history research topics for middle school

Cool History Topics: 151 Great Historical Events & Ideas

History is one of the most fascinating and influential fields of study. It’s not merely a narration of the events of the past but a constant search for answers. It’s a re-examination of our human experience and understanding of how far we have come.

There are thousands of interesting history topics that a student can write an essay about. From ancient tribes to the modern world issues, there are plenty of things to explore. However, you might still find it challenging to work on your history project, presentation, or research paper.

There are a few reasons why:

First of all, there are too many choices to pick one. Secondly, when it comes to history, saying something new and genuinely original is tough. A lot of people try to find a research topic that will be fun to write about. You can feel as if all the ideas were already examined.

This is why our team has come together to provide you with this list of cool history topics to write about. Find some unique and fresh ideas on our page!

For some students, picking a popular topic in history is not enough. They want something unique and cool. If you are one of these students, this list can give you some fresh ideas on cool history topics to write about.

• ✨ Top Interesting Topics
• 😎 What Idea is Cool?
• 🥇 Important Events
• 📌 10 Cool Events
• ✨ Popular Topics
• 💡 American History
• 🌍 World History
• 🏺 Ancient History

✨ 15 Interesting History Topics

• World Wonders.
• Chernobyl Disaster.
• Ancient Egypt.
• The Cold War.
• The Red Scare.
• The Holocaust.
• Edo Period.
• Famous Italian Painters.
• The Civil War.
• The 20 th Century.
• Thirty Years’ War.
• South African Apartheid.
• Modern World History.
• Eiffel Tower.
• The Great Depression.

😎 What Is a Cool History Topic?

You may still wonder whether the topic you chose to talk about is cool enough. Well, you can ask people around you to determine. Don’t settle for a random history topic. Make sure it is worth your time.

Talk to your friends, your family, and people you know. Question them about the most important event in world history. It is a good topic to talk about with your friends and learn about exciting events in history. Another great option would be looking up free college essays collected in a samples database. They usually cover a variety of topics and include numerous paper types.

If you don’t have time, this list will give you ideas about some cool history topics to write about. Consider the options, pick the most engaging one, and start your paper.

🥇 Most Important Historical Events

Selecting one of the events that changed the world is a daunting task for anyone. You might ask, with everything that has happened in the past 5000 years, how can you choose what was the most important?

Here is our list of the most important historical events ever:

• Alexander the Great: the political and cultural impact of Alexander the Great’s Conquest . Alexander the Great was one of the most influential kings of the ancient world. In the essay about his political and cultural impact, talk about his military campaigns. How did he, by the age of 30, create one of the biggest Empires in the world? Allow the readers to see how big and powerful the empire was. Elaborate on the legacy that Alexander the Great left after his death.
• The Factors that contributed to the dissolution of the Roman Empire . Historians agree on several factors that contributed to it. At the beginning of the essay, identify them. You can also decide to focus on several factors that seem the most important.
• Islam and Christianity Impact on the Middle Ages
• Nudity in the paintings of the Italian Renaissance
• Leonardo Da Vinci: Artist, Scientist, Inventor . An essay about this person is destined to be intriguing. Leonardo Da Vinci was one of the most captivating figures in the history of humankind. Just imagine: he was an artist, a scientist, and an inventor at the same time. You can pick several most important paintings to talk about. How about The Mona Lisa or The Last Supper?
• Could World War II be prevented?
• How will historians remember the 2010s?
• Heroes after the Middle Ages
• Impact of the Black Death: the greatest population disaster
• American family’s changes since the 20th century
• Racism and Education in the United States . In this essay, students should focus on the history of discrimination in the United States. You can talk about Brown versus The Board of Education but try to go a bit further. Think about disproportionate funding in the public education sector. See if there is a connection with the minorities. Where do they live and go to school?
• Was there a need to drop the bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
• The Fall of Constantinople – the greatest capital in the world. Your tutor will most probably expect you to write about the greatness of the city. But this essay topic should focus on the fall of it. Talk about the last decades of the city and about the most important factors that contributed to the fall of it.
• What were the effects of Gutenberg’s Printing Press? The printing revolutions started after Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press. It’s another transformational event in world history. It was crucial in the development of the Renaissance, Reformation, and the Age of Enlightenment. This topic has a lot of things you can talk about.
• The Ideology of Colonialism
• Paradoxicality of Christianity and Slavery. Not many people know, but Christian slaveholders used religion to justify slavery. They usually picked up verses from the book of Genesis and interpreted them in the manner that served their needs. Sometimes they used the New Testament to justify slavery. You could compare the attitude early Christians had towards slaves and how it changed.
• The scar of colonialism and the presence of post-colonialism
• Impact of the American revolution on women. Women played an integral part during the revolution. Depending on their social status, their involvement varied. They affected the revolution a lot, but also the revolution had a great impact on them. Women did not have any political voice in Colonial America. So, see how it changed after the American Revolution was over.

• The Rise and Fall of Napoleon
• Culture, work, and social change after the Industrial Revolution
• Why was the Declaration of Independence written?
• French Revolution: why Marie Antoinette lost her head?
• The importance of the Berlin Wall in the Cold War
• Communism Collapse in the USSR . Write about what caused the collapse of the Soviet Union. Discuss Gorbachev’s decision to democratize the Soviet Union and how people reacted to it. Write about the impact that the collapse of the Soviet Union had around the world.

📌 10 Cool Events in History to Write About

• The Apollo 11 Landing – 1969.
• Formation of the UN – 1945.
• The Suffrage Movement – 1847-1920.
• The American Revolution – 1775-1783.
• Fall of the Wall – 1989.
• The Gunpowder Plot – 1605.
• Discover of DNA – 1860s.
• 20th Century Space Race – 1955-1975.
• The Trojan War – 12th Century BCE.
• The Renaissance – 15th-16th Century.

✨ Most Popular History Topics

This list is great if those who want to pick one of the famous topics in history. The selected ideas have a great depth to them. They are relevant and will be excellent to write about. You will be able to find information in history encyclopedias, journals, articles, and podcasts.

Moreover, your classmates and teacher will like your research too. Here’s our list of popular history essay topic:

• The Industrial Revolution and how did it change England
• The Civil Rights Movement in the United States . Elaborate on the political climate before the civil rights movements. Discuss the events that triggered it in the United States. What was the movement able to achieve? If you choose this essay topic, be ready to have a strong opinion about it.
• Martin Luther King: the life and death. Another idea that, in a way, relates to the civil rights movement essay topic. It’s impossible to explore race relationships without talking about Martin Luther King. He was a bright and influential individual. For sure, this essay topic is among the most popular ones.
• The autobiography of Malcolm X
• French Revolution and the Napoleonic Era
• Causes of the 1812 war . Write about the immediate causes and the remote causes of the 1812 war. You can also talk about the groups that opposed the war and the groups that supported it.
• Why did William win the battle of Hastings?
• Mongol’s Conquest Causes, Battles, and Results
• Music and paintings during the Renaissance in Italy
• Compare British and American slavery. Examine the differences and similarities between British and American slavery. For a very long time, historians believed that the Southern type of slavery was harsher. Think about it and examine the evidence that you have. You can use slave diaries and the novels they wrote about their experiences.
• Dehumanizing psychology of slavery: does it still exist?
• Transatlantic Slave Trade: from West Africa to the Americas
• African-American cultural identity
• The history of Buddhism
• The lasting impact of Karl Marx’s works. Karl Marx was not a politician, nor he ever considered implementing his ideas. However, not that long after his death, his works were picked up. They were interpreted and revolutionized. This is a great essay topic for everyone who is looking for an engaging theme to write about.

• The history of math
• The fall of the Roman Empire and the rise of feudalism
• When did Pearl Harbor become a naval base?
• Economic Recession in the United States in the 2000s
• Mental Illness in America: Nellie Bly, Kate Chopin, and Charlotte Perkins Gilman
• Canadian history through sports. Canada is all about sports. In this essay, write about how the image of Canada was continuously shaped by sports victories. It’s a fascinating and cool topic to explore.
• The space race during the Cold War
• Positive and Negative Effects of the Cold War. The Cold War was a different type of conflict. While it created a lot of calamity and negativity, there were some positive sides to it as well. Talk about those effects. For instance, focus on political stability, or economic growth, or the space race.
• The history of aviation
• Post-Civil war reconstruction in American history
• The role of Capitalism and the life of workers
• Arab-Israeli conflict

🔥 Top 76 Coolest History Topics

If you are looking for the coolest history topic, you are in the right place. Find a title that interests you personally and start writing. Be sure the process of writing won’t be tedious. Instead, it should make you curious about more historical events of the past.

We combined this list of topics to help you get inspired.

💡 Cool American History Topics

• How did the Civil War affect the distribution of wealth in the United States?
• The 1992 Los Angeles Riots
• African Communities in America . African Communities in America have a long history. It’s full of discrimination, slavery, the oppression. Despite all of that, African communities in the United States are among the fastest-growing.
• Condition of Women and Minorities During the War
• The first wave of immigration to the United States
• Racism and segregation in the US
• The first civilizations of the Native Americans
• Did Barack Obama change America? Barack Obama was the first African American President in the United States. Look at the political reforms, foreign and immigration policies implemented during his presidency. Then, try to answer this question for yourself.
• A bill of rights and an amendment
• The origins of automobile drag racing in the U.S.

• How did the highway system change US culture? America has one of the best highways in the world. All thanks to the 1921 Federal-Aid Highway Act and 1956 Federal-Aid Highway Acts. They led to a highway system to become faster and even more efficient. It allowed America to be interconnected. Talk about the effects it had on economic, political, cultural life.
• Events after the Pearl Harbor invasion
• The American red and blue state divide . Every single state had both conservative and liberal voters. However, since the 2000 United States Presidential elections, blue and red states were referred. The respective voters predominantly choose the Democratic party or the Republican party. In this essay, write about this divide. Talk about the differences between both groups of voters.
• The development of clinical psychology in America
• The founders of clinical psychology in the United States. In this essay, talk about the founders of clinical psychology in the United States. Discuss what is clinical psychology and what makes it different from general psychology. Explore how this field evolved in the world and how it started in the United States.
• African American soldiers during the Vietnam War
• Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War
• How did the media shape Americans’ perceptions of the Vietnam War?
• Native American Weaponry
• History of American Stock Market
• How did the Great Depression end?

