades, American universities did their best to keep African Americans from receiving higher education . How is education inequality still impacting black students today?
• After WWI, Tulsa was a prosperous city home to the so-called “ Black Wall Street .” Then the Tulsa Race Massacre happened, and the area was left in shambles. Explore the moving history of Tulsa’s Greenwood District.
• Do you want to investigate the powerful interplay between cinema and reality? Dedicate your essay to the connection between D.W. Griffith’s 1915 picture The Birth of a Nation and the Ku Klux Klan’s revival. What did this mean for black lives in the early 20 th century?
• Pan-Africanism in the United States: Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association. Writing about this topic, you might want to highlight African American nationalism in the 20 th century.

Are none of these prompts for you? Don’t worry; we’ve got more African American history paper topics for college students:

• Booker T. Washington vs. W. E. B. Du Bois : similarities and disagreements.
• African American innovators who never received credit for their inventions.

• From Hiram Rhodes Revels and Shirley Chisholm to Barack Obama: African Americans who paved the way for modern American democracy .
• Should the US government pay reparations to descendants of former slaves?
• Sojourner Truth : how did the former slave fight to end injustice?
• How did job competition in the North intensify racial tensions in the 20 th century?
• The accomplishments of Dorothy Johnson Vaughan.
• Ida B. Wells’ legacy and the history of lynching in America.
• Why do we celebrate Black History Month, and why is it important?
• What does Juneteenth commemorate?
• Histories of the most famous black scientists in the United States.
• How did the geographic distribution of black people in America transform over time?
• Key activists of the abolitionist movement .
• How did African Americans contribute to NASA’s success?
• African Americans in the age of Prohibition: views and effects.
• Juxtapose the development of black rights and felon rights.
• Analyze the significance of Marian Anderson’s show on the National Mall for the Civil Rights Movement.
• African American women in the beauty business: the story of Madame C. J. Walker.
• What motivated many black Americans to fight in WWI voluntarily?
• How did enslaved people manage to escape to the Northern states ?
• Compare the origins and outcomes of the Civil Rights Movement’s various marches.
• The New Deal’s effect on African Americans.
• Explore the connection between black history in the US and cotton .
• What does the term “black flight” mean, and why might the phenomenon be a problem?
• How did white capping inhibit the development of black communities?
• What were the goals of the Che Lumumba Club?
• Analyze the Regents of the University of California v. Bakke case . What did its outcome mean for equality?
• What makes Angela Davis a crucial figure in the black history discourse?
• Analyze how Jackie Robinson broke the “color line” to pave the way for African American participation in professional sports.
• Discuss the long-term consequences of the Tuskegee experiment .
• How did the Watts Riots affect African American communities in California?
• Explore the origins of Kwanzaa.
• African American poetry before 1877: Lucy Terry’s Bars Fight .
• Not so free after all: enactment of the Fugitive Slave Law.
• Did the situation for American people of color improve after the implementation of Affirmative Action laws ? If so, how?
• Trailblazing black Americans in education.
• How did sports help promote equality for African Americans in the 1900s?
• Who were the Scottsboro boys?
• Journalism’s fight for social justice: The Crisis magazine then and now.
• How did Prohibition help dissolve segregation?

🏞️ Native American Topics to Write About

Much effort has gone into improving the relations between Americans and the indigenous peoples. Unfortunately, this hasn’t always been the case. The history of native Americans is tainted with cruel battles. Taking a closer look reveals the interplay of various cultures and customs.

• Pocahontas is one of the most renowned figures in Native American history . Compare Pocahontas’ real life vs. how she is depicted in the media. Why was she often romanticized?
• How did Andrew Jackson’s government justify the Indian Removal Act ? Moral standards during that time and economic reasoning might be a compelling area to focus on.
• Native American participation in American wars. The colonists fought many battles with each other. France, Spain, and England all competed for the new territory. Did Native Americans participate in these fights? If so, whose side were they on?
• African peoples were not the only ones who suffered serfdom. Your research paper could cover the colonial enslavement of Native Americans .
• In the 18 th century, settlers and natives negotiated a variety of treaties. What did they say? Were these treaties ever beneficial for the natives?
• The Indian Appropriations Act of 1851 organized Native American lives into reservations. What did life look like for natives in these reservations? Additionally, you could examine how reservations affect their lives today.
• Attempts to deal with Native Americans included assimilation and “civilization.” How did these methods work out? For a concrete example, investigate Henry Pratt’s Carlisle Indian Industrial school.
• If you want to know more about Indian belief systems, research the emergence of the Ghost Dance. Originating in the late 19 th century, many native communities adapted the new tradition.
• Geronimo escaped captivity countless times before turning himself in. How did he do that? Your essay can look at his beliefs and this geographical knowledge.
• The Narragansett was the first tribe to encounter European settlers . What were their relations? How did they develop? Consider territorial struggles and the role of Roger Williams.

Are you looking for something else? Check out these US history essay questions and prompts:

• Compare and contrast American and Australian historical relations to their native population.
• What events led to the breakout of King Philip’s War?
• Ancient Indian burial rituals and modern myths.
• How did the Cherokees rebuild their lives after the Trail of Tears ?
• Sacagawea’s contribution to the success of the Lewis and Clark expedition .
• Great Native American leaders: Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull.
• What happened at the Battle of the Little Bighorn?
• Consequences for Native American lives after the proclamation of 1763.
• The crucial role of Navajo Code Talkers in WWII.
• How did integration into American culture transform tribal life for different tribes?
• Explore naming customs of various Native American tribes.
• Is Black Elk Speaks an accurate representation of Lakota culture?
• What did the American Indian Movement achieve?
• What makes the Massacre of Wounded Knee significant?
• Trace Leonard Peltier’s career in politics and activism.
• Chief Tecumseh and the Indian confederacy.
• Compare and contrast the cultures of native tribes from various regions in America before colonization.
• How did American policies regarding the indigenous population change from the Mayflower’s arrival until now?
• What happened to California’s extensive Native American population after it became a state?
• The development of Native American music.
• Traditional Cherokee farming tools and techniques.
• Native Americans and religion : what compelled some chiefs to convert to Christianity?
• How did N. Scott Momaday’s House Made of Dawn shape indigenous cultures’ image for the general public?
• How did native spiritualism relate to the environment?
• Gender roles of the Sioux tribe before 1900.
• The greatest battles between First Nations and Americans.
• Why were the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, Seminole, and Cherokee considered the “ Five Civilized Tribes ”?
• America’s first native newspaper: The Cherokee Phoenix and its modern equivalent.
• How did many of today’s Native Americans become entangled with alcohol and gambling ?
• Myths and speculations on the ancient origins of indigenous Americans.
• Economic development of Native American tribes in the 20 th century.
• Why did Cochise and his Apache warriors raid American settlements?
• Trace the history of indigenous feminism.
• What were the blood quantum laws, and why were they introduced?
• Sitting Bull and Buffalo Bill: forging an unlikely friendship.
• The accomplishments of Oglala Lakota chief Red Cloud.
• How did the Louisiana Purchase impact First Nations in the region ?
• The history of Native Americans in law and politics.
• The political aftermath of the Sand Creek Massacre
• Cheyenne warrior societies: the emergence of Dog Soldiers as a separate band.

⭐ Topics on Famous People in American History

People shape history. Many of America’s leading historical figures made it to global importance. This section provides you with history essay topics on American artists, presidents, innovators, and more.

