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Human history has seen several periods ranging from the invention of the wheel to successfully imaging a distant black hole in outer space. Historical events, both major and minor, dot the entire expanse of recorded evidence. They serve to indicate important insights about the political, military, and sociological backdrop of the corresponding period.
That said, presenting historical events in a paper or an essay can get tedious, considering the vast amount of data required. Putting together information and collating the necessary dates and facts further complicates the process. An uninformed approach can quickly turn the assignment into a chaotic mess instead of a well-researched paper.
The first step to avoiding this, however, is to select an apt topic from history to ensure the paper is relevant and useful. Whether it’s an essay detailing the factors leading to civil unrest, or a research paper about military maneuvers in the past, pertinence is integral. To aid with historical research, we’ve put together an essential list of important history topics for your next paper.
Table of Contents
Significant Recent Historic Events
Starting with the most recent period in the annals of history could be an interesting choice for a history research paper. Analyses of recent events are uncommon, with most students looking deeper into the past for inspiration. However, selecting an event closer to current times can make your paper stand out.
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1. The Great Recession (2007–2009)
Analyze the period between 2007 and 2009 and why it was marked by a general decline in the global economy. Mention why the disruption caused the most significant global economic crisis since the Great Depression (1929-1939). Comprehensive historical research would also include the measures taken by the International Monetary Fund and other national agencies.
2. The US Invasion of Iraq and its aftermath (2003)
The US military intervention in Iraq, which was supported by its key NATO allies like the UK, is among the most significant events in recent history. Analyze what led to the conflict as well as its long-term aftermath in Iraq and its neighboring regions.
3. Arab Spring (2010 to Present)
A range of protests, both major and minor, led to the overthrow of longstanding authoritarian regimes in the Arab world. Some of these eventually led to civil war, as in the case of Syria and Libya. Discuss what led to these events and their impact on the Middle East.
4. 9/11 Terror Attacks & its aftermath (2001 to Present)
The 9/11 terror attacks took the lives of nearly 3000 Americans. It resulted in the invasion of Afghanistan, and the subsequent war on terror. From the initial days of the war in Afghanistan to the recent troop pullout in 2021, an analysis of the salient points will make for an interesting historical presentation.
5. The rise of women in political office
The number of women in power across the world has steadily been on the rise. With nations such as New Zealand, Sweden, and Finland electing women as their heads of state, the US too has shown steady improvement. Explore the contributions of women and their increased participation in world politics.
6. The Sri Lankan civil war (1983–2009)
Assess the impact and human cost of the civil war that ravaged the island nation in the Indian ocean. Presenting a timeline of historical events will further enhance the relevance of the conflict in recent times. Also, explore the ethnic undercurrent of the civil war and its impact on the country’s economy over the years.
7. The end of Apartheid (1990–1994)
The abolishment of South Africa’s institutionalized segregation system was a watershed event in the nation’s history. Discuss what started the negotiations and the subsequent release of popular leaders like Nelson Mandela from prison. Also, explore how the move impacted South Africa’s relations with other countries across the world.
8. The US legalizes same-sex marriage (2015)
In a landmark move towards marriage equality, the US supreme court legalized same-sex marriage in all the states in June 2015. The judgment also ordered the states to recognize out-of-state same-sex marriage licenses. Discuss what led to the long-awaited historic judgment and its impact on the people.
9. The Chernobyl disaster (1986)
The Chernobyl disaster was the first of only two “maximum severity” nuclear catastrophes in the history of nuclear energy production. It also had a great impact on the Cold War, linked to a series of events that led to the collapse of the USSR. Discuss this uniquely significant historical event and its indelible impact on world history.
10. Fall of the Berlin wall (1989)
In a series of events leading up to the fall of the Iron Curtain across Europe and the subsequent fall of communism, the fall of the Berlin Wall was the most significant. Analyze the connection of the event with the Peaceful Revolution in Germany and the subsequent Reunification of Germany in 1990.
Fascinating US History Topics
Despite the special focus on America’s colonial and post-colonial history, the vibrant story of the US begins much earlier. From initial human migrations to North America to the US’ rise to global prominence, American history is rife with significant historical events. A deep dive into the journey of the American people is sure to bring out unmissable events in the nation’s history.
