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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.

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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.

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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.

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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30 Most Popular World History Essay Topics in 2020-2021

Essay topics may surprise everyone. Some are assigned by professors, while some are figments of the students’ imagination. However, when it comes to World History, one doesn’t have a very broad pool for choosing something non-trite. That’s where students feel bored and aren’t interested in writing.

Students who don’t like writing about World History tend to buy essays online written from scratch to minimize the burden of studying. Yet, if you still believe in mastering the essay DIY, this article covers the 30 most popular World History essay topics of 2020-2021 as well as tips on how to choose one for your preferences.

How to Choose the Essay Topic in World History

Even though this article may hint you at the topic, you should start by researching which one goes over well with your mood.

• Brainstorm the World History areas or fields that you find the most interesting ones . It means a topic that will get you hooked on the research. You won’t be bored but eager to learn something new and deliver it to the audience or your professor. Note, if you choose a topic that seems a burden to yourself, success is unlikely to happen, especially with your potential grade;
• Research the chosen topic . Learn how much evidence and facts you may find to make your essay interesting. Ask a professor for advice since they may tell you about the fields not covered by other students previously;
• Prepare sources . Once done with the choice, ensure to collect as many reliable sources as possible to show your dedication to writing.

By following these three steps, you are half of the way until submitting an interesting World History essay.

Note, some students may also play smart and find an essay sample online. They rewrite it and submit it as the original one. Such intentions are better to avoid since 1) you don’t practice and work out your brain but get a ready paper; 2) a professor may still find it plagiarized with designated tools. Moreover, feel free to check the standard evaluation of World History essays.

Now, the topics. Off we go!

Top 30 World History Topics for Essays

• Comparison of slavery in ancient times with modern times in African regions;
• Plaques that managed to destroy populations in Europe and Asia;
• Egyptians have hidden goals while building pyramids;
• Chinese Great Wall - convict-built protection;
• Indigenous tribes of America;
• How did World War 2 change the world?
• What could have been done to prevent World War 2?
• Japanese Yakuza - ancient and modern traditions;
• The best inventions of history that don’t have alternatives;
• Cuban history - Revolutions and Freedom;
• Cold War - positive and negative outcomes;
• The bloody history of the British Empire;
• Roman military forces - What made them be one of the greatest warriors?
• Islam beliefs in the modern world;
• Post-war in Vietnam outcomes for the population;
• Fashion history:  Women clothes in the 18th century;
• Roman vs British Empires comparison;
• Pol Pot’s cruelty in Cambodia;
• The Nazi mission to change the world;
• Top 3 historical figures that changed the world;
• Bizzare medicine in ancient times;
• Hippie culture - Do we need one now?
• Iran and Iraq war - What are the positive outcomes if there are any?
• Gender roles in American government in the 19th century;
• Pirates in Somali - Why and at What Cost?
• Colonization of Africa - Why African people struggle with basics until now?
• Soviet countries technology in 2021;
• Russia - Why is everyone scared of the country?
• Conquering space - American and Russian outcomes;
• Covid-19 - Is there any hope for a total cure?

These are examples. Based on any above-mentioned topic, you may find alternative topics. For instance, “Bizzare medicine in ancient times” - you may take Asian medicine or European medicine to write about. Otherwise, you may generally speak of the diseases of ancient times, and how people managed to survive them with holistic treatments.

How to Make World History Writing Interesting?

To help you discover as many inspirational moods as possible, think about turning to the following platforms:

Another method to make your essay flawless if you have enough time is to use social media. Don’t be surprised. For instance, you write about Hippie Culture in America, and you want more facts or interesting stories. Find the designated groups online where people share their love for this culture. These groups might be followed by senior representatives of the hippie movement, and you may directly ask them for some interesting stories. Such an approach to writing will be much appreciated by your professor. Beyond that, it is a non-trite way of writing that other students might not even think of.

Note, every fact that you add to your history essay should have a solid backup. If you cannot double-check the veracity of the fact, don’t add it. It concerns the dates, names, and outcomes. If you are not sure about one even specific date, round it or use the century just. However, it is always better to fill your paper with traceable facts that your professor may check anytime.

Finally, prior to submitting your essay in World History, ensure to check it with plagiarism tools. Even though you could write it on your own, some statements may look like the borrowed ones. Especially, it concerns the quotes. If so, you cannot prove after the professor that it is your creation written from scratch.

Feel free to choose any topic and master it until it is tasty to read. World History is not always a happy or interesting matter, however, you may change your audience’s opinion once and forever.

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200 Interesting World History Topics to Write About

If you are looking for a long list of original world history topics that you can use in 2022, you have arrived at just the right place. Our experienced writers have just finished updating the world history topics, so you can find unique ideas in no time. We have everything from world history term paper topics to ancient history research paper topics.

Choose Our World History Research Paper Topics

Are you prepared to read the 200 world history essay topics we have prepared for you? Simply scroll down through the different categories and find the best topics for you. Reword them as you see fit; you don’t need to give us any credit.

Interesting World History Topics

We will start our list with the most interesting topics we could find. Don’t hesitate to pick one of these interesting world history topics right now:

• The first use of weapons in Europe
• The colonization of South America
• Discuss relationships in Medieval Europe
• The abolition of slavery in the US
• The assassination of Abraham Lincoln
• The most powerful army of all times

World History Research Paper Topics

If you need to write a research paper about world history, you will be thrilled to learn that we have more than enough world history research paper topics right here:

• Major events in medieval Europe
• The age of discovery (the Middle Ages)
• Most important people of the 1600s
• Analyze the Gallipoli campaign
• The Holocaust during WW II
• Politics in 1700s Europe

AP World History Topics

Are you interested in writing AP world history essays? Our experts have put together a list of the best and most interesting AP world history topics:

• The development of a major culture
• The interaction between 2 major cultures
• The creation of an economic system
• The expansion of an economic system
• Humans and the surrounding environment
• The development of social structures

Art History Ideas

Talking about art history has the potential to impress your professor, so why not give it a try? We have some of the best art history ideas right here:

• The main motifs of medieval art
• Traditional Japanese wedding attires
• Analyze The Death of Sardanapalus
• The Rococo movement
• Light use in Sunrise by Monet
• Major elements of Gothic architecture
• Leonardo da Vinci’s religious motifs
• Traditional Chinese costumes

World History Project Topics

If you are tasked with doing a world history project, we can help you with some very nice ideas. Take a look at our world history project topics and pick the one you like:

• Uncovering the site of a major battle
• Make an archeological discovery
• Retracing the steps of the First Crusade
• Animating a WW II battle
• Describe tactics in a major ancient battle
• Putting ancient pottery fragments back together

World History Debate Topics

Are you preparing a debate? Then you need to find the best possible topic. To help you out, our ENL writers have compiled a list of the best world history debate topics:

• Comparing Roman and Greek civilizations
• The most influential leader of Rome
• The rise of fascism in Europe
• What caused WW I?
• Historicism vs. Presentism
• The crucifixion of Christ
• The negative influence of the Roman Empire
• Communist’s rise to power in China

World History Argumentative Essay Topics

If you need to write an argumentative essay, you are probably looking for the most interesting ideas. Take a look at these awesome world history argumentative essay topics:

• The travels of the Vikings
• Ancient Chinese philosophy
• Ancient Egypt’s effects on humanity
• The importance of Corinth in ancient times
• The greatest Roman leader: Octavian
• David Livingstone and his contribution to African culture
• What caused the Great Famine?
• China and gunpowder

World History Topic Ideas for High School

High school students should look for topics that are not overly complex. We’ve created a list of world history topic ideas for high school students. Take a look:

• The use of elephants in ancient wars
• Trebuchets and the mechanics behind them
• Were battering rams effective?
• The effects of The Inquisition on Europe
• Socialism: The Paris Commune
• Gods in Ancient Egypt
• Gods in Ancient Rome
• Gods in Ancient Greece

World History Before 1500 Paper Topics

Choose one of our awesome world history before 1500 paper topics and start writing your essay right away. Here are our best ideas:

• Discuss the Chaledean Empire
• Analyze the Neo-Babylonian Empire
• Discuss spoken language in 1000 AD
• Analyze the Neolithic Age
• Discuss irrigation in 1200 AD
• The invention of writing
• Discuss Zoroastrian cultures
• Discuss religions before 1000 AD. You can also check out our religion research paper topics .

20th Century World History Research Paper Topics

Wouldn’t it be great if you could find some unique 20th century world history research paper topics? Well, you will be thrilled to find out that we have some right here:

• Analyze one of the speeches of Martin Luther King
• The Vietnam War
• Nixon’s impeachment proceedings
• Nelson Mandela’s legacy
• The space exploration age
• Discuss Identity Politics
• Civil Rights in the US
• Major holocaust events

Good World History Research Paper Topics

Good good world history research paper topics are topics that are relatively easy to write about. You can find plenty of information online. Here are a few examples:

• Culinary delights during the Industrial revolution
• Aztec military tactics
• The great witch hunts of Europe
• Discuss Greece’s influence on Egypt
• Koryo Dynasty: Unifying Korea
• The failure of the Second Crusade
• The first Olympic Games

Ancient World History Research Paper Topics

Are you interested in writing a paper on ancient world history? We have plenty of interesting ancient world history research paper topics right here. Check them out:

• The rise of the Roman Empire
• The fall of the Roman Empire
• Greek city states
• The emergency of democracy in Greece
• Ancient African empires
• The Babylonian Empire
• The Persian Empire

European History Ideas

Why not write your paper about European history? We have some unique European history ideas below (and the list is updated periodically):

• The history of the Getae
• The expansion of the Dacians
• Analyze the League of Nations
• The legacy of WW I
• Totalitarian and imperialist movements in Europe
• The Golden age of piracy in Europe
• Nationalism in Europe in the 1700s

Modern World History Topics

Are you interested in writing about modern world history? Don’t hesitate to pick one of our modern world history topics and start writing your paper right away:

• Emergence of Daoism in China
• The Catholic Church in the 18th century
• The apparition of slavery in Africa
• The scientific revolution in Europe
• Major events of the Cold War
• The communist’s rise to power in Russia
• Communist leaders of China

World History Research Topics for College

If you enjoy doing research about world history, you might be interested in choosing one of our awesome world history research topics for college:

• The Battle of the Seas (Britain vs. Spain)
• The spread of Christianity
• An in-depth look at the French Revolution
• Fascism in the interwar period
• A critical look at the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact
• Innovations in World War II
• Major events of the First Global Age

War History Ideas

Are you interested in writing about war history? After all, wars have been an integral part of our history for thousands of years. Check out our excellent war history ideas:

• The US Civil War
• What caused the Holocaust?
• Discuss the Red Scare
• The Cold War
• Analyze the Mexican-American War
• The Schlieffen Plan
• Analyze the invasion of Poland by Germany

Ancient History Topics

Interested in ancient history? We are sure your professor will greatly appreciate a paper on one of these ancient history topics (all are free to use and excellent for 2022):

• Discuss the kingdoms of Ancient Egypt
• Compare Ancient Greece and Rome cultures
• Technology in Ancient Egypt
• The Spartan warrior’s caste
• The Golden Age of Greek city states
• Trading in the Mesoamerican space
• Tartessos and the El Dorado legend

Controversial World History Topics

You are not prohibited from writing about controversial topics. On the contrary, you are advised to give it a try. Take a look at our controversial world history topics:

• Discuss Pope Alexander VI
• The Highland Clearances in the Scottish Highlands
• Margaret Thatcher: The good, the bad, the ugly
• Native American slaughters in America
• The controversial Tenure of Office Act
• The controversial Scopes Monkey Trial
• The Tennessee Butler Act

Chinese History Topics

If you are passionate about the Chinese culture and want to learn more about their history, we advise you to pick one of these awesome Chinese history topics and start writing:

• The end of the Chinese Empire
• The role of women in 1500 China
• Discuss ancient Chinese philosophers
• China: Becoming a behemoth economy
• The Warring States period and the Qin dynasty
• Rome and China trade routes
• Chinese governance in Tibet
• Analyze The People’s Republic of China

Difficult World History Paper Topics

Do you want to challenge yourself? We are certain you will appreciate our difficult world history paper topics. Choose the best one and start working on your academic paper today:

• The way the Salve Codes have influenced American society
• The effects of the American Revolution on American society
• The role of women in America prior to 1900
• An in-depth look at women’s suffrage movement
• What triggered the Russo-Japanese war?
• The end of the Qing Dynasty
• The great revolutions of Russia
• Discuss the apparition of Korea
• The role of Constantinople in the rise of the Byzantine Empire

United States History Topics

We have a list of the best United States history topics. All topics have been updated a few days ago, so you will surely be able to find an original one. Here is the list:

• Truth and myths about the Puritans in the US
• Discuss the Salem witch trials
• The emergence of the first American colonies
• Discuss the Boston Tea Party
• Analyze the apparition of the Declaration of Independence
• Discuss the Boston Massacre
• George Washington’s contribution to the US
• Analyze the trade of tobacco in early America

French Revolution Topics

There are plenty of things to say about the French revolution. Take a look at these French revolution topics and choose the one you like the most:

• Discuss Seigneurialism
• Analyze The Third Estate
• Discuss the fall of Robespierre
• Analyze the Thermidorian Reaction
• The September Massacres
• The Vendee uprising
• The fall of the Bastille
• The October march on Versailles

Easy World History Topics to Write About

We are certain you don’t want to spend too much time writing the paper, so we did our best to come up with some pretty easy world history topics to write about:

• Discuss marriage in the Roman Empire
• The colonization of the Americas (one of the most interesting world history research topics)
• The link between the crusades and religion
• The beginning of the Thirty Years War
• First occurrence of apartheid in Africa
• Renaissance Humanism in Europe
• A short history of architecture in China

History Topics From Columbus to the 1800s

If you want to write about a specific period of history (or if your professor has asked you to do so), here are some interesting history topics from Columbus to the 1800s:

• First contact with Native Americans
• Hernando de Soto in America
• Who is Pocahontas?
• The first Anglo-Powhatan War
• The French-Indian War
• Native Americans in the Seven Years War
• The Battle of Bloody Run (one of the most interesting topics in world history)
• The Treaty of Holston

Medieval History Paper Topics

Are you tasked with writing a paper on medieval history? You will be thrilled to learn that our experts have put together a nice list of medieval history paper topics:

• Discuss Anna Comnena
• Discuss a medieval city in Europe
• Define and describe Falconry
• The crusades and the role of women
• Analyze Medieval English clothing
• The castles of India in medieval times (the best medieval history topics)
• Apprenticeship in medieval Europe

19th Century World History Research Topics

There are plenty of things to talk about when it comes to 19th century world history. Take a look at our 19th century world history research topics and pick one today:

• Discuss the Latin American independence
• The Meiji Restoration in Japan
• The Taiping Rebellion in China
• The fall of the Ottoman Empire
• Analyze Napoleon’s major campaigns
• The great revolutions of 1848 (awesome topics for world history)
• Discuss the abolitionist movement

Napoleon Research Paper Topics

Discussing the Napoleon period of French history can be captivating, if you find a great topic. Here are some pretty interesting Napoleon research paper topics as an example:

• Napoleon’s stance on the Jews
• Major Napoleon campaigns
• Napoleon’s reforms
• Analyze the French Revolution
• Napoleon: the military genius
• Napoleon’s leadership skills
• The rise of Imperialism in Europe
• The Russian campaign

If you need more ideas, don’t hesitate to contact us and ask “ write my thesis for me .” Our experts are ready to help you pick a decent topic, find relevant sources and even write your thesis.

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• A Research Guide
• Essay Topics

120 History Essay Topics

History essay topics: how to choose the perfect one, history argumentative essay topics:.

• The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society and the working class
• The causes and consequences of the American Civil War
• The role of women in the suffrage movement and their impact on society
• The significance of the French Revolution in shaping modern political ideologies
• The debate over the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II
• The influence of the Renaissance on European art, culture, and intellectual thought
• The reasons behind the rise and fall of the Roman Empire
• The impact of colonization on indigenous populations in Africa and the Americas
• The role of nationalism in the outbreak of World War I
• The effects of the Cold War on global politics and the division of the world into two superpowers
• The causes and consequences of the Great Depression in the United States
• The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II
• The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on racial equality in the United States
• The reasons behind the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany
• The debate over the historical accuracy of Christopher Columbus’s discovery of America

History Persuasive Essay Topics:

• The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society and the economy
• The significance of the American Revolution in shaping the modern world
• The causes and consequences of World War I
• The influence of the Renaissance on art, science, and culture
• The reasons behind the fall of the Roman Empire
• The impact of the French Revolution on political ideologies
• The consequences of the Cold War on global politics and the balance of power
• The significance of the Civil Rights Movement in achieving racial equality
• The causes and effects of the Great Depression on the global economy
• The role of imperialism in shaping the modern world
• The impact of the Enlightenment on political and social thought
• The reasons behind the rise and fall of ancient civilizations
• The influence of the Scientific Revolution on the development of modern science

History Compare and Contrast Essay Topics:

• Ancient Greece vs Ancient Rome: Comparing political systems
• The French Revolution vs the American Revolution: Analyzing causes and outcomes
• World War I vs World War II: Examining the impact on global politics
• The Renaissance vs the Enlightenment: Contrasting cultural and intellectual movements
• The Industrial Revolution in Britain vs the Industrial Revolution in the United States: Comparing economic and social changes
• The Cold War vs the Space Race: Analyzing the competition between the United States and the Soviet Union
• The Civil Rights Movement vs the Women’s Suffrage Movement: Comparing struggles for equality
• The Mongol Empire vs the Ottoman Empire: Contrasting imperial expansion and governance
• The Protestant Reformation vs the Catholic Counter-Reformation: Examining religious conflicts in Europe
• The Russian Revolution vs the Chinese Revolution: Analyzing communist uprisings
• The Atlantic Slave Trade vs the Transatlantic Slave Trade: Comparing the impact on African societies
• The American Civil War vs the Spanish Civil War: Contrasting causes and consequences of internal conflicts
• The Great Depression vs the Global Financial Crisis of 2008: Examining economic downturns
• The Age of Exploration vs the Age of Imperialism: Comparing European expansion and colonization
• The Holocaust vs the Rwandan Genocide: Contrasting genocides in different historical contexts

History Informative Essay Topics:

• The rise and fall of the Roman Empire
• The significance of the American Civil Rights Movement
• The origins and consequences of the French Revolution
• The role of women in ancient civilizations
• The impact of the Renaissance on art and culture
• The causes and effects of the Great Depression
• The colonization of Africa and its long-term effects
• The role of propaganda in World War II
• The history and impact of the Cold War
• The rise and fall of the Ottoman Empire
• The influence of ancient Greek philosophy on modern thought
• The history and significance of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• The causes and consequences of the Russian Revolution

History Cause Effect Essay Topics:

• The Causes and Effects of the French Revolution
• The Impact of World War I on the Rise of Totalitarianism
• The Causes and Consequences of the Industrial Revolution
• The Effects of the American Civil War on the Abolition of Slavery
• The Causes and Effects of the Great Depression
• The Impact of the Renaissance on European Exploration
• The Causes and Consequences of the Protestant Reformation
• The Effects of the Cold War on the Space Race
• The Causes and Effects of the Russian Revolution
• The Impact of the Enlightenment on the American Revolution
• The Causes and Consequences of the Spanish Inquisition
• The Effects of Imperialism on African Colonization
• The Causes and Effects of the Mexican Revolution
• The Impact of the Scientific Revolution on the Age of Enlightenment
• The Causes and Consequences of the Vietnam War