• The “King of Pop” Michael Jackson died a decade ago. Why is he still one of the most debated American celebrities? Your essay could focus on the controversial allegations of child abuse towards him.
• The social influence of Benjamin Franklin’s journalism is an enticing topic. It allows you to look at the founding father from a different angle. Make sure to include in your essay his desire to educate Americans in morality.
• John Harvey Kellogg was a progressive healthcare leader. He was also a fierce follower of Adventism. If you endorse obscure things, write about Kellogg’s “warfare with passion.”
• Mural made Jackson Pollock famous. Reflect on his career before and after the painting. How did the artist find his passion for drip painting?
• As a First Lady , Betty Ford was a strong advocate for women’s rights. But her political influence didn’t end with her husband’s career. Discuss Betty Ford’s accomplishments after her time in the White House. Mention her addiction and the subsequent establishment of the Betty Ford Center.
• In 1935, J. Edgar Hoover founded the FBI. In his later years, he became a controversial figure due to his abuses of power . Examine Hoover’s investigations of subversion. What do you find surprising about them?
• Before his brother’s assassination, Bobby Kennedy wasn’t particularly popular in the US. Analyze his speeches during his political career after the event. What made him a compassionate orator?
• The Kennedy-Nixon debates provide a rich foundation for those interested in political campaigning . How did the public react to them? What did the polls say? Keep in mind that it was America’s first televised presidential debate.
• If you seek to combine environmentalism and politics, Al Gore is your man. How did Al Gore shape America’s political discourse in the 2000s? Consider his loss against George Bush in the controversial 2000 election.
• Literature enthusiasts know Allen Ginsberg for his explicit poem Howl . How did he express his political and social activism in his works? You could focus on his fight for free speech and the Howl trial.

We’ve got more topics on regents and other famous Americans for you to check out:

• Just Say No: Nancy Reagan and the failure of her anti-drug campaign.
• Why was Abraham Lincoln such a controversial figure?
• Kurt Cobain and Nirvana: the voice of the ‘90s youth.
• Ronald Reagan was an actor before he became president. What drove him into politics?
• What circumstances made Donald Trump’s presidency possible?
• Why was Jimmy Carter such an unpopular president?
• Discuss what Eleanor Roosevelt achieved for women.
• Stanley Kubrick: was he the greatest filmmaker of the 20 th century?
• The role of First Ladies before the Civil War.
• Judith Butler’s influence on American feminism.
• Margaret Sanger: the initiator of the birth control movement.
• How did Oprah Winfrey get to where she is now?
• Steve Jobs and the revolution of computer technology.
• Research the mysterious Zodiac Killer and his ciphers. Why were many people obsessed with him?
• How did the Wright Brothers shape the history of aviation?
• Amelia Earhart’s disappearance: myths and facts.
• J. Robert Oppenheimer’s contributions to physics.
• Bruce Lee and the transformation of martial arts.
• How did O.J. Simpson end up in the US’ most famous car chase?
• Charles Goodyear and the road to vulcanized rubber.
• Creating nanotechnology : the legacy of Eric Drexler.
• Muhammad Ali’s influence on raising awareness for Parkinson’s research.
• Describe how Bobby Fischer impacted the world of chess.
• What made Chuck Norris so famous?
• How did Marilyn Monroe change the American attitude towards sexuality?
• Truman Capote’s role in advancing LGBT rights.
• Harper Lee’s biography after the publishing of To Kill A Mockingbird .
• Transforming science fiction: the legacy of Philip K. Dick .
• Andy Warhol as a global anti-capitalist icon.
• Bringing quantum physics forward: the brilliance of Richard Feynman.
• Samuel Colt and the consequences of inventing the revolver.
• Analyze the significance of Helen Keller’s work for women’s and disabled persons’ rights.
• How did Sam Walton become the wealthiest American in 1985?
• Discuss the importance of Thurgood Marshall for the Civil Rights Movement.
• What inspired Bill W. to found Alcoholics Anonymous ?
• Paving the way for gay politicians: the activism of Harvey Milk .
• What was Louis B. Mayer’s management style with MGM?
• Walt Disney : who was the person behind the chipper cartoons?
• Trace Estée Lauder’s success story.
• How did Olympia Brown contribute to advance gender equality in the religious sphere?

We hope you found your ideal essay or project topic on US history. Good luck with your assignment!

Further reading:

• Americanism Essay: Examples, Tips & Topics [2024 Update]
• 497 Interesting History Topics to Research
• 460 Excellent Political Topics to Write about in 2024
• 149 Interesting History Essay Topics and Events to Write about
• A List of 450 Powerful Social Issues Essay Topics
• 210 Immigration Essay Topics
• A List of 175 Interesting Cultural Topics to Write About
• 512 Research Topics on HumSS (Humanities & Social Sciences)
• Pre-Columbian to the New Millenium: US History
• A Brief Guide to Writing the History Paper: Harvard
• American Civil War: History.com
• Reconstruction: Encyclopedia Britannica
• Industrialization and Urbanization in the United States: Oxford Research Encyclopedias
• The United States in WWI: Khan Academy
• America Goes to War: The National WWII Museum
• Controversies: National Council on Public History
• The 100 Most Significant Americans of All Time: Smithsonian Magazine
• American History: History Central
• The 25 Moments From American History That Matter Right Now: Time
• All Topics: American Historical Association
• Native American: Library of Congress
• African American History: National Archives
• Civil Rights Movement: ADL
• US 20th Century: Princeton University
• The Progressive Era: Lumen Learning
• Timeline: United States History: World Digital Library
• Explore by Timeline: The New Nation (1783-1860): US General Services Administration
• The Emergence of Modern America: Smithsonian Institution
• What Was the Cold War?: National Geographic
• The Story of the Atomic Bomb: The Ohio State University
• Continental Feminism: Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
• The Constitution: The White House
• The US During World War I: Delaware.gov
• America in the First World War: The British Library
• Key Events and Figures of Reconstruction: The City University of New York
• Reconstruction and Its Impact: IDCA
• 400 Years since Slavery: a Timeline of American History: The Guardian
• American Revolution Facts: American Battlefield Trust
• The Presidents of the United States: Constitution Facts
• What Caused the American Industrial Revolution: Investopedia
• Reasons Behind the Revolutionary War: NCpedia
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45+ Excellent History Argumentative Essay Topics

Table of Contents

History baffles even the most seasoned academics. There is so much information that must be memorized and then analyzed to find relevant truths and facts. While writing an argumentative essay, is different than merely reading a history book or connecting the dots in an expository essay.

Ideas and questions for an argumentative essay need to be drawn carefully and then credible sources should be scoured to ensure only the facts and figures end up on paper. This is ideal for writing argumentative essays concerning historical issues and developments. But before researching and writing, it is necessary to pick a topic that transcends common bounds.

Argumentative Essay Writing 101

An argumentative essay is subjective in the writer’s approach but that approach should be proved through evidence from reliable sources. This is what makes argumentative essay writing different from others. It has structured information covered in major sections along with an unbiased tone and voice. 

The primary motive for writing an argumentative essay on a historical issue is to convince the readers about a certain viewpoint. For instance, if readers thought A to be a common reason for a conflict, then a writer can provide evidence to the reader to prove B was the real culprit.

There is more than one single type of argumentative essay which we will cover in the closing chapters of the blog.

Challenges In Choosing Argumentative Essay Topics

When students or writers pick a topic to write in a historical argumentative essay , there are challenges and issues that they face with these topics. History is a difficult subject with many technicalities and pitfalls.

In this section, we will cover the most common challenges that students while choosing a topic or writing an argumentative history essay.

Inevitability of Events

While studying the causality and inevitability of the events that happened in the past, we rarely cover the whole picture of the issue. This is a big understatement since we need to take into account all the underlying issues and their effects. The speculative nature of historical learning allows for connecting the dots where they never existed and coming up with lessons for all readers.

Useless Listing

Historical argumentative essays are not about listing all the events and their succeeding developments. Many volumes can do that by chronologically listing all the events of history. This is counterproductive for an analytical paper. The job of a writer is to connect the dots for the causes and effects of the event or the subject under consideration.

Finding Significance

Just like avoiding useless listing and chronological tables, it is necessary to find significance in what is left in your sources to write the essay. To do that, the first step is cluttering the research table. Then, omit everything that can be omitted and take things that can stand the trials of expounding, argumentation, and evidential information. Everything else will find a better place somewhere.