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11. The transition from World War II’s end to the Cold War (1945–1947)
12. Background & impact of the Salem Witch Trials (1692–1693)
13. Relationships between the American colonies (Pre 1760)
14. The impact of the Stamp Act (1765), Boston Massacre (1770), and the Boston Tea Party (1773) on the American revolution (1775–1783)
15. The rise of the United States as an industrial powerhouse (1876–1900)
16. Spanish-American War and its aftermath (1898)
17. Organized crime in the backdrop of the Prohibition Era (1920–1933)
18. The expansion of the railroad network in the late 19th century and its subsequent consolidation (1878–1916)
19. Did the US “win” the Cold War? (1947–1991)
20. The rise of the American Navy (1775–1914)
21. An analysis of the Underground Railroad (Early to mid-19th century)
22. The attack on Pearl Harbor and its impact (1941)
23. Slavery and the American Civil War (1861–1865)
24. US involvement in World War I (1917–1918)
25. The California Gold Rush and its consequences (1848–1855)
26. The Compromise of 1850 (1850)
27. History of Native American tribes
28. Women in the American Revolution
29. US involvement in the Korean War (1950–1953)
30. The fight for civil rights in the US (1954–1968)
31. The Wall Street crash of 1929 and the Great Depression (1929–1939)
32. The Mexican-American War (1846–1848)
33. An assessment of the impact of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination (1968)
34. Women’s Suffrage in the United States
35. US’s defeat in the Vietnam war and its aftermath (1955–1975)
Writing a Good History Essay
A good history essay is a compilation of essential facts connected to a historical event/period and the writer’s opinion of it. The process of writing a credible essay begins with choosing a good history topic to write on, followed by thorough research. Reliance on several sources leads to a more holistic understanding of the event from multiple perspectives.
Apart from a keen focus on what’s relevant to the topic at hand, writers must also work to use good language to keep the reader interested. Detailed descriptions of the event supported by dates, facts, and numbers are always appreciated.
Here are a few tips on writing a good history essay:
Pick a Relevant Topic
Books are full of thought-provoking historical events that appeal to readers. However, choosing a topic that suits your coursework is most important. Even if the topic seems basic, doing proper justice to it by covering every aspect will produce great results.
Conduct In-Depth Research
The best way to approach history is by carrying out thorough research on the events associated with your topic. Access primary sources to bring about added credibility to your work. Read multiple, even differing, opinions on the same topic to understand it better.
Follow an Outline
Having an outline is a must for any essay. A simple outline would be to split the essay into an introduction, body, and conclusion. Start by stating the topic and your assertion, if any. You may also briefly explain your topic in the introduction of the history essay. Use subheadings/sentences for every paragraph in the body of the essay. As for the conclusion, state your assertion again, and offer closing comments on why you believe in your take.
Write Clearly
Using simple and crisp language allows the reader to make sense of even complex portions of the essay with ease. Ensure the material is clearly written with good grammar, and avoid using excessively complex words. Try to pick a narrative tone to guide the reader through the paper smoothly.
Outline Opinions
While a historical event is mostly concerned with the facts surrounding it, historians are also known for their opinions. A history essay remains incomplete without an opinion of what led to the event and its aftermath. Stating these opinions can make the essay more interesting to read while also bringing attention to a new perspective.
Provide Evidence
Stating opinions is merely one-half of the process. Providing evidence to support your claims is just as important. Have references and citations ready, and mention them wherever relevant. Opinions backed up by research and scholarly evidence are more likely to be taken seriously.
Proofread
Proofread your essay before turning it in to avoid any errors. Also, try to keep an eye out for inconsistencies in the content. Taking the help of a tutor or a fellow student might help in doing a better job at proofreading the essay.
Historical Events that Changed the World
While the world at large is now more interlinked than ever before, a number of historic events in the past changed the course of world history. Choosing to write about a topic from the vast trove of global history can help you put together an intuitive paper. Bear in mind that the paper must also assess the effects of the event on a global scale.