History Narrative Essay Topics:

• The Battle of Gettysburg: A Turning Point in the American Civil War
• The Life and Legacy of Cleopatra: The Last Pharaoh of Egypt
• The Great Depression: A Nation’s Struggle for Survival
• The Fall of the Roman Empire: Causes and Consequences
• The Trail of Tears: The Forced Removal of Native Americans
• The Industrial Revolution: Transforming Society and Economy
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: A Tense Standoff between the United States and Soviet Union
• The Holocaust: A Dark Chapter in Human History
• The Civil Rights Movement: Fighting for Equality and Justice
• The French Revolution: From Monarchy to Republic
• The Apollo 11 Moon Landing: A Giant Leap for Mankind
• The Salem Witch Trials: Hysteria and Injustice in Colonial America
• The Renaissance: A Cultural Rebirth in Europe
• The Partition of India: The Birth of Two Nations
• The Vietnam War: America’s Longest and Most Controversial Conflict

History Opinion Essay Topics:

• The impact of colonization on indigenous cultures
• The role of women in the American Civil Rights Movement
• The significance of the Industrial Revolution in shaping modern society
• The influence of religion on the Crusades
• The consequences of the Treaty of Versailles on World War II
• The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War I
• The impact of the French Revolution on the rise of nationalism
• The reasons behind the Salem Witch Trials
• The significance of the Renaissance in European history
• The consequences of the Cold War on global politics
• The role of technology in shaping the outcome of World War II
• The impact of the Great Depression on the rise of totalitarian regimes
• The reasons behind the abolition of slavery in the United States
• The influence of the Enlightenment on the American Revolution

History Evaluation Essay Topics:

• Evaluating the effectiveness of the Civil Rights Movement in achieving racial equality
• Assessing the role of women in World War II and their contribution to the war effort
• Evaluating the success of the New Deal in addressing the Great Depression
• The impact of the French Revolution on the rise of nationalism in Europe
• Assessing the significance of the Treaty of Versailles in causing World War II
• Evaluating the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War I
• The impact of the Cold War on the global balance of power
• Assessing the effectiveness of the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security
• Evaluating the impact of the Cuban Missile Crisis on the relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union
• The role of technology in shaping the outcome of World War I
• Assessing the impact of the Renaissance on the development of modern art and culture
• Evaluating the significance of the American Revolution in inspiring other independence movements around the world
• The impact of the Enlightenment on the development of democratic ideals
• Assessing the role of imperialism in shaping the modern world order

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512 History Essay Topics & Good Ideas

• Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
• Icon Page 4251 words
• Icon Clock 19 min read

History essay topics provide a wide range of subjects that cover different eras, cultures, and historical events. Some themes offer numerous opportunities for detailed exploration and robust discussions. These topics cover narratives from ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Romans, to modern-day conflicts and revolutions. Moreover, students can engage with topics, like the fall of the Roman Empire or the intricate dynamics of the French Revolution. Another area of focus can be the Industrial Revolution and its monumental impact on societal structures. More recent events, such as the World Wars, the Cold War, and the decolonization movement, also offer rich materials. Topics on non-Western history, including the dynastic periods in China, the Mughal era in India, and pre-colonial African societies, provide alternative viewpoints. Examining history through the lenses of gender, race, and culture can lead to a reevaluation of conventional narratives. In essence, history essay topics act as windows to the past, bridging it to the present, shedding light on patterns, errors, victories, and transformations that deepen the comprehension of the collective human experience.

Best History Essay Topics

• The Impact of the Printing Press on Renaissance Europe
• Unraveling the Mystery of the Bermuda Triangle
• Life and Legacy of Alexander the Great: An Exploration
• Hidden Meanings: The Symbolism in Egyptian Hieroglyphics
• Salem Witch Trials: Fear and Paranoia in 17th Century America
• Exploration and Impact of the Lewis and Clark Expedition
• Mysteries Surrounding the Construction of the Pyramids
• Understanding the Japanese Feudal System: A Comprehensive Study
• Viking Culture: Examining Myths and Reality
• Indian Independence: Non-Violence and the Role of Mahatma Gandhi
• Decoding the Dead Sea Scrolls: A Historical Investigation
• Origins and Influence of the Magna Carta in Modern Democracies
• Social Impacts of the Industrial Revolution on Victorian Britain
• Effects of Marco Polo’s Travels on Europe’s Perception of Asia
• Sparta vs. Athens: Differing Approaches to Greek City-States
• Human Sacrifices in Aztec Culture: Rituals and Beliefs
• The Formation of the Silk Road: Trade and Cultural Exchange
• World War I: The Aftermath and the Road to World War II
• The Enigma of the Roanoke Colony: America’s Lost Settlement
• Transformative Power of the American Civil Rights Movement
• Napoleon Bonaparte: Military Genius or the Tyrant of Europe?
• The Significance of the Ottoman Empire in World History

Easy History Essay Topics

• Mysteries of the Mayan Civilization: An Archaeological Perspective
• Hidden Treasures: Unearthing the Secrets of the Terracotta Army
• The Bubonic Plague: How Did It Shape Medieval Europe?
• The Mystery and History of Stonehenge: A Druidical Design?
• The Partition of India and Pakistan: A Human Tragedy
• The Influence of Roman Law on Modern Legal Systems
• Confucianism’s Impact on Chinese Society and Governance
• Russian Revolution: Causes and Consequences
• Joan of Arc: Heroine, Saint, or Heretic?
• The Birth of Democracy in Ancient Greece: A Critical Analysis
• Zulu Kingdom: The Rise and Fall
• The Role of Religion in the Crusades
• Uncovering the Origins of the Renaissance: A Thorough Analysis
• Transatlantic Slave Trade: A Dark Chapter in Human History
• The Mongol Empire: Influence and Expansion Under Genghis Khan
• Analyzing the Social Effects of Prohibition in the 1920s America
• Age of Discovery: Columbus and the New World
• Understanding the Holocaust: The Systematic Annihilation of Jews
• The Evolution of Samurai Culture in Feudal Japan
• The Cultural Revolution in China: Causes and Impact

Interesting History Essay Topics

• The Birth of Jazz in African American Communities
• The Berlin Wall: Symbol of Division and Its Fall
• Women’s Suffrage Movement: Struggle and Triumph
• Influence of the Byzantine Empire on Early Christianity
• The Legacy of Cleopatra: Egypt’s Last Pharaoh
• Fall of Constantinople: The End of the Byzantine Empire
• The Cultural Impact of the Harlem Renaissance
• Napoleon’s Invasion of Russia: A Military Disaster
• The Influence of Ancient Greek Philosophy on Western Thought
• The Spanish Inquisition: Its Impact on Religious Freedom
• Colonialism in Africa: Long-Term Effects and Consequences
• Humanism in the Renaissance: Its Influence and Importance
• The French Resistance in World War II: An Undercover War
• The Apollo Moon Landing: A Leap for Mankind
• The Role of Propaganda in Nazi Germany
• Migration and Settlement of the Vikings: A Historical Overview
• Rise of Fascism: Italy under Mussolini
• The Opium Wars: The Clash between the British Empire and China
• The Code of Hammurabi: An Examination of Ancient Babylonian Law

History Essay Topics for High School

• Significance of the Magna Carta in British History
• The Cultural Revolution: China’s Sociopolitical Shifts
• Spanish Armada: Triumphs, Tragedies, and Implications
• The Black Death: Disease, Destruction, and Aftermath in Medieval Europe
• Harriet Tubman: Freedom, Courage, and the Underground Railroad
• Trail of Tears: Native American Displacement and Resilience
• The Scientific Revolution: Unraveling Truths and Transforming Perspectives
• African Kingdoms: Wealth, Power, and Innovation
• Democracy’s Birth: Athenian Politics and Philosophy
• Samurai and Shoguns: Feudal Japan’s Hierarchy
• Roman Gladiators: Heroes, Horrors, and Historical Impacts
• Napoleon Bonaparte: Conquests, Reforms, and Downfall
• Slavery’s Legacy: The United States’ Struggle for Civil Rights
• Apartheid’s Shadows: South Africa’s Road to Reconciliation
• Women’s Suffrage Movement: Progress and Paradoxes
• Cuban Missile Crisis: Brinkmanship, Resolution, and Legacy
• Martin Luther’s Theses: Catalysts for the Protestant Reformation
• Aztec Civilization: Achievements, Fall, and Spanish Conquest
• Holocaust’s Horror: Unveiling the Shoah’s Realities
• Mughal Empire’s Magnificence: Culture, Conquests, and Contributions
• The Crusades: Religion, Conflict, and Historical Perspectives

History Essay Topics for Middle School

• The Renaissance: Catalyst for the Modern World
• Vikings’ Voyage: Discoveries, Culture, and Scandinavian Influence
• The Great Depression: Causes, Consequences, and Recovery
• The French Revolution: Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity’s Fight
• Stalin’s Reign: Policies, Purges, and WWII.
• Revolutionary War’s Effect on the American Identity
• Byzantine Empire: Crossroads of Culture and Trade
• Decolonization of Africa: Struggles, Triumphs, and Aftermath
• Incas’ Ingenuity: Empire Building in the Andes
• World War I: Catalysts, Combat, and Consequences
• Cold War’s Effects on Global Politics
• Mayans’ Mysteries: Understanding the Mesoamerican Civilization
• The Atomic Age: Nuclear Power’s Promise and Peril
• Egyptian Pharaohs: Dynasties, Deities, and Discoveries
• Revolutionary France’s Impacts on the Modern State
• War of 1812: Interpretations and Implications
• Babylonian Empire: Hammurabi, His Code, and Ancient Justice
• Formation and Fall of the Soviet Union
• Ming Dynasty’s Contributions to Chinese Culture and Exploration
• Prohibition Era: The Roaring Twenties and American Society

History Essay Topics for College Students

• The Evolution of Democracy: Ancient Greece to Modern Times
• Colonialism and its Impact on Modern African Nations
• Revolutionary Implications of the Magna Carta
• Evolution of Roman Military Tactics
• Cultural Shifts: Harlem Renaissance and African American Identity
• Impacts of the Industrial Revolution on Victorian Society
• Decolonization and Its Effects on Southeast Asia
• Medieval Chivalry: Ideals and Reality
• Witch Trials: Superstition and Society in Early Modern Europe
• Napoleon Bonaparte’s Strategies and Their Effect on Europe
• Apartheid in South Africa: Causes and Consequences
• American Prohibition: Intentions and Unforeseen Repercussions
• Influences of Renaissance Art on European Culture
• Silk Road: Trade, Culture, and Consequences
• The Great Depression: Causes, Impacts, and Recovery
• Influences of the Ottoman Empire on the Modern Middle East
• Tracing Communism: Russian Revolution to Cold War
• Unveiling Ancient Egypt: Myth, Culture, and Civilization
• Viking Age: Exploration, Expansion, and Culture
• The Enlightenment: Philosophers and Their Influences on Western Thought

History Essay Topics for University

• Holocaust: Tragedy, Human Rights, and Aftermath
• Atomic Age: Nuclear Power and Its Global Impact
• Civil War: Divisions and Reunions in the United States
• Reformation: Martin Luther’s Theses and Their Impact on Christianity
• Expansion of the Mongol Empire: Tactics and Influence
• French Revolution: Causes, Course, and Consequences
• The Crusades: Motives, Methods, and Historical Impact
• Native American Tribes: Cultures and Contributions Pre-Columbus
• Slavery Abolition: Global Perspectives and Implications
• The Space Race: Politics, Technology, and Achievements
• Holocaust Survivors: Stories, Memories, and Historical Importance
• Byzantine Empire: Rise, Fall, and Legacy
• Manifest Destiny and the American Westward Expansion
• Cold War Espionage: Tactics, Technology, and Impact
• European Exploration: Columbus, Magellan, and the Age of Discovery
• Women’s Suffrage: Struggles, Successes, and Effects
• Samurai Culture in Feudal Japan: Honor, Warfare, and Legacy
• Berlin Wall: Symbol of Division and Its Fall
• Partition of India: Causes, Violence, and Post-Colonial Impact
• The Influence of Religion on Medieval Europe
• Nineteenth-Century Imperialism: Justification, Exploitation, and Resistance

African History Topics

• Kingdoms of Ancient Africa: Egypt, Carthage, and Aksum
• Ethiopia’s Roles in the Early Christian Movement
• Mansa Musa and the Prosperity of the Mali Empire
• African Influence on Greek and Roman Civilizations
• Nubian Dynasties: Power Shifts Along the Nile
• Trade Networks: Trans-Saharan Routes’ Impact
• Zulu Nation’s Military Innovation and Imperial Expansion
• Slavery’s Devastating Effects on West Africa
• Pan-Africanism: Ideology, Impact, and Influential Figures
• Resistance Movements Against Colonial Rule in the 20th Century
• African Diaspora: Cultural Retentions and Transformations
• Maafa’s Legacy: Understanding the Atlantic Slave Trade
• Independence Movements: Ghana Leads the Way
• Genocide in Rwanda: Causes and Aftermath
• Cultural Practices: Ancient African Art and Architecture
• Kingdom of Zimbabwe: Origins of the Shona Civilization
• Women’s Roles in Pre-Colonial African Societies
• Berber Kingdoms and Their Impact on the Maghreb
• European Colonialism: Its Effects on the African Continent
• Ashanti Empire: Military Prowess and Cultural Contributions

Ancient History Topics

• Origins of the Mesopotamian Civilization: Sumerians and Cuneiform
• Advanced Engineering in the Ancient Egyptian Pyramids
• Roman Innovations in Law and Government
• Development of the Greek Polis: Athens and Sparta
• Mythologies’ Impacts on Ancient Greek Culture
• Influences of the Ancient Persians on Modern Culture
• Hebrews and the Formation of Early Monotheistic Religions
• Buddha’s Teachings and Their Transformation of Ancient India
• Inca Achievements in Agriculture and Infrastructure
• Aztec Rituals, Sacrifices, and Cultural Traditions
• Maya Scientific Discoveries: Astronomy and Mathematics
• Han Dynasty’s Contributions to Art and Literature
• Construction Techniques in the Ancient Roman Architecture
• Empires in the Fertile Crescent: The Babylonians, Assyrians, and Persians
• Pharaohs Rule in the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms of Egypt
• Bronze Age Aegean Civilizations: Minoans and Mycenaeans
• Democracy Evolution in Ancient Athens
• Trade Routes in the Ancient Mediterranean: Silk Road and Amber Road
• Carthaginian Power and the Punic Wars
• Transformative Ideas of Confucius and Ancient Chinese Philosophy
• Nomadic Invasions and Their Impact on Ancient Civilizations

Asian History Topics

• Evolution of Confucianism in Imperial China
• Impacts of Colonialism on Southeast Asia’s Socioeconomic Structure
• Samurai Culture and Feudal Japan
• Ming Dynasty’s Maritime Expeditions
• Roles of Buddhism in the Khmer Empire
• Mongol Empire’s Influence on Eurasian Trade
• Korean Peninsula’s Struggle for Independence Post World War II
• Silk Road: Trade and Cultural Exchange
• Roles of Islam in Shaping Mughal India
• Sukarno Era’s Impacts on Indonesia’s Political Landscape
• Rise and Fall of the Maurya Empire in Ancient India
• Comparative Study: Chinese Tang and Song Dynasties
• Development of Writing Systems in Ancient China
• Indus Valley Civilization: Society, Economy, and Religion
• Meiji Restoration’s Contributions to Japan’s Modernization
• Siam Kingdom’s Resistance to Colonial Rule
• Roles of Women in Ancient and Medieval Asian Societies
• Ottoman Influence on Southeast European and Middle Eastern History
• Influence of Persian Culture on Ancient Indian Civilizations
• Terracotta Warriors: Art, Craftsmanship, and Legacy in Ancient China

Cultural History Essay Topics

• Influence of Shakespearean Drama on Elizabethan Society
• The Harlem Renaissance: Catalyst for African American Cultural Identity
• Evolution of Japanese Tea Ceremonies: Beyond Aesthetics
• Impressionism’s Impact on French Society During the 19th Century
• Cultural Shifts Encouraged by the American Beat Generation
• Byzantine Art: Reflection of Spiritual and Political Power
• Mayan Hieroglyphics: Decoding Cultural Narratives
• Industrial Revolution’s Effect on Victorian-Era Fashion
• Silent Cinema: A Catalyst for 1920s American Pop Culture
• Renaissance Humanism: Transformation of European Intellect
• Cultural Syncretism: Fusion in Afro-Caribbean Music
• Flamenco’s Role in Forming Andalusian Identity
• Expression of Greek Ideals in Classical Architecture
• Modernism’s Influence on Post-World War I Literature
• Indigenous Mythologies: Shaping of Pre-colonial Australian Culture
• The Enlightenment: Precursor to French Revolutionary Ideals
• Turkish Coffee: Symbol of National Identity and Hospitality
• The Ming Dynasty: Patronage of Chinese Porcelain Artistry
• Irish Folklore: Fabric of Societal Beliefs and Customs
• Migration Stories Depicted in Mexican Muralism
• The American Civil Rights Movement: Catalyst for Cultural Change

Economic History Essay Topics

• Industrial Revolution: Determinants and Impact on Modern Economics
• Adam Smith and the Influence of The Wealth of Nations on Modern Economic Thought
• Colonialism: Exploitation and Economic Growth in European Empires
• Japanese Economic Miracle: Post-World War II Recovery and Lessons Learned
• Keynesian Economics: Roots and Role in Shaping the Post-Depression Era
• Free Market Economy: Milton Friedman’s Contributions and Influences
• Bretton Woods System: Its Role in Shaping the International Monetary Order
• China’s Transition From a Centrally Planned Economy to a Market Economy: Steps and Challenges
• Mercantilism: Understanding its Principles and Effects on European Economic Growth
• Gold Standard: Its Rise, Fall, and Effects on Global Economies
• Silicon Valley: The Evolution and Economic Impact of the Tech Industry
• Slave Trade: Its Role in the Evolution of Global Economics
• Eurozone Crisis: Causes, Impacts, and Solutions
• OPEC and the Global Oil Economy: Formation, Influence, and Impact
• Global Financial Crisis of 2008: Causes, Consequences, and Prevention Strategies
• Russian Transition: Post-Soviet Economic Reforms and Outcomes
• The Marshall Plan: Significance and Impact on European Post-War Recovery
• American Great Depression: Causes, Impact, and Government Response
• Globalization: Its Historical Evolution and Economic Implications
• Subprime Mortgage Crisis: Lessons Learned and Policy Implications

European History Topics

• Rise of Feudalism in Medieval Europe
• Black Death’s Impact on the 14th-Century Society
• Enlightenment’s Influence on Political Thought
• French Revolution’s Effect on European Politics
• Italian Renaissance: A Cultural and Artistic Shift
• Reformation’s Roles in Shaping Modern Christianity
• Napoleon Bonaparte’s Conquest and the French Empire
• Industrial Revolution’s Transformation of European Economies
• Formation and Impact of the European Union
• Two World Wars: Causes and Consequences
• Emergence of Modern Democracy: The Magna Carta
• Cold War: Europe’s Role and Responses
• Ottoman Empire’s Interactions With European Powers
• Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire
• Age of Exploration: Europe’s Global Influence
• Holocaust: A Dark Chapter in 20th-Century Europe
• Byzantine Empire: Constantinople’s Flourishing Culture
• Spanish Inquisition’s Impact on Religion and Society
• Viking Raids: Exploring Their Influence on Europe
• Hundred Years’ War: English and French Power Struggles
• Transition From Monarchies to Democracies in Europe