Avoiding Ambiguous Phrases

Both historical figures and events are considered to be either “good” or “bad”. This is a limited and misleading view of things that can be more than what they are perceived. That’s the reason students should avoid ambiguous words and phrases in their essays because they not only mislead the readers but also make their writing weak. Always aim for dynamic vocabulary.

Speculative History Argumentative Essay Topics

History is not something that must be read and memorized like scriptures. It is to be learned and understood so that the issues of the past can be identified today and their harmful effects can be materialized. In this type of argumentative essay, you need to cover all the relevant bases to ensure your conclusion coincides with the academic truth.

• In the face of world wars, one war lasted for less than an hour only
• The Arab numerals were invented by the Indians
• Time magazine hailed Hitler as the man of the year
• Middle Ages were not a good time to be a peasant
• The Roman baths were more than just baths – they were places for the rehabilitation of soldiers
• Battle of Stalingrad and control of railway stations
• At one time, Sparta had only 25000 inhabitants with over 500000 slaves
• Peace is an illusion that intoxicates the weak
• The culture of tea-making and drinking in Britain
• The sick British Judiciary and improperly cooked potatoes
• China – a warring state from within
• The fall of Rome and the endurance of the Roman Empire
• Slave laborers in Ancient Egypt
• The maladies of the genius and Leonardo da Vinci

Historical Argumentative Essay Topics On War

War is the behemoth that is haunting the human past and future. We have been studying it for a long time in our academic discourses but we have not found a formula or an antidote to its onslaught. While writing an argumentative essay on historical issues, war is a supreme topic of interest with much room for original thought and learning.

• Changing family traditions in the face of Second World War
• The boom in food packaging during world wars
• The development of new professions in world wars
• Fruits of Nazi labor in science and technology during the war
• The Spanish Flu pandemic and its effects on WWI
• The tragic reality of trench warfare in France and Germany
• Was Hitler responsible for the Second World War?
• Jew sympathizers in Hitler’s Army
• The interwar period was the prelude to WWII
• The impacts of world wars on the USSR
• The potential of the Russian military in world wars

Top History Argumentative Essay Titles On Revolutions

There are two modes of change in our societies. One is an evolution where a change or development takes place gradually. The other one is revolution. This is what happens when evolution takes a back seat and people want to change things overnight. The revolutions used to be bloody and chaotic to bring about political or social change.

• The effects of European Revolutions on colonies
• Role of the French invasion in Spanish American Wars
• The Cuban presidency quagmire
• The misgivings of the Shah of Iran led to Iranian Revolution
• The storming of Bastille – a symbol of monarchy
• Three Estates and the French Revolution
• Economic impacts that led to American Revolution
• Cultural Revolution in China and the fruits of propaganda
• Boston Tea Party was a prelude to American Revolution
• The indifference of French nobility to the problems of ordinary people
• Differences between political and socio-economic revolutions
• The precursors of revolutions in China and Iran

Best Historical Argumentative Essay Topics On Ancient History Figures

Individuals shape the course of history more than we like to think. Behind every war or social revolution is an individual with a plan or a lack of one. This is where the historical argumentative essay comes into the picture. In this section, we have covered some of the best topics for your school or college essays.

• Plato vs. Aristotle – who was the founder of scientific thought?
• The controversy surrounding Diogenes
• The father of tragedy in ancient Rome and Greece
• The Greek Identity was born out of Homer’s toil
• Father of Ancient Democracy – Cleisthenes
• The effects of Alexander’s conquest in the East
• Hippocrates – the father of medicine in the enlightened world
• Avicenna – the polymath of the Islamic Golden Age of Learning
• Thomas Aquinas and bridging of science and religion
• Marco Polo travels to China

Types of Argumentative Essays

Argumentative essays cover arguments for an idea on both sides while particularly stressing one. Like expository essays, there are multiple types of argumentative essays based on their focus, subject matter, and needs.

This section is dedicated to helping students with identifying and mastering the art and science behind different types of these essays.

Persuasive Essays

As the name indicates, persuasive essays present both sides of an argument and then try to convince the readers that one side of the argument is better or more sound than the other. The author should present his stance clearly and ensure that arguments and evidence are followed through. In addition to this, writers should refute other views to add value to their values and points of view.

Research Papers

Research papers rely on academic sources and citations to make and strengthen an argument. As the name suggests, this type of argumentative essay cover topics of a wide variety including politics, war, social issues, and so on. The arguments will cover both sides of the argument to ensure that everything is clear for the readers. It is also about not siding with any argument and presenting the proof as objectively as possible.

Analytical Papers

Analysis essays are about analyzing the arguments of other writers. While doing so, writers dissect every aspect of the essay to make sure that the argument it wanted to pursue was well-founded. In addition to this, writers also judge the elements of clarity, persuasiveness, organization of information, and so on. Apart from all the objective ends, writers should make it clear the side they are on, whether they are supporting or opposing the thesis.

What are some of the best historical argumentative topics?

The best historical arguments cover the depth and scope of the issue. They are introspective without sacrificing cause for effect. In studying history and its issues, there is no better way to learn and analyze than through argumentative essays.

Can you provide an example of a historical argument?

A historical argument usually questions the scope and reach of a reason or cause that led to a major development. In that way, here is an example of a historical argument. “Homer is the father of ancient art of studying history through Egyptian studies.”

What is the significance of historical issues?

History defines our past and dictates our future. The foundations of things laid down in our yesterday come to haunt us tomorrow. In this stance, it is necessary to critically learn and examine things from a historical point of view. The lessons should be learned and applied with a clear focus in mind.

Is it possible that all historical essays are argumentative?

It is not possible because what makes an argumentative essay is its reliance on a single, well-founded argument. The writers explain and prove this argument through evidential information from multiple credible sources.

How long should an ideal historical argumentative essay be?

There is no ideal length for any argumentative essay unless its scope and thesis are defined exceptionally in the end. Still, the word count for essays is often set in schools and colleges because teachers need to gauge the research and writing chops of the writers. In that sense, an argumentative essay should not be less than 1200 words.

How to compose a historical argument thesis?

A thesis is the summation of the main idea or theme of an essay. It distills the idea into a single or a couple of sentences that can provide the stance of the writer. Writers also use it to open an essay or to bridge the introduction section with the main body.

Concluding Remarks

Historical essays are hard to tackle because students need to analyze things from a historical setting without deviating from the set path. The vastness of the subject and the differing points of view are also some of the things that can make an issue for the writers. In this blog post, we have covered different topic ideas for historical argumentative essays, including war, politics, history, and so on.

So, if you need to write an essay on a topic related to history, this will be a definitive guide for you!

Courtesy of PerfectEssay

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Writing a Thesis and Making an Argument

Almost every assignment you complete for a history course will ask you to make an argument. Your instructors will often call this your "thesis"– your position on a subject.

What is an Argument?

An argument takes a stand on an issue. It seeks to persuade an audience of a point of view in much the same way that a lawyer argues a case in a court of law. It is NOT a description or a summary.

• This is an argument: "This paper argues that the movie JFK is inaccurate in its portrayal of President Kennedy."
• This is not an argument: "In this paper, I will describe the portrayal of President Kennedy that is shown in the movie JFK."

What is a Thesis?

A thesis statement is a sentence in which you state an argument about a topic and then describe, briefly, how you will prove your argument.

• This is an argument, but not yet a thesis: "The movie ‘JFK’ inaccurately portrays President Kennedy."
• This is a thesis: "The movie ‘JFK’ inaccurately portrays President Kennedy because of the way it ignores Kennedy’s youth, his relationship with his father, and the findings of the Warren Commission."

A thesis makes a specific statement to the reader about what you will be trying to argue. Your thesis can be a few sentences long, but should not be longer than a paragraph. Do not begin to state evidence or use examples in your thesis paragraph.