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36. The fall of Constantinople (1453)
37. The Meiji Restoration and the modernization of Japan
38. The Battle of Vienna (1683)
39. The establishment of Israel and its effects in the Middle East (1948–Present)
40. The Rise of Nazi Germany and the Holocaust (1930–1945)
41. The Russian revolution (1917–1923)
42. The Armenian genocide (1915–1923)
43. The discovery of DNA (1869)
44. The space race and the Moon landing (1969)
45. The Dust Bowl: Ecological & Economic impact (1930s)
46. Invention of the printing press (1440)
47. Japanese victory in the Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905)
48. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the outbreak of World War I (1914)
49. The Treaty of Versailles (1919)
50. Communist victory in the Chinese civil war (1949)
51. The French revolution and its impact on Europe (1789–1799)
52. The Emancipation Proclamation (1863)
53. The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in World War II (1945)
54. The Great Fire of London (1666)
55. The Iranian revolution (1979)
56. The Battle of Gettysburg (1863)
59. Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the New World (1492)
60. The Black Death (1346–1352)
61. The Battle of Dunkirk (1940)
62. The Nuremberg Trials (1945–1946)
63. Invention of the Steam Engine (1698)
64. Napoleon’s defeat in the battle of Waterloo (1815)
65. Invention of the Internet (1969)
66. Independence of Spanish Colonies in the Americas (1808–1833)
67. Invention of the vaccine (1796)
68. Opening of the Suez Canal (1869)
69. The Partition of India (1947)
70. Start of the Space Race (1955)
72. The Protestant Reformation (1500s)
73. The invention of the airplane (1903)
74. Setting up of the European Union (1993)
75. The breakup of Yugoslavia (1991-1992)
Medieval Age History Topics
The medieval age was a period rife with turbulence and events that would shape the subsequent early modern age that ushered in the Renaissance. This era began with the Dark Ages following the collapse of the Western Roman Empire and continued till the Fall of Constantinople in 1453. Picking a research paper topic from the middle ages will have to be motivated by its impact and relevance on the periods that followed the event.
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76. The Plague of Justinian (541–549)
77. The Norman Conquest of England (1066)
78. The birth of Prophet Muhammad & the rise of Islam (570)
79. The accomplishments of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor (800)
80. The Tang dynasty’s take over of China (618)
81. The Golden Age of Islam (622–1258)
82. Invention of gunpowder (1st Millennium CE)
83. The Western Schism (1378–1417)
84. The First Crusade (1096–1099)
85. Genghis Khan ascent to the Mongol throne (1206)
86. The Hundred Years’ War (1337–1453)
87. Avicenna and the Canon of Medicine (1025)
88. The accomplishments of Alfred the Great (871)
89. The Angkor Wat – A Khmer Wonder (1110–1150)
90. Marco Polo’s Travels (1271)
91. The origins of the Ottoman Empire (1299)
92. The rise of the Aztec Empire (1428)
93. The Medici Bank – Europe’s most respected bank (1397)
94. The Battle of Agincourt (1415)
95. The Magna Carta’s relevance (1215)
96. The Peasants’ Revolt (1381)
98. Founding of the Inca Empire (1438)
99. The Song dynasty’s rise (960)
100. The Kalmar Union of Scandinavia (1397)
Ancient History Topics
Though historic events from the ancient period require more pointed research, they’re great choices for a history research paper or project. The study of antiquity sheds light on societies and human development through the initial periods of recorded history.
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101. Causes of the Greco-Persian Wars (499–449 BCE)
102. The birth of Gautama Buddha & the rise of Buddhism (563 BCE)
104. The fall of the Roman Republic (27 BCE)
105. The history of ancient Egypt
106. Democracy in ancient Greece
107. Urbanization in Mesopotamia
108. A biography of Cyrus the Great
109. A study of the Indus Valley Civilization (3300–1300 BCE)
110. An analysis of Roman Religion
111. The Pyramids of ancient Egypt
113. The Conquests of Alexander the Great (336–323 BCE)
114. Julius Caesar in the Roman Empire
115. The Qin Dynasty and its impact on the Chinese Civilization (221–206 BCE)
116. The culture of the ancient Mayan Civilization
117. The Peloponnesian War (431–404 BCE)
118. Iron age in Britain (800 BCE–100 CE)
119. The collapse of the Roman Empire (476 CE)
120. The Great Pyramid of Giza
121. What led to the construction of the Great Wall of China?
122. A study of the military history of Rome
123. A comparison of the ancient Egypt and ancient Greek civilizations
124. An overview of Atilla the Hun
125. Crime and punishment in ancient Rome
Tips for Presenting a History Paper
Putting together a great paper after doing all the necessary historical research is one thing, while presenting the paper well is another. Keep in mind that the audience needs to stick with your presentation to the end. It’s important to avoid run-on elements, and instead focus on a viable thesis related to the topic of your paper.