Historiographical Topics

• Influence of Marxism in Modern Historiography: An Exploration
• Decolonial Approaches: Reshaping Historical Interpretations
• Postmodernist Perspectives: Challenges to Traditional History
• Women’s Voices in History: The Evolution of Gender Studies
• Oral Traditions: Advancements in Indigenous Historiography
• Subjective Reality: The Role of Memory in Constructing History
• Imperial Power: European Colonial Histories Revisited
• Interdisciplinary Approaches: Melding History With Sociology
• Comparative History: The Synthesis of Regional Perspectives
• Counterfactual Thinking: Exploring Alternate Historical Pathways
• Textual Analysis: Unveiling Sociocultural Dimensions in Historical Studies
• Evolution of Diplomatic Historiography: Power, Politics, and Peace
• Material Culture: The Archaeological Method in Historiography
• Holocaust Studies: Examining Methodologies and Debates
• Military History: Strategy, Tactics, and Societal Impact
• Biographical Approach: Unpacking Individual Influence on History
• Microhistory: Magnifying Minute Historical Details
• Economic History: Capitalism and Its Historical Context
• Nationalist Narratives: Critiques and Reinterpretations
• Cultural History: Unraveling the Fabric of Societies
• Global History: Understanding Interconnected Histories and Cultures

History Essay Topics in Science & Medicine

• Revolutionary Impacts of the Discovery of Penicillin
• Einstein’s Theory of Relativity and Its Influences on Modern Science
• Vaccination Development: Polio Vaccine and Its Effect on Global Health
• Contributions of Marie Curie to Radioactivity
• Influence of the Manhattan Project on 20th-Century Scientific Developments
• Advancements in DNA Sequencing: A Historical Perspective
• Medical Ethics: Case Study of the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment
• Human Genome Project: Its Repercussions on Modern Medicine
• Apollo Moon Landing: Significance in Technological Advancements
• Era of AI: Turing’s Test and the Dawn of Machine Learning
• Technological Innovations During World War II: Radar and Cryptography
• Advances in Cardiac Surgery: The First Heart Transplant
• Public Health Initiatives: The Elimination of Smallpox
• Telecommunications Evolution: From Morse Code to 5G Networks
• Nikola Tesla’s Contributions to Electrical Engineering
• Nanotechnology Developments: Feynman’s Concept to Current Applications
• Progression of Neurosurgery: Harvey Cushing’s Legacy
• Probing Into Atomic Theory: Niels Bohr’s Quantum Model
• Impacts of Cybernetics on Modern Science and Medicine
• Exploration of Black Holes: Hawking’s Theoretical Contributions

History Topics in Technology

• Revolutionizing Medicine: The Impact of Biotechnology
• The Journey of Mobile Phones: From Luxuries to Necessities
• The Emergence of Cryptocurrencies: Understanding Blockchain Technology
• Computing Power: Decoding the Rise of Quantum Computers
• Reshaping Communication: A Study of Social Media Platforms
• Transportation Transformed: The Advent of Electric Vehicles
• Photographic Pioneers: A History of Digital Cameras
• Software Evolution: The Shift From Proprietary to Open Source
• Rise of Robotics: Unfolding the Age of Automation
• Space Exploration: Innovations in Satellite Technology
• Unraveling E-Commerce: A Chronicle of Digital Marketplaces
• Cybersecurity Developments: Safeguarding the Digital World
• Advancements in Renewable Energy: The Legacy of Solar Panels
• Augmented Reality: Tracing Its Developmental Path
• History of Video Games: From Arcades to Virtual Reality
• Human Genome Project: A Leap in Biomedical Tech
• From Typewriters to Word Processors: A Digital Revolution
• Computer Graphics: An Evolutionary Perspective
• Fiber Optics: Unveiling Its Journey of Innovation
• 3D Printing: Understanding Its Historical Developments
• Nanotechnology Advances: Revolutionizing Material Science

Medieval History Essay Topics

• Chivalry’s Impact on Medieval Social Structures
• The Black Death’s Effect on European Economic Systems
• Monastic Life’s Role in Preserving Knowledge During the Middle Ages
• Architectural Evolution: From Romanesque to Gothic Styles
• Feudalism’s Influence on Medieval Political Landscapes
• Women’s Status and Roles in Medieval Society
• Medieval Education: The Rise of Universities in Europe
• Crusades’ Effect on East-West Relations and Trade
• The Power of the Catholic Church in Medieval Europe
• Knights and Their Code of Honor: An In-Depth Analysis
• Medieval Literature: Exploring Themes and Moral Messages
• Advances in Medical Practice During the Middle Ages
• Castles as a Reflection of Medieval Defensive Techniques
• Daily Life of Peasants in the Medieval Period
• Analysis of the Magna Carta’s Influence on English Law
• Medieval Art: Illuminated Manuscripts and Their Cultural Significance
• Exploration of Courtly Love in Medieval Poetry
• Monarchs’ Authority: The Divine Right of Kings During the Middle Ages
• Impacts of the Hundred Years War on France and England
• Roles of the Inquisition in Maintaining Church Power

Middle Eastern History Topics

• Rise of Islam in the Arabian Peninsula
• Impacts of the Crusades on Muslim-Christian Relations
• Persian Empire’s Influence on Modern Iran
• Creation and Expansion of the Ottoman Empire
• Evolution of Arabic Literature and Poetry
• Cairo’s Transformation Into an Islamic Cultural Center
• Establishment and Development of the Silk Road
• Ottoman Empire’s Collapse and the Birth of Modern Turkey
• Influence of the Abbasid Caliphate on the Islamic Golden Age
• Evolution and Impact of the Zionist Movement
• Historical Analysis of the Israel-Palestine Conflict
• Sassanid Empire’s Contribution to Persian Art and Culture
• Impacts of the Petroleum Industry on Gulf Countries
• Investigation of Ancient Egyptian Religion and Mythology
• Byzantine Empire’s Legacy in the Middle East
• Scientific Advancements During the Islamic Golden Age
• Arabian Peninsula’s Roles in Spice Trade Routes
• Transition From Ottoman Rule to French Mandate in Syria
• Examination of the Iranian Islamic Revolution
• Life and Rule of Saladin During the Ayyubid Dynasty
• Migration Patterns of Ancient Semitic Peoples

Military History Essay Topics

• Analyzing Leadership Strategies in The Battle of Waterloo
• Causes and Consequences of the Napoleonic Wars
• Lessons From the Vietnam War: Guerilla Tactics and Counterinsurgency
• Transformation of Battlefield Medicine From the American Civil War to Today
• Intelligence Operations and Their Role in the Cold War
• The Siege of Leningrad: Civilians in the Crossfire
• Revolutionary Tactics: The Military Innovations of Alexander the Great
• Ethical Implications of Atomic Bombings in World War II
• Combat Psychology: Understanding PTSD in Veterans of the Iraq War
• The French Resistance: Unconventional Warfare in World War II
• Evolution of Military Strategy: Sun Tzu to Modern Warfare
• The Korean War: Impact of International Intervention
• Women in the Military: Roles and Challenges from World War II Onwards
• Spartan Warriors: The Role of Discipline and Training in Ancient Warfare
• Codebreakers: Cryptography’s Influence on World War II Outcomes
• Military Implications of Space Exploration During the Cold War
• Amphibious Warfare: An Analysis of D-Day Invasion
• Insurgency and Counterinsurgency: Lessons From the Afghan War
• Defense Policies and Their Role in the Cold War Détente
• The Art of Siege Warfare: A Study of the Crusades

Modern History Topics

• Evolution of Democratic Institutions in Europe Post WWII
• Rise of Feminism: The Second Wave Movement
• Emergence of Neo-Liberalism: A Global Perspective
• Nuclear Weapons Development: Ethical Considerations
• End of Apartheid: Mandela’s Legacy in South Africa
• Consequences of Decolonization in Africa
• Confluence of Technological Advancements and Warfare
• Indian Independence: The Non-Violence Path
• Impacts of the Internet Revolution on Global Communication
• Formation and Dissolution of Yugoslavia
• Legacy of Nelson Mandela: South African Democracy
• Deciphering the Arab-Israeli Conflict
• Unveiling the Causes of the Rwandan Genocide
• Collapse of Soviet Union: Global Consequences
• Chornobyl Disaster: Ecological and Societal Aftermath
• Examination of the Cuban Missile Crisis
• Effects of Globalization on National Identities
• Rise of China: Economic and Political Implications
• Birth of European Union: A Journey Toward Integration
• Changing Landscapes: Post-Industrial Revolution Transformations
• Decoding the Iran-Contra Affair: International Ramifications

History Essay Topics in Music

• Evolution of Jazz: A Century’s Journey
• Pivotal Roles of Beethoven in Classical Music’s Transformation
• Impacts of Social Issues on the Songs of the 1960s
• Bach’s Influence: Baroque Music and Beyond
• The Beatles: Revolutionizing the Pop Music Scene
• Music in Ancient Civilizations: A Comparative Study
• Indigenous Music: Richness and Diversity in Native Cultures
• Punk Rock: An Anthem for Discontented Youth
• Hip-Hop: A Medium for Sociopolitical Discourse
• Opera’s Development: Dramatic Shifts From 17th Century Onwards
• Country Music: An Echo of Rural America
• Reggae: Bob Marley’s Legacy and Influence
• Wagner’s Operas: Romanticism, Nationalism, and Beyond
• Electronic Music’s Rise: A Technological Marvel
• Development of the Symphony: Haydn to Mahler
• Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring: Shattering Musical Conventions
• Motown Records: Shaping the Sound of Soul
• Flamenco’s History: From Gypsy Songs to Global Phenomenon
• Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan: Reshaping Qawwali Music
• Blues Transition: From Delta to Chicago

History Topics for Persuasive Essays

• Influence of Queen Elizabeth I on English Renaissance
• Substantial Impacts of the Black Death on European Society
• Roles of Harriet Tubman in the Underground Railroad
• Byzantine Empire’s Contributions to Modern Architecture
• Atomic Bombing Decisions: Justified or Inhumane?
• Cultural Exchange during Marco Polo’s Journey to the East
• Revolutionary Effects of Martin Luther’s 95 Theses
• Necessity of Crusades: Religious Devotion or Power Struggle?
• Renaissance Humanism and Its Role in Modern Education
• Mongolian Empire’s Influence on Eurasian Trade
• Success of Non-Violent Movements: Mahatma Gandhi’s Approach
• French Revolution: Catalyst for Global Democracy?
• Feminism’s Evolution and Impact Throughout History
• Contributions of the Islamic Golden Age to Modern Science
• Impacts of Napoleon Bonaparte’s Rule on France
• African Civilizations: Misconceptions and Undervalued Contributions
• American Civil Rights Movement: Effect on Current Race Relations
• Discoveries and Controversies Surrounding Christopher Columbus
• Significant Cultural Developments During the Meiji Restoration
• Aztec Civilization: Mesoamerican Contributions to Modern Society

History Topics in Social Studies

• Rise of Industrialization in Europe
• Exploration of the New World: The Columbus Voyage
• Impacts of the Great Depression on the Global Economy
• Ancient Greece: Origin of Democracy
• Egyptian Civilization: Contributions to Society and Culture
• Influence of Roman Law on Modern Legal Systems
• American Civil Rights Movement: Changes and Consequences
• Evolution of the European Union: A Historical Perspective
• Indigenous Peoples of the Americas: Cultures and Conflicts
• Migration Patterns during the Dust Bowl
• Chinese Cultural Revolution: Causes and Effects
• French Revolution: Seeds of Change
• Ottoman Empire’s Expansion: Impact on Europe
• Enlightenment Era: Shift in Human Thought
• Indian Independence Movement: Struggle and Success
• African Empires: Wealth, Power, and Trade
• World War I: Unforeseen Consequences
• Samurai and Shogun: Power Dynamics in Feudal Japan
• The Crusades: Religion and Politics Intertwined
• Viking Raids: Influence on Europe

Women’s History Topics

• Transformation of Gender Roles during the Industrial Revolution
• Suffragette Movement’s Influence on Modern Feminism
• Women in Ancient Civilizations: Greece and Rome
• The Role of Queens in Medieval Europe
• Madame Curie’s Contributions to Science
• Advancement of Women’s Rights in the 21st Century
• Rosa Parks: An Icon of Civil Rights
• Hidden Figures: African American Women in NASA
• Contributions of Women to the Impressionist Art Movement
• The Second Wave: Feminism in the 1960s
• Pioneering Women in American Politics
• Eleanor Roosevelt’s Influence on Social Policy
• Changing Perceptions of Women in Advertising
• Emily Dickinson: Recluse Poet, Revolutionary Thinker
• Women’s Labor Movement in the Late 19th Century
• Challenges Faced by Women in STEM Fields
• Billie Jean King: Breaking Barriers in Tennis
• Coco Chanel: Revolutionizing Women’s Fashion
• Contributions of Women to the Harlem Renaissance
• Historical Milestones in Women’s Sports

World History Essay Topics

• Revolution’s Role: How Did the French Revolution Shape Modern Europe?
• Renaissance Ripples: Impact of the Italian Renaissance on European Art and Culture
• Eastern Influence: Spread and Impact of Buddhism Across Asia
• African Awakening: The Decolonization and Independence Movements in 20th-Century Africa
• Rome’s Reach: The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire
• Crusades’ Consequences: Long-Term Effects of the Medieval Crusades on the Middle East
• Genghis Khan’s Legacy: The Mongolian Empire’s Influence on Eurasia
• Globalization’s Genesis: The Age of Exploration’s Effect on World Trade
• American Ideals: The Influences Behind the US Constitution
• Hitler’s Reign: A Study of the Holocaust and World War II
• Colonization’s Toll: The Long-Lasting Effects of British Imperialism in India
• Technological Triumph: Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Society
• Marxism’s Manifestation: The Russian Revolution and the Rise of Soviet Communism
• Atomic Anxiety: The Cold War and the Threat of Nuclear Annihilation
• Byzantium’s Brilliance: The Cultural and Political Impact of the Byzantine Empire
• Arab Advances: The Golden Age of Islamic Civilization and Its Contributions to Science
• Samurai Significance: The Influence of the Samurai Code on Feudal Japan
• Slavery’s Scars: The Transatlantic Slave Trade and Its Impacts on Africa and Americas
• Ottoman Order: The Establishment and Influence of the Ottoman Empire
• Spartan Strategy: Military Tactics and Society in Ancient Sparta
• Colonial Contest: French and English Rivalry in the New World

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History Essay Topics: 50+ Interesting Ideas to Get You Started

by  Antony W

June 9, 2024

For a history essay, your professor may ask you to describe a person, analyze an event, give an overview of a context, or argue about something historical. The first step to complete the assignment is to analyze several topics and pick an idea to explore.

Your history essay can be on anything you find interesting, as long as it falls within the scope of the assignment brief. You can focus on less known yet significant historical events or controversial issues that span from the ancient times to this present day.

Let’s see some examples of history topics that are no doubt a good fit for an essay assignment.

50+ History Essay Topics

We understand how difficult brainstorming can be, especially for last-minute essays . So here are at least 50 essay topic ideas to make the ideation stage easy to navigation.

World History Essay Topics

• How the Mongol Empire left an indelible mark on world history and the regions it conquered
• How the spread of Christianity influence global history and cultural development
• The effects of Islam on the Middle East and its influence beyond the region
• How the Silk Road served as a vital link between Eastern and Western civilizations
• How European exploration and colonization affect the indigenous societies of the Americas
• The causes and far-reaching consequences of the Black Death in shaping European history
• The origins and key impacts of the Renaissance in transforming Europe
• How the rise and fall of the Aztec and Inca empires shaped the Americas
• What were the root causes and extensive consequences of World War II ?
• What was the significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall in the context of world history?
• How Confucianism influenced the culture and societal norms of China
• What were the impacts of European imperialism on the societies of Africa and Asia?

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History Argumentative Essay Topics

An argumentative topic requires you to choose a topic, pick a side, consider the opposing argument, and then use the strongest rebuttal to counterclaim the opposing arguments. Here are some interesting ideas that are good fit for history: 

• Did the Great Depression shape the United States’ economic and social landscapes?
• Does the French Revolution hold any significance in the annals of world history?
• Did Russian Revolution reverberate through global history and influence subsequent political ideologies?
• Did the Civil Rights Movement reshape American society and its values?
• Did women play any role during the American Revolution?
• Is there evidence that the Renaissance transformed the European culture and society during its era?
• Did slavery fundamentally shape the trajectory and development of the American economy?
• Has apartheid in South Africa has long-lasting effect on the nation’s history and society?
• Was the Marshall Plan effective in revitalizing and reconstructing Europe post-World War II?
• How the Industrial Revolution affects the living conditions of the working class in various regions
• Did Cold War have a lasting effect on global politics and society during and after its duration?
• Did the Enlightenment era contribute to shaping Western thought and values?

American History Essay Topics

• The key catalysts behind the American Revolution and the way it shaped the nation’s trajectory
• How women contributed to and influenced the American Civil War and the long-term impacts of their involvement
• The profound effects of the Great Depression on various aspects of American life and society
• What motivated American involvement in World War I, and what were the repercussions of this engagement?
• How the Cold War era affected American culture and politics
• How the United States’ role in the Vietnam War shaped domestic policies and public perception of international conflicts
• How has American foreign policy evolved and shifted since World War II, and what were the driving factors behind these changes?
• What lasting effects did Ronald Reagan’s presidency have on the political landscape and governance in the United States?
• How did the Watergate scandal influence American political history and public trust in government?
• How has the role and decisions of the Supreme Court influenced social and legal changes in American society?
• What profound societal changes did the Industrial Revolution bring to American life and economy?

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Ancient History Topics

• What were the primary factors leading to the outbreak of the American Civil War, and how did they contribute to the conflict?
• How did the French Revolution unfold, and what were its main causes and lasting impacts on France and the world?
• What were the key elements that characterized Ancient Rome’s culture, governance, and influence on world history?
• What qualities and circumstances made Hitler an influential leader, and what impact did he have on Germany and the world?
• What were the root causes and significant events of China’s civil war, and how did it shape the nation’s trajectory?
• What was the significance of pyramids in Ancient Egypt and what role did they play in society, religion, and culture?
• How did social injustices manifest in France and what were the consequences during specific historical periods?
• What were the underlying causes and far-reaching effects of the Great Recession on global economies and societies?
• How did the feudal system operate, and what were its social, economic, and political implications?
• How monarchies structured in ancient Britain and their impacts on governance and society

Black History Topics

• How the legacy of slavery shape the ongoing struggle for civil rights in America
• The significance of the Black Lives Matter movement in addressing contemporary racial injustices
• How African-American authors used their works to portray and analyze the institution of slavery
• The cultural and societal significance of the Harlem Renaissance for African-American communities
• How social injustices manifested during the period of slavery and their enduring effects
• The life and historical impact of Frederick Douglass in the fight against slavery and for civil rights
• How the civil rights movement evolved over time and its key turning points
• How racism persists and manifests in modern society

About the author 

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Argumentative History Essay Topics

Published by Ellie Cross at June 7th, 2022 , Revised On November 3, 2023

The challenge of writing an argumentative essay is trickier than many students might imagine. Many people around us believe that sarcastic and offensive content are the foundations of good arguments. Well, that’s not entirely true. A convincing argument is grounded in facts, not emotions. It remains valid and compelling.