A Thesis Helps You and Your Reader

Your blueprint for writing:

• Helps you determine your focus and clarify your ideas.
• Provides a "hook" on which you can "hang" your topic sentences.
• Can (and should) be revised as you further refine your evidence and arguments. New evidence often requires you to change your thesis.
• Gives your paper a unified structure and point.

Your reader’s blueprint for reading:

• Serves as a "map" to follow through your paper.
• Keeps the reader focused on your argument.
• Signals to the reader your main points.
• Engages the reader in your argument.

Tips for Writing a Good Thesis

• Find a Focus: Choose a thesis that explores an aspect of your topic that is important to you, or that allows you to say something new about your topic. For example, if your paper topic asks you to analyze women’s domestic labor during the early nineteenth century, you might decide to focus on the products they made from scratch at home.
• Look for Pattern: After determining a general focus, go back and look more closely at your evidence. As you re-examine your evidence and identify patterns, you will develop your argument and some conclusions. For example, you might find that as industrialization increased, women made fewer textiles at home, but retained their butter and soap making tasks.

Strategies for Developing a Thesis Statement

Idea 1. If your paper assignment asks you to answer a specific question, turn the question into an assertion and give reasons for your opinion.

Assignment: How did domestic labor change between 1820 and 1860? Why were the changes in their work important for the growth of the United States?

Beginning thesis: Between 1820 and 1860 women's domestic labor changed as women stopped producing home-made fabric, although they continued to sew their families' clothes, as well as to produce butter and soap. With the cash women earned from the sale of their butter and soap they purchased ready-made cloth, which in turn, helped increase industrial production in the United States before the Civil War.

Idea 2. Write a sentence that summarizes the main idea of the essay you plan to write.

Main Idea: Women's labor in their homes during the first half of the nineteenth century contributed to the growth of the national economy.

Idea 3. Spend time "mulling over" your topic. Make a list of the ideas you want to include in the essay, then think about how to group them under several different headings. Often, you will see an organizational plan emerge from the sorting process.

Idea 4. Use a formula to develop a working thesis statement (which you will need to revise later). Here are a few examples:

• Although most readers of ______ have argued that ______, closer examination shows that ______.
• ______ uses ______ and ______ to prove that ______.
• Phenomenon X is a result of the combination of ______, ______, and ______.

These formulas share two characteristics all thesis statements should have: they state an argument and they reveal how you will make that argument. They are not specific enough, however, and require more work.

As you work on your essay, your ideas will change and so will your thesis. Here are examples of weak and strong thesis statements.

• Unspecific thesis: "Eleanor Roosevelt was a strong leader as First Lady."  This thesis lacks an argument. Why was Eleanor Roosevelt a strong leader?
• Specific thesis: "Eleanor Roosevelt recreated the role of the First Lady by her active political leadership in the Democratic Party, by lobbying for national legislation, and by fostering women’s leadership in the Democratic Party."  The second thesis has an argument: Eleanor Roosevelt "recreated" the position of First Lady, and a three-part structure with which to demonstrate just how she remade the job.
• Unspecific thesis: "At the end of the nineteenth century French women lawyers experienced difficulty when they attempted to enter the legal profession."  No historian could argue with this general statement and uninteresting thesis.
• Specific thesis: "At the end of the nineteenth century French women lawyers experienced misogynist attacks from male lawyers when they attempted to enter the legal profession because male lawyers wanted to keep women out of judgeships."  This thesis statement asserts that French male lawyers attacked French women lawyers because they feared women as judges, an intriguing and controversial point.

Making an Argument – Every Thesis Deserves Its Day in Court

You are the best (and only!) advocate for your thesis. Your thesis is defenseless without you to prove that its argument holds up under scrutiny. The jury (i.e., your reader) will expect you, as a good lawyer, to provide evidence to prove your thesis. To prove thesis statements on historical topics, what evidence can an able young lawyer use?

• Primary sources: letters, diaries, government documents, an organization’s meeting minutes, newspapers.
• Secondary sources: articles and books from your class that explain and interpret the historical event or person you are writing about, lecture notes, films or documentaries.

How can you use this evidence?

• Make sure the examples you select from your available evidence address your thesis.
• Use evidence that your reader will believe is credible. This means sifting and sorting your sources, looking for the clearest and fairest. Be sure to identify the biases and shortcomings of each piece of evidence for your reader.
• Use evidence to avoid generalizations. If you assert that all women have been oppressed, what evidence can you use to support this? Using evidence works to check over-general statements.
• Use evidence to address an opposing point of view. How do your sources give examples that refute another historian’s interpretation?

Remember -- if in doubt, talk to your instructor.

Thanks to the web page of the University of Wisconsin at Madison’s Writing Center for information used on this page. See writing.wisc.edu/handbook for further information.

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History Argumentative Essay Topics: 30+ Ideas to Get Started

by  Antony W

May 31, 2023

Human history is deep. Depending on whom you ask, an event can go as far back as decades or centuries. Given its depth and breadth, history leaves you with endless of possibility of topics to consider for an argumentative essay assignment.

So what topic are you going to choose?

You see, the premise on argumentative essay topics selection is quite simple. You have to pick a topic you find interesting because it’s easy to investigate an issue you understand than something you’ve never even wanted to look at in the first place.

That principle holds even for a History argumentative essay.

However, if you haven’t thought of a suitable topic to investigate yet, let us give you some ideas that you may find interesting and worth exploring altogether.

Key Takeaways

• The topic you choose should not be too wide or too narrow. It should be specific enough to fit within the scope of argumentative essay writing.
• Given that there are hundreds of topic ideas within this area, you should choose a topic you’re already familiar with, so you can have an easy time writing the essay.
• You must never base your History argumentative essay on biasness, sarcasm, or offensive expression. Instead, use a more holistic approach and use an appropriate tone.

30+ History Argumentative Essay Topics

The following are 30+ history argumentative essay topics based on different categories. You can pick a topic from the list and start exploring it right away or use the list as inspiration to come up with your own unique topic.

Pre-modern History

• Was the building of the Great Pyramids a result of human ingenuity or forced labor?
• Was the Trojan War an actual historical event or a mythological tale?
• Was the fall of the Roman Empire a result of external invasion or internal decay?
• Were the Crusades a necessary defense of Christianity or an unnecessary and violent campaign?
• Was the Inquisition a necessary tool to defend the faith or a violent and unnecessary persecution?
• Was the colonization of the Americas a necessary expansion of European civilization or a needless exploitation of native populations?

Early Modern History

• Was the Thirty Years War a necessary conflict or an unnecessary and devastating war?
• Was the English Civil War a necessary struggle for liberty or a needless and destructive conflict?
• Was the Glorious Revolution a necessary overthrow of James II or an unnecessary coup?
• Was the Enlightenment a necessary intellectual movement or a needless challenge to traditional beliefs?
• Was the American Revolution a justifiable response to British tyranny or an unnecessary and violent rebellion?
• Was the French Revolution a necessary struggle for liberty and equality or a violent and unnecessary upheaval?
• Was the Industrial Revolution a necessary transformation of society or a needless exploitation of workers?
• Was the Age of Exploration a necessary expansion of knowledge and trade or a needless exploitation of other cultures?
• Was the Atlantic slave trade a necessary economic activity or a violent and unnecessary exploitation of human beings?

Modern History

• Was the American Civil War a necessary conflict to end slavery or a needless and devastating war?
• Was the Reconstruction Era a necessary attempt to rebuild the South or an unnecessary imposition of Northern values?
• Was the Indian Wars a necessary defense of American interests or a needless and violent campaign?
• Was the Mexican Revolution a necessary overthrow of Porfirio Diaz or an unnecessary and violent upheaval?
• Was World War I a necessary war to end all wars or an unnecessary and devastating conflict?
• Was the Treaty of Versailles a necessary peace settlement to end World War I or an unjust and punitive agreement?
• Was the Russian Revolution a necessary overthrow of the tsarist regime or an unnecessary and violent revolution?