🌍 Cool World History Topics

• How Capitalism beat Communism
• The Cold war and its consequences for the world
• How Genghis Khan conquered Persia
• How Aborigines made Australia
• The history of the Mayan Civilization
• How did women’s rights in America change over the last century. In this essay, talk about how far women’s rights advanced in the previous century. Look at the 1920 and 2020 to see what actual steps were taken and what has been changed.

• The most important events in the history of the Ottoman Empire.
• Enlightening and Revolution: Europe and India
• Gender Inequality and Socio-Economic Development
• The Decolonization of Africa. The road to independence for African countries was paved with blood and tears. The decolonization of Africa is a period between 1950 and 1975. During this time, African countries fought for independence. Examine the external and internal causes. Elaborate on the economic and political effects of decolonization.
• The influences between Greece, Egypt, and Rome.
• Nuclear Arms Race between the US and the USSR
• Chairman Mao and the Great Chinese Revolution
• History of Modern South Africa. This beautiful Southern African nation had extremely upsetting pages in its modern history. From nationalism to apartheid, terrorism, and racial segregation and oppression. Nowadays, South Africa is among one of the strongest economies in Africa. In this essay topic, you have a lot to talk about.
• The importance of teaching boys and girls about gender equality
• The social psychology of gender inequality
• Women in World War II
• China in Revolution
• History of Jews and the Holocaust
• European Image of the African 1400-1600
• American and French Revolution
• What happened at the Nuremberg trials? Talk about the Nuremberg trials and what is the importance of it. Gladly, we have the trials recorded, so you can just see it for yourself.
• History of the Cuban Missile Crisis. This moment during the Cold War is crucial. The confrontation is considered the closest the Cold War came to escalating into a nuclear war. Comment on the blockade, the international response. How did the crisis end? What effect did this event have for the people of Cuba?
• The European Union and the European crisis
• East versus West
• Totalitarian regimes in Germany and USSR

🏺 Cool Ancient History Topics

• Mesopotamian influence on the Oman Peninsula
• Why were the pyramids built? This essay will be fun to write about. Who isn’t intrigued by the Egyptian pyramids? There are plenty of legends, stories, and myths that surround the architectural monuments. We suggest you look into the facts. Make your arguments based on proven historical findings and evidence.
• The kings of Ancient Egypt
• Alexander the Great’s Reign
• Fall of the Ancient Roman Empire. The fall of the Ancient Roman Empire, without any doubt, is one of the most important historical topics. Explore how gradual the process of decline was. Discuss the military, political, and financial reasons for the fall.
• The culture of Ancient Greece
• Race in Ancient Egypt
• Religion in Ancient Greece
• The government organization of Ancient Rome
• Life of Julius Caesar. Julius Caesar wasn’t only an Emperor. He was a writer, philosopher, and historian. In this essay, talk about military victories of the Roman leader. Explore his influence on the rise of the Roman empire and the demise of the Roman Republic.
• Agricultural aspects of ancient Egypt
• Social issues of ancient Egyptians
• History of Athenian democracy
• Factors that influenced the development of human civilizations
• The military forces of the Roman Empire
• Famous scholars of Ancient Greece. Some of the most influential and prominent philosophers of all time were from Ancient Greece. Socrates, Sophocles, Plato, Aristotle, and many others. Don’t try to write about each one of them. Instead, elaborate on the position the poets and the philosophers had in the Ancient Greek Society.
• Evolution of Greek Acropolis

• The societies of Ancient Mesoamerica
• Romans and Barbarians: the decline of the Roman Empire
• The daily life of the ancient Maya
• Maya, Aztec, and Inca collapse
• Civilization in Mesopotamia and Egypt
• Historical analysis of Sparta and its pop-culture depiction. Do you have a favorite movie or a book about Sparta? Compare the depiction with historical facts. Write about the differences and similarities between these two representations. Think about why it is so frequently used in pop culture.
• Hunting and gathering societies in the Americas
• The fall of Pompeii. Pompeii was an ancient city buried under the ashes left after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Due to this sudden event, historians can examine the life of the people of Pompeii. It remained almost untouched. Several historians recorded first-hand accounts of Mount Vesuvius’ eruption. Read them to have a vivid picture of what was going on in the city before the tragedy.
• The battle of Pharsalus
• The Western Roman Empire: the significance of its collapse
• The Great Wall of China: cultural and historical analysis

Being able to select your essay topic can seem like a lot of fun at the beginning. However, it is also a big responsibility and a challenge at times. Hopefully, one of these essay topics will help you with the ideas for your essay.

Thank you for reading it, and the best of luck with your assignment! Leave a comment below and share the article with those who may need it.

🔗 References

• The 10 Most Important Moments and Events in History: Rebecca Graf for Owlcation
• Psychology Research Paper Topics, 50+ Great Ideas: Kendra Cherry for Verywell Mind
• Historical Topics: In-Depth Articles from HistoryExtra
• History Topics: National Women’s History Museum
• Hot Topics in World History: World History Center, University of Pittsburgh
• World History Topic: Newspapers.com
• Effective Writing: Grammar Rules
• Cliché, Examples and Definition of Cliché: Literary Devices
• Writing Guides: Colorado State University
• What Good Writers Know: Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning
• Resources: University of Alberta
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40 Interesting Historical Research Topics

• Last modified 2024-06-04
• Published on 2021-03-17

History is typically a required course in high school, under the umbrella of social science. History is definitely not everyone’s cup of tea; however, understanding American, European, and World History will give you an opportunity to escape your little bubble of life and gain broader perspectives about historical events and how they influence current and future events. History repeats itself, is often said. Learning about history will not only give you knowledge of the past but also predictions  for  the future.   

History may sound boring at first, but historical events were influenced by numerous factors, ranging from politics, technological advancement, and social circumstances. Especially, when you dive deeper into history with historical research, you will develop critical analysis and technical analysis skills by uncovering events and analyz ing  how they have impacted the future through convincing arguments.     

Enhance Your Research Skills with Aralia’s Research Scholar Classes

So now, you’re very interested in doing historical research, but you don’t know where to start. Every research paper starts with an interesting topic. So, ask yourself, what topic is of the most interest to you and most unique and interesting to readers? Maybe you are interested in learning more about European History during the Renaissance period, or the decolonization of Asia under the event of the Second World War .  Depending on the topic, you will be able to integrate and discuss multiple perspectives that contribute to the events or incidents. Examples include: the economy, education, politics, social life, etc. While brainstorming a topic, you should also look for reliable resources. Reliable resources can come from your school’s library, scholarly and peer-reviewed articles, etc. For more details about steps in the research process, we’ve written in detail  8 critical steps while doing research  you should check out.   

Before going into the list, we recommend that you should have a clear direction of what historical aspect you should focus on. There are 5 main aspects when it comes to historical events:   

• Religion/Philosophy: belief, creator, place of worship, ideas  
• Politics: government, laws, leaders, crimes, war, military, democracy  
• Economics: currency, jobs, bank, trade, stocks, gold, production  
• Society: communication, personality, age, nationality, gender, religion  
• Culture: traditions, clothing, appearance, festivals, food, language, sports, education, architecture  

You can write  any  one of those  preceding  aspects, or  a  combination of two or three aspects in relation to  each historical event. We’ve compiled and categorized topics to guide you in your historical research paper writing process. Using the topics, you can dive deeper into exploring which topics you’re most interested in writing about, and should be most relevant to your history career in high school and college.  Now, let’s get started!   

1. World History 

World History is a broad and diverse research topic that covers a wide period of time: from civilization to social movement. Therefore, there are multiple topics students can choose from. Remember, world history discusses the development in the world in response to interchanges among significant countries in the world.   

• World Wars I and II, the links between them, and how they could have been  prevented   
• American Revolution – Revolutionary War from 1775 to 1783   
• Trade in the Roman World designed by The Romans created one of the most impressive road networks of the ancient world.  
• The rise and fall of empires, in relation to conflicts, protests, and riots against corporate globalization, and the threat of worldwide terrorism against the West.  
• Cradle of civilization: Ancient Discoveries of China, Egypt, Mesoamerica, or India, or any other civilization that le d  to a high level of craft specialization and artistic production from each civilization, creating opportunities for trade   
• Architecture through the ages: the changes in architecture through various traditions, regions, and dates, growing from human’s basic needs of shelter and protection.   
• Women’s rights movement around the world. To see the overall timeline of women’s rights movements, you can explore women’s activism from generations past and present on  the UN Women’s website .   
• Math and Science discoveries throughout ancient history that contribute to how we apply math and science today  
• Ancient conquests and their influence on the modern world map formation  
• Nuclear warfare, a military conflict or political strategy which deploys nuclear weaponry.   

2. United States History

For students studying in the US, United States History has always been fascinating, given its Declaration of Independence in 1776. American History ranges from prehistory, European colonization, the American Revolution, the Federal period, the Gilded Age, the Great Depression, and the Cold War. Below are some examples for U.S. historical Research paper:  

• Attack on Pearl Harbor, the military strike by Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service upon the United States against the naval base at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii.  
• The Vietnam War: Social consequences and  treatment of  veterans   returning from the war  
• Immigration in the late 1800s: the “melting pot” and “salad bowl” metaphors  
• Gold Rush and its development of  the  California state  
• Civil War and the participation of women and African America ns  
• JFK Presidency, Policy and Assassination   
• My Lai Massacre, incident of American violence committed against unarmed civilians during the Vietnam War  
• Sept 11, 2001 attacks and  their  impact on American security policies, foreign policy, and views on Islam through media and movies  
• Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, its tactics, movements, and outcomes  
• Yellow journalism and its impact on the Spanish-American War  

3. European History

The history of Europe began with the first appearance of anatomically modern humans in Europe. European History is considered the best-documented history  compared to that of other regions  in the world of history. Through conducting European studies, you will be able to understand its people, culture, and the way they saw the world.   

