History Essay

History Essay 

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 

• Everything you write about should support or be related to your thesis. 
• 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. 
• Prove your arguments:  explain how and why a thing happened. 
• Suitable evidence includes data (facts and figures) and authorities on the subject (what historians know). 
• Use a variety of transitions in the text of your paper. 

• This is not a research paper, but may require some outside reading and note taking.  Remember to take notes in your own words. 
• Keep the language simple. Remember, this is an essay, not a story.  Use good, accurate vocabulary, but not overly flowery words. 

Essay Guidelines 

• Due dates:  Pre-Write due November 14; Rough Draft due November 21; Final Draft due December 12. 
• Essay length:  500 – 700 words (between 2 and 4 pages) 
• Rough drafts can be typed or hand-written, but must be double-spaced. 
• Final draft format:  
• Typed (if this is not possible, please let me know) 

• 1 inch margins 
• Name and date on the upper right hand corner 
• Number the pages on the lower right hand corner 
• Title centered above the text of the essay