A perfect argumentative history essay contends that the idea presented by the author is true and conclusive. In an argumentative history essay, the writer aims to persuade the readers with evidence and facts.

A good persuasive history essay topic grabs the reader’s attention while allowing you to write persuasively. The more contentious the topic, the more it stands out, making it easier to take a firm stand.

You will find that a new opinion, perspective, and admiration for your writing talent will emerge after people read about controversial topics. So, this blog post presents many argumentative history essay topics to help you get started with your history assignment.

History is an intriguing subject fraught with enigmas, mysteries and contradictory opinions. Whilst drafting a history essay may sound challenging, particularly if one does not believe themselves to be a skilled writer, it is not as tough as most people assume.

Indeed, it can be a fun-filled activity to compose an argumentative history essay. However, finding a robust history topic is paramount in ensuring that you thoroughly enjoy the work and produce an excellent piece. Here are some of the best topics for an argumentative history essay that you can use to hook your readers.

Also Read: How to Write an Essay 

Argumentative History Topics

The era of good feeling.

This topic will focus on the history of the Napoleonic Wars and the War of 1812. The United States, under the administration of President Monroe, experienced a period in its political history that epitomised a sense of nationhood and an aspiration for unity among Americans.

A Retrospective of the History of the 1812 War

The French Revolutionary Wars (1792-99) and the Napoleonic Wars (1799-1815) led to the strains that culminated in the War of 1812. Throughout this almost perpetual war between France and Britain, the attempts of both countries to dissuade the United States from trading with the other harmed American interests.

An Analysis of The Factors That Led to The Fall of The Western Roman Empire

This essay will explore the possible factors of the fall of the western roman empire. Irrespective of the actual cause, be it religion, a foreign incursion or the domestic deterioration of the city, the topic still interests academicians and researchers from around the world. The decline and fall of the Western Roman Empire occurred exclusively in the west. The eastern part, which would later become known as the Byzantine Empire, survived the centuries and retained a distinctly Roman character in many ways.

A Glimpse of The Reasons for NATO’s Formation

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is one of the most important international institutions globally. This essay aims to shed light on NATO’s main objectives, which countries are members of it and how they make their decisions.

A Brief Summary of World War I

Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia on 28 July 1914, which marked the beginning of the First World War. At first glance, it seems to be an insignificant battle between the two countries. Still, it is interesting to note how quickly the conflict got Germany, Russia, the United Kingdom, and France involved due to treaties that pledged them to defend certain other states.

Also Read: Argumentative Culture Essay Topics 

The Impact of the World War I On the Social Status of Women

Many people believe that World War I was one of the most pivotal incidents changing women’s role and status today. In this topic, we will try to broach all the salient points and conclude whether World War I actually changed the position and status of women and whether it still impacts us today.

Women and World War I

This topic aims to highlight women’s contributions during World War I. Women worked in different industrial and agricultural sectors while millions of men served their country. Many other women served at the front as nurses, doctors, ambulance drivers, translators, and combatants.

American History Argumentative Essay Topics

Are you struggling to find amazing argumentative essay ideas on American history? Take it easy! You are about to discover some great essay topics on American history.

Topics Related to the American Civil War

Several personalities and occurrences precipitate a civil war at the national and international levels. The topics will focus on them and their consequences.

• Did women play a significant role in the Civil War?
• How did the Civil War improve the United States?
• Should the Civil War’s losers be commemorated or mourned?
• Is there a difference between Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis, a leader?
• Was Britain’s participation in the Civil War insignificant?
• Was the Mexican War the Civil War’s first battle?
• Was the Civil War primarily motivated by economic or moral concerns?
• What were the main points of contention between the North and the South?
• Who benefited more from the 1850 Compromise: The North or the South?

Also read: Criminal Law Essay Topics

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American Industrial Revolution

Industries exert a substantial impact, both economically and socially. Concentrate on this particular connection, as it has remained crucial from the past until the present.

• Was it true that the industrial revolution had given birth to urbanisation?
• How much impact did the 1830 reform law have on the industrial revolution?
• To what extent did the industrial revolution raise living standards?
• What sparked the industrial revolution, and why did it happen?
• Is it true that the industrial revolution was good for the common person?
• What was the darkest aspect of the industrial revolution?
• What role did women play throughout the industrial revolution?

Argumentative Religion and History Essay Topics

How did religion change the modern world.

Religion is inextricably linked to faith. The modern world is very difficult to comprehend if one doesn’t realise the implications of religious belief,” Tony Blair said at a religious foundation. Millions after millions of people are motivated, incentivised, organised, and integrated by this religion. This essay will explore all the effects of faith on the world today.

Also Read: Controversial Essay Topics 

Topics Related to Colonisation in History 

An exploration of the british domination in the colonies.

This topic is primarily about exploring what British rule was like in the colonies. Even though each colony had its administration, the British king was in charge of all of them. In the 1770s, many colonists were angry because they lacked self-government. They could not govern themselves or make their laws.

Impact of British Colonization on Kenya

Kenya’s religion and culture, education and governance were all affected by British colonisation. In Kenya, British colonialism significantly impacted African religion and culture. The topic will help you to study its detailed history about it.

Understanding the Roots of The Conflict Between the American Colonies and Great Britain

The American Revolution took different stands against English colonisation and other European invaders. In general, the colonies were tired of the impositions and control of the European masters, who changed frequently and were sometimes irrational in implementing the colonialists’ intentions.

Through The British Administration of Colonialism, The United States Has Had a Long History of Taxation.

This topic is the inaugural in a series looking at the colonial roots of America.

The British Aided the Defeat of Nazi Germany During World War II

Let’s discover what the major part played Britain in its victory over Nazi Germany was?

The Proliferation of Populism and Ideology Over the Holocaust

During the Holocaust, populism and ideology were visible in different phases. This discussion aims to define populism and ideology. How did they fare through the Holocaust?

Taxation. It will give an overview of America’s first Century of colonial tax.

Industrial Revolution and World progress during the 18th and 19th Century

Writing an essay on this topic aims to know about the 18th and 19th centuries when the Industrial Revolution positively impacted the world. This included the increase in wealth, the creation of goods and the rise in living standards. People had better meals, nicer homes and cheaper items. In addition, schooling increased greatly during the Industrial Revolution.

Also Read: Argumentative Business Essay Topics

Topics Related to Historical Arts, Culture and Society

• The various transformations in the American way of life
• The Harlem renaissance people, art and literary movement
• The downward trajectory of society in America
• White superiority issues in the American society
• A look at the changes in the Texan economy, population and culture from 1876 to 1990.
• An oversight on the expansion of the society in America

More Argumentative History Essay Topics

Indian Festivals are an integral facet at the heart of the national culture.

The aim is to examine the role of Indian festivals at both local and national levels. How did they contribute to shaping the identity of different cultural groups?

Humans consuming psychedelic drugs can think more creatively

A discussion about the effects of various drugs on the human mind. Probe into some notable cases and experiments with drug testing.

American Revolution and its Presentation in the Movies

Browse the web for a couple of movies based on the American Revolution. Then examine the historical accuracy of their arguments.

Vincent Van Gogh and Bipolar-Disorder

Investigate Vincent Van Gogh’s actions and his medical case notes. Make an argument for or against the above concept.

Topics Related to History of Technology

World War II and the role of technology in the result of the war The war effort required advances in science and technology that irrevocably changed American lives and paved the way for modern technology. Let’s look at how technology changed the globe after World War II.

• Roman Road and the Structure
• The era of Bronze and Advanced Farming
• Advancement of Technology in the Times of Ancient Rome
• The Historical Evolution in the Field of Medical
• The Age of Enlightenment brought rapid scientific progress to Europe
• The science behind the atomic power
• A look at the way China adopted new modes of censorship with the creation of the internet  

Also read: Argumentative Education Essay Topics

Topics on European History

• Which scientific breakthroughs were made in late-nineteenth and early-nineteenth-century Europe?
• What triggered the English Reformation, according to Tudor history?
• Which economic and political advantages did the formation of the European Union provide for the member states?
• Describe the history of the European Union. Argue on the economic and political dimensions of the situation.

Find more topics in our free essay topics library. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 5 argumentative history essay topics.

1. Impact of the Industrial Revolution on society 2. Causes and consequences of World War II 3. Civil rights movement in the United States 4. Rise and fall of the Roman Empire 5. The significance of the French Revolution in shaping modern democracy.

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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.

Have you been looking for the right way to write an argumentative essay? With these tips, nothing can stand in your way. You have everything to write the best argumentative essay now. 

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278 Interesting History Essay Topics and Events to Write about

A history class can become a jumble of years, dates, odd moments, and names of people who have been dead for centuries. Despite this, you’ll still need to find history topics to write about. You may have no choice!

But once in a while, your instructor may let you pick a history essay topic. Are you clueless about where to start? If you are, don’t worry. You’ve come to the right place! In this article, you’ll see 278 cool historical events to write about. You’ll also discover some sources for good research on our ideas.

Before you read further:

Review the professional writing services offered by our academic experts. They can surely help you with essay writing or any other assignments.

Top 10 History Essay Topics

• The US’s role in World War I.
• Child labor during the Puritan era.
• Religion during the Aztec times.
• Causes of the Battle of Germantown.
• The economic impact of the Titanic ’s sinking.
• The economic effect of the Bracero Program.
• Cultural impact of the Spanish-American War.
• Industrial Revolution’s impact on the environment.
• The goal of Protestors at the 1968 Democratic Convention.
• Women’s employment during the Great Depression.

How to Pick the Best History Essay Topic

Most of this article is devoted to listing history topics that are ideal for essays, but first, it’s important to have a simple process for using a list of possible essay topics like this.

• Before you start writing, brainstorm. Read this list. Scan lists of history essay prompts. Maybe even skim a history essay example or 2 (or 10, or 25). When you find a topic you like even a bit, write it down in your personal list. Add any other topics that come to your mind.
• Pick a topic that will satisfy your instructor and you can write well about. After you have a long list, review the assignment instructions. Then, eliminate the most inappropriate topics from your list. Lastly, reread the remaining topics. At this point, decide the topics you know enough about to write about wisely.

This 2-step process will make sure you get started on the right foot, but don’t forget the basics of sound writing. Remember these two rules. First, always plan your essay by using an outline. Second, stick to a well-structured essay with an introduction, body, and conclusion (use a 5-paragraph essay if it’s suitable).

Here’s one further tip that is notably helpful for history essays. Use Wikipedia to explore historical events that you don’t understand well. (But of course use primary sources if you are writing a true research paper.) Alternatively, if you have some keywords in mind, you can find a random topic generator for writing and see what it can offer you.

Here’s the list of history essay prompts that you’ve been waiting for.

The Ultimate List of Historical Events to Write about

• An Industrial Revolution in England essay is an excellent Industrial Revolution essay. Use this essay to explain some Industrial Revolution effects. Or perhaps give a brief but analytical overview of the Industrial Revolution timeline.
• Alternatively, you could write an Industrial Revolution in Europe essay . England was the first nation to industrialize. But it wasn’t the last. In this Industrial Revolution essay, perhaps discuss differences among European nations in industrialization. (This kind of comparative approach yields an especially fine Industrial Revolution research paper as well.)
• Or use a markedly different topic by writing a Martin Luther King essay . This key historical figure still shapes how we think about race, social justice, and the power of nonviolent protest. His death was tragic.
• One way to avoid making your essay a Martin Luther King biography is to focus on a specific event or impact of this man’s life. For example, your Martin Luther King essay could be about a specific Martin Luther King speech or quote . (But if you’re going to write about King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, make sure you have something unique to say!)
• Instead, you could write a broader Civil Rights Movement essay . In this, you must go beyond a basic Civil Rights Movement summary and focus on the meaning of this period over time or some specific change caused by it. (Again, don’t let your Civil Rights Movement essay become a Civil Rights Movement research paper.)
• You could write about another period of dramatic change in a French Revolution essay . This violent revolution filled with imprisonments, trials, and beheadings was caused by immense suffering by the poorest people in France. As such, when writing this essay, provide only a brief French Revolution summary, and focus on the impact and triggers of specific events.

• Similarly, you could write an American Revolution essay . Both events involved overthrowing a monarch, but unlike a French Revolution essay, an American Revolution essay is effectively about a war, the build up to war, and the recovery from a war.
• Perhaps your historical essay could focus on a person who was instrumental to the American Revolution. For example, consider Ben Franklin , a famous early American statesman, diplomat, scientist, and inventor.
• The War of 1812 was the conflict between America and Britain directly following the American Revolutionary War. It’s a fine essay topic for those seeking to understand early American history.
• Wars make notable topics for historical essay, but the aftermath can be even more interesting. The Weimar Republic was the terribly failed German government created after World War I. A critique of this government could be a superb essay subject.
• In contrast, post-war Vietnam has been a relative success story. The nation reunified following the defeat of South Vietnam. The modern Vietnamese people possess a higher quality of life than citizens of many nearby nations.
• You could also write about the Post-World War II 1950s . During this time, America exhibited surprising growth and prosperity. However, the United States began to wage a deadly Cold War with the USSR.
• Another quite related topic is the messy late 21 st century American foreign policy . You could focus on the rise of terrorism after America’s invasion of Iraq, the worldwide US military bases, or any number of military dictators that the US has supported. These are all very provocative topics.
• Or you could focus on a more specific military event, such as the Battle of Hastings . This battle shaped the whole history of England, as kings from continental Europe invaded English.

• The time of the Battle of Hastings was also characterized by the heavy influence of knights and feudal law in daily life. Knights were more than heavily armed warriors. They were also lords that controlled the land and subjugated peasants. This was a major cause of uprisings such as the French Revolution.
• Many medieval knights were also involved in the Crusades . This invasion of the Holy Land by European kingdoms represented a violent period. During these conquests, European nobility pillaged sacred sites and artifacts; with the goal of controlling the birthplace of their Christian faith.
• Following this time, Europe entered a period of Renaissance Humanism . Humans began to think about their humanity a bit more deeply. In doing so, many works of fine art, such as the first realistic paintings and sculptures, were produced.
• Your essay could focus on slightly later events, such as the fall of great empires . At various times in the past, nations such as Rome, China, Portugal, England, and the Holy Roman Empire controlled huge areas of our globe. Your essay could survey the implosion of these once great powers.
• The abolition of slavery is a fascinating and important historical essay topic. You may focus on this process within a single country, or you can write a comparative essay in which you compare and contrast the process of abolition across the globe or between two societies.
• Another highly relevant topic is the impact of Karl Marx . Few historical figures have had as huge an impact on society as Marx. Accordingly, you can consider how his writings were used (or abused) in a variety of nominally communist parties, movements, uprisings, and nations.
• Of course, you should always consider writing an integrative history essay . You can’t pick just one topic? Why not pick two or more! This is a nice approach for selecting compare and contrast essay topics . In this type of essay, you compare or contrast, people, events, or countries. In choosing this path, you make it possible to write a totally unique essay. The sky is the limit!
• A more human-focused approach could be an interesting hook for the paper. A paper based on the writing of the soldiers in World War I could outline what war was like at the beginning of the 20th century.

• A personal look at World War II could be just as interesting and with more available documents.
• One of the possible hooks for such papers may be the plight of the African American soldiers who fought in World War I and II .
• Another topic may be dedicated to soldiers from India who fought for the British in World War I .
• The economics of Europe after World War I may show the causes and effects that led to further conflict.
• You may dedicate your project may to the changes in fashion in the 20th century .
• More obscure topics like the Canadian history of film can make for an interesting thesis.
• American art of the 20th century is a big topic that has many interesting examples.
• History of math can show the timeline of math’s evolution.
• The conclusion of the British rule in India caused many positive and negative effects on the country which can make for an interesting project.
• The history of Roman sport provides fascinating examples of contests through the ages.
• History of architecture during renaissance can show the differences between the eras.
• Life before the invention of photography could be a topic that outlines how people preserved images back in the day.
• You can compare and contrast the history of Roman and British empires .
• Examples of music created for political causes could be an interesting hook for a music history essay.
• T he history of medicine can provide some striking facts about the bizarre antique cures.
• “What are the events that led to the fall of Roman Empire?” is one of the more common history essay questions.
• Summary of the achievements of the American civil rights movement can provide an impression of what a dream of one man could do.
• An argumentative essay topic about the value of public communication can be chosen and created by using examples from the world history.
• A paper on the music of ancient civilizations can shine a light on prehistoric cultures.
• Your project can be about the anti-fascist activists in the US before WW II .
• It is possible for high school students to write about the events of the year when they were born .
• A thematic paper answering the question “ what started the worst wars in world history? ” could compare and contrast different wars to find similar causes and effects.
• The hippie culture of the 1960s can be presented as a response to the events of the era.
• Also, the fashion of hippies can be explored in your project with examples of real clothing.
• The New Wave movement in cinema was revolutionary for its time and can be an interesting essay topic.
• The same could be said about the New Wave genre of music that became popular in the 1980s.

• Another music genre that captured the imagination of the public can be explored in an essay on the history of rock music .
• History of propaganda in films can help explore some pivotal moments in world history.
• Canadian history of sport is an interesting topic to explain why hockey is so popular in the Great White North.
• Economics of sport throughout history may also interest the reader due to the massive commercial expansion of sport in recent decades.
• Education during the renaissance was booming and could serve as a great topic for an essay.
• Education during the middle ages was rare and could contrast the previous topic.
• The justifications that the US used for the drop of the nuclear bombs during World War II is a controversial topic but an interesting one.
• American involvement in the Korean War is an often overlooked topic, but it deserves attention.
• To show how turbulent history of a single country may be, the causes and effects of the military coups in Nigeria could be fascinating.
• The war between Iran and Iraq could be seen as one of the most critical proxy wars of the modern history.
• The space race was an iconic element of the Cold War, and it is related to many history essay topics.
• Events that led to the rise of the Saudi Arabia can show how fast a country can develop when money is not an issue.
• The British music invasion into the US market has had a significant effect on American music and can be an interesting topic.
• History of American worker unions could serve as a topical essay in today’s political climate.
• The process of reparations for the Maori people in New Zealand in a rare success story of an ex-British colonial country making up for the discrimination its natives endured.
• Roman graffiti is a lighthearted topic that describes a less discussed aspect of Roman culture.
• The gender roles of Roman society can be compared and contrasted with the gender roles of the people of Gaul that often fought each other.
• The prominent figures of the American Revolution include a great variety of people who would later compose the most important documents of the US.
• A compare and contrast essay about the similarities of American and Bolshevik revolutions can show how the most prominent opponents of the Cold War had similar beginnings.
• The history of Japanese isolationism could be interesting to explore as a unique moment in world history.
• The Millerites believed that the world would end on a specific date, but it only led to the events known as “The Great Disappointment” which could make for a great history topic.
• The Carnation Revolution of 1974 was an almost bloodless coup and represents one of the few examples of peaceful transitions to democracy.
• The golden age of piracy is an interesting topic about an era that is often glamorized in fiction.
• The Copper Country Strike was one of the most tragic cases of death due to anti-strike action, and its events are still discussed today.
• The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre was a gruesome murder committed in broad daylight and emblematic of the gangster activity of the era.
• The Yalta Conference was one of the most important events of World War II with British, Soviet, and American leaders discussing post-war plans.
• British colonization of Africa was one of the most tragic; the causes and effects of it could be interesting to examine.