• The Nude in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance: religious or erotic?   
• Italian unification   
• The relationship between Turkey and the European Union, and its impact on the position that Turkey has today  
• Black Death, cause, symptoms and impact   
• Religious crisis in the 16th century: the birth of Protestantism  
• The Agricultural Revolution and the development of market economies  
• The spread of Christianity: the political aspects  
• European imperialism, in relation to the economic and political power overseas  
• The Industrial Revolution and societal consequences  
• The influence of Locke and French philosophies on the rise of liberal political thought in Europe in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries  

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4. asian history.

Asian History  remains unknown to many people in the Western world . However, in the discussion of world history, the civilizations of Asia display a preeminence prior to the age of Western civilization.  

• Western imperialism in Asia and Asia n  transformation in  the areas of  religion, economy, and society   
• The Story of Viet n am: From Prehistory to the Present  
• Open Door policy and its impact on  the economies in the  US and  China  
• Ancient Korean & Chinese Relations   
• The Forgotten History of South Korean Massacres in Vietnam  
• Invasions of the Korean Peninsula and its struggle for unification   
• Yasuke  and its defense on Japan’s Greatest Warlord  
• British Malaya: British involvement in Malay Politics  
• The Great Game: a political and diplomatic confrontation between the British Empire and the Russian Empire over Afghanistan and neighboring territories in Central and South Asia.  
• The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world’s earliest civilizations  

History is a topic of great breadth and depth. Historians today are fascinated by the new findings of history through the examination of archaeology and anthropology. The above are the few examples we hope will inspire you to take the next step to conduct historical research. If you are passionate about history and would like to conduct a research project in preparation for history or other liberal arts majors in college or a history career in the future, we are here to help! We recently launched a new Historical Research project, along with the long-standing American, European, and World History courses.

Aralia’s History tutors are inspired teachers and professors who are committed to student success. They are recognized in their field or are currently teaching at top high schools and colleges/universities in the US.

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Best Research Paper Topic On History For Students

Table of contents

• 1 What is a History Research Paper?
• 2 Unique History Research Topics Tips
• 3 Ancient History Research Paper Topics
• 4 Middle Ages History Research Paper Topics
• 5 World History Research Paper Topics
• 6 WWI History Research Paper Topics
• 7 WWII History Research Paper Topics
• 8 20th Century History Research Paper Topics
• 9 Modern History Research Paper Topics
• 10 French Revolution Topics
• 11 European History Research Paper Topics
• 12 US History Research Paper Topics
• 13 Art History Research Paper Topics
• 14 Conclusion

One of the biggest challenges is just how many research topics for students there are. There are European history research paper topics, art history research paper topics, and world history research paper topics among many more. Knowing where to begin can be the biggest hurdle to overcome. In this guide, PapersOwl will give you a list of history topics to get you started.

What is a History Research Paper?

A history research paper is an analysis of a historical time or event. There is usually a thesis statement or argument that the paper analyses and proves. The body of a research paper will lay out evidence to argue the thesis statement. By showing the statement to be possible, the paper might draw on new possibilities and explore new ideas.

When someone reads the paper, they will meet the thesis within the first couple of paragraphs. As they read more, they contemplate what they are being shown. They are presented with evidence to weigh, and they might find themselves wanting to know more about the topic. No matter the subject matter, history research papers present the writer’s own ideas and back them up with evidence such as others’ ideas.

A research paper is different from an essay. Essays are usually personal interpretations of a subject, while research papers build on ideas and evidence by experts. Though you can buy history papers , here are some unique ideas to get you started on a topic you might be interested in.

Unique History Research Topics Tips

Choosing good history topics to research is a challenge for college students. Many students spend too much time worrying about which topic to choose  that they don’t even consider that they also need to learn how to write historical papers .

The best history research paper topics are ones that have strong arguments for discussion. When searching for history research paper topics, you should consider the following:

• Is your topic relevant, and is there a clear statement?
• Is there enough prior literature on the topic?
• Can you find out enough facts with supporting sources and evidence?
• Are there enough things to consider for the thesis argument and the number of words required?

The majority of research papers require a particular style. This might be comparative, analytical, argumentative, or reflective. You might also be guided to a certain style:

• A cause and effect paper – to explain and analyze a historical event and its consequences.
• A persuasive essay – to persuade the reader to a certain way of thinking about a historical event.
• A paper to compare and contrast – two historical figures/eras/events, etc.

Now we have some background information, let’s explore our list of history topics. For some of them, we have expanded the topic to give you more information.

Ancient History Research Paper Topics

Ancient history is often one of college students’ favorite history research paper topics.

Here are some interesting history research paper topics before 1500.

• The view of immortality and death in Ancient Egypt – Ancient Egyptians believed that immortality and death were seen as an interruption in life and not the end of it
• The History of Palestine – Palestine has an interesting history and is defined as an area between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea
• Prophets and Religious Leaders – Religious leaders and prophets have shaped how we view the spiritual world
• Did the Trojan Horse exist? – a horse that’s crossed through history over 3000 years, but was it real?
• Traditions and Culture of Sumerians – Sumerian history is an interesting topic and they had an intricate relationship with God
• How the Iron Age changed the world – with iron farming tools like sickles, farmers could grow new crops and free up their time
• Prehistoric Britain and the Role of Women
• A study of Empires and Power – there are so many empires to choose from, including the British Empire and the Mongol Empire
• Ancient Egyptian symbolism – Ancient Egypt was full of symbols like the Eye of Horus
• The great wall of China – was it built to prevent internal or external threats?

Middle Ages History Research Paper Topics

When considering history topics to write about, the Middle Ages is always popular. Here are some good research topics for the Middle Ages:

• The Middle Ages and Chivalry
• Medieval Europe – the cause and effect of urbanization
• War in the Middle Ages – the changes brought about by gunpowder
• The powerful role of the House of Medici in the Middle Ages – the House of Medici was a political dynasty and Italian banking family
• Were the Crusades a just holy war or a cruel pilgrimage? – The Crusades were religious wars during Medieval times. They were initiated and supported by the Latin Church
• The changes in armor and weapons during the Middle Ages
• Scientific Progress during the Dark Ages – universities began in the Dark Ages, and so lots of progress was made in the sciences
• Middle Age Witch Trials – prosecuting the powerless
• Evolving Asia in the Middle Ages
• Religion’s role in daily Middle Age life

World History Research Paper Topics

When it comes to world history topics, you have a huge scope, and narrowing them down can be hard. Here are some interesting history topics from around the world:

• The Battle of the Seas – Spain and Britain
• Aftershocks of the Cold War
• Medieval Europe and social relationships
• Colonizing South America – this began in 1494 with Christopher Columbus
• The impact of Apartheid – Apartheid negatively affected children in South Africa, but it was especially devastating for black children
• Ancient Roman bridal ceremonies
• Ancient civilizations and weapon use
• What led to the Thirty Years’ War?
• Crusades and Religion
• The Mexican-American War – almost two years of fighting, this was a defining moment for US and Mexican relations

WWI History Research Paper Topics

• Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination and the triggering of WWI – Ferdinand was assassinated in Sarajevo on 28th June 1914, which is considered to be the most immediate cause of the Great War
• The first battle of Marne and its role in preventing Germany’s advances
• The use of poison gas in the battle of Ypres and its consequences
• The Treaty of Versailles – signed in 1919, was the formal end to WWI
• WWI’s human cost – 9 million soldiers and 12 million civilians died during the war
• WWI’s air and sea battles – a comparison
• WWI alliances
• America’s involvement in World War I
• World War I and the Russian Revolution
• The Gallipoli Campaign in WWI

WWII History Research Paper Topics

• A study of the impact of the diary of Anne Frank
• The invasion of Poland and the start of WWII
• Holocaust victims – some six million Jews plus millions of others targeted for their political beliefs, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation
• Africa and WWII
• The neutrality of the US in World War II – the Neutrality Acts of the 1930s
• The holocaust and the church
• Hitler’s perception in Germany during WWII
• WWII and African Americans
• WWII and Japanese-American Internment
• WWII and diplomacy

20th Century History Research Paper Topics

Of course, both WWI and WWII were in the 20th century, but there is so much more to this century than the two huge wars. Here are some history research paper topics from the 1900s to 2000.

• Northern Irish troubles in the 20th century – typically dated from the end of the 60s to the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, but there have been episodes of sporadic violence after
• The Cuban missile crisis (also known as the October Crisis of 1962 or the Caribbean Crisis) – just over one month of confrontation been the Soviet Union and the United States
• The Chernobyl disaster
• The aftermath of WWII
• The Nuremberg Trials
• The formation of the European Union
• The controversies and legacy of François Mitterrand
• El Salvador and civil war consequences
• Student revolts of 1968 – student demonstrations in Belgrade, Yugoslavia – the first mass protests since WWII
• The invention of the Internet and the PC

Modern History Research Paper Topics

Modern history also encompasses some interesting research topics. These include:

• American History of the 21st Century
• The atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima – two nuclear weapons were detonated by the US in August 1945, killing as many as 226,000, with most being civilians
• Europeans Vs Native Americans
• America’s social movements
• Industrialists and inventors of the modern world
• 21st-century US policies and immigration
• Social movements and the effects of industrialization in America
• The cost of industrialization in the U.S.
• The European Union – currently 27 member states and 447 million inhabitants, the beginnings of the EU data to post-WWII
• Socio-economic developments and gender inequality

French Revolution Topics

If the French Revolution interests you, here is a list of research topics.