Our experts can help you write a history argumentative essay on any topic. Click here to order an essay , get up to 15% discount on your first order, and benefit from the convenience of our custom writing.

Contemporary History

• Was the Holocaust a necessary response to Jewish influence or an unspeakable crime against humanity?
• Was the Partition of India a necessary division to end religious conflict or an unnecessary and violent separation?
• Was the Chinese Cultural Revolution a necessary step to remove capitalist influences or an unnecessary and violent upheaval?
• Was the Korean War a justifiable response to North Korean aggression or an unnecessary and costly conflict?
• Was the Cuban Missile Crisis a necessary show of force to deter Soviet aggression or an unnecessary escalation of the Cold War?
• Was the Vietnam War a necessary conflict to contain communism or an unnecessary and costly intervention?

Geographical History

• Was the Silk Road a necessary expansion of trade or an unnecessary and costly enterprise?
• Was the colonization of Africa a necessary expansion of European influence or an unnecessary and harmful occupation?
• Was the Boxer Rebellion a necessary defense of Chinese sovereignty or an unnecessary and violent uprising?
• Was the Opium War a necessary defense of British trade interests or an unnecessary and harmful conflict?

Social History

• Was the feminist movement a necessary response to gender inequality or an unnecessary and divisive movement?
• Was the civil rights movement a necessary response to racial inequality or an unnecessary and harmful campaign?
• Was the anti-apartheid movement a necessary response to racial segregation or an unnecessary and harmful campaign?
• Was the environmental movement a necessary response to global pollution or an unnecessary and divisive movement?
• Was the labor movement a necessary response to worker exploitation or an unnecessary and harmful movement?

Political History

• Was the Magna Carta a necessary step forward for individual liberties or an unnecessary and ineffective document?
• Was the rise of democracy a necessary response to monarchic rule or an unnecessary and harmful ideology?
• Was the rise of authoritarianism a necessary response to political instability or an unnecessary and harmful ideology?

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Module 4: Imperial Reforms and Colonial Protests (1763-1774)

Historical arguments, learning objectives.

• Describe a historical argument

Argumentation

You’ve learned now about some of the major events in early American history, but just because you read about them in a textbook doesn’t mean that you have a complete understanding of the events or how they happened. For example, we didn’t have time in the course to dive into the English Restoration in great detail. We know that the Glorious Revolution describes when Mary, daughter of King James II, and her husband, William of Orange, became the new British monarchs following the ousting of King James II, but the details of what and how that all happened are more nuanced, and some details are open to interpretation. The fact that Mary and William were British monarchs after James II is just that—a fact. It can be confirmed by thousands of various resources and is not open to interpretation. But, the biggest issues of their reign, their effectiveness as leaders, and the consequences of their rule are all things that could be discussed or debated.

When historians collect data and work to interpret the facts that they gather about an event, they create historical arguments. A historical argument related to the Glorious Revolution could be: “William and Mary saved the British monarchy by modeling how to work effectively with Parliament.” This statement could be refuted. Sometimes arguments are based on an opinion or a hypothesis you have about something, and other times, arguments pull various facts together to create a coherent position. For example, another position related to the Glorious Revolution could state: “The Glorious Revolution and the reign of William and Mary weakened the control of the monarchy and led to increased parliamentary power in Great Britain.” With this as the guiding statement, or thesis, we could expect that an essay about this would describe the Bill of Rights of 1689, highlight specific instances showing a weaker monarchy, and explain how Parliament gained more power.

Historians work to construct an idea of what happened based upon the facts that they gather about an event. This is called a historical argument. Let’s just clear this up, though: a historical, or academic, “argument” isn’t the same as an argument over what to eat for dinner, or who was heading for a prime parking spot first. An academic argument defends a certain point of view through writing or speech.

Figure 1 . An academic argument isn’t like an argument over a parking spot.

An argument must take a stance

What distinguishes an argumentative essay from a descriptive essay or “report” is that the argument must take a stance; if you’re merely summarizing “both sides” of an issue or pointing out the “pros and cons,” you’re not really writing an argument. For example, “Stricter gun control laws will likely result in a decrease in gun-related violence” is an argument. “Americans are divided over gun control laws” isn’t an argument yet, because it’s presenting an issue (but not taking a stance). Arguments don’t just have to be about controversial political issues, though: many kinds of writing make arguments without touching on politics at all. For instance, an essay can take a stance by offering a particular interpretation of a song or a movie, or by showing the reader a new way to look at a historical event.

Arguments can have an opinion, but should not be  based  on opinion

When someone says: “well, that’s just your opinion,” what do they mean? Usually, this phrase implies that the other person doesn’t have a good  reason  for a particular view. If an argument is all about providing reasons for our views, does that mean we can’t express an opinion through argument? No! In fact, academic arguments usually articulate an opinion. Importantly, though, this opinion is always carefully defended with good reasoning, and often supported by research. If I claim that Michael Jordan was the greatest athlete of all time, but don’t offer any reasons, then that’s just my opinion. If I claim that “Babe” Didrikson Zaharias was a more accomplished athlete than Jordan because she dominated golf, basketball, and track-and-field, while Jordan was only good at basketball and golf, then we’re moving toward an argument. As the example of Zaharias vs. Jordan is supposed to show, the difference between opinion and argument comes down to  reasons . If you can give reasons to support your claim, then it’s closer to an argument. But that still doesn’t clarify things entirely. After all, as every parent knows, “because I said so!”  is  a reason, just not one that can be argued with.

If you can’t disagree with it, it’s not an argument

“I like the  Fast and Furious  movies” is an opinion, because no one can disagree with it: it wouldn’t make sense to say: “No, you don’t like those movies.” By comparison, here’s an argument: “Although they might seem like mindless action flicks, The  Fast and Furious  movies actually have a lot to say about changing ideas about family in modern America.” (Of course, you’d then have to give your  reasons  for this claim). Now your reader could agree or disagree: “Yes, that makes sense to me” or “No, I see it differently.”

Formulating a Valid Argument

Formulating an argument can be a scary thing. Making an assertion that someone else might challenge or criticize is intimidating and you may be tempted to simply argue a point that no one could refute, like “The American Revolution resulted in significant social, political, and economic changes in America.” This is a true statement, but it’s not yet an argument. You could argue about the ways in which social, political, and economic life changed, but the fact that it did change is undisputed.

History is full of different interpretations. One historian might argue that Thomas Jefferson was the most influential of the Founding Fathers and another might argue that it was John Adams. Both historians will be able to back up their arguments with evidence and, to put it simply, neither one is wrong. Much of history is a matter of perspective. What matters is that you are able to formulate an argument and back it up using different perspectives and sources, and also that you are willing to change your argument or your own perspective when presented with evidence that refutes your points.

ACTIVITY: Make an Argument

Everyone is “opinionated” about some things. What would people say you’re “opinionated” about? Consider something you absolutely love (i.e. Soccer is the best sport, or Farmville is the best game), a restaurant you like to frequent ( _______ has the best pizza in town), or the ways you like to do things (toilet paper should always go roll side on top, or the dishes need to be loaded a particular way in the dishwasher).

There are no correct answers to these responses, but you may jot down your thoughts in the spaces provided below.

1. List three things you have strong opinions about. They can be important or trivial, big or small.

2. Choose one of your three items. Is there a way to turn this opinion into an argument? If you had to convince a friend that your opinion about this thing is “right,” what argument could you use? What reason or reasons could you use to convince your friend? Below the item you’ve chosen, write a list of 3 reasons your opinion is “correct.” Try to find reasons that go beyond taste (“I just like it”) or belief (“that’s just what I believe”).

historical argument : a position that defends a certain historical point of view through writing or speech

• What is an Argument?. Provided by : Lumen Learning. Located at : https://courses.lumenlearning.com/englishcomp1coreq/chapter/introduction-to-what-is-an-argument/ . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike
• Analyzing an Argument. Provided by : Historical.Exploration. Located at : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUI9H9VT1kU . License : CC BY: Attribution

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American History Argumentative Essays Samples For Students

5 samples of this type

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HIS 270 - American Environmental History

What is an argument.