• A paper on the evolution of flight could provide a timeline of marvelous engineering throughout history.
• Operation Paperclip was a secret plan to integrate scientists of Nazi Germany after the end of World War II which events lead to the beginning of the space race.
• Historical events that were predicted in fiction can be one of the more exciting history essay topics.
• African-American music history can be explored to show how oppression influenced culture.
• Biography of Julius Caesar is filled with dramatic events and is one of the most exciting history essay topics.
• Aztec life before the arrival of the colonists was filled with horrible sacrifices and deserves examination.
• The causes and effects of Manifest Destiny are bizarre and tragic by modern standards but were considered righteous in their day.
• You could compare and contrast the life of the Roman leader Julius Caesar and Nicholas II of Russia because they were almost mirrored images of each other.
• The actions of Churchill led to some of the worst defeats for the British forces during World War I , but are overshadowed by his later leadership.
• The transition from the 50s to 60s fashion can be explored to show the drastic change in the culture of those years.
• The events that led to the emergence of teenage culture after World War II can be outlined.
• The economics of international trade during the Renaissance period can be described to show the complex relationships of Europe.
• American Revolution in film rarely receives accurate portrayals. A look at its depictions can be interesting.
• A paper on the causes and effects of Cold War paranoia could show how quickly people can be overwhelmed by fear.
• Ronald Reagan’s policy of a winnable nuclear war launched a chain of events that could end the world.
• The diversity of the Roman Empire is a rarely explored topic and could lead to an interesting paper.
• Medieval medicine is a fascinating topic. It combines the ideas from Ancient Greece and Rome, pagan medicine, and many religious superstitions.
• Another interesting history topic is the history of dystopian art . In turbulent times, it may be especially fascinating to trace the development of dystopian art and see what shaped the ideas of dystopian worlds in different eras. Moreover, you may find it interesting to see the predictions about the modern era in dystopian literature and cinema.
• Medicine in the early XX century is an excellent topic for an essay. At the turn of the century, there was a major change in the way people treated medical technology, hygiene, and chemistry. Groundbreaking achievements, such as the discovery of X-rays and penicillin, shaped modern medicine as we know it.
• The history of video games is an exciting essay topic. See how video games developed from the most primitive forms into the glorious, hyper-realistic works of art that we enjoy now.
• The history of quantum mechanics is a history topic that can teach us a lot about the world around us. You can write about the groundbreaking experiments that changed the way we think about nature, and learn about great minds who were not afraid to question even the most fundamental laws of physics.
• Alternatively, you can write about the development of astronomy . Another fascinating scientific field that can show us how people in different eras were discovering the beauty and complexity of the Universe .
• Similarly, you can write about the history of evolutionary theory. All ancient cultures had their ideas about the origin of life. See how Darwin’s idea of natural selection revolutionized not just science, but human thought in general.
• Another outstanding example of a revolution of human thought is the history of psychology. From the ancient idea of spirits and possession to the groundbreaking ideas of Freud and the discovery of conditioning – see how the cultural perception of the human psyche changed over time.
• A topic closely related to the current issues, pandemics that changed history can be explored to see the effects of epidemics on nature, science, and society as a whole. It may also be interesting to write about how viral infections spread around the world.
• The history of transport is a fascinating topic. Starting from the earliest of times, humans are continually developing new ways of traveling as far and safe as possible. See how technology evolved from the discovery of a wheel to rocket science, and how it changed history and the world around us.
• The history of the punk subculture is an excellent topic for presentation. Show how punk philosophy, fashion, and music changed the culture in the U.K. and around the world.
• Another interesting research topic for high school students is the Great Depression . Learn what caused the severe economic crisis, and what socio-economic effects it had on countries all around the world.
• From the first settlements built by ex-convicts to the outbreaks of smallpox and aboriginal resistance – the history of Australia is full of dramatic events and stories that we can learn a lot from.
• Or you can choose the exploration of Africa as the subject of your history essay. The story of two extraordinary individuals in search of a path into the heart of the continent inspired the novel Heart of Darkness.
• Historical figures in Shakespeare’s plays is a great history research paper topic. You could compare the lives of real historical figures, such as Julius Caesar and Henry V, to those of their fictional counterparts.
• Voyages of Christopher Columbus is one of the most critical events in history before 1500. While the discovery of the New World had an enormous influence on the colonization era, Columbus’s legacy remains controversial.
• Or you can write an essay on Hernán Cortés , a pivotal figure in the colonization of South America. His actions against native civilizations are highly controversial, and his life story is full of myths and mysteries.
• The Civil War was the defining event in the U.S. history before 1877. It had an enormous impact on American society and led to major changes in the Constitution.
• One of the world history topics that everyone needs to know about is the culture and society of ancient Greece . Incredible art, philosophy, politics, and scientific ideas of the ancient Greeks continue to inspire us today.
• Similarly, an essay on the Greek Dark Ages can shine a light on the fall of the great civilization. It is also the period during which Homer’s famous poems Odyssey and Iliad were composed.
• Chivalry in the Middle Ages is an interesting history topic, and it is often romanticized. Learn about the chivalric code, tournaments, and epic legends about famous Medieval knights.
• Also, it may be interesting to write a world history essay on King Arthur . Explore the real events that inspired stories about the legendary British leader and the Knights of the Round Table.
• The history of Easter Island is a very intriguing history topic. You can talk about the mysteries surrounding the culture, language, and the eventual demise of the inhabitants of one of the world’s most isolated islands.
• The history of nuclear weapons is an excellent controversial topic for an essay and a discussion. The stories of research, development, and the use of atomic bombs can be used as cautionary tales for people today.
• From cave paintings and letters to telephone and the Internet – the history of communication is one of the best topics for a research paper. See how the means of communication evolved throughout human history.
• Also, the history of the Internet can be explored in your research paper. What was initially created for research and military use became one of the defining elements of modern life.
• The history of animation is an interesting topic for high school students. Learn about the evolution of animation – from the ancient Egyptian murals depicting motion to the first CGI cartoons and everything in-between.
• The history of museums has many exciting twists and turns. Discover how people of different eras were preserving art and other extraordinary objects. Also, it may be interesting to learn about the most significant art thefts in history.
• The history of cosmetics is an excellent topic for a research paper with a presentation. See how makeup was used in different eras, what it was made of, and how historical figures influenced makeup trends of the past epochs.
• Amelia Earhart is a wonderful role model whose life you can research in your history essay. She was an aviator pioneer and a best-selling author. Her disappearance in 1937 remains a mystery.
• History of Eurovision song contest is a lighthearted topic with serious political undertones. It was originally intended to unite all countries of post-war Europe in one song contest, broadcast live on television.
• The history of theater is a fascinating subject for a research paper. Theater first appeared in Ancient Greece, went through significant changes during the Renaissance, and it remains a popular art form that covers many genres.
• The history of the death penalty is an interesting topic for an essay that you can have a discussion about. The death penalty has a fascinating and gruesome history and remains a controversial subject even today.
• You can write an outstanding research paper on the history of whaling . People have been hunting whales since prehistoric times for various reasons, including perfume and candle manufacturing.
• Another exciting world history topic is Gold Rush . While the California Gold Rush is by far the most famous, there were many other cases throughout history, dating as far back as ancient Egypt.
• One of the more mysterious history topics that you can write about is Stonehenge . This majestic stone structure has been for a long time associated with druids. The latest discoveries suggest that it was used as an observatory.
• Maybe an even more mysterious history research paper topic is the Pyramids of Egypt . The only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, they are some of the largest structures ever built, and their history remains intriguing.
• Or you can choose to write about all the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World ! They are remarkable buildings and constructions, all but one of which are entirely destroyed, and some are speculated to have never existed.
• Similarly, you can write a paper on other beautiful buildings, such as the picturesque Machu Picchu. An iconic citadel of the Inca civilization, it is now considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
• A paper on Joan of Arc can show how one extraordinary individual is capable of changing the course of history. Her life is surrounded by many legends, and she remains a popular subject in art.
• Similarly, you can write about Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and what impact it had on the entire American nation. Delivered during the Civil War, it is considered to be the greatest speech ever.
• A history research paper on feminism could provide a timeline of the fight for equality. Closely connected to the current issues, this topic covers everything from the women’s suffrage movement to the modern Women’s Marches.
• One of the most exciting history topics that everyone needs to know about is the Minoan Civilization – the first highly advanced society in Europe. You can talk about its discovery in the late XIX, the incredible art of Knossos, and its numerous legends, including the famous Labyrinth.
• You can choose to write an essay on history of Indigenous Australians . The timeline of first humans populating Australia is full of mysteries, and their culture remains fascinating.
• An interesting essay can be written on the earliest universities. They were founded long before 1500 in Asia and Africa for educating government officials, and are a fascinating subject to explore.
• You can write an exciting research paper on Alexandria – a city in Egypt founded by Alexander the Great. In ancient times, it was a city like no other, and had an enormous influence on the Mediterranean culture.
• Middle Ages are full of interesting history topics – for example, you can choose to write about medieval magic. From alchemy and astrology to inquisition and witch trials, it’s an existing subject to explore.
• One of the best topics on the history of explorations is the North Pole expeditions . It is full of dramatic events, and it took numerous failed attempts until the North Pole was finally reached in the XX century.
• The first English settlements in America are among the essential parts of the U.S. history before 1877. It includes stories of hardships of the first settlers, bad weather, hunger, and conflicts with native inhabitants.
• Napoleon is an incredibly interesting historical figure. You can write a stunning paper on the rise and fall of his empire.

• You can focus on a specific era in your essay – for example, Victorian England. This period of history, both fascinating and terrifying, still inspires countless novels, movies, and T.V. series.
• Titanic is an excellent topic for an essay and a discussion. A cautionary tale about a luxurious ship that sank due to criminal negligence.
• Death of the Romanovs is an interesting history topic that is still being investigated. This gruesome story inspired many myths, including that of the survival of Anastasia.
• Similarly, you can choose an essay on the assassination of J.F. Kennedy . Learn about what caused it and what long-term effects it had on the American nation.
• Similarly, the assassination of Martin Luther King was an enormous tragedy for the whole country. The circumstances of this event are still not entirely clear, and there are several different theories as to what happened.
• Chernobyl disaster is a fascinating topic that is very popular today. See what led to the tragedy, and what long-term consequences it had on nature and society.
• The fall of the Berlin Wall is a crucial event in modern history. You can write about life in GDR and FRG prior to the fall of the Wall and compare it to what happened afterward.
• Another history topic that you can choose for your essay is the history of berserkers. These Old Norse warriors were fighting in what’s often described as a trans-like state, and their name became synonymous with uncontrolled rage.
• Education in the modern world. The new opportunities of the globalized world influence quality and expectations towards studying. A historical essay can analyze the significant inventions that impacted education. For example, you may focus on the Internet.
• South African Apartheid . The racial segregation regime threw South Africa into poverty and conflicts. Your essay might discuss the historical events that led it. Or you can trace the Apartheid’s timeline from setting to abolishment.
• The founding of the United Nations . The organization’s support of equal human rights is crucial for modern society. The history of the UN is a broad topic with many key events. You may also study the influence of countries such as the USSR on its establishment.
• Cultural trends during World War II. Music, fashion, and art reflected humanity’s hopes and fears of the world. They also supported people when life was tough. In a research paper, you can choose and describe specific examples. Discuss the impact of entertainment during that period, or compare it to World War I.
• The creation of the United States’ Constitution is an interesting US history essay topic. The road to the first national frame of government includes many events. You can analyze the contents of the original Constitution articles based on their drafts.
• Changes in European economies following the discovery of America. After Columbus’ return from his journey, the most powerful empires started to occupy new lands. Later, economic progress led the world to its current conditions. An essay that highlights these milestones can be fascinating!
• Fight against terrorism. After September 11, 2001, the world enforced its war on terrorism. Governments applied measures such as peacemaking interventions to unstable areas. A historical assignment might include the most significant attacks. You can also discuss the UN’s campaigns against terrorism under this topic.
• Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. The attacks were crucial events that finished World War II . Your essay might address the events that led to the attacks. Discuss if there could have been other ways of stopping Japan’s aggression.
• Urbanization in the US is an interesting essay topic. The most significant change took place in the 19th century. The railroads connected the whole country, and trading opportunities grew. Discuss why people moved from rural areas to cities and the consequences of it.
• History of railroads in the United States. Broad territories were the major obstacles to American economic development. In 1827, the first railway journey took place in the US. The roads were rapidly built during the following century. A discussion these events is a fun historical assignment topic.
• Immigration and scientific progress in the 20th century. Back then, thousands of Europeans were forced to migrate to the US. Many of them were responsible for important discoveries and inventions. Discuss its effect of immigration on science and technology in a historical essay.
• The three most important inventions of the 19th century. The 1800s are full of creations that changed humanity’s history. Typewriters, bicycles, and telephones were first made in that period. For an essay, you can pick the inventions based on their historical value.
• The stock market crash in 1929 was the worst experience for the industrialized world at the time. Entertainment during the Great Depression played an essential role in supporting America. It is also an interesting historical topic to write about.
• The history behind today’s foreign affairs . Despite prolonged peace, governments still have political disagreements. Choose two conflicting countries and identify the events that led to the current situation.
• The history of the LGBTQ community in the United States. Modern American society praises equity and respects the rights of minority groups. However, it wasn’t always like this. LGBTQ is a broad discussion topic influenced by past events. It might also be interesting to compare the US community to the European one.
• The global financial crisis of 2008 is a great modern history essay topic . An economy can crash for multiple reasons. If it happens worldwide, the effects are severe. An argumentative essay can be a basis for analyzing the causes of the crisis. Compare it to other economic disasters such as the Great Depression.
• Cultural progress led humanity to important social developments. One of them is the legalization of same-sex marriages . Historical analysis can include a timeline of such marriages. Social activism related to the topic is an excellent basis for an essay.
• The Holocaust. One of the darkest events in the 20th century’s history is the European Jews’ genocide. Analyze the chain of events leading to it in a historical essay. How did it impact human rights enforcement during the post-war period?
• Space exploration in the 21st century is a historical topic that develops right now. Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin was founded in 2000, and Elon Musk started SpaceX in 2002. An essay can highlight the milestones of space exploration after the Cold War.
• The history of Thanksgiving. Pilgrims established the holiday based on celebrating the harvest. Discuss the tradition’s roots and the impact of English colonists on American culture. An essay can also describe similar feasts around the world.
• Another good history essay topic is Antarctica. The impactful exploration of ice lands only began in the late 19th century. Today, scientists study Antarctica’s land, resources, and animals. Trace the past events and discoveries of the region in your historical essay.
• The history of infections. Our lives have changed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. There were similar events in the past, where plague and flu diseases killed millions of people. A comparison can help you learn about the development of today’s healthcare practices.
• Women’s suffrage . In August 1920, the US Congress ratified the 19th Amendment that gave women the right to vote. Many campaigns and protests preceded the event. The perception of women by society started transforming since then. An essay might describe the challenges leading to these changes.
• History of the Olympic Games is a fascinating topic for middle school . The legacy of ancient Greece was revived only in the 19th century. Study the events that took place throughout the Olympic Games’ history.
• If you need a world history essay topic, try writing about the International Red Cross . In 1863, Swiss businessman Henry Dunant established the Red Cross. He was influenced by the terrifying experience of seeing thousands of wounded men at war. A persuasive essay can highlight the organization’s historical importance.
• Weapon development during World War II. Military weapons contributed to technological progress in the 20th century. A research paper might focus on the weapons invented during the War. You can also discuss the impact of military innovations on post-war life.
• An essay on Korean history can analyze how one nation can change if divided into separate regimes. North and South Korea started making peace only in 2018. Try and determine the reasons for the 1948 separation and political instability.
• Ku Klux Klan as a resistance movement is an important topic. Four million citizens nationwide joined the group in the 1920s. Such popularity revealed the demand for change. Your historical essay might include crucial outcomes of Klan’s activities. A comparison to the medieval inquisition might lead to interesting conclusions.
• Globalization is another excellent history essay topic for high school students. The world has never had so many cultural and economic connections as it does today. Your essay can go through historical events that caused globalization. Or, you may analyze its benefits and downsides.
• History of climate change . In 2009, the UN Climate Change Conference stated that the world is in danger due to human impact on climate. A historical essay can focus on the environmental factors of the topic. Alternatively, you may trace the discoveries and studies about climate change.
• Labor Day is a national holiday first celebrated in the industrial era. It originated in the 19th century when workers spent 12 hours daily to earn the minimum wage. In your historical essay, describe the events that led to the holiday’s creation.
• The history of the American presidency is a broad topic to write about. More than 40 people ruled the country and impacted all facets of America. For example, you may choose to evaluate education under different presidents. You can also compare democrats and republicans as presidents.
• Gutenberg’s printing press invention changed the world. It was as significant in the 15th century as the Internet was for modern history. An essay can reconstruct the events before and after the invention of printing. Its impact on education and the economy are interesting points for discussion.
• The European Union has deep historical roots since the Empire period. An essay about it might cover the timeline of democracy established in Europe. You can highlight the changes that took place in the countries that joined the Union. Alternatively, compare the organization and its aims to other historical alliances.
• Modern religions are an intriguing subject for an essay. Historical events often shape peoples’ beliefs. Discuss why people started updating the main religions in recent decades.
• Population resettlement took place multiple times in human history. For example, thousands of Serbian Albanians were forced to flee Kosovo during the 1999 conflict. An essay that describes a migration can include the reasons for it. Compare it to similar occurrences, and discuss its outcomes.
• Ancient architecture is the most incredible legacy cherished by generations. Design patterns and colors of creations reflect the periods they were built in. For your essay, choose specific examples and mention the events associated with them. Research can include ancient European, Asian, or American architecture.
• Socialism as a political regime significantly impacted world history. Socialist movements took place in Europe and the United States. The Soviet Union was established under its conditions. Choose this interesting 20th-century essay topic and describe a country affected by socialism. For example, China is still ruled by that regime.
• History of democracy in Africa . African history includes centuries of foreign occupation. Yet, its countries have recently started getting deserved independence. Algeria, Morocco, Namibia, and Zimbabwe only got their democratic government in the last 60 years. Historical research can analyze the influence of ex-colonizers on Africa. Or, you may choose a country to describe its journey from a colony to a democracy.
• History of South American countries. Colonizers occupied the regions in South America after Columbus’ journey. You can discuss the conflicts between the land’s native inhabitants and migrants. A research paper may also reveal how the nations were formed by combing two different populations.
• The history behind the petroleum industry is an interesting basis for an essay. Oil defines the UAE and Russia’s economies and has significant influence in politics. Study the formation of the world’s oil industry, or choose one country to explore.
• History of Native American tribes. More than 500 groups of Indigenous Americans lived in the US territories. Each had its own culture and policies. For your essay, gather information about conflicts between the natives and migrants.
• History of vaccination. The development of this practice is an interesting essay topic. You can review the timeline, starting from the 1798 smallpox vaccine.
• History of China. Write an essay that explores the most significant events of the country’s history. An interesting idea is to compare it to other major countries. Moreover, you can discuss the Chinese presence in the World Wars by analyzing its strategies.
• Events that affected the environment. There are many examples of history playing against nature. Think of nuclear bomb explosions, rapid industrialization of the 19th century, and deforestation. Your essay might analyze several such events and provide lessons for the future.
• The history behind popular foods . Migration and global trading helped humanity discover chocolate , potatoes, and coffee . A historical essay can focus on one product and describe what made it famous.
• The Vikings played a significant role in European history. Scandinavians still cherish their traditions and unique culture. Your research might be about their settlements in Scotland, France, and Ireland. Also, you can describe the unique worldview of the Vikings.
• Ancient piracy covers many themes that you can mention in an essay. The first pirates were the Sea Peoples in the 14th century BC. Today, the pirates still exist in politically unstable regions such as Somalia. Your historical paper can include the most significant acts of piracy in ancient times.
• History of money . People have been exchanging goods throughout history. Yet in 770s BC, the Chinese invented the ultimate trading product — money. The historical timeline of the financial systems is an excellent topic for an essay.