• Causes of the French Revolution – there were many causes, which included social inequality, tax burdens, and a financial crisis
• The French Revolution and absolutism
• The effects of the French Revolution on modern France
• The role of the French Revolution in world history – the French Revolution shaped modern nations showing how the inherent will of the people can prevail
• Societal transformation after the French Revolution
• The influence of Robespierre in the French Revolution
• The French Revolution and music – the French Revolution had a huge influence on music and French operas
• Olympe de Gouges and the French Revolution
• A Tale of Two Cities and the French Revolution – the French Revolution is a key event in Charles Dickens’s novel
• The French Revolution and Napoleon Bonaparte’s betrayal

Need help with research paper writing? Get your paper written by a professional writer Get Help Reviews.io 4.9/5

European History Research Paper Topics

There are many argumentative research paper topics for European History. Here are some examples:

• Britain’s Kings and Queens – the British monarchy began following raids by the Vikings, and Alfred the Great assumed the title of “King of the English”
• History of the European Economy
• The Seven Years’ War
• 18th-century European Politics
• The rise of fascism
• Francisco Franco and the far right in Spain
• Fascist propaganda in Italy, Germany, and Spain in the 20th century
• The merge of science and art in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries
• The rise of Stalin – Stalin was a student radical and became an influential member and ultimate leader of the Bolshevik faction of the Russian Social Democratic Party
• English Witch hunts and gender bias – gender played a huge role in witch hunts in Early-Modern Europe, and even the Catholic Church believed women were more prone to demonic possession

US History Research Paper Topics

American History topics are always interesting, and there is usually lots of evidence and sources to help you write a good research paper .

For anyone interested in US History, these American history research paper topics for college students are great ones to get stuck into:

• What led to the USA civil war? The American Civil War is one of the most written about and studied parts of U.S. history
• History of US elections
• Social Conflicts in the American Revolution
• The US Federalist Era
• African-Americans in the civil war
• Segregation and Racism in the United States – African American history research paper topics are always an interesting read
• The first Native American civilizations
• The American Civil War and the distribution of wealth
• The 1992 Riots in Los Angeles – lots of lootings, civil disturbances, and arson in April and May 1992 due to the LAPD using excessive force when arresting Rodney King
• The Impact of Barack Obama

Art History Research Paper Topics

When many people look for history research paper topics for middle school, they like to combine it with another subject they are studying, like art. Some people also write about music history paper topics . Here are some historical topics that are on the subject of art.

• Art History Vs Art Studio
• US art history and politics
• Frank Stella’s life
• Art and war
• Links between philosophy and art
• Symbolism in the paintings of Frida Kahlo
• Salvador Dali and his surrealist sculptures
• Gothic architecture
• Women and beauty standards in the Renaissance
• The differences between art deco and art nouveau

Having the freedom to choose an essay topic can be both exciting and daunting. It is a huge challenge and responsibility. Hopefully, though, one of our research paper topics 2023 will help set you off on the right path to producing a great essay!

Remember that writing a history research paper is different from writing an essay. With this type of essay, you need to combine your own ideas with the ideas of historians and researchers before you come up with a supporting argument to a thesis. While you might choose any one of our ideas above, you should always bear in mind that you’ll need to find sources and evidence to use in your research paper. If you find a topic that is too difficult to find enough information on, it might be that you should choose a different slant or a different topic altogether. You should never leave this sort of paper until the last minute before the deadline. A research paper takes time and effort and done right, is a really satisfying assignment to hand in. If you find yourself in need of assistance, consider looking into research paper writing services , as they may be able to provide additional help and guidance. Good luck!

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• Social Sciences

140 Good Research Topics for History Papers

• Author: Jule Romans

Finding a good research topic in history doesn't have to be difficult!

Video...CC_BY SA 4.0

Good History Research Topics

Good research paper topics in history are focused on a narrow, manageable subject that is easily divided into sections.

Here are 145 good research paper topics for history in many different eras and time periods, along with suggestions for generating your own unique research topics. All the history research topics in this list are focused, specific, and easy to organize in writing.

In between, I offer you some tips for creating and managing research topics on your own.

Two Examples

Here are two good examples of how to create a research topic that is narrow, manageable, and easily divided into three sections.

Example One:

The Rise and Fall of Benito Mussolini in Italy, 1922–1945.

This paper would have three sections:

How Mussolini gained political power What happened during the height of his reign How he was defeated

Use this structure for ANY political or historical figure. Simply replace "Mussolini" with the name of your selected leader, and choose a country and date range that fits that person.

For example, this topic could also be used to describe:

The Rise and Fall of Napoleon in France, 1804–1815.

Example Two:

Joan of Arc and the Siege of Orleans in 15th Century France.

Divide this paper into sections this way:

Describe Joan of Arc as a person. Explain the Siege of Orleans and her role in the battle. Demonstrate how these two things fit within the context of 15th century French history

Use this structure for any historical figure associated with an important battle or war. Just keep it narrow and focused. For example, this topic could also be used to describe:

Alexander the Great and the Battle of Issus in Ancient Macedonia.

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Once you master this concept, you can create your own good research topics out of almost any list.

10 Good History Research Topics that are Easy to Adapt

• Conditions for Slaves During the Building of the Great Pyramid
• Three Events from the First Greek Olympiad
• How, Where, and When Rome was Founded
• The Battle of Marathon: How the Greeks Defeated Persia
• How Plato and Aristotle Collaborated to Reinvent Philosophy
• Alexander’s Conquest of Egypt: Strategies for Victory
• The Great Wall of China: Construction Plans and Implementation
• Julius Ceasar’s Most Successful Attacks on Great Britain
• The Huns’ First Invasion of Europe
• Mohammed: From Mecca to Medina

How to Start a History Research Question

It can be really helpful to start with a question. The reason for this is that it immediately focuses your paper and keeps you on track. Your entire paper is an answer to a question. This works well for anyone who needs a little guidance. Here are examples of questions that you can use for European history, US history, and world history.

It is easy to vary any of these topics by changing out keywords. "What were the three main causes of the Boer War?" can become "What were the three main causes of the collapse of the feudal system in Europe?" or even "What were the three main characteristics of the Stuart dynasty." This list gets you started, but you can feel free to develop any question you like, based on the formats below.

30 Good History Research Questions

European history.

1. What were the three main causes of the Boer War?

2. How were cathedrals built?

3. What is the Gutenberg Bible?

4. What was the purpose of Morality plays in Medieval England?

5. How did Italian Renaissance painters benefit from the art patronage system?

6. What was the impact of the slave trade on the European economy?

7. How did the guillotine influence the French Revolution?

8. Who was Germany's most influential composer?

9. How did the feudal system operate?

10. How was royalty connected to the concept of Divine Right rulership in 17th century Italy?

1. How was the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory an example of social injustice?

2. How did the Mormons influence the settling of the America west?

3. Who were the great influencers in Mississippi riverboat/showboat culture?

4. What were the origins of automobile drag racing in the United States?

5. How and why were National Parks created?

6. Which US state has the most disputed borders?

7. How did the highway system change American culture?

8. Who created New York's Central Park?

9. Why were traveling circuses popular in the United States in the 19th century?

10. What was the role of lighthouses in Great Lakes maritime history?

World History

1. What were the top three battles in the Korean War?

2. How did the Jaffa Riots begin in the British Mandate of Palestine, 1921?

3. What was the Battle of Hochst and how did it influence the Thirty Years' War?

4. How did the Siege of Turin take a key position in two separate wars?

5. What were the conditions of life for soldiers in the First Crusade?

6. What was the role of the Shogun in Japanese history?

7. How did Buddhism alter the Chinese Empire?

8. How did the Byzantine Empire succeed?

9. What is the organization of the Hindu gods?

10. How, when, and where did the Silk Road operate?

Ancient History

1. What were the qualities of the life, lifestyle, and living condition for Roman gladiators?

2. Who were the child Emperors of Rome?

3. Who was the most influential Egyptian Pharoah?

4. What happened to slaves during the building of the Sphinx?

5. What was the Code of Hammurabi?

6. How were ziggurats used in ancient Mesopotamia?

7. Which cultures originated in the Nile valley?

8. How did African tribal culture influence painters in Europe?

9. What did the world of the Ancient Maya look like?

10. What were the legends and stories of Carthage?

Good Research Topics Are Narrow and Manageable

Avoid topics that are too broad.

The topic of "energy" is much larger than most research papers can cover. It is also too vague. What kind of energy? Electrical? Gas? Wind? You can easily see why this topic would make it very difficult to write

Narrow it down by using questions. Ask yourself exactly what it is you want to say.

One way to narrow down a research topic is to use the classic 5-W strategy. Focus on Who, What, Where, When, and Why. For example, the overly broad topic of abortion can be narrowed to something more specific using these questions.

• Who? Energy companies
• What? Seeking alternate sources of power
• Where? In the United States.
• When? In the 21st century.
• Why? Because of increased public demand

You don't have to use all of these, but they definitely can help narrow down a broad topic.

Thus, the broad topic of "energy" becomes "Alternative Sources of Power Developed by US Energy Companies in the 21st Century."

Even better, take this focus one step further. "Three Major Companies Using Wind Energy to serve Customers in the United States."

A good research paper topic will be easy to outline using three main sections.

30 Good Research Paper Topics for European History

11th–16th century.