An argument is an effort to change readers' mind about an issue -- a topic of concern or urgency that is not easily agreed upon due to its complexity. Arguments arise when people disagree on what is true or false, accurate or inaccurate, sufficient or insufficient, about the subject being discussed.

An argument must possess four basic ingredients to be successful. First, it must contain as much  relevant information  about the issue as possible. Second, it must present  convincing evidence  that enables the audience to accept the writer's or speaker's claim as authentic. Third, it must fairly represent  challenging views  and then explain why those views are wrong or limited. And fourth, it must lay out a  pattern of reasoning . That is, it must logically progress from thesis to support of thesis to conclusion.

Source: White, F. D., & Billings, S. J. (2014).  The well-crafted argument: a guide and reader . Australia: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.

Crafting Your Argument

A strong thesis.

You will craft your topic and research into an argument by establishing your thesis, which will present your topic as a problem that can be researched and refuted by potential counterarguments. Your thesis will clearly state your position on the topic, and your position needs to be debatable (something that reasonable people would have a disagreement on), and not just state facts. For example, if your topic is European Colonialism , your thesis might look something like this: Colonialism was essential for the development of European countries because... (list a few reasons why). 

The reasons you give to support your thesis should be meaningful and supported by evidence. You can use scholarly articles from the library as supporting evidence; for tips on how to do that, check out the Finding Your Sources page on this guide.

An Organized Argument

After writing a strong thesis statement, the next step is to organize your argument. There are a few ways you can structure your paper, but here is one simple way:

• Introduction and Thesis
• First Claim
• Second Claim
• Third Claim
• Counterargument rebuttal

For more help on crafting an argument and writing a persuasive essay, reach out to the Academic Support Center for support.

Counterargument

Presenting a counterargument is an important component of writing a persuasive essay. Here, you provide acknowledgement and fair representation of those claims that oppose or in some way challenge the claim you are arguing. Here are some steps you can follow to establish and refute a counterargument:

• Ask yourself, what are the possible objectives to my claim? See if you can anticipate refutations to your claim even if you cannot readily locate them.
• Search for actual arguments that challenge your own. Be sure to summarize these arguments fairly; that is, do not omit parts of the claim that you think you would not be able to counterargue. Note: it is entirely possible that a challenging view will strike you as so convincing that you may want to revise or even abandon your original claim.
• Look for common ground - places where the challenging claim intersects with your own.
• Explain why the challenging claim is incorrect or flawed.

Source: White, F. D., & Billings, S. J. (2014). The well-crafted argument: a guide and reader. Australia: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.

Finding Resources for the Counterargument

You can use the library's resources to help you identify a counterargument and find resources that support it. One way to do this is to do a search using the Multi-Search with keywords like disadvantage, risk, negative, or other words that imply disagreement. For example, if your argument is that all children should be vaccinated, you might try a search like this one to find articles that offer an opposition: colonialism AND Europe* AND econom*.  (*note: the asterisk at the end of the word is called, truncation, or, a wildcard, and will search for a variation of that word. For example, econom* will find economy, economic, economics, economical, etc.)

You can also search for resources that discuss the overall issue or controversy, rather than focusing on one particular side. Try using additional keywords like debate, controversy, discussion, etc., in your search. Even articles that strongly argue for one side could also present a section on the counterargument to their position. Looking through the full text of any articles you find will help you identify these kinds of resources.

For more help finding resources to support your counterargument, email a librarian at [email protected] !

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• How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips

How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An argumentative essay expresses an extended argument for a particular thesis statement . The author takes a clearly defined stance on their subject and builds up an evidence-based case for it.

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Table of contents

When do you write an argumentative essay, approaches to argumentative essays, introducing your argument, the body: developing your argument, concluding your argument, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about argumentative essays.

You might be assigned an argumentative essay as a writing exercise in high school or in a composition class. The prompt will often ask you to argue for one of two positions, and may include terms like “argue” or “argument.” It will frequently take the form of a question.

The prompt may also be more open-ended in terms of the possible arguments you could make.

Argumentative writing at college level

At university, the vast majority of essays or papers you write will involve some form of argumentation. For example, both rhetorical analysis and literary analysis essays involve making arguments about texts.

In this context, you won’t necessarily be told to write an argumentative essay—but making an evidence-based argument is an essential goal of most academic writing, and this should be your default approach unless you’re told otherwise.

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response.

Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.

• Don’t just list all the effects you can think of.
• Do develop a focused argument about the overall effect and why it matters, backed up by evidence from sources.
• Don’t just provide a selection of data on the measures’ effectiveness.
• Do build up your own argument about which kinds of measures have been most or least effective, and why.
• Don’t just analyze a random selection of doppelgänger characters.
• Do form an argument about specific texts, comparing and contrasting how they express their thematic concerns through doppelgänger characters.

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An argumentative essay should be objective in its approach; your arguments should rely on logic and evidence, not on exaggeration or appeals to emotion.

There are many possible approaches to argumentative essays, but there are two common models that can help you start outlining your arguments: The Toulmin model and the Rogerian model.

Toulmin arguments

The Toulmin model consists of four steps, which may be repeated as many times as necessary for the argument:

• Make a claim
• Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim
• Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim)
• Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives

The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays. You don’t have to use these specific terms (grounds, warrants, rebuttals), but establishing a clear connection between your claims and the evidence supporting them is crucial in an argumentative essay.

Say you’re making an argument about the effectiveness of workplace anti-discrimination measures. You might:

• Claim that unconscious bias training does not have the desired results, and resources would be better spent on other approaches
• Cite data to support your claim
• Explain how the data indicates that the method is ineffective
• Anticipate objections to your claim based on other data, indicating whether these objections are valid, and if not, why not.

Rogerian arguments

The Rogerian model also consists of four steps you might repeat throughout your essay:

• Discuss what the opposing position gets right and why people might hold this position
• Highlight the problems with this position
• Present your own position , showing how it addresses these problems
• Suggest a possible compromise —what elements of your position would proponents of the opposing position benefit from adopting?

This model builds up a clear picture of both sides of an argument and seeks a compromise. It is particularly useful when people tend to disagree strongly on the issue discussed, allowing you to approach opposing arguments in good faith.

Say you want to argue that the internet has had a positive impact on education. You might:

• Acknowledge that students rely too much on websites like Wikipedia
• Argue that teachers view Wikipedia as more unreliable than it really is
• Suggest that Wikipedia’s system of citations can actually teach students about referencing
• Suggest critical engagement with Wikipedia as a possible assignment for teachers who are skeptical of its usefulness.

You don’t necessarily have to pick one of these models—you may even use elements of both in different parts of your essay—but it’s worth considering them if you struggle to structure your arguments.

Regardless of which approach you take, your essay should always be structured using an introduction , a body , and a conclusion .

Like other academic essays, an argumentative essay begins with an introduction . The introduction serves to capture the reader’s interest, provide background information, present your thesis statement , and (in longer essays) to summarize the structure of the body.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

The body of an argumentative essay is where you develop your arguments in detail. Here you’ll present evidence, analysis, and reasoning to convince the reader that your thesis statement is true.

In the standard five-paragraph format for short essays, the body takes up three of your five paragraphs. In longer essays, it will be more paragraphs, and might be divided into sections with headings.

Each paragraph covers its own topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Each of these topics must contribute to your overall argument; don’t include irrelevant information.

This example paragraph takes a Rogerian approach: It first acknowledges the merits of the opposing position and then highlights problems with that position.

Hover over different parts of the example to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An argumentative essay ends with a conclusion that summarizes and reflects on the arguments made in the body.

No new arguments or evidence appear here, but in longer essays you may discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your argument and suggest topics for future research. In all conclusions, you should stress the relevance and importance of your argument.

