Definition
An historical essay demonstrates that you have a good
knowledge about an event or a period of history and a good grasp of its
importance and contributions to our world.
A typical essay will consist not only of the details surrounding the
event or period but will reveal an understanding of some of the “big picture”
of history.
Thesis Development
Writing an essay about a historical topic requires that
you make some judgment about the evidence and details. Generally, a thesis explains the “why” and
the “how” of something that happened.
Your thesis should take a stand on an issue or historical problem and
requires some judgment and interpretation of evidence. Your thesis should be as clear and specific
as possible.
Organization
Information can be presented chronologically (in a first
to last sequence), in order of importance (least to most important), or in
order of quantity of information (least amount to greatest amount). Your essay can be divided by themes,
geographical locations, or personalities involved. In writing the essay, you will analyze the
facts, not just describe them.
Tips on Writing
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Everything you
write about should support or be related to your thesis.
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Be sure that you
include enough information and define any unfamiliar terms. Assume your readers do not know as much about
the topic as you do.
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Prove your
arguments: explain how and why a thing
happened.
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Suitable evidence
includes data (facts and figures) and authorities on the subject (what
historians know).
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Use a variety of
transitions in the text of your paper.
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This is not a
research paper, but may require some outside reading and note taking. Remember to take notes in your own words.
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Keep the language
simple. Remember, this is an essay, not a story. Use good, accurate vocabulary, but not overly
flowery words.
Essay Guidelines
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Due dates: Pre-Write due November 17; Rough Draft due December
1; Final Draft due December 15.
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Essay
length: 500 – 700 words (between 2 and 4
pages)
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Rough drafts can
be typed or hand-written, but must be double-spaced.
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Final draft
format:
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Typed (if this is
not possible, please let me know)
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1 inch margins
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Name and date on
the upper right hand corner
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Number the pages
on the lower right hand corner
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Title centered
above the text of the essay
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