• The Norman invasion of England
• Victory of William the Conquerer over the English King Harold II at Hastings.
• The Invention of Gunpowder: Roger Bacon’s Legacy
• Events that Started the Hundred Years War
• England and the Black Death
• The Turkish Capture of Constantinople
• Europe’s Artistic Renaissance: Painters and Sculptors
• Vasco de Gama and the Sea Route to India
• The Defeat of the Spanish Armada
• Construction and Architecture of Monasteries

17th–18th Century

• The Establishment British East India Company
• The Execution of Charles I: Causes and Effects
• Why Monarchy was Restored in England
• The Great Plague of England: Death Returns
• England’s Glorious Revolution
• Significance of The Battle of Blenheim
• Three Reasons for the Union of England and Scotland
• Injustices Leading to the French Revolution
• Organization and Daily life in Convents
• City Walls and Defenses

19th Century

• Political and Social Effects of Nelson's Death
• Physical Conditions at the Battle of Trafalagar
• Unexpected Events at the Battle of Waterloo
• Napolean’s life on St. Helena
• Key Features of The Reforms Bill
• Queen Victoria’s first Years on the Throne of England
• The Opening of the Suez Canal
• Roentgen’s Discovery of X-Rays
• The Inventions of Marconi
• Scientific Advances and Medical Practices

25 Good Research Paper Topics for History: 1900–1950

• An Overview of Japan’s War with Russia
• How Japan Defeated Russia
• The Discovery of the Theory of Relativity by Einstein
• The Chinese Revolution
• Why the Republic of China Was Established
• Events that Caused the Beginning of World War I
• The Russian Revolution: People and Places
• How the End of World War I was Accomplished
• The Signing of the Treaty of Versailles
• The Formation of the League of Nations
• How Turkey Became a Republic
• Why Hitler Became the Chancellor of Germany
• The First 20 Days of the Spanish Civil War
• World War II: The Beginnings
• How Russia was Invaded by Hitler
• Events After Pearl Harbor was Invaded by Japan
• The Establishment of UNO
• The Final Days of World War II in France
• Hiroshima and Nagasaki: Effects of the Atom Bomb
• President Roosevelt’s Life and Death
• Three Major Events in China’s Civil War
• How Burma and Ceylon Gained Independence
• How Indonesia Gained Independence
• The Communist Ascension to Power in China
• The Japanese Geisha: Her Role Japanese Culture

25 Good Research Paper Topics for History: 1950–1970

• General Eisenhower: Critical Actions of His Presidency
• Stalin’s Death and its Effect on the Political Landscape
• The Team that Conquered Mt. Everest for the First Time
• The Conditions of the Military Aid Pact between China and Pakistan
• Chou En-lai’s Visit to India
• Austria’s Struggle for Independence
• The Bandung Conference
• President Nasser and the Nationalization of the Suez Canal
• Britain Attacks Egypt: Why it Happened
• The Connections Between France and Israel
• Russia’s First Artificial Satellite
• The United Arab Republic (UAR): Egypt and Syria United
• How the Chinese captured Tibet
• The Dalai Lama’s Escape to India
• The Design and Creation of Sputnik by Russia
• France and the Explosion of an Atom Bomb Device
• The First Man in Space: Yuri Gagarin of the USSR
• The Signing of the Partial Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty
• The Establishment of Malaysia
• The Life and Career of Sir Winston Churchill
• Singapore as a Sovereign Independent Nation
• The Russian Aircraft that Landed on the Moon.
• China and the Hydrogen Bomb
• The Arab-Israel War
• The Closing of the Suez Canal

25 Good Research Paper Topics for History: 1970–1980

• The Birth of Bangladesh
• Pakistan and the Surrender of 93,000 Troops
• The Death of Khruschev
• President Z.A. Bhutto of Pakistan
• The Incarceration of Prime Minister Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
• Bangladesh: Critical Events 1970-1980
• Nixon’s Auspicious Visit to China
• King Mahendra of Nepal
• The Strategic Arms Limitations Treaty
• The Fourth Arab-Israeli war
• The Algiers Summit
• The Assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, President of Bangladesh
• The Assassination of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia
• The Reopening of the Suez Canal
• The Red Cross and the Surrender of the Cambodia Government
• The Life and Times of Chou-En Lai, Prime Miniter of China
• The Independence of the Seychelles
• Viking I Mars Landing
• Israeli-Egypt Agreement
• Vietnam’s attack on Cambodia
• Afghanistan’s Bloody Coup
• The Assassination of Mohammed Daoud
• Chinese aggression in Vietnam
• Cambodian rebels in Pnom Penh
• Margaret Thatcher, First Female Prime Minister of Britain

TIP: How to Break Down Research Topics to Write Your Paper

A less obvious example is "Alternative Sources of Power Developed by US Energy Companies in the 21st Century." This paper can be divided by discussing three different alternative sources of power.

For example, one section can discuss how US energy companies have developed the use of wind power since the year 2000. The next section can discuss how the same energy companies have developed the use of solar power. The third section can describe how these companies have developed the use of wave/water energy.

The interesting thing about this topic is that it can also be divided a different way. The paper can describe three different energy companies and how each one is developing alternative sources of energy for customers.

The research paper topic is the same, but the focus and division of sections is different.

"Three Major Companies Using Wind Energy to Serve Customers in the Untied States" makes the division completely obvious from the start.

The paper can be divided into three sections, with one section devoted to each major company.

Within each section, the paper can outline how the company developed the use of wind energy and how it is using wind energy to serve US customers.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

© 2018 Jule Romans

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10 Great Research Topics for Middle School Students

Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring the fascinating world of research, especially if you're passionate about STEM and the humanities. Engaging in research projects now not only feeds your curiosity but also develops critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning. Whether you're intrigued by the secrets of the universe, the beauty of numbers, or the complexity of robotics, there's a research project that you can pursue to help you build your knowledge. Let's dive into some advanced yet accessible research topics that will challenge you and enhance your academic journey.

1. Program your own robot

What to do:  Start by defining the purpose of your robot. Will it be a pet robot that follows you around, or perhaps a robot that can help carry small items from one room to another? Sketch your design on paper, focusing on what sensors and motors you'll need. For instance, a robot that follows light might need light sensors, while a robot that avoids obstacles will require ultrasonic sensors. Use an Arduino or Raspberry Pi as the brain. You'll need to learn basic programming in Python (for Raspberry Pi) or C++ (for Arduino) to code your robot's behavior.

Tips to get started:  The official websites for Arduino  and Raspberry Pi  offer tutorials for beginners. For more specific projects, such as building a pet robot, search for guides on Instructables  that detail each step from hardware assembly to software programming.

2. Design a solar-powered oven

What to do:  Investigate how solar ovens work and the science behind solar cooking. Your oven can be as simple as a pizza box solar oven or more complex, like a parabolic solar cooker. Key materials include reflective surfaces (aluminum foil), clear plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect, and black construction paper to absorb heat. Experiment with different shapes and angles to maximize the heat capture and cooking efficiency. Test your oven by trying to cook different foods and measure the temperature achieved and cooking time required.

Tips to get started:  The Solar Cooking  wiki is an excellent resource for finding different solar cooker designs and construction plans. YouTube also has numerous DIY solar oven tutorials. Document your process and results in a project journal, noting any changes in design that lead to improvements in efficiency.

3. Assess the health of a local ecosystem

What to do:  Choose a local natural area, such as a stream, pond, or forest, and plan a series of observations and tests to assess its health. Key activities could include water quality testing (for pH, nitrates, and phosphates), soil testing (for composition and contaminants), and biodiversity surveys (identifying species of plants and animals present). Compile your data to evaluate the ecosystem's health, looking for signs of pollution, habitat destruction, or invasive species.

Tips to get started:  For a comprehensive approach, NOAA’s Global Monitoring Laboratory  provides information on atmospheric and environmental monitoring techniques. Tools like iNaturalist  can assist in species identification, and water and soil testing kits are available from science education suppliers.

4. Develop an educational app

What to do:  Identify a gap in educational resources that your app could fill. Perhaps you noticed that students struggle with a particular math concept, or there's a lack of engaging resources for learning a foreign language. Outline your app’s features, design the user interface, and plan the content it will deliver. Use MIT App Inventor  for a drag-and-drop development experience, or Scratch  for a game-like educational app. Test your app with classmates or family members, and use their feedback for improvements.

Tips to get started:  Both MIT App Inventor  and Scratch  provide tutorials and community forums where you can learn from others’ projects. Begin with a simple prototype, focusing on one core feature, and expand from there.

5. Model rocketry: design, build, and launch!

What to do:  Dive into the basics of rocket science by designing your own model rocket. Understand the principles of thrust, aerodynamics, and stability as you plan your rocket. Materials can range from simple kits available online to homemade components for the body, fins, and nose cone. Educate yourself on the proper engine selection for your design and the recovery system to ensure your rocket returns safely. Conduct a launch in a safe, open area, following all safety guidelines.

Tips to get started:  The National Association of Rocketry  is a treasure trove of information on model rocket safety, design, and launch procedures. For beginners, consider starting with a kit from Estes Rockets , which includes all necessary components and instructions.

6. Create a wearable electronic device

What to do:  Envision a wearable device that solves a problem or enhances an aspect of daily life. It could be a smart bracelet that reminds you to stay hydrated or a hat with integrated LEDs for nighttime visibility. Sketch your design, listing the components you'll need, such as LEDs, sensors, a power source, and a microcontroller like the Adafruit Flora or Gemma. Plan your circuit, sew or assemble your device, and program it to function as intended.

Tips to get started:   Adafruit’s Wearables  section offers guides and tutorials for numerous wearable projects, including coding and circuit design. Start with a simple project to familiarize yourself with electronics and sewing conductive thread before moving on to more complex designs.

7. Explore the science of slime and non-Newtonian fluids

What to do:  Conduct experiments to understand how the composition of slime affects its properties. Create a standard slime recipe using glue, borax (or contact lens solution as a safer alternative), and water. Alter the recipe by varying the amounts of each ingredient or adding additives like cornstarch, shaving cream, or thermochromic pigment. Test how each variation affects the slime’s viscosity, stretchiness, and reaction to pressure.

Tips to get started:  The Science Bob  website offers a basic slime recipe and the science behind it. Document each experiment carefully, noting the recipe used and the observed properties. This will help you understand the science behind non-Newtonian fluids.

8. Extract DNA at home

What to do:  Use common household items to extract DNA from fruits or vegetables, like strawberries or onions. The basic process involves mashing the fruit, adding a mixture of water, salt, and dish soap to break down cell membranes, and then using cold alcohol to precipitate the DNA out of the solution. Observe and analyze the DNA strands.

Tips to get started:  Detailed instructions and the science explanation are available at the Genetic Science Learning Center . This project offers a tangible glimpse into the molecular basis of life and can be a springboard to more complex biotechnology experiments.