Hover over the following example to see the typical elements of a conclusion.

The internet has had a major positive impact on the world of education; occasional pitfalls aside, its value is evident in numerous applications. The future of teaching lies in the possibilities the internet opens up for communication, research, and interactivity. As the popularity of distance learning shows, students value the flexibility and accessibility offered by digital education, and educators should fully embrace these advantages. The internet’s dangers, real and imaginary, have been documented exhaustively by skeptics, but the internet is here to stay; it is time to focus seriously on its potential for good.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

The majority of the essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Unless otherwise specified, you can assume that the goal of any essay you’re asked to write is argumentative: To convince the reader of your position using evidence and reasoning.

In composition classes you might be given assignments that specifically test your ability to write an argumentative essay. Look out for prompts including instructions like “argue,” “assess,” or “discuss” to see if this is the goal.

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Student Opinion

310 Prompts for Argumentative Writing

Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

By Natalie Proulx

Does social media harm young people’s mental health? Do video games deserve the bad rap they often get? Should parents track their children? Who is the greatest athlete of all time?

Every school day, we publish new questions for students based on the news of the day, including prompts, like these, that inspire persuasive writing.

Below, we’ve rounded up over 300 of those argumentative prompts, organized by topic, all in one place. They cover everything from parenting and schools to music and social media. Each one, drawn from our Student Opinion column , links to a free New York Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You can use these prompts however you like, whether to inspire an entry for our new Open Letter Contest , to hone your persuasive writing skills or simply to share your opinions on the issues of today. So scroll through the list below and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

If you enjoy these questions, know that you can find all of our argumentative writing prompts, as they publish, here . Students 13 and up from anywhere in the world are invited to comment.

Argumentative Prompt Topics

Technology and social media, college, work and money, health and relationships, gender and race, arts and entertainment, parenting and childhood, government and politics, animals, science and time.

Social Media

1. Does Social Media Harm Young People’s Mental Health? 2. How Much Should Speech Be Moderated on Social Media? 3. Should the United States Ban TikTok? 4. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 5. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 6. What Should Be Done to Protect Children Online? 7. Should There Be Separate Social Media Apps for Children? 8. Are You a Fan of ‘School Accounts’ on Social Media? 9. Will Social Media Help or Hurt Your College and Career Goals? 10. Is It Ever OK to Use Strangers as Content for Social Media?

Phones and Devices

11. Should More Teenagers Ditch Their Smartphones? 12. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 13. Should Phones Ever Be a Part of Family or Holiday Gatherings? 14. What Are Your Texting Dos and Don’ts? 15. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 16. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 17. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 18. How Young Is Too Young for an Apple Watch?

The Internet

19. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 20. How Excited Are You About the Metaverse? 21. Should Websites Force Users to Prove How Old They Are? 22. What Is the Best Way to Stop Abusive Language Online? 23. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? 24. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 25. Do You Think Online Conspiracy Theories Can Be Dangerous? 26. Does Technology Make Us More Alone?

School Discipline and Attendance

27. Should Schools Ban Cellphones? 28. How Should Schools Hold Students Accountable for Hurting Others? 29. What Are Your Thoughts on Uniforms and Strict Dress Codes? 30. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 31. How Can Schools Engage Students Who Are at Risk of Dropping Out? 32. Should Students Be Allowed to Miss School for Mental Health Reasons? 33. Should Your School Day Start Later? 34. Should There Still Be Snow Days? 35. Do Kids Need Recess? 36. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money?

School Quality and Effectiveness

37. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 38. Do Schools Need to Do More to Hold Students Accountable? 39. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 40. Should Students Have the Same Teachers Year After Year? 41. Do Teachers Assign Too Much Homework? 42. Should We Get Rid of Homework? 43. Should We Eliminate Gifted and Talented Programs? 44. Is It Time to Get Rid of Timed Tests? 45. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 46. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 47. Does Your School Need More Money? 48. Do School Employees Deserve More Respect — and Pay? 49. Should Public Preschool Be a Right for All Children?

Teaching and Learning

50. Do You Think We Need to Change the Way Math Is Taught? 51. Should Financial Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 52. Should Schools Teach Students Kitchen and Household Skills? 53. Do We Need Better Music Education? 54. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 55. What Is the Purpose of Teaching U.S. History? 56. Do Schools Need to Do More to Support Visual Thinkers? 57. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 58. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 59. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try to Help Us Feel One Another’s Pain? 60. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 61. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 62. Should Kids Still Learn to Tell Time? 63. How Important Is Knowing a Foreign Language

Technology in School

64. How Should Schools Respond to ChatGPT? 65. Does Learning to Be a Good Writer Still Matter in the Age of A.I.? 66. Is Online Learning Effective? 67. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking Online Tests? 68. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Students for What They Say on Social Media? 69. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 70. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 71. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 72. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 73. Are the Web Filters at Your School Too Restrictive?

Education Politics

74. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 75. Should Students Learn About Climate Change in School? 76. Should Teachers Provide Trigger Warnings for ‘Traumatic Content’? 77. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Wear Political Symbols? 78. What Do You Think About Efforts to Ban Books From School Libraries? 79. What Is Your Reaction to the Growing Fight Over What Young People Can Read? 80. What Do You Think About the Controversy Surrounding the New A.P. Course on African American Studies? 81. Should Schools or Employers Be Allowed to Tell People How They Should Wear Their Hair? 82. Does Prayer Have Any Place in Public Schools? 83. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers?

College Admissions

84. Should Colleges Consider Standardized Tests in Admissions? 85. Should Students Let ChatGPT Help Them Write Their College Essays? 86. What Is Your Reaction to the End of Race-Based Affirmative Action in College Admissions? 87. Are Early-Decision Programs Unfair? Should Colleges Do Away With Them? 88. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 89. How Much Do You Think It Matters Where You Go to College? 90. Should Everyone Go to College? 91. Should College Be Free? 92. Is Student Debt Worth It? 93. Should High Schools Post Their Annual College Lists?

Campus Life

94. What Should Free Speech Look Like on Campus? 95. Should Greek Life on College Campuses Come to an End? 96. Should Universities Work to Curtail Student Drinking? 97. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 98. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 99. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 100. Should Emotional Support Animals Be Allowed on College Campuses?

Jobs and Careers

101. Is High School a Good Time to Train for a Career? 102. Is There Such a Thing as a ‘Useless’ College Major? 103. Should All High School Students Have Part-Time Jobs? 104. Should National Service Be Required for All Young Americans? 105. Is It OK to Use Family Connections to Get a Job?

Money and Business

106. Do You Think the American Dream Is Real? 107. Should All Young People Learn How to Invest in the Stock Market? 108. Should We All Go Cashless? 109. When Should You Tip? 110. Should We End the Practice of Tipping? 111. Are You a Crypto Optimist or Skeptic? 112. Do Celebrities and Influencers Make You Want to Buy What They’re Selling? 113. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 114. Are C.E.O.s Paid Too Much? 115. Is It Immoral to Increase the Price of Goods During a Crisis? 116. What Should Stores Do With Unsold Goods? 117. Is There a ‘Right Way’ to Be a Tourist? 118. Who Should We Honor on Our Money?

Mental Health

119. Is Teen Mental Health in a State of Crisis? 120. ‘Love-Bombing.’ ‘Gaslighting.’ ‘Victim.’ Is ‘Trauma Talk’ Overused? 121. Does Achieving Success Always Include Being Happy? 122. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 123. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 124. How Can We Bring an End to the ‘Epidemic of Loneliness’? 125. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister’? 126. What Ideas Do You Have to Bring Your Community Closer Together? 127. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 128. Is It OK to Laugh During Dark Times?