Other History Essay Topics

• European motives for expansion & colonization in New World
• “Birth of Modernity” of Renaissance
• Racial tensions and immigration in California
• Gandhi’s innovative renovation of tradition explained
• Colonists’ actions in the pre-revolutionary era
• The French Revolution an outcome of Enlightenment ideas
• The autobiography of St. Ignatius
• Land disputes between native American groups and the United States
• The 1930s generation of Soviet spies and operatives
• The Tea Act and the Coercive Acts: Britain and the colonies
• The Middle Ages as the “Dark Ages”
• The making of the modern Middle East: term definition
• The uniqueness of World War One
• Social structure and lifestyles of the 1960s counterculture
• Depression period and new deal legislation
• United States’ policy of isolationism since the 19th century
• History: Abraham Lincoln’s address in Gettysburg
• The use of armed forces by the United States and its effect
• Radical republicans during the Reconstruction era
• Lincoln’s vs. Davis’ administrations during the war
• Civil War’s impact on Northern and Southern economies
• Consumerism critique in the 1950s-70s
• Lincoln’s plan for Reconstruction and opposition to it
• Women and blacks’ participation in the Civil War
• War of 1812: reasons and outcomes for native communities
• The causes of the Protestant reformation
• Palestinian Liberation Organization’s history
• Ethnographic sketch of Brazilians
• British colonization of America and its results
• What was the purpose of Lee’s plan on Gettysburg?
• The leaders of command for the modern war in 1864
• What did George Washington Thanksgiving proclamation state?
• Post-WWII events that caused loss of faith in American way
• European groups’ motives to migrate to America
• Industrial economics and its social impact on Britain
• Refugee definition development in the 20th century
• Positive things to learn from Medieval culture
• Scientific revolution in Western European civilization
• The Spanish-American war: definition and facts
• The role of violence in the America’s expansion
• Protestant Reformation leaders & Catholic Church’s response
• Asian studies: Takahashi Mutsuo’s “The Snow of Memory”
• Colonization of freedmen: arguments for and against
• Major milestones of the Kyoto treaty and Montreal Protocol
• Progressive Era & New Deal outsiders and corporate ownership
• American progressive movement and its participants
• Steel industry & American history changes in the 1890-1920s
• Anarchist & socialist movements and terrorism
• What is the Third Estate? What role did it play in Revolution?
• The Islamic revolution of 1979 and its main causes
• Conservatism in American life from 1968 to the present
• African American Civil Rights Movement in 1950-1980
• Second World War and the end of colonial rule in Africa
• The main reasons of the American Civil War
• Alexander Graham Bell’s most important day
• History of gangs in America and Utah
• Civil Rights vs. Black Lives Matter movement
• Latin America: national issues
• American ancient people and Skull Wars
• Historical events in history of white people of America
• Reasons of Confederacy’s defeat during Civil War
• Tombs Egypt during the period of 3200 BC to 1200 BC
• Republican Reconstruction and its achievements
• Christians-Rome relationship: persons and events
• Lincoln’s answer to the Emancipation question
• US women’s rights movements in 1850-1900
• The Eighteenth Amendment and Volstead Act
• Japan, China, and the Ottoman Empire during the 19th century
• Capital punishment and African Americans
• Industrial growth during the last 100 years in the US

These are a tiny handful of the wide array of topics that you can write about for history class. When in doubt, always solicit opinions from your professor. (The worst case scenario is that they say no.)

Most importantly:

Remember, the analysis of historical events is subjective. Two scholars may have vastly unique explanations for a series of historical events unfolding the way they did. Accordingly, try to write from the perspective that your instructors most likely hold. And if you’re unsure, ask them to review a first draft of your essay, or at least talk to them about your thesis statement!

You might also be interested in:

• A List of History Websites for a Perfect Research
• World War 2 Essay Example + Argumentative Topics
• Essay on India after Independence: How-to Guide and Prompts
• 497 Interesting History Topics to Research
• A List of 212 Brilliant Research Proposal Topics to Investigate
• 350 Powerful Feminism & Women’s Rights Topics [2024]
• 430 Philosophy Topics & Questions for Your Essay
• 229 Good Dissertation Topics and Thesis Ideas for Ph.D. & Masters

Historical Essay FAQ

Students are often asked to write on historical topics. Such an essay can be:

1. A description of a persona; 2. An analysis of historical events; 3. An overview of the context of the whole epoch, etc.

In any case, a historical essay deals with a retrospective and requires looking into history.

There are countless interesting topics for essays and research projects. You can look into any epoch from the ancient times up to the present days. Choose something that genuinely fascinates you. You might prefer a controversial issue as it is more exciting to study.

For any research paper, it is essential to create an outline first. Once you’ve identified some key aspects that you want to focus on, write them as bullet points. They will become the Body of your research paper. Don’t forget to add an introduction and a conclusion.

Whether you write about the World, the civil, the cold, the Vietnam, or any other war, be sure to stay as objective as possible. It is a very emotionally charged topic, but you need to refrain from opinionated judgments. Do not resort to direct accusations.

• Prewriting: Techniques to Get Started – Outlining: University of Maryland Global Campus
• Understanding the Subjective Nature of History
• Writing Cause and Effect Papers
• One Hundred Good Research Paper Topics for History Class
• History Topics
• Modern History Resources
• Research Paper Topics About United States History
• The Importance of History Essay
• The Foundation of History
• What is History Essay Examples
• Index: American History
• World History: Encyclopedia Britannica
• Historical Topics: Library of Congress
• American History: Smithsonian Institution
• Political History: Historians.org
• Primary Sources on History: Gale
• History of the UN: United Nations
• Ancient History Encyclopedia: Index
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History Essay Topics

Crafting a Winning Essay with These Outstanding History Essay Topics

18 min read

Published on: May 4, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Many students struggle to come up with interesting and original history essay topics that will engage their readers.

It can be frustrating to spend hours brainstorming only to come up with a mediocre topic.

In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of history essay topics. These topics will not only engage your readers but also stimulate your critical thinking.

By the end of this blog, you will have a wealth of ideas to choose from. 

So buckle up, grab a pen and paper, and get ready to take your history essay to the next level. 

Let's dive in!

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History Essay Topics For Students

History is a fascinating subject with endless possibilities for exploration. Check out these history essay topics for students that are both interesting and engaging.

History Essay Topics For Middle School Students

Middle school is the perfect time to explore different periods of history and discover what interests you the most. 

These history essay topics for middle school students will help you do just that.

• How did the ancient Greeks contribute to modern civilization?
• What was life like for Native Americans before European colonization?
• How did the Industrial Revolution change society and the economy?
• What were the causes and effects of the American Revolution?
• What role did women play in the Civil War?
• How did the Renaissance influence art, science, and culture?
• What were the major accomplishments of the ancient Egyptians?
• How did the Silk Road impact trade and cultural exchange?
• What were the key events and outcomes of the French Revolution?
• What were the causes and consequences of World War I?

History Essay Topics For High School Students

Are you a high school student struggling to come up with a topic that's both interesting and challenging? 

Look no further than these top history essay topics - high school.

History Essay Topics Grade 10

Here are some grade 10 history essay topics:

• The impact of World War II on the world today
• The causes and effects of the French Revolution
• The role of women in the Civil Rights Movement
• The impact of imperialism on Africa
• The rise and fall of the Roman Empire
• The influence of ancient Greece on modern culture
• The causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution
• The impact of the Cold War on international relations
• The effects of the Great Depression on the world
• The role of nationalism in shaping modern Europe

Grade 11 History Essay Topics

These are some history essay topics - grade 11:

• The impact of World War I on the world order and the rise of fascism
• The role of nationalism in the breakup of colonial empires in Africa and Asia
• The causes and consequences of the Russian Revolution
• The impact of the Great Depression on global politics and society
• The origins and outcomes of the Cold War
• The impact of decolonization on postcolonial societies
• The rise of communism in China and its global impact
• The civil rights movement in the United States and its impact on society
• The impact of the Cuban Revolution on Latin America and the world
• The role of religion in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Grade 12 History Essay Topics

Check out these history essay topics - grade 12:

• The impact of World War II on global politics and society
• The causes and consequences of the Holocaust
• The role of the United Nations in international relations
• The rise of globalization and its impact on world events
• The impact of the Civil Rights movement on the United States and the world
• The Cold War as a global conflict
• The origins and consequences of the Korean War
• The impact of the Vietnam War on American society and foreign policy
• The role of women in social and political change throughout the 20th century
• The Arab-Israeli conflict and its global impact

History Research Paper Topic

• The role of religion in the development of medieval Europe
• The impact of the transatlantic slave trade on African societies
• The causes and consequences of the French Revolution
• The impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures in the Americas
• The historical and cultural significance of the Great Wall of China
• The development of modern democracy in the United States and Europe
• The impact of imperialism on Africa and Asia
• The rise and fall of the British Empire
• The impact of the Renaissance on European art and culture
• The history and evolution of the Olympic Games

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History Essay Topics - American History

American history is filled with triumphs and tragedies, heroes and villains, and moments of great change and conflict. 

Here are a few topics that will help you explore American history:

• The American Revolution and its impact on global politics and society
• The causes and consequences of the Civil War
• The Reconstruction era and its impact on African American rights
• The rise of the Progressive movement and its impact on American society
• The role of the United States in World War I
• The impact of the Great Depression on American society and politics
• The United States' involvement in World War II and its aftermath
• The Civil Rights movement and its impact on American society
• The Vietnam War and its impact on American politics and society
• The rise of conservatism in the late 20th century

19th Century History Topics

Check out these history paper topics after 1877 for your next essay:

• The impact of the Second Industrial Revolution on American society and politics
• The Spanish-American War and its impact on American imperialism
• The Progressive Era and its impact on social reform and politics
• The United States' entry into World War I and its impact on the country
• The Roaring Twenties and its impact on American culture and society
• The Great Depression and its impact on American society and politics
• The New Deal and its impact on social and economic policies in the United States
• The United States' entry into World War II and its impact on American society and politics
• The Civil Rights Movement and its impact on American society and politics
• The Watergate scandal and its impact on American politics and journalism

20th Century History Topics

• The Cold War and its impact on international relations
• The Civil Rights Movement and its impact on American society
• The rise of fascism and totalitarianism in Europe
• The Space Race and the Cold War competition for technological supremacy
• The impact of the Great Depression on global economics and politics
• The rise of globalization and its impact on world economies and cultures
• The feminist movement and its impact on women's rights and gender equality
• The rise of terrorism in the late 20th century and its impact on international security
• The fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War

Ancient History Essay Topics

• The history and mythology of Ancient Egypt
• The impact of Alexander the Great on Greek and world history
• The role of women in Ancient Greek and Roman societies
• The legacy of the Persian Empire
• The historical and cultural significance of the pyramids of Mesoamerica
• The development of democracy in Ancient Athens
• The impact of Confucianism on Ancient Chinese society
• The history of the Indus Valley Civilization
• The impact of the Assyrian Empire on the ancient Near East

World History Argumentative Essay Topics

Here are some potential world history essay topics:

• Was the Age of Exploration ultimately beneficial or harmful to the world?
• Did colonialism have a positive or negative impact on colonized countries?
• Was the French Revolution ultimately a success or failure?
• Was the Industrial Revolution ultimately beneficial or harmful to society?
• Was World War I inevitable, or could it have been prevented?
• Did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to the outbreak of World War II?
• Was the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified?
• Was the Cold War an inevitable outcome of post-World War II politics?
• Did the fall of the Soviet Union represent a victory for democracy?
• Was the Arab Spring ultimately successful or a failure?

World War I & II History Topics

• Causes of World War I: Nationalism, Imperialism, and Alliances
• The Role of Technology in World War I: Trench Warfare and Chemical Warfare
• Treaty of Versailles: Effects on Germany and the Beginnings of World War II
• The Rise of Hitler and the Nazi Party
• The Holocaust: Causes, Events, and Aftermath
• The Battle of Stalingrad: Turning Point of World War II
• The Manhattan Project: Development and Use of the Atomic Bomb
• Women's Roles in World War II: From the Homefront to the Front Lines
• The Allied Invasion of Normandy: D-Day and the Liberation of Europe
• The Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki: Justified or Unjustified?

US History Essay Topics

• The impact of the American Revolution on the development of American democracy
• The significance of the Louisiana Purchase in the expansion of the United States
• The role of the United States in World War I and its impact on American society 
• The impact of the New Deal on American social and economic policies
• The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on American society and politics
• The role of the United States in the Vietnam War 
• The impact of the Watergate scandal on American politics and journalism
• The significance of the 9/11 attacks and their impact on American society and politics
• The impact of the digital age on American society and politics
• The role of social media in shaping American political discourse

Black History Essay Topics

• The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on Black Americans and American society 
• The role of slavery in the development of the United States economy and society
• The significance of the Harlem Renaissance in the development of Black culture 
• The impact of Jim Crow laws on Black Americans in the South and beyond
• The legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and his impact on the Civil Rights Movement
• The impact of the Black Panther Party on Black empowerment and political activism
• The significance of the election of Barack Obama as the first Black President 
• The role of Black women in the Civil Rights and feminist movements
• The impact of the Black Lives Matter movement on American society and politics
• The significance of Juneteenth in Black American history and its impact on society

African American History Essay Topics

• The role of African American soldiers in the Civil War
• The impact of the Emancipation Proclamation on African American lives
• The contributions of African American women to the Civil Rights Movement
• The life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
• The Harlem Renaissance and its significance in African American history
• The Tuskegee Airmen and their contributions to World War II
• The effects of redlining and segregation on African American communities
• The role of African American athletes in breaking down racial barriers in sports
• The impact of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on African American voting rights
• The legacy of slavery and its ongoing impact on African American communities

Canadian History Essay Topics

• The impact of European colonization on Indigenous peoples in Canada
• The significance of the War of 1812 on Canadian nationalism and identity
• The role of Sir John A. Macdonald in the formation of the Canadian Confederation
• The impact of the Great Depression on Canadian society and politics
• The significance of the Quiet Revolution in Quebec 
• The role of Canadian soldiers in World War I and World War II
• The significance of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in Canadian society and politics
• The impact of the Canadian Multiculturalism Act on Canadian society and identity
• The significance of the October Crisis of 1970 on Canadian politics and civil liberties
• The impact of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Indigenous-settler relations 

French Revolution Topics

Here are some french revolution topics to spark your curiosity:

• The causes and social conditions leading to the French Revolution
• The role of Enlightenment ideas in the French Revolution
• The rise and fall of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution
• The impact of the French Revolution on the development of modern democracy
• The role of women in the French Revolution and the fight for equal rights
• The significance of the storming of the Bastille in the French Revolution
• The effects of the French Revolution on European politics and society
• The role of Napoleon Bonaparte in the French Revolution and its aftermath
• The cultural and artistic achievements of the French Revolution
• The long-term effects of the French Revolution on French society and culture

Julius Caesar Topics Ideas

• Julius Caesar's rise to power in Rome
• The political and social conditions of the Roman Republic before Julius Caesar
• The motives and consequences of the assassination of Julius Caesar
• Julius Caesar's military conquests and tactics
• Julius Caesar's consolidation of power as a dictator
• Julius Caesar's lasting influence on Roman history
• Julius Caesar's complex relationship with the Roman Senate
• The political reforms of Julius Caesar and their effectiveness
• Julius Caesar's family background and personal relationships
• Analyzing Julius Caesar's speeches and writings for insight into his leadership style

Argumentative History Essay Topics

• Should Confederate monuments be removed?
• Was the dropping of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified?
• Should reparations be paid to the descendants of enslaved people in the United States?
• Was the colonization of America by Europeans justified?
• Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples Day?
• Was the American Revolution a justified war?
• Should the United States have entered World War II earlier?
• Was the Cold War a necessary conflict?
• Should the United States have dropped the atomic bomb on Japan in World War II?
• Was the Vietnam War justified?

History Persuasive Essay Topics

• Should the United States have dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
• Was Christopher Columbus a hero or a villain?
• Should Confederate statues and symbols be removed from public spaces?
• Should reparations be paid for the historic injustices suffered by African Americans?
• Should the United States have entered World War I?
• Should the use of torture in interrogations be justified in extreme situations?
• Should the United States have participated in the Vietnam War?
• Should the United States have interned Japanese Americans during World War II?
• Should the electoral college be abolished in favor of a popular vote in U.S. presidential elections?
• Should the United States have continued its policy of neutrality during World War II?

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Good History Essay Topics

• The impact of the Black Death on medieval Europe
• The significance of the French Revolution in shaping modern democracy
• The role of the printing press in the Protestant Reformation
• The impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade on African societies 
• The significance of the Civil Rights Movement in shaping contemporary race relations
• The impact of the Scientific Revolution on modern medicine and technology
• The significance of the Meiji Restoration in modernizing Japan
• The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II
• The impact of the Green Revolution on global agriculture and food security
• The significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall in ending the Cold War 

Modern History Essay Topics

• The impact of the World Wars on modern society and global politics
• The significance of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• The role of globalization in shaping economic development and international relations
• The impact of colonialism on modern post-colonial societies
• The significance of the feminist movement in shaping gender roles and expectations
• The role of technology in shaping modern warfare and international security
• The impact of the digital age on privacy, identity, and democracy
• The significance of the Cold War in shaping global politics and international relations
• The role of environmentalism in shaping public policy and global sustainability efforts
• The impact of the internet and social media on communication, culture, and politics

Famous History Topics

• The fall of the Roman Empire
• The reign of Elizabeth I in Tudor England
• The American Revolution and the birth of the United States
• The French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon
• The Industrial Revolution and its impact on modern society
• The World Wars and their impact on global politics and society
• The Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• The Cold War and the arms race between the United States and Soviet Union
• The Space Race and the first moon landing
• The collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War

Interesting History Essay Topics

• The impact of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire on world history
• The role of women in ancient civilizations such as Ancient Egypt and Greece
• The historical and cultural significance of the Silk Road
• The Salem witch trials and their impact on American colonial society
• The Viking Age and its impact on European history
• The Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire
• The history of the Samurai in feudal Japan
• The impact of the Age of Exploration on world history
• The history of the Ottoman Empire and its legacy in modern-day Europe 

Middle Ages Research Topics

Here are some Middle Ages research topics for your essay:

• The Crusades and their impact on Europe and the Middle East
• The role of the Catholic Church in medieval society
• The development of feudalism and the manorial system
• The Black Death and its impact on medieval society
• The Hundred Years' War and its causes and consequences
• The emergence of chivalry and the knightly code
• The Magna Carta and its significance in medieval England
• The role of women in medieval society and their representation in literature
• The rise and fall of the Byzantine Empire
• The architecture and art of the Middle Ages

Salem Witch Trials  History Essay Topics

• The events leading up to the Salem Witch Trials and their causes
• The role of religion in the Salem Witch Trials and its impact on the community
• The legal proceedings and trials of the accused witches
• The social and political climate of Salem during the witch trials
• The impact of the Salem Witch Trials on American society and culture
• The different interpretations and portrayals of the Salem Witch Trials in literature 
• The significance of the Salem Witch Trials in the history of witchcraft and the occult
• The aftermath of the Salem Witch Trials and the long-term effects on the community
• The role of gender and power in the accusations and trials of the Salem witches
• The lessons gained from studying the Salem Witch Trials in modern times

How to Choose a Good History Essay Topics

Choosing a history essay topic can be a challenging task, especially with number of events and figures to choose from. 