Here are some helpful tips:
Write an Intriguing Introduction
Being the first part of the presentation, the introduction must state both the topic and the thesis you intend to present. Ensure the statement of your thesis is clear and is bound to pique the audience’s interest. Avoid complicating the introduction, and rely on simplicity to communicate your paper’s purpose.
Rely on Smooth Transitions
With historical topics at hand, it’s certain that you will have to switch from one event to the other, sometimes often. However, ensuring the jump from each part of the presentation to another is aided with transitions will help preserve clarity. Transitions also offer continuity between various aspects of the presentation.
Engage the Audience Visually
Pictures, graphs, artistic representations, and charts are all great tools when you want to communicate data succinctly. The use of visual aids in a history presentation can help you further elucidate the points of your topic and thesis. Ensure that the visual aids you use are legible and clear to the viewers.
Focus on Delivery
Practice sufficiently before the presentation. Run through the entire topic to brush up on its most important facets. Maintaining eye contact and a confident posture will help with the delivery as well.
Offer a Clear Conclusion
Though some historic events and topics might get rather blurry in the course of analysis, it is important to stick to the argument stated in your thesis. Summarize the evidence provided in your presentation and use persuasive language to support your claims.
Intriguing History Research Paper Topics
History is full of potential to help us gain new insights into past events. Approaching them from an analytical perspective can make for great research. Below are some intriguing topics for a history research paper:
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126. The extent and importance of the Harlem Renaissance (1920s–1930s)
The Harlem Renaissance was an important period for the African-American community that saw great strides in art, culture, music, and literature. It began around the end of World War I, lasted during the Great Depression, and continued right up to the start of World II. Centered around Harlem in New York City, the period instilled renewed confidence in the African-American community. Explore the extent of the Harlem Renaissance and how it set the stage for the future Civil Rights Movement.
127. The aftermath of the Spanish-American War & America’s annexation of the Philippines (1898)
Following the end of the Spanish-American war, the United States was faced with the option of annexing the Philippine archipelago. After the annexation, the US quickly found itself in another conflict—the Philippine War (1899). With a victory, the US turned the Philippines into an unincorporated territory that later became a Commonwealth. Analyze the nature of American rule in the Philippines between 1899 and 1946, and the implications it had on the island nation.
128. The Blitzkrieg and its impact on World War II
Nazi Germany launched a number of offensive campaigns during the early phases of World War II that found much success. Behind these quick victories was a military doctrine referred to in the West as “Blitzkrieg.” Explore why Germany chose to invest in surprise tactics and its motivation behind deploying a fast-paced military strategy.
129. Understanding Romance Themes in Medieval Literature
Also called “Chivalric Romance,” medieval romance literature gained prominence across Europe in the High Medieval and Early Modern eras. Themes often explored a heroic character going on quests, religiosity, and courtly love. Works have also explored fantastical themes and magic. Delve into the works of medieval romance and understand its evolution from its predecessors.
130. Neoclassicism & Romanticism in Art (1760–1850)
Neoclassicism and romanticism were movements in European art, architecture, and literature that brought back elements from Classical Antiquity to the fore again. Opposed to the prevalent art forms of Baroque and Rococo during the period, these movements greatly influenced Western culture for a long time. Understand what ushered in these movements and their best examples.
131. Analyzing the decline of Feudalism in Europe
In the periods following the Black Death, the nobility’s powers waned, leading to a peasant-dominated society. Despite consistent decline throughout the 14th to the 18th centuries, feudalism continued in some form till the French Revolution. Feudalism was eventually outlawed following the aftermath of the French Revolution. Explore the events and the causes linked to feudalism’s decline.
132. Significance of the Cuban Missile Crisis (1962)
In the aftermath of the failed Bay of Pigs Invasion (1961), responding to the presence of US nuclear warheads in Italy and Turkey, the USSR agreed to place its nuclear warheads in Cuba. This led to one of the most significant Cold War confrontations between the world’s two superpowers. Detail the reasons that led to the crisis and its aftermath.