Dating and Relationships

129. Who Should Pay for Dates? 130. Do Marriage Proposals Still Have a Place in Today’s Society? 131. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend? 132. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

Physical Health

133. Should Governments Do More to Discourage People From Smoking and Vaping? 134. How Should Adults Talk to Kids About Drugs? 135. Can Laziness Be a Good Thing? 136. Should There Be Requirements for Teens Who Want to Ride E-Bikes? 137. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 138. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 139. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs?

140. Is It Becoming More Acceptable for Men and Boys to Cry? 141. Is It Harder for Men and Boys to Make and Keep Friends? 142. Should Award Shows Eliminate Gendered Categories? 143. Should There Be More Gender Options on Identification Documents? 144. Justice Ginsburg Fought for Gender Equality. How Close Are We to Achieving That Goal? 145. What Should #MeToo Mean for Teenage Boys? 146. What Is Hard About Being a Boy? 147. Should There Be More Boy Dolls? 148. Is Single-Sex Education Still Useful? 149. Are Beauty Pageants Still Relevant? 150. Should Period Products Be Free? 151. What Are Your Thoughts on Last Names? 152. What Rules Should Apply to Transgender Athletes When They Compete? 153. What Is Your Reaction to the Recent Wave of Legislation That Seeks to Regulate the Lives of Transgender Youths? 154. What Do You Wish Lawmakers Knew About How Anti-L.G.B.T.Q. Legislation Affects Teenagers?

Identity, Race and Ethnicity

155. How Should Schools Respond to Racist Jokes? 156. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 157. What Is Your Reaction to Efforts to Limit Teaching on Race in Schools? 158. How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom? 159. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 160. Should We Rename Schools Named for Historical Figures With Ties to Racism, Sexism or Slavery? 161. How Should We Remember the Problematic Actions of the Nation’s Founders? 162. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 163. What Can History Teach Us About Resilience? 164. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 165. Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life? 166. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 167. When Talking About Identity, How Much Do Words Matter? 168. How Useful Is It to Be Multilingual?

TV and Movies

169. Is True Crime As a Form of Entertainment Ethical? 170. Should Old TV Shows Be Brought Back? 171. Does Reality TV Deserve Its Bad Rap? 172. How Closely Should Actors’ Identities Reflect the Roles They Play? 173. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 174. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 175. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 176. When Does Lying in Comedy Cross a Line? 177. How Do You Feel About ‘Nepotism Babies’?

Music and Video Games

178. Will A.I. Replace Pop Stars? 179. If Two Songs Sound Alike, Is It Stealing? 180. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 181. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 182. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 183. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 184. Should There Be Limits on How Much Time Young People Spend Playing Video Games? 185. Should More Parents Play Video Games With Their Kids?

186. Are A.I.-Generated Pictures Art? 187. What Work of Art Should Your Friends Fall in Love With? 188. If Artwork Offends People, Should It Be Removed? 189. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin? 190. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 191. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 192. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 193. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 194. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 195. Should Graffiti Be Protected?

Books and Literature

196. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 197. Should Classic Children’s Books Be Updated for Today’s Young Readers? 198. Should White Writers Translate a Black Author’s Work? 199. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate? 200. Should Libraries Get Rid of Late Fees?

201. What’s the Best — and Worst — Part of Being a Sports Fan? 202. Who Is the GOAT? 203. Do Women’s Sports Deserve More Attention? 204. What Should Be Done About the Gender Pay Gap in Sports? 205. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 206. Should More Sports Be Coed? 207. College Athletes Can Now Be Paid. But Not All of Them Are Seeing Money. Is That Fair? 208. Should High School-Age Basketball Players Be Able to Get Paid? 209. Are Some Youth Sports Too Intense? 210. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 211. Is It Bad Sportsmanship to Run Up the Score in Youth Sports? 212. Is It Ethical to Be a Football Fan? 213. Does the N.F.L. Have a Race Problem? 214. What New Rules Would Improve Your Favorite Sport? 215. What Sports Deserve More Hype? 216. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 217. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 218. Does Better Sports Equipment Unfairly Improve Athletic Ability? 219. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures? 220. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 221. Should Cheerleading Be an Olympic Sport?

Related Writing Prompt

222. Should Parents Ever Be Held Responsible for the Harmful Actions of Their Children? 223. Where Is the Line Between Helping a Child Become More Resilient and Pushing Them Too Hard? 224. Should Parents Give Children More Responsibility at Younger Ages? 225. Should Parents Tell Children the Truth About Santa? 226. Should Parents Weigh in on Their Kids’ Dating Lives? 227. Should Parents Track Their Children? 228. How Should Parents Support a Student Who Has Fallen Behind in School? 229. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 230. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 231. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Snowplow Parents’? 232. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 233. Should Parents Bribe Their Children?

Childhood and Growing Up

234. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 235. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 236. When Do You Become an Adult? 237. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 238. Do We Give Children Too Many Trophies? 239. What Can Older Generations Learn From Gen Z? 240. What Is the Worst Toy Ever?

Legislation and Policy

241. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? 242. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 243. Should the United States Decriminalize the Possession of Drugs? 244. What Is Your Reaction to the State of Abortion Rights? 245. Should the Government Cancel Student Debt? 246. Should Public Transit Be Free? 247. Should There Be More Public Restrooms? 248. Should the U.S. Be Doing More to Prevent Child Poverty? 249. Should the Government Provide a Guaranteed Income for Families With Children? 250. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations?

Gun Violence

251. Are You Concerned About Violence in America? 252. How Should Americans Deal With the Problem of Gun Violence? 253. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 254. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 255. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns?

Voting and Elections

256. How Much Faith Do You Have in the U.S. Political System? 257. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It Need to Be Fixed? 258. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Vote? 259. Should We All Be Able to Vote by Mail? 260. Should There Be a Minimum Voting Age? 261. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 262. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 263. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? Or Should They Be Scrapped?

Freedoms and Rights

264. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 265. Why Does the Right to Protest Matter? 266. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 267. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme Court? Should We Care? 268. Should You Have a Right to Be Rude? 269. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities?

Civic Participation

270. Are You Optimistic About the State of the World? 271. If You Could Take On One Problem Facing Our World, What Would It Be? 272. If You Were Mayor, What Problems Facing Your Community Would You Tackle? 273. Do You Think Teenagers Can Make a Difference in the World? 274. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 275. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to Strengthen Our Democracy? 276. How Is Your Generation Changing Politics? 277. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other? 278. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 279. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 280. When Is It OK to Be a Snitch? 281. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 282. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 283. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues? 284. Should Corporations Take Political Stands? 285. What Do You Think the Role of the First Lady — or First Spouse — Should Be Today?

286. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 287. What Is Our Responsibility to Lab Animals? 288. What Are Your Thoughts About Hunting Animals? 289. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 290. What Do You Think of Pet Weddings? 291. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 292. Should We Bring Back Animals From Extinction? 293. Are Zoos Immoral? 294. Do Bugs Deserve More Respect?

Environment and Science

295. What Role Should Young People Play in the Fight Against Climate Change? 296. Should We Be More Optimistic About Efforts to Combat Climate Change? 297. How Far Is Too Far in the Fight Against Climate Change? 298. Should Plastic Bags Be Banned Everywhere? 299. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 300. Should We Still Be Sending Astronauts to Space? 301. Do You Think Pluto Should Be a Planet? 302. Should We Treat Robots Like People?

Time and Seasons

303. What Is the Best Month of the Year? What Is the Worst? 304. Would Life Be Better Without Time Zones? 305. Do You Think It Is Time to Get Rid of Daylight Saving Time? 306. When Do Holiday Decorations Go From Festive to Excessive? 307. Should We Rethink Thanksgiving? 308. When Does a Halloween Costume Cross the Line? 309. Should School Be a Place to Celebrate Halloween? 310. Should the Week Be Four Days Instead of Five?

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public and may appear in print.

Find more Student Opinion questions here. Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate these prompts into your classroom.

Natalie Proulx joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2017 after working as an English language arts teacher and curriculum writer. More about Natalie Proulx