However, selecting the right topic can make all the difference in the success of your essay. 

Here are some tips to help you choose a good history essay topic:

Brainstorm Ideas: Take some time to brainstorm potential topics. Write down any historical events or figures that interest you. 

Consider the themes and messages that you want to convey in your essay.

Research the Topic: Once you have a list of potential topics, conduct some research to ensure that there is enough information available to write a quality essay. 

Look for primary and secondary sources, and consider the perspectives of different historians.

Narrow your Topic: A broad topic can make it difficult to write a focused and well-supported essay. 

Consider narrowing your topic by focusing on a specific time period, geographical location, or theme.

Consider your Audience: Think about who will be reading your essay and tailor your topic accordingly.

If you are writing for a professor or academic audience, choose a topic that is more specialized and in-depth.

If you are writing for a general audience, choose a topic that is more accessible and engaging.

Choose Something that Interests you: You will be spending a lot of time researching and writing your essay. So choose a topic that you are genuinely interested in. 

This will make the writing process more enjoyable and will help you produce a better quality essay.

In conclusion, history is a fascinating subject with an abundance of topics to explore. 

If you're looking for a topic, this blog has provided you with a comprehensive list of ideas to choose from. 

By following the tips, you can select a topic that is not only interesting but also well-suited.

However, if you find yourself struggling with selecting a topic or crafting a well-written history essay, don't worry. 

Our history essay writing service is here to help you!

Contact us to learn more about the professional essay writing service and how we can help you succeed in your history studies.

We also have an AI writing tool to assist you with a wide range of historical subjects and can help you create a custom essay that meets your specific requirements. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i write about a controversial topic in my history essay.

Yes, as long as you present a balanced and well-supported argument. Controversial topics can make for interesting essays. But it's important to maintain objectivity and avoid presenting biased opinions.

How do I research for a history essay?

Start by gathering information from reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and primary sources. Take notes and organize your research to help you develop a clear thesis and supporting arguments.

How important is citing sources in a history essay?

Citing sources is crucial in any academic essay, including history essays. It helps to avoid plagiarism and gives credibility to your arguments. Make sure to use the citation style recommended by your instructor.

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75 Interesting History Essay Topics

Do you wonder how ancient civilizations functioned and evolved through the years of inventions and innovation? History indeed teaches us so much about the people and communities that created an impact back then. While literary essay topics help you explore the nuanced writing forms, history essay topics are meant to nurture your research skills. The thirst to discover stories of war, victories of freedom fighters, and the smuggling of arms can be quenched by engaging in essay writing. 

History is vast, ranging from states to nations, from forts to ports and so much more. In such a case, you simply cannot be studying it all or exploring topics all of a sudden. Hence, it is important to know that history can be categorized into different types wherein you can choose the one that interests you the most. Writing history essays empowers critical thinking skills and builds a problem-solving mindset in everyday life. This article will take you through different history essay topics motivating you to discover varied perspectives, ideas, and ideologies of the past.

Engaging History Essay Topics 

Various creative writing topics for high schoolers tap into building their imagination skills and enhancing their thinking abilities. However, along with history websites , interesting history essay Topics enable students to dive deeper into the ancient world and discover evolution. It is important to provide students with the right topic that interests them thereby inspiring them to research and find facts. The below-mentioned topics are a combination of various parts of history that help teachers offer a comprehensive learning environment. 

1. General History Essay Topics

• The reasons behind the fall of the Roman Empire and its effects.
• The effects of the printing press on the Renaissance’s dissemination of knowledge.
• Propaganda’s function in World War II and its impact on public opinion.
• The historical contributions of ancient African civilizations.
• The Silk Road’s importance in promoting trade and cultural exchange between East and West.
• The elements that led to the Byzantine Empire’s rise and demise.
• How the Scientific Revolution affected the growth of modern science.
• Analyzing the social and cultural backdrop of the frenzy during the Salem Witch Trials.
• The Louisiana Purchase’s importance in influencing American expansion.
• The effects of the Spanish Inquisition on freedom and toleration of religion.
• The impact of Enlightenment thought on the French and American Revolutions.
• How the Mongol invasions affected the economies and societies of Eurasian countries.
• The consequences of the Protestant Reformation on politics and society in Europe.
• The artistic and governmental achievements of the ancient Persian Empire.
• The reasons for and effects of the Chinese and British opium wars.

2. Essay Topics on Ancient History 

• The pharaohs’ achievements offer a glimpse into the growth and fall of Egyptian civilization.
• The legacy of ancient Mesopotamia is the contributions it made to early human cultures and culture.
• What can we infer about the Indus Valley Civilization, a prehistoric culture, and its significance?
• The causes behind the rise, expansion, and ultimate destruction of the Roman Empire.
• The construction of China’s Great Wall and its significance.
• Ancient Rome’s aqueducts, roadways, and structures are feats of engineering.
• The development and significance of early scripts like cuneiform and hieroglyphics.
• Symbolism and purpose in the art and architecture of ancient civilizations.
• The impact of mummification methods on ancient Egyptian ideas about the afterlife.
• Beginnings and religious practices of ancient civilizations: A comparison.
• The importance of the ancient Olympic Games in promoting peace and harmony between city-states.
• Legendary stories’ cultural value to ancient cultures.
• Influence of the Persian Empire on regional trade and cultural exchange.
• Investigating the Mayan civilization’s triumphs and demise.
• Early Indian mathematicians’ contributions to mathematics.

3. Essay Topics on World History 

• How Europe’s intellectual and cultural development was fueled by the Renaissance.
• The effects of the Cuban Missile Crisis on the Cold War and world politics.
• The effect of the Mongol invasions on how medieval Eurasia developed.
• The legacy of ancient civilizations: Contrasting and comparing the contributions of the civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley.
• Gender rights and the position of women during the French Revolution.
• The causes of the Roman Empire’s collapse during its ascent and fall.
• The reasons for and effects of the 1917 Russian Revolution.
• The importance of the Silk Road in fostering commercial exchange.
• The contribution of the Enlightenment to world upheavals and reformations.
• China’s connections with the West after the Opium Wars.
• The effect of the Spanish Conquistadors on the Americas’ indigenous cultures.
• The causes of the Byzantine Empire’s collapse and its historical repercussions throughout Europe.
• Political and religious changes in Europe as a result of the Protestant Reformation.
• The emergence of empires in prehistoric Mesopotamia and their historical consequences.
• The Declaration of Independence’s importance in molding American history.

4. Essay Topics on Black History 

• The influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African-American culture.
• The importance of the Underground Railroad in aiding slaves’ freedom-related escapes.
• African-American participation in the Civil War and their struggle for freedom.
• The racial equality campaigns carried out by the Black Panthers.
• African-American aviators in World War II as the Tuskegee Airmen.
• The integration process of the first African American pupils into previously all-white schools.
• The history of Black History Month and its importance.
• The Civil Rights Act of 1964’s legacy and ongoing effects.
• The battle for desegregation by the Little Rock Nine.
• Black Lives Matter: Its Background and Importance
• The fight for voting rights and electoral participation by African Americans.
• Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs’): Background and Influence.
• Importance of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
• The Black Arts Movement’s influence on culture during the 1960s and 1970s.
• The National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People’s (NAACP): Background and Significance.

5. Argumentative Essay Topics on History

• Was the American Revolution a true revolution or was it merely a fight for independence?
• Social and economic effects of the Industrial Revolution on the working class.
• Women’s participation and contributions to the war effort during World War II.
• The Mongol Empire’s legacy: Did it make a positive or detrimental impact on world history?
• The Declaration of Independence’s importance in influencing American values and administration.
• The benefits and drawbacks of imperialism.
• The effects of the Treaty of Versailles on post-World War I stability in Europe.
• The Black Death’s consequences on medieval society and how they affected Europe in the long run.
• The reasons behind the French Revolution and its effects.
• The reasons behind and effects of the Cold War’s Cuban Missile Crisis.
• Analyzing the civil rights movement’s effects on society and determining its effectiveness.
• The importance of ancient Greek and Roman culture in forming contemporary Western culture.
• The discussion around the use of atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
• The function of propaganda in World Wars I and II.
• Nelson Mandela’s contribution to the end of apartheid in South Africa.

Final Words

Drafting your thoughts about different history topics helps you explore a world of possibilities. Essay writing helps develop control grammar and language skills thereby strengthening communication.

With the above-mentioned history essay topics, you can choose the one that interests you the most. Ensure to pen down your thoughts and add new perspectives to the stories of the past. Students can also explore and play online history games to learn more about history and practice the same.

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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law , international relations , or public policy , but for any student who wishes to develop their critical thinking faculties. In this article, we’ll cover what makes a good argument essay and offer several argumentative essay topics for high school and college students. Let’s begin!

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

• Introduction
• Supporting body paragraphs
• Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

• Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
• Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
• Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
• Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
• Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
• Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
• Do the transitions flow smoothly?
• Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
• Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

• Read your work aloud to yourself.
• Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
• Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
• Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, High School, and College Students

Family argumentative essay topics.

• Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
• Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
• Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
• Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
• Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
• Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
• Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
• Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
• Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
• Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
• Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
• Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
• Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
• Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
• Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
• Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

• Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
• Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
• To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
• Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
• Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
• Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
• What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
• Should schools push to abolish homework?
• Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
• Should universities do away with Greek life?
• Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
• Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
• Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
• Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
• Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
• Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
• Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
• Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
• Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
• Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
• Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
• Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
• Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
• Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
• Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
• Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
• Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
• Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
• Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
• Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
• Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
• Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
• Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
• Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
• Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
• Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
• Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
• Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
• Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
• Should women be allowed into special forces units?
• Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
• Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
• Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
• Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
• Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
• Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
• In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
• Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
• Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
• Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
• Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
• Should organ donation be mandatory?
• Is cloning animals ethical?
• Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
• Is surrogacy ethical?
• Should birth control require a prescription?
• Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
• Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

• Should the federal government increase its efforts to minimize the negative impact of social media?
• Do social media and smartphones strengthen one’s relationships?
• Should antitrust regulators take action to limit the size of big tech companies?
• Should social media platforms ban political advertisements?
• Should the federal government hold social media companies accountable for instances of hate speech discovered on their platforms?
• Do apps such as TikTok and Instagram ultimately worsen the mental well-being of teenagers?
• Should governments oversee how social media platforms manage their users’ data?
• Should social media platforms like Facebook enforce a minimum age requirement for users?
• Should social media companies be held responsible for cases of cyberbullying?
• Should the United States ban TikTok?
• Is social media harmful to children?
• Should employers screen applicants’ social media accounts during the hiring process?

Religion Argument Essay Topics

• Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?
• Should religious symbols such as the hijab or crucifix be allowed in public spaces?
• Should religious freedoms be protected, even when they conflict with secular laws?
• Should the government regulate religious practices?
• Should we allow churches to engage in political activities?
• Religion: a force for good or evil in the world?
• Should the government provide funding for religious schools?
• Is it ethical for healthcare providers to deny abortions based on religious beliefs?
• Should religious organizations be allowed to discriminate in their hiring practices?
• Should we allow people to opt out of medical treatments based on their religious beliefs?
• Should the U.S. government hold religious organizations accountable for cases of sexual abuse within their community?
• Should religious beliefs be exempt from anti-discrimination laws?
• Should religious individuals be allowed to refuse services to others based on their beliefs or lifestyles? (As in this famous case .)
• Should the US ban religion-based federal holidays?
• Should public schools be allowed to teach children about religious holidays?

Science Argument Essay Topics

• Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
• Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
• Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
• Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
• Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
• What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
• Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
• Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
• Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
• Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
• Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

• Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
• How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
• Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
• Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
• Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
• Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
• Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
• Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
• Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
• Should sports teams be divided by gender?
• Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
• Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
• Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
• Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
• Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
• Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
• Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
• Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
• Does computing harm the environment?
• Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
• Are electric cars really better for the environment?
• Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
• Should private jets be banned?
• Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
• Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
• Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
• Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
• Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
• Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
• Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
• Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
• Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
• Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
• Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
• Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
• Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
• Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
• Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
• Should tipping practices be phased out?
• Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
• Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
• Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

Using the tips above, you can effectively structure and pen a compelling argumentative essay that will wow your instructor and classmates. Remember to craft a thesis statement that offers readers a roadmap through your essay, draw on your sources wisely to back up any claims, and read through your paper several times before it’s due to catch any last-minute proofreading errors. With time, diligence, and patience, your essay will be the most outstanding assignment you’ve ever turned in…until the next one rolls around.

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

• 125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students
• 150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
• 7 Best Places to Study
• Guide to the IB Extended Essay
• How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay
• AP Lit Reading List
• How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay
• 49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics
• High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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Debate Topics

Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research.

Abortion – Should abortion be legal?

Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?

American Socialism – Should the U.S. become socialist?

Animal Dissection – Should K-12 students dissect animals in science classrooms?

Animal Testing – Should animals be used for scientific or commercial testing?

Artificial Intelligence – Is artificial intelligence good for society?

Banned Books – Should parents or other adults be able to ban books from schools and libraries?

Binge-Watching – Is binge-watching good for you?

Cancel Culture – Is cancel culture (or callout culture) good for society?

CBD for Pets – Is CBD good for pets?

Cell Phone Radiation – Is cell phone radiation safe?

Cheerleading – Is cheerleading a sport?

Churches & Taxes – Should churches (including mosques, synagogues, etc.) remain tax-exempt?

College Education – Is a college education worth it?

Congressional Term Limits  – Should term limits be imposed on U.S. Senators and Representatives?

Constitutional Carry of Handguns – Should permitless, “constitutional carry” of guns be legal?

Corporal Punishment – Should corporal punishment be used in K-12 schools?

Corporate Tax Rate – Should the federal corporate income tax rate be raised?

Cuba Embargo – Should the United States maintain its embargo against Cuba?

DACA & Dreamers – Are DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and the DREAM Act good for America?

Daylight Saving Time – Should the United States keep daylight saving time?

DC AND Puerto Rico Statehood – Should Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico be granted U.S. statehood?

Death Penalty – Should the death penalty be legal?

Defund the Police – Should police departments be defunded, if not abolished?

Dress Codes – Should dress codes be implemented and enforced?

Drinking Age – Should the drinking age be lowered from 21 to a younger age?

Drone Strikes – Should the United States continue its use of drone strikes abroad?

Drug Use in Sports – Should performance-enhancing drugs be accepted in sports?

Election Day National Holiday – Should the election day be made a national holiday?

Electoral College – Should the United States use the electoral college in presidential elections?

Employer Vaccine Mandates – Should employers be able to mandate vaccinations?

Felon Voting – Should people who have completed felony sentences be allowed to vote?

Fighting in Hockey – Should fighting be allowed in hockey?

Filibuster – Should the U.S. Senate keep the filibuster?

Fracking – Should the United States continue fracking

Free College – Should public college be tuition-free?

Fur Clothing Bans – Should fur clothing be banned?

GMOS – Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be grown?

Gold Standard – Should the United States return to a gold standard?

Golf – Is golf a sport and are golfers athletes?

Gun Control – Should more gun control laws be enacted?

Historic Statue Removal – Should historic statues be taken down?

Homework – Is homework beneficial?

Illegal Immigration – Should the U.S. government provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?

Internet – Is the internet “making us stupid?”

Kneeling during the National Anthem – Is kneeling during the national anthem an appropriate form of protest?

Mandatory National Service – Should the United States have mandatory national service?

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) – Should medical aid in dying be legal?

Medical Marijuana – Should medical marijuana be legal?

Milk – Should humans consume dairy milk?

Minimum Wage – Should the federal minimum wage be increased?

Net Neutrality – Should the U.S. have net neutrality laws?

Obesity – Is obesity a disease?

Olympics – Are the Olympic games an overall benefit for their host countries and cities?

OTC Birth Control Pills – Should birth control pills be available over-the-counter (OTC)?

Penny – Should the penny stay in circulation?

Pit Bull Bans – Should breed-specific legislation (“pit bull bans”) be enacted?

Pokémon – Is Pokémon Go good for our society?

Police Body Cameras – Should police officers wear body cameras?

Prescription Drug Costs – Should the U.S. federal government regulate prescription drug prices?

Presidential Election, 2024 – 2024 Presidential Election Site

Private Prisons – Should prisons be privatized?

Recreational Marijuana – Should recreational marijuana be legal?

Reparations for Slavery – Should the federal government pay reparations to the descendants of slaves?

Right to Healthcare – Should all Americans have the right (be entitled) to health care?

Sanctuary Cities – Should sanctuary cities receive federal funding?

Santa Claus – Is there really a Santa Claus?

Saturday Halloween – Should Halloween be moved permanently to Saturday?

School Uniforms – Should students have to wear school uniforms?

Single-use Plastics Ban – Should single-use plastics be banned?

Social Media & Digital Addiction – Does social media spur digital addiction and other social ills?

Social Security Privatization – Should social security be privatized?

Space Colonization – Should humans colonize space?

Standardized Tests – Do standardized tests improve education in America?

Student Loan Debt – Should student loan debt be eliminated via forgiveness or bankruptcy?

TikTok Bans – Should TikTok be banned?

Uber & Lyft – Are ride-sharing companies a benefit to society?

Universal Basic Income (UBI) – Should the United States implement a universal basic income?

U.S. Supreme Court Packing – Should packing the U.S. Supreme Court ever be considered?

Vaccines for Kids – Should states be allowed to mandate vaccines for school attendance??

Vaping E-Cigarettes – Is vaping e-cigarettes safe?

Vegetarianism – Should people become vegetarian?

Video Games & Violence – Do violent video games contribute to youth violence?

Voting Age – Should the voting age be lowered to 16?

Voting Machines – Are electronic voting machines the best method for voting?

Zoos – Should zoos exist?

Archived Topics

Please note that ProCon no longer updates these debates.

ACLU – Is the ACLU good for America?

Big Three Bailout – Should the big three car manufacturers be bailed out by the U.S. government?

Born Gay – Is sexual orientation determined at birth?

Climate Change – Is human activity primarily responsible for global climate change?

College Football Playoffs – Should college football replace the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) with a playoff system?

Dakota Access Pipeline – Should the Dakota Access Pipeline be completed?

D.A.R.E. – Is the D.A.R.E. program good for America’s kids (K-12)?

Gay Marriage – Should gay marriage be legal?

Congressional Insider Trading – Should insider trading by Congress be allowed?

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict – What are the solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Obamacare – Is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) good for America?

Paying College Athletes – Should colleges and universities pay college athletes?

President Bill Clinton – Was Bill Clinton a good president?

President Ronald Reagan – Was Ronald Reagan a good president?

Presidential Election, 2008 – Which candidate would make the best U.S. president?

Presidential Election, 2012 – Which candidate should be U.S. president in 2012?

Presidential Election, 2016 – The candidates and where they stand on the issues

Presidential Election, 2020 – 2020 Presidential Election Site

Prostitution – Should prostitution be legal?

School Vouchers – Should states have school voucher programs?

Tablets v. Textbooks -Should tablets replace textbooks in K-12 schools?

Teacher Tenure – Should teachers get tenure?

Under God in the Pledge – Should the words “under god” be in the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance?

U.S. Drone Shot down by Iran – Was the U.S. drone shot down by Iran over international waters?

U.S.-Iraq War – Should the U.S. have attacked Iraq?