9. Investigate the efficiency of different types of solar cells

What to do:  Compare the efficiency of various solar panels, such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Design an experiment to measure the electrical output of each type under identical lighting conditions, using a multimeter to record voltage and current. Analyze how factors like angle of incidence, light intensity, and temperature affect their performance.

Tips to get started:  Introductory resources on solar energy and experiments can be found at the Energy.gov  website. Consider purchasing small solar panels of different types from electronics stores or online suppliers. Ensure that all tests are conducted under controlled conditions for accurate comparisons.

10. Study ocean acidification and its effects on marine life

What to do:  Simulate the effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms in a controlled experiment. Use vinegar to lower the pH of water in a tank and observe its impact on calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, such as seashells or coral fragments. Monitor and record changes over time, researching how acidification affects the ability of these organisms to maintain their shells and skeletons.

Tips to get started:   NOAA’s Ocean Acidification Program  offers educational materials and experiment ideas. For a simpler version of this experiment, see instructions for observing the effects of acidified water on eggshells, which are similar in composition to marine shells, at educational websites like Science Buddies .

By pursuing these projects, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of STEM principles but also develop invaluable skills in research, design, and critical analysis. These projects will teach you how to question, experiment, and innovate, laying the groundwork for future scientific inquiries and discoveries.

One other option – Lumiere’s Junior Explorer Program

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a program for middle school students to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore their academic interests and build a project they are passionate about .  Our mentors are scholars from top research universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Duke and LSE.

The program was founded by a Harvard & Oxford PhD who met as undergraduates at Harvard. The program is rigorous and fully virtual. We offer need based financial aid for students who qualify. You can find the application in the brochure ! 

To learn more, you can reach out to our Head of Growth, Khushi Malde, at [email protected] or go to our website .

Multiple rolling deadlines for JEP cohorts across the year, you can apply using this application link ! If you'd like to take a look at the cohorts + deadlines for 2024, you can refer to this page!

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

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Exploring Ideas: Research Topics for Middle Schoolers

The exploration of ideas and research topics for middle schoolers is an increasingly important area to investigate in the modern classroom. Middle school students often have a broad range of interests, yet limited resources with which to explore these interests on their own. This article provides insight into how educators can effectively guide middle schoolers through the process of discovering suitable research topics that meet both student needs and educational standards. By taking proactive steps such as providing guidance, scaffolding instruction, and offering appropriate resources, teachers can enable middle schoolers to become actively engaged in exploring new ideas while developing valuable skills needed for success at higher levels of study.

I. Introduction to Exploring Ideas: Research Topics for Middle Schoolers

Ii. types of research assignments suitable for middle school students, iii. factors to consider when choosing a research topic, iv. strategies for identifying appropriate resources and material, v. how to present information in an interesting way, vi. evaluating the quality of sources used for research projects, vii. conclusion.

A World of Possibilities

Middle school students have the opportunity to explore a variety of topics with research papers. From science and technology to history and social studies, there is no limit to what can be studied. With thoughtful guidance from teachers or parents, students can select a research topic that will challenge their thinking while also introducing them to new concepts. Here are just some examples of interesting research paper topics for middle schoolers:

• The History & Impact Of Women’s Rights Movements In The 20th Century
• Exploring Cybersecurity Issues And How It Affects Our Daily Lives
• Analyzing The Role Of Social Media In Shaping Modern Society

                                                                                                         ​

                  ​

Investigating Climate Change And Its Impacts On Our Environment..                                                                                                              .”Data Science Applications in Business” – Exploring Real-world Examples. Through careful selection , researching these projects offers an engaging way for middle schoolers to discover something new about themselves and the world around them . By learning more about different areas of study , they may even uncover ideas on possible career paths or further exploration into subject matter as they advance in education .

Exploring the Potential Middle school students are capable of conducting meaningful research and grasping complex ideas. When selecting appropriate assignments, educators should consider not only how to capture student interest but also challenge their capabilities. Research projects can range from simple book reports to more in-depth studies that involve interviews or surveys.

• Data collection such as historical timelines.
• Inquiry projects including experiments with clear parameters.

Additionally, teachers may assign students a research paper topics for middle school which require them to analyze an issue at greater depth. For example, students might explore relationships between poverty and education in various countries or investigate differing opinions on climate change across the US population. Whichever project is chosen it must be age-appropriate while still offering opportunities for personal growth so learners take ownership over their work.

Alternative Approaches Group research efforts are a great way for middle schoolers to collaborate together as they learn new skills like communication and problem solving through teamwork. A class could pick one major topic such as the history of voting rights in America then have each group select a subtopic related to this main idea like suffrage laws specific state by state or focus on changes throughout different decades. Another option would be having multiple groups working concurrently towards tackling one collective assignment, where each team’s output builds upon another’s input creating layers of complexity within investigation process . Ultimately these approaches allow young researchers insight into how pieces fit together providing potential solutions no single individual could see alone!

Selecting a research topic can be intimidating for middle school students. With so many topics to choose from, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Passion – Students should pick something they have an interest in and feel passionate about learning more.
• Accessibility – The chosen topic should provide enough information that supports their claims. Additionally, research papers are not all about summarizing facts; therefore students must ensure there’s enough material available to form substantial arguments.

>Length Requirements – When choosing a topic, remember that length requirements must be met which may limit some options. It’s also beneficial if you already know what kind of grade your student needs/wants at completion as this can help guide them in selecting a suitable topic. Some examples of manageable yet intriguing subjects include:                                                                                                    

In order to locate and identify appropriate resources for research papers, a few strategies can be implemented. It’s important to explore all potential sources in order to best capture the necessary information.

• Online Databases : Utilizing online databases such as JSTOR , Project Muse , and LexisNexis Academic Universe , is an effective way of finding material related to your topic. Many school libraries provide access free-of-charge, so make sure you ask about it!

Additionally, there are plenty of materials available specifically tailored towards middle school students conducting research projects. Exploring topics that are meaningful or interesting to students like space exploration or endangered animals could yield great results when utilizing sources such as books from public library systems or trusted websites dedicated specifically toward educational content for young researchers.

Varying Your Delivery The key to presenting information in an interesting way is to vary your delivery. There are many tools at your disposal when it comes to sharing facts and data with others. Use different methods of communication such as storytelling, visual presentations, diagrams, videos or infographics for a more engaging experience.

You can also encourage active participation by posing open-ended questions about the material you have presented. This will help keep students engaged during class time while inspiring curiosity around complex topics.

Additionally, try selecting research paper topics that appeal to middle schoolers’ interests like “How Social Media Affects Teen Mental Health” or “What Are Some Ways We Can Help End Global Warming?” Doing so not only provides valuable life skills but helps create enthusiasm and excitement around learning!

Finding reliable sources for research projects can be a daunting task, especially when working with topics relevant to middle school. It’s essential that the resources used are of high quality so that your students have accurate and up-to-date information available. Here we present some tips on how to evaluate the materials they find:

• Authenticity: Are you sure the source is genuine? Checking out reviews or seeing if other experts in the field mention it could help.
• Timely Information: Is what you’re reading recent enough to be considered current knowledge? Research paper topics for middle school should draw from modern discoveries.
• Accuracy : Does this resource back its claims with evidence and links to more reputable sources? Evaluating facts offered by each material will guide decision making.

Drawing to a Close In this paper, we have discussed the importance of engaging in research-based writing exercises at the middle school level. We began by introducing how project-based learning is used to encourage students to think deeply and challenge themselves through critical inquiry. From there, we explored various ways that teachers can implement research into their lesson plans while providing meaningful support for learners so they are more successful in such endeavors. Finally, we identified several potential topics suitable for academic exploration by students attending middle school.

Topics suitable for student research might include:

• The pros and cons of using technology as an educational tool.
• Different approaches taken when teaching world history.
• How different types of music influence emotions.

• Digital Classroom »

Teaching Materials

History content, best practices, welcome to teachinghistory.org.

An ongoing reference to exhibits, events, lectures, reenactments, ceremonies, and other tributes commemorating the significance of Lincoln's life and his presidency during this 200th-year anniversary.

Use the links on this website to explore political thought from the ancient past to the present day.

Pennsylvania educators, or teaching urban history? Explore two neighborhoods in Philadelphia using an interactive map and more than 1,240 primary sources.

Quick Links for

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Introductory Videos   click on an image below to watch a video

Learn about southern culture through the images on Confederate currency.

History Quiz

How would you have planned this photograph if you were General MacArthur?

Digital Classroom

Chronozoom is a dynamic timeline tool that presents large scale timelines in a creative way.

Thinking Like Historians

10 Exciting History Projects For More Active Learning in Middle School

Textbook alternatives designed for active and engaged learning.

It’s sometimes really easy to get into a stale routine when teaching history. Read, take notes, take the quiz. Read, take notes, take the quiz. Rinse and repeat until test time. A lot of the traditional curricula in middle school are structured in this way. Though it is really encouraging that people are now creating more exciting and engaging lessons to teach history and social studies. The best lessons in your middle school history class include history projects that are very student-centered.

But I know that creating stellar social studies lessons can be really intimidating. Somehow we think the only way to do so is by knowing a lot about the topic. We put so much pressure on ourselves. I think it’s one of the main reasons why we white knuckle clutch those middle school history textbooks. We don’t even know what we don’t know. How can we engage and teach our students?!

That’s why the research on student engagement is really empowering. Our learners today actually don’t expect us to know everything. Instead, they want to see how we learn things and to learn together with us. 

Whew! Because even people with Ph.Ds in history actually don’t know everything there is to know about history. So having that kind of expectation on yourself is not realistic. 