133. Athens vs. Sparta, an ancient rivalry
Both Sparta and Athens were some of the most powerful city-states in ancient Greece. Their rivalry shaped a considerable portion of Greek history and even led to the Peloponnesian War (431–404 BCE). Analyze the differences in the cultures and governments of Sparta and Athens and also provide information on their long rivalry.
134. An overview of the Bosnian War (1992–1995)
The Bosnian War was among Europe’s deadliest conflicts after World War II. Motivated by ethnic separatism, the war also entailed the gruesome episode of the Bosnian Genocide. Cover the important reasons that led to the conflict and the aftermath of the war.
135. Analyzing Ancient Egyptian Art
Ancient Egypt was one of the world’s oldest civilizations. It is known for the ancient world’s architectural marvels as well as its rich culture and religious beliefs. Explore the impact of Egyptian religion and culture on its art and the prevalence of symbolism.
136. A study of the Crusades (1095–1291)
The Crusades marked an important period in the middle ages where several expeditions were undertaken by multiple European kingdoms to retake Jerusalem from the Muslim Sultans. Several of these conflicts were either directed or aided by the Latin Church. Study the crusades and the impact they left on the kingdoms involved.
137. The Mongol Empire’s Rise (1206–1368)
After its establishment in 1206 by Genghis Khan, the Mongol empire grew to become history’s 2nd largest empire. Detail the historical events and battles that led to the empire’s rapid rise to world power. An analysis of the cultures within the
empire will also provide an added dimension to the research.
138. The Progressive Era and its impact on society (1897–1920)
The Progressive Era was ushered in by renewed consciousness and demands against government corruption, slavery, and child labor. It also heralded an age of women’s suffrage, becoming the prime focus for various activist movements. Explore what set the ball rolling for the Progressive Era and the strides brought forth until the start of the First World War.
139. The Edo Period in Japan (1603–1868)
The Edo Period in Japan was marked by strict social norms, internal peace, and strict isolationist norms from the larger world. Ruled by the Tokugawa Shogunate, Japan saw a lasting era of stability and a growth of arts and culture. Delve into the cultural, religious, societal, and military history of Japan during this period.
140. Reasons for the collapse of the Byzantine Empire
The collapse of the Byzantine Empire, following the fall of Constantinople in 1453, is regarded as one of the most significant historical events in the world. Discuss what led to the collapse of the Byzantine Empire and how it impacted the history of Europe at large.
Interesting Historical Questions to Address
History is riddled with questions waiting to be answered. Taking up a historical question for your research can help you provide new insights into the event’s understanding.
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141. What caused the fall of the Indus Valley Civilization?
142. What led to the English Civil War?
143. How did the Medical Revolution impact the world?
144. Why was the Iron Curtain created?
145. What was the result of urbanization in Medieval Europe?
146. What was Julius Caesar’s impact on Rome?
147. What was the fate of the Spanish Armada?
148. How was American family life impacted by the Great Depression?
149. How was the Industrial Revolution linked to immigration in the United States?
150. What led to the rise of the Ming Empire in China?
151. What was ancient Sumerian culture like?
152. What made the Battle of Fredericksburg significant?
153. What were the consequences of the 30 Years’ War?
154. What was the role of the Samurai in Japan?
155. Why was the Battle of the Bulge so important?
Biographic History Papers to Write
History papers and projects can also be based on great personalities of the past. Writing a biographical account of a historical figure can paint a unique picture of the era they lived in.
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156. Napoleon Bonaparte (1769–1821)
157. Mikhail Gorbachev (1931–2022)
160. Alexander the Great (356 BCE–323BCE)
Additional Historic Events to Explore
There’s always potential for exploring history further. Be it a forgotten event, or a formerly ignored personality. While they might require an in-depth reading, they’re certainly worth the effort when preparing a unique paper.
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161. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius (79 CE)
162. The Battle of Saratoga (1777)
163. The Gunpowder Plot (1605)
164. The Battle of Thermopylae (480 BCE)
165. Seven Years’ War (1756–1763)
Stick to the content of the topic and use straightforward language to put forth a paper that’s crisp and easy to read. While these topics might not be all the extant topics in history, they’re sure to give your paper an edge while bringing forth valid insights.