WTC Muslim Center – Is it appropriate to build a muslim community center (aka the ”ground zero mosque”) near the World Trade Center site?

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Natalie Leppard Managing Editor [email protected]

© 2023 Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. All rights reserved

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Uta president: our new campus in west fort worth is a critical investment in our region | opinion, college notes: aug. 5, 2024, liberty university acquires virginia technical institute’s educational components, frostburg state university unveils multiyear plan to slash over $7m, here’s why we love this app for teaching k-2 phonics, larry h. & gail miller family foundation donates $1 million to ogden-weber technical college pathway building, montana university system top earners get $14k salary bumps, rancho santiago community college’s early college program makes higher education attainable, engaging your team in successful edib initiatives, 100+ argumentative essay topics.

Are you a student looking for argumentative essay topics? If so, we have you covered. Below you will find a list of the best argumentative essay topics.

Argumentative Essay Topics (General)

• Do you think that abortion should be made illegal?
• Do you think that animal testing should be banned?
• Is the #metoo movement a great thing?
• Do you think that manufacturers are responsible for the effects of the chemicals used in creating their products?
• Do you think that illegal immigrants be granted residency?
• Is there a fake news problem? What is the source?
• Do you believe that “big pharma” has people’s best interests at heart?
• Is the death penalty a just punishment?
• Are there moral concerns that make genetic cloning illegal?
• What Do you think that people do to stop human trafficking?

Argumentative Essay Topics About Politics

• Which political party has the right ideology?
• What Do you think that be done to reduce income inequality?
• Is paying down the US deficit the most essential issue of our time?
• Do you believe that the Federal Reserve needs to stop printing money because it creates an unsustainable bubble?
• Is capitalism the best economic system?
• Is socialism the best economic system?
• Is America ready for a female president?
• Do you think that an elected leader represents the interests of their own political party, or is it best to try to compromise?
• What modern political decision has created the most change?
• Do you believe that campaign finance reform works?

Argumentative Essay Topics About Society & Culture

• When will LGTBQ individuals experience equality?
• Is healthcare a fundamental human right?
• Do you think that TV censors explicit content because programmers must produce family-friendly programming?
• Social media brings us together and pulls us apart; Do you believe that the great outweighs the bad or vice versa?
• Is a gap year time for exploration and reflection or a year-long vacation?
• Many states have begun to decriminalize the possession of certain drugs like marijuana; is this a great idea?
• Equality is part of lawmaking, but do you believe that it works in practice?
• Do you think that people have the right to own a gun?
• In cases of terminal illness, Do you think that a patient should be able to request medically assisted suicide?
• Do you think that smoking should be illegal?
• What is the best way to foster positive conversation about controversial issues?

Argumentative Essay Topics About History

• Many people think that we learn from the past, but there are many patterns in history. Do you think history repeats itself?
• How did the US Civil War make the nation best or worse?
• Thomas Jefferson made considerable contributions to the founding of America, both as a writer and a politician. However, he didn’t live a perfect life. Was he a hero?
• Do you believe that our modern perspective changes the “truth” of what happened during major historical events?
• Pick a past decade and discuss if lower socio-economic classes had opportunities at that time.
• Did the handling of Native Americans leave a moral stain on the US?
• Slavery was a foundational part of the American colonies and, later, the United States. So how did this injustice change the nation?
• What factors led to the rise of Naziism in Germany and to the Holocaust?
• The plague destroyed the population of Europe and changed the course of history. So what was its biggest lesson?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Kids in Elementary School

• Do you think that there be commercials in kids’ programs?
• Do you believe that homework help kids learn?
• Do you think that school should be all year?
• Do schools treat girls and boys the same way?
• Do you think that parents limit screen time?
• Do you think that school start before eight o’clock in the morning?
• Do you think that kids be able to vote in national elections?
• Is it best to read fiction or nonfiction?
• Is it best for kids to have distance learning or be in school?
• Do parents treat all their kids the same way, or do they treat the oldest and youngest differently?
• Do you think that kids have the same teacher every year or switch teachers each year?
• Do you think that video games be a sport?
• Are schools doing enough to stop bullying?
• Do you think that kids have homework on weekends?
• Is it best if three generations of a family live together?
• Are hot dogs bad for you?
• Do you think that school lunch should include vegetables, even if Many kids don’t like them?
• Is it okay to eat dessert before dinner?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

• Do you think that middle schoolers have jobs like babysitting or mowing lawns?
• Are beauty pageants a great idea?
• Are violent video games bad?
• Do you think that parents be able to say whether kids can dye their hair?
• Do you believe that social media do more harm than good?
• Do middle schoolers have too much homework?
• Do you think that teachers get paid more?
• Is life more challenging for your parent’s generation or yours’?
• Why is your favorite musical artist best than anyone else?
• Do you think that kids read age-appropriate books, or is it okay to read grown-up books?
• Do you think that there be ratings (like G, PG, and R) for movies?
• Is it best to ride the bus or walk to school?
• Is school lunch great for kids?
• Do you believe an hour of reading or an hour of exercising is better?
• Do you think that gym class should be required?
• Do you think that kids get paid for getting excellent grades?
• Is it best to have class over the computer or in person?
• Is cyberbullying as big of a problem as in-person bullying?
• Do you think that all cars be electric?

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

• Do you think that people be allowed to burn the flag?
• Do you think that parents get in trouble for truancy if kids don’t go to school?
• Is social media bad for relationships?
• Do you think that businesses be required to hire for diversity?
• Are women and men treated equally?
• Do you think that the minimum wage should be raised?
• Do you think that everyone should go to college?
• Is climate change a real threat?
• Are wind farms benefitting the environment and economy?
• Do you think that people be allowed to wear fur of any kind?
• Is it a bad idea to use your DNA for genealogy?
• Do you think that parents should decide they don’t want medical treatment for their kids?
• Is the United States falling behind other nations in terms of education?
• Do the actions of a nation’s leader influence the actions of the people?
• Do you think that the electoral college should be abolished?
• Do you think that schools be required to offer art courses?
• Do you think that all new cars be electric?
• Will AI help the world or hurt it?
• Do you think that high school pupils work during the school year?
• Are there forms of personal expression that you think should be allowed in schools?

Argumentative Essay Topics for College

• Are men and women equally emotional?
• Are printed books best than e-readers?
• Do you think that the drinking age should be lowered?
• Are parents responsible for childhood obesity?
• Do you think that college should free?
• Do you think that beauty standards be more inclusive?
• Are all college majors equally essential?
• Is social media bad for kids?
• Has technology changed our definition of magic?
• Is it worth exploring space?
• Do you think that all internships be paid?
• Do you think that income should be tied to the cost of a degree?
• Is climate change the biggest threat to the world?
• Is feminism still essential?
• Has society made the needed reparations for slavery?
• Do you believe that elections should be decided by the popular vote?
• Should everyone be entitled to free health care?
• Do anti-discrimination laws protect disabled pupils?
• Is a degree from an online college or university as legitimate as a degree from a brick-and-mortar university?
• Is it a conflict of interest for an instructor or professor to require pupils to purchase his book?

100+ Persuasive Essay Topics

2023 best online doctorate in educational technology.

Matthew Lynch

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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.
• Colonization Essay Ideas
• Political Parties Research Ideas
• Culture Topics
• Demography Paper Topics
• Financial Crisis Paper Topics
• Ethnographic Paper Topics
• Obamacare Questions
• Urbanization Ideas
• 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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The many mistakes of johnny harris.

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Media literacy is not faring well. If we look at OECD countries, most of whom are described as high-income economies, do you know how many of their fifteen-year-olds can distinguish between a fact and an opinion in a text? Fewer than  1 in 10 .

Teachers are often overworked and underequipped to educate their students: it’s no wonder that many of them will turn to high-quality YouTube videos to help their students understand science and history. Anecdotally, one of the YouTubers getting a lot of airtime in classrooms is Johnny Harris.

Harris made his name turning his obsession with maps into the show  Borders  for  Vox , in which he would travel the globe and report on what happens when countries rub shoulders with each other. When  Borders  was  cancelled during the pandemic , Harris decided to continue doing journalism on his own YouTube channel, growing a team around him and churning out stunning videos that are edited within an inch of their lives.

The quick cuts and dazzling montages, as well as the dramatic shots of Harris absorbed by a document he’s unearthed, highlighting it suspensefully in tight close-ups, all lend credence to the often-excellent work he does. But it also makes it easy to mask his mistakes. And for someone who takes journalism to heart, his mistakes are big, leading to oversimplification and an occasional lapse in skepticism.

To quote his refrain, “Come! Let me show you.”

Can you pronounce the name of this ingredient?

Johnny Harris hates American bread, calling it “industrial, mass-produced garbage.” Fair enough, but his issue is not merely with taste. In a  video  that currently sits at 5.6 million views, Harris takes American bread to task for being “made with ingredients that are literally illegal in the EU.” Over the eerie tones of  The X-Files  theme, Harris attempts to pronounce the following name: “azodicarbonamide.” The esotericism of this chemical name is somehow relevant to his argument that this very molecule is also used in the manufacturing of yoga mats and has been banned by the European Union and other countries. Commandeering footage of  Breaking Bad ’s Walter White and Jesse Pinkman in protective gear cooking up illegal drugs, Harris tells us in voiceover that many American bread manufacturers use additives to keep bread soft and white, even though these chemicals are “known to cause cancer and inflame asthma and do all of these terrible things.”

If you are a regular reader of our website, you will have heard these chemophobic arguments before. They were popularized by Vani Hari, commonly known as  The Food Babe , an activist with a degree in computer science who led numerous campaigns against major food retailers who were employing “chemicals” whose names she found hard to pronounce. Get a molecular biologist tipsy enough and ask them to pronounce “deoxyribonucleic acid” and see what happens. It’s the technical name for DNA; just because the tongue struggles with it doesn’t make it enemy number one.

Azodicarbonamide creates the air pockets our yoga mats need  and  it helps make bread fluffier. The one use does not contaminate the other. Azodicarbonamide is not known to cause cancer. That scare comes from limited rodent studies done in the 1960s and 70s which showed an increase in a specific type of lung tumour in female mice (but not in male mice or in rats of either sex). These tumours are  “exceptionally rare”  in humans, and the mouse model used often spontaneously develops these types of tumours. A tumour of blood vessels was also seen slightly more in female mice exposed to azodicarbonamide, but not in male mice.

This has to be put into perspective: compounds known to cause mutations and/or cancer  naturally occur  in small amounts in some of the natural food we eat, like the common mushroom which contains trace amounts of nastier molecules belonging to the same family as azodicarbonamide. It’s the dose that makes the poison. Why some regulatory agencies ban an ingredient that others don’t often boils down to how risk-averse they are and thus how they interpret the precautionary principle.

As for azodicarbonamide’s potential to worsen asthma, the evidence is not clear cut. There is no reason to believe this would affect bread making or consumption  at home , only occupational exposure. But the studies done and the cases reported in the literature are  not ironclad , and we have to remember that exposure to airborne flour itself in large enough quantities will irritate the respiratory tract. This kind of nuance, unfortunately, is missing from Harris’ attack on American bread.

Zooming out, his video is dangerously perched on the appeals to both nature and antiquity. Rustic bread made in France for centuries is pure and good, you see, but modern American bread is stomach-churning because it uses “15 ingredients instead of three” so that “the bread can sit on a shelf for not just one or two days  like it should  but a whole week.” By that argument, we shouldn’t consume corn, banana, or watermelon because  they used to look much different  (and much less appetizing) and their modern iterations are just unnatural by comparison.

Then, there’s the paranoid streak.

In a  video  that garnered 8.5 million views and which Harris thumbnailed with the words “WE HAVE PROOF,” Harris explores the recent craze over UFO sightings—sorry,  UAP  sightings, meaning unexplained anomalous phenomena. In passing, he mentions  Mick West , who has done excellent work debunking a lot of blurry footage of what is alleged to be high-tech spy drones or aliens.

But the bulk of the video is spent leering at report after report—a total of 144 are being investigated by the U.S. government right now!—while original music amps up the mystery. The emphasis on  evidence over context  is key to Harris’ style: flood the space with visuals that keep your attention and elicit questions and only occasionally pull back to explain. The number of UAP reports may seem impressive, but a historical context he fails to mention brings it into perspective. The US Air Force investigated over 12,000 of these reports in the 1950s and 60s for  Project Blue Book  and concluded none of them revealed threats to national security or the existence of extraterrestrial life forms. They tended to be regular airplanes, weather balloons, clouds, and stars. We have been here before, and given the proliferation of satellites and high-definition cameras since, you would expect the quality of the evidence to be better than an out-of-focus blur.

As for the claim that Air Force pilots are super-observers and that what they report seeing in the sky must necessarily be truly out of this world if these experts can’t recognize them, that is simply wrong. Pilots are human beings, with the same biases we all share. UAP encounters are often of the “blink and you miss it” variety, making on-the-spot identification difficult. I’ve seen pilots described less as trained observers and more as  trained survivors : interpreting the slightest visual cue as a potential threat to their survival, as they should. When they say they think they saw a craft moving in ways that defy physics, we should not simply believe them because of their occupation. 

To Johnny Harris’ credit, he reveals that many of the tantalizing videos of strange aerial phenomena he started with were shown to have mundane explanations. A mysterious airborne triangle wasn’t triangular after all: it was simply a trick of optics, where an out-of-focus object recorded by a camera through night-vision goggles has its light bent in strange ways. But Harris isn’t willing to let it go: “These objects,” he immediately  states , “are probably foreign drones trying to spy on U.S. military maneuvers. Yeah, they may not be triangular in shape, but, like, that’s still really useful information.” As was pointed out by  others , I would like to know why it is that a secret spy drone would have FAA-compliant blinking lights, as is clearly visible in the footage. 

A few months earlier, in a  video  about the Bermuda Triangle, Harris had admitted to getting “intoxicated by a good, mysterious story.” He has to be vigilant as a storyteller and journalist. Yet many of his videos lean into this conspiratorial, borderline paranoid tendency that transforms his journalistic investigation into a quest to uncover a secret plot. That’s what happens when accumulating nuggets of evidence is prioritized over zooming out to provide context. Skepticism takes a backseat to spectacle.

Leaving the science behind, it would be easy for me to fall under the spell of Gell-Mann amnesia. Author Michael Crichton coined the term in reference to physicist Murray Gell-Mann, with whom he had once discussed it. It’s when you read the newspaper and notice that a story about a subject you know well is riddled with errors. You turn the page, forget about it, and believe what the same outlet has to say on topics outside of your expertise.

I noticed what Johnny Harris got wrong about science and topics typically dissected by skeptics. Other experts have chimed in to show where else Harris’ journalism strays from facts.

Visual artifice

Many videos have popped up on YouTube critically analyzing the claims made by Johnny Harris. You may not have seen them. With a subscriber count of 5.39 million at the time of writing, Harris’ own channel often dwarfs his critics’. Some take minor issues with his interpretation of historical events, but many reveal major mistakes that Harris and his team made.

Harris claimed that the U.S. is  “giving,  giving ”  nuclear submarine technology freely to Australia, which elicits shock from him: “Here are the designs to our most powerful weapons! Take them, foreign country!”  Not true . This was famously estimated to cost Australia between 268 and 368 billion dollars to acquire. The  Guardian even designed a graph comparing this hefty price tag to nine other things the Australian government spent or could spend its budget on, including Medicare rebates and early childhood educator salaries. The nuclear subs were not a gift.

Harris’ definition of inflation, which he claimed was the simplest, also drew arched eyebrows  from people   who teach economics , and his portrayal of history is routinely criticized for oversimplifying, when it’s not downright wrong. When Harris tackled  colonialism , he strongly implied that one man was responsible for the inception of this idea: Christopher Columbus. Apparently, Columbus arrived at the New World to trade; but upon seeing that the Indigenous people were showing no resistance at all, he and  he alone decided  to change his plans. He would claim the land and thus become the first European imperialist.

As Jochem Boodt pointed out in his own  video , this is simply not true. Columbus’ contract stated that he should claim the land he encountered and that he would become a sort of governor of this new property. Moreover, the idea of colonization had precedent, with the Portuguese in Africa and with Spain in the Canary Islands. In the comments to Boodt’s video, Harris admitted to having dramatized this piece of history as a “device/symbol.” In his Bermuda Triangle video, he would briefly mention this mistake before begging, “I’m sorry. Can we move on, please?”

YouTube is a peculiar platform for education. It allows creative people to stretch their wings and craft video essays in their own unique style, away from the limitations and oversight of traditional media. As wonderful as it can be, this freedom can also be abused. Last December, popular YouTuber James Somerton, who made videos appraising gay media, was revealed in  a stunning four-hour-long video  to have plagiarized the majority of his scripts, while  a second video  showed that some of what hadn’t been plagiarized was simply made up, leading to egregious statements. This sent shockwaves through the video essay community, with many deciding to add sources either on screen or in the description box when making claims. It is surprising to me that Johnny Harris did not originally cite his sources. He only started to do it in  September 2022  (as far as I can tell) after Boodt’s criticism.

To both teachers and casual viewers of Johnny Harris’ slick videos, I would invite a healthy amount of skepticism. High production values give the illusion of scholarship. A torrent of visuals and pulsating music does not clarify; it drags you in and dulls your critical thinking skills. It’s harder to assess if what you’re being told is accurate or complete when your senses are being assaulted by bright stimuli. Harris himself is aware of this danger: in  denouncing Joe Rogan , he said that “the idea of trusting your viewer to go fact-check everything you say is irresponsible and naïve.” I agree.

Quality also takes time. Harris’ mini-documentaries are full of visual artifice that takes a lot of time to animate. In the last three months, he has released nine videos. That’s three videos a month, with an average length of 27 minutes. Doing comprehensive research on thorny topics of the kind Harris has an interest in is time-consuming, and I worry that glitz is sometimes overtaking facts in priority. This is deeply ironic. Harris has  said before  that “the [American] news has become way too fun,” tricking you “into feeling informed.” I’ve never watched a newscast that had the entertainment value and visual dazzle of a Johnny Harris video.

This can lead to stunning skids on the road to reporting the news. A  video  Harris released called “How China Became So Powerful,” and which was indistinguishable from his usual journalistic documentaries, turned out to have been co-written in partnership with the World Economic Forum (WEF). A version of the script for the video was even posted  on the Forum’s website , with Peter Vanham, its head of media, listed as first author. The disclosure was made in  the last minute  of the video. This was neither education nor journalism, but an ad for the WEF’s meeting in Davos and its founder’s latest book, made to look like reporting coming from a trusted source, not unlike the sponsored content in newspapers. Video essayist Tom Nicholas even went further, denouncing it as  “propaganda.”

I have no doubt that Johnny Harris ultimately means well and tries to do what educators struggle with: being both accurate and engaging in order to make the world around us more understandable. And we all make mistakes: learning from them and correcting them with full transparency are key. I just wish that instead of the whirlwind of visuals thrown at his viewer’s eyes, he invested more time researching his topics so that he doesn’t become the incarnation of the very thing he was trying to repudiate: infotainment.

Take-home message: - Johnny Harris is an independent journalist who makes visually dazzling mini-documentaries on YouTube - On scientific issues, he has made a number of mistakes, such as unfairly demonizing an ingredient used in bread manufacturing and ignoring a large body of investigation on UFO sightings - On historical and economic issues, subject experts have taken him to task for oversimplifying and for producing a video sponsored by and co-written by the World Economic Forum without adequately declaring it as such

@CrackedScience

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