5 Keys to Increasing Student Engagement According to Researchers

A lot of research has focused on student engagement. They’ve done extensive interviews and surveyed thousands of students. Researchers have tracked student performance and success based on student engagement. My previous article has a summary of some of their most important findings . You can go there for more details and for links to some of the research. But here’s a quick recap:

• Interaction – Students want collaborative learning opportunities. 
• Exploration – Students want to explore their world and find answers for themselves.
• Relevancy – Students engage better in meaningful activities that can directly apply to their life.
• Proper Tech Use – It’s important for teachers to use technology in a way that supplements their teaching and reinforces exploration and interaction. 
• Engaging and Challenging Instruction – Students don’t want watered down curricula or low quality instruction and no discipline or consequences. They want rigor and challenge delivered in an engaging way. They want to design their own learning.

This research is really exciting! It gives us permission not to know everything right away. Instead we should act as co-learners with our kids and guide them through the process of exploration and discovery.

10 Middle School History Project Ideas to Increase Student Engagement

So I’ve come up with a list of ten highly engaging middle school history projects you can do with your learners in class. These activities are designed around student exploration and teachers acting as co-learners. 

I’ve done quite a few articles focused on simple and practical ways to engage your students . So in this list, I am focusing more on bigger middle school history projects. These are intended to be more like units of study. I only have space to give a brief description for each, but I’ll work on more specific and detailed curricula/articles for the future (Join the mailing list to get updates ^_^). 

History Debates  

This by far has been my and my students’ favorite history project in the classroom. Students beg to do history debates. It’s very student driven, truly collaborative, and rigorous. It reinforces and develops many important skills our kids need today: research and information literacy, communication, persuasion, claim-evidence connection, logic, evaluation and so much more. 

It’s important to note that the goal is to explore a topic using a structured and purposeful approach. Students know that their research and arguments will be actively evaluated and challenged by their own peers. So there’s quite a bit of pressure and competition.

I know the Socratic Seminar format is also great for exploring and discussing topics. But I like the focus, structure, and intensity of the debates. Students keep each other on their toes as far as providing researched evidence for their claims. They also get a lot of feedback from their peers on how they communicate ideas, their logic and thought process, and the quality of their research. 

Remember it’s not supposed to be perfect. The beauty of these debates is that they are student driven. Students determine the topics to focus on. They give each other homework. Then they assess their own work based on quality and logic. They give each other feedback. Your role as the teacher is to guide them and give them a good rubric to help them. 

When doing these debates, I’ve been most surprised and rewarded by how much some of my more anxious or shy kids have blossomed. Some of them take on leadership roles and become the group expert, whether it’s in research or strategy. There’s just so much more room and opportunities for each child to shine under this model. 

History Documentaries 

For this history project, you can have the kids work in pairs or in groups of three. It’s also possible as an individual project. It’s a great way to have students explore and research a topic that they’re interested in. For example, when studying the 1920s, I’ve had students create documentaries on fashion, baseball, and comic books. I gave brief lessons and readings that provided an overview of the age. These lessons gave students ideas to explore. 

It’s very important to come up with a rubric. I recommend having the kids help you make one so that they really understand the expectations and are truly part of evaluating their own work. They’ll also be more motivated to do well when they have this type of ownership. 

We also review and emphasize proper research and giving credits to their sources. I also usually have the kids use primary sources in their films. The Library of Congress is a great place to start. 

History Board Games  

Did you know that the game Monopoly is based off of a game called Landlord’s Game ? Not only was Landlord’s Game invented by a woman, Lizzie Magie, in the early 1900s, but it was also designed to bring attention to a social injustice regarding property and real estate. The spaces on the Monopoly board game are even based on real companies and places in the United States. 

You can ask your students to create a board game inspired by whatever time period or topic you’re studying. Have them include real people, places, and events. You can even challenge them to somehow show the historical concepts and themes in their board game. I love the endless options for creativity.

History Sort  

In this activity, you can give students key terms, places, people, events, and concepts from the time period you’re studying. Have them sort the words and phrases into different groups. They should be prepared to back up and explain their groupings. Challenge them to create as many different groupings as possible. They should research to see if they can discover things in common between the different terms. 

You can make it into a game where they present their groupings, and their peers will have to figure out the reason behind the groupings.

History Guess Who (or what or when)

Start by giving clues about a person, or pose a question like the ones below:

Who’s most likely to____. 

Who is most likely to have written this letter/ said this/committed this crime/etc.?

You can use primary sources, real events, or make them up. Have students defend their answers using historical evidence. Then give them the opportunity to come up with their own History Guess Who riddles. This can be something you do in one sitting or make it into a mini-research project. You can accommodate for different ability levels by limiting or expanding choices.

Most Important (or Influential/Villainous/etc) Person/Invention/Event of the Year

In this history project, you can ask students to research and come up with a list. They can pretend to be compiling it for a magazine or website. Have them put their list together with descriptions and explanations of their reasoning behind their rankings. Have them publish somehow – magazine format, video, digital website, podcast, etc.

Or you can task students to come up with just one person (or intention/event/etc) and debate each other. 

You can put them into groups to research and debate. This would give them a lot of practice in communication and persuasion. They’ll be challenged to converge and agree on one choice within their own groups and to defend that choice to others. 

Or you can have students pick individually and debate one another. You can have brackets and converge on a class winner. Students can judge the debates and cast votes for winners. 

I would recommend having a panel of student judges for both scenarios. Though they don’t necessarily have to determine who wins, student judges should ask debaters clarifying questions, evaluate and give feedback on research, logic, presentation, etc. 

If you want to dive into a little more speculation, you can tweak the task into something like “Which person from ___________ would be the most successful (richest/famous/etc) today?” Get creative! Have the students help you with ideas. Have fun with it!

History Commercials

You can have your student create a commercial to market a particular time period/person/tech/etc in history/time period for this history project. They can answer prompts like: 

When is the best time to live? 

What was the most useful/funnest invention of the 19th century? 

Who should be the president of the United States in (some future year)? 

What I love about this is that learners are forced to summarize the most important characteristics of whatever/whoever they’re selling and spin those characteristics into something attractive for viewers. This activity gives them opportunities to research and practice sales and psychology as well as history.

Living Museum  

This is a fun biography project. Instead of writing an essay or in addition to it, students take on the persona of their assigned or chosen person. They would need to know that person so well that they will be able to answer visitor questions either by using actual facts from their research or making reasonable speculations based on the character and personality of their historical figure. Students can have props or dress ups, etc 

Historical Entrepreneurs  

Have your students choose or come up with a business idea that would prosper during the time period you are studying. Have them focus on a problem that a particular part of the population is dealing with. Then have them figure out what service or product their business can offer to help their customers. 

This has many opportunities for greater elaboration if you want. Students can think about and plan how they would produce their product or deliver their service. They can research locations, price of buildings, business taxes and laws, etc. Remind them that they can choose different business structures – local small business, corporation, etc. 

Have Students Create Their Own Research Question and Design Their Own Project:  

Make sure to first give them lots of example projects and questions like the ones above. Otherwise, they might just resort to the traditional poster or essay, which is fine if that’s what they really want to do. It’s just that sometimes they choose those types of projects because they have a hard time thinking of ideas. It can be very motivating and inspiring for them to hear the types of things they can do. 

Help them come up with a rubric to judge the quality of their project. Make sure to include things like: claim-evidence connection, historical accuracy, quality of sources, amount and depth of content, and workmanship/craftmanship.

Then work backwards from there to help them plan out the actions they need to take and even create a schedule to meet any deadlines. 

Anyway, I hope this has been helpful! Have a beautiful and blessed day!

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Research Paper Guide

History Research Paper Topics

Excellent History Research Paper Topics- 300+ Ideas

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Are you a student on a mission to find the perfect history research paper topic? Picking the right topic is like finding the treasure map for your research paper adventure. 

Some students have their topics set by teachers, while others get to choose. No matter where you stand, we're here to make this process exciting and straightforward. 

We've rounded up over 300 captivating history research paper ideas to fuel your curiosity and set you on a path to excellence. 

So, continue reading this blog and pick the best one for your research paper! 

• 1. American History Topics for Research Paper
• 2. World History Research Paper Topics
• 3. European History Research Paper Topics
• 4. African American History Research Paper Topics
• 5. History Research Paper Topics Philippines
• 6. Famous History Topics
• 7. Modern History Research Topics
• 8. History Research Paper Topics World War 2
• 9. Ancient History Research Topics
• 10. Middle Ages Research Topics
• 11. History Research Paper Topics Before 1500 
• 12. History Research Paper Topics After 1877
• 13. History Research Paper Topics 1900s
• 14. 20th Century History Topics
• 15. History Research Paper Topics for Students 
• 16. Simple History Research Topics H2
• 17. Constructive History Research Paper Topics
• 18. Top History Research Topics 
• 19. Trending History Research Topics
• 20. Art History Research Paper Topics
• 21. US Civil War Topics
• 22. Great Depression Research Topics
• 23. French Revolution Research Topics
• 24. American Revolution Research Topics
• 25. Industrial Revolution Research Topics
• 26. Miscellaneous History Research Topics
• 27. Tips for Selecting a Good History Research Topic

American History Topics for Research Paper

Here are some interesting US history research paper topics: 

The causes and consequences of the American Civil War.

The impact of the women's suffrage movement on American society.

The Great Depression and its effects on American life.

The Civil Rights Movement and the struggle for racial equality.

The Space Race: America's race to the Moon.

The Vietnam War and its impact on American society and politics.

The Cold War: America's role in the global struggle.

The American Revolution and the birth of a nation.

The Roaring Twenties: Social and cultural changes in post-WWI America.

The Founding Fathers and the creation of the U.S. Constitution.

American History Research Paper Topics For College Students

The role of Native American tribes in shaping early colonial America.

The history and impact of the Women's Army Corps (WAC) during World War II.

The Harlem Renaissance: Cultural and artistic achievements in African American history.

The history of the civil rights movement in the American South.

The Mexican-American War and its consequences on U.S. expansion and relations.

The influence of jazz music on American culture and society.

The Manhattan Project: Development of the atomic bomb and its legacy.

The history of LGBTQ+ activism and milestones in the fight for rights.

The impact of the Great Migration on urbanization and race relations.

The Watergate scandal and its effects on American politics and journalism.

World History Research Paper Topics

The Cold War's global impact: shaping a divided world?

Eastern Europe's transformation: the collapse of communism.

Rising superpower: China's global influence and implications.

The European Union: uniting a continent across history.

United Nations history: a quest for global cooperation.

Championing humanity: a historical overview of human rights.

Unveiling the Holocaust: tragedy and lessons from the past.

Terrorism through time: historical roots and evolution.

From barter to bitcoin: unraveling the history of the world economy.

Migrations across eras: tracing humanity's journeys through history.

European History Research Paper Topics

How did the feudal system operate?

Formation of the European Union.

What was life like in Asian Soviet countries?

What led to the rise of European liberalism?

The merging of arts and sciences in Europe in the 17th – 18th centuries. 

Explore the impact of the Renaissance on European art and culture.

Investigate the causes and consequences of the French Revolution in Europe.

Analyze the role of European colonialism in shaping global history.

Examine the dynamics of the European migrant crisis and its consequences.

Uncover the factors leading to the rise of fascism in interwar Europe.

African American History Research Paper Topics

Investigate the role of African American women in the suffrage and civil rights movements.

Examine the historical significance of the Harlem Renaissance in African-American culture.

Analyze the legacy of slavery and its ongoing effects on African-American communities.

Trace the evolution of African-American music and its influence on American culture.

Investigate the historical context and impacts of the Black Panther Party.

A debate on racial preference.

The genre of black popular music.

Analyze the history of African-American education and its challenges.

Examine the Great Migration and its effects on African-American communities.

Investigate the role of African Americans in the abolitionist movement.

History Research Paper Topics Philippines

The origins of the name Philippines.  

Filipino history as a colonial resistance.

Christian-Muslim relations in the Philippines

History of the Philippines from different perspectives. 

The fundamentals of the barrio government system.

The role of the Katipunan in the Philippine Revolution of 1896.

The impact of Spanish colonization on indigenous cultures in the Philippines.

The Philippines during World War II: Resistance and liberation.

Ferdinand Marcos and martial law: A dark chapter in Philippine history.

Exploring the People Power Revolution of 1986 and its global significance.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Famous History Topics

The Trojan War: Myth and reality.

The bubonic plague's impact on medieval Europe.

The influence of the Enlightenment on modern democracy.

The Russian Revolution and the rise of the Soviet Union.

The Salem Witch Trials: Mass hysteria in colonial America.

The Manhattan Project: The race to build the atomic bomb.

The Cultural Revolution in China: Mao Zedong's ideological campaign.

The Cuban Missile Crisis: The world on the brink of nuclear war.

The fall of Constantinople: Ottoman Empire's conquest of Byzantium.

The age of exploration: Columbus, Magellan, and the New World.

Modern History Research Topics

Uncovering the impact of the Cold War on global politics.

Examining the role of women in the Civil Rights Movement.

Analyzing the origins and consequences of the Arab Spring.

Investigating the influence of the internet on modern diplomacy.

Tracing the evolution of environmental activism in the 21st century.

Assessing the long-term effects of apartheid in South Africa.

Exploring the cultural significance of the Beatles in the 1960s.

Understanding the complexities of post-9/11 counterterrorism policies.

Investigating the roots of the European migrant crisis.

Analyzing the impact of the Chinese economic miracle on global trade.

History Research Paper Topics World War 2

The impact of the war on ordinary people.

World War II in the Islamic world.

Contribution of female personalities in World War 2.

Economic cause in the Second World War.

Black women in the military during World War 2. 

Explore the role of women in World War II and their contribution to the war effort.

Analyze the impact of the Holocaust on Jewish communities and the world's response.

Investigate the strategies and key battles of the Pacific Theater during World War II.

Examine the technological advancements and innovations that emerged during World War II.

Delve into the aftermath of World War II and the formation of the United Nations.

Ancient History Research Topics

What were the causes of the fall of the Roman Empire?

How did Ancient Greece influence the development of Western Civilization?

What was life like for ordinary people in Ancient Rome?

How did the Egyptian civilization influence subsequent cultures?

What was the nature of warfare in Ancient Greece?

What were the major political changes in Ancient Rome during its history?

How did the geography of Ancient Greece influence its development?

What was the role of religion in Ancient Rome?

What were the major economic changes in Ancient Rome during its history?

How did the art and architecture of Ancient Greece influence subsequent cultures?

Middle Ages Research Topics

The fall of the Roman Empire and the rise of the Middle Ages.

The feudal system and its impact on society.

The Crusades and their impact on medieval Europe.

The role of women in the middle ages.

The black death and its impact on the Middle Ages.

Explore the role of medieval women in the Middle Ages.

Investigate the impact of the Black Death on medieval Europe.

Trace the evolution of medieval warfare and castle architecture.

Understand the role of religion and the church during the Middle Ages.

Unearth the cultural exchange in the medieval Silk Road.

History Research Paper Topics Before 1500 

• What was the origin of Christianity?

The Mongols and globalization. 

The early history of the Franks. 

History of postmodernism. 

The influence of ancient Greek philosophy on Western thought.

Investigate the origins and development of Roman architecture and engineering.

Explore the impact of Confucianism on ancient Chinese society and governance.

Analyze the role of African kingdoms and empires in early history.

Examine the rise and fall of the Aztec Empire in pre-Columbian America.

Investigate the mysterious decline of the Mayan civilization in ancient Mesoamerica.

History Research Paper Topics After 1877

What changes did women face in the 1920s?

Discuss the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

What military roles did women play in World War II? 

The reasons for the invasion of Iraq after 9/11.

The assassination of John Kennedy in 1963 and its consequences.  

The first 20 days of the Spanish Civil War.  

What came after the discovery of oil in Persia in 1908?

Examining the evolution of Women's Rights and roles.

Social change and counterculture in the 1960s and 1970s.

The immigration of Irish in the 1940s.

History Research Paper Topics 1900s

The impact of World War I on society and culture in the 1920s

The civil rights movement: struggles and achievements in the 20th century

The Cold War: origins, conflicts, and resolutions

Women's liberation movements in the United States in the 20th century

The space race: competition and cooperation in the mid-1900s

The Great Depression: causes, effects, and recovery efforts

Apartheid in South Africa: rise, resistance, and demise

The Vietnam War: impact on America and Southeast Asia

Environmentalism and conservation: 20th-century initiatives and challenges

The Rwandan Genocide: Causes, events, and aftermath.

20th Century History Topics

The impact of the Treaty of Versailles on the post-World War I global order.

The Cuban Missile Crisis: Cold War brinkmanship and nuclear diplomacy.

The cultural and social changes of the Roaring Twenties in the United States.

The history of the Korean War and its long-lasting implications.

The Space Race: The competition between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Apartheid in South Africa: The struggle for racial equality and Nelson Mandela's role.

The fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany.

The Iranian Revolution and its effects on Middle East politics.

The Vietnam War protests and the anti-war movement in the United States.

Technological advancements and the digital revolution in the late 20th century

History Research Paper Topics for Students 

Here is a complete list of history research paper topics for students. Have a detailed look to get a better idea. 

History Research Paper Topics for Middle School Students

What was the impact of the slave trade on the European economy?

Ibsen’s plays and his role in establishing the new theater.

How did the Ottoman Empire spread to the Middle East?

The history of the industrial revolution in the world.

The number of casualties the US suffered in the war

The Cold War: Understanding its consequences in the whole world. 

Explore the history of the United Kingdom (UK).

The process of abolition of slavery and its meaning for the world

Nuclear Weapons and their influence on the World Military clashes

The main reasons why so many Africans were moved to the U.S. as slaves.

History Research Paper Topics for High School Students 

 The intersection of the civil rights movement and the LGBTQ rights movement. 

The causes and consequences of World War I.

Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?

Discuss the outcome of the war and whether it was beneficial to the U.S.

The exploration of space by different countries in the 20th century.

The development of the Byzantine Empire.

On the differences between the political agenda of the North and South.

Impact over the world by the aftermath of the Chicano Movement.

The impact of ancient civilizations on modern society

McKinley’s role in American imperialism.

History Research Paper Topics for College Students

How did Mormons overcome the challenges they faced?  

The role of religion in westward expansion.

The industrial revolution and its effects

What instigated the Civil War?

Examine the Great Depression and its effects on the United States.

Historical background of the battle of Chancellorsville.

African American women in art and literature.

Why contributions of African-American soldiers during WW2 are still silenced.

What impact did the underground railroad have on the Civil War?

What impact did the Negro Leagues have on baseball and society?  

History Research Topics for University Students

The impact of the Treaty of Versailles on the interwar period and World War II.

The history of the African diaspora and its influence on global cultures.

The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War I.

The history of ancient Mayan civilization and its achievements.

The significance of the Berlin Wall in the context of the Cold War.

The history of the feminist movement and the fight for women's suffrage.

The cultural exchange between the Silk Road and its legacy in the modern world.

The historical development of human rights and their global impact.

The history of the Harlem Renaissance and its contributions to African-American culture.

The impact of the Scramble for Africa on the continent's political landscape.

Simple History Research Topics H2

The life and impact of ancient Egyptian pharaohs.

The causes and consequences of the American Revolutionary War.

The rise and fall of the Roman Empire.

The significance of the Renaissance in European history.

The effects of the Industrial Revolution on society and economy.

The role of women in the suffrage movement in the United States.

The events leading up to World War I and its aftermath.

The Great Depression and its impact on the global economy.

The civil rights movement and its key leaders.

The history and culture of ancient Greece.

Constructive History Research Paper Topics

The role of the Marshall Plan in post-World War II European reconstruction.

The impact of the Panama Canal on global trade and geopolitics.

The history of the Green Revolution and its effects on agriculture and food security.

The origins and consequences of the Cuban Missile Crisis.

The evolution of espionage and intelligence agencies during the Cold War.

The history and significance of the Montgomery Bus Boycott in the Civil Rights Movement.

The cultural and political impact of the Beat Generation in the 1950s and 1960s.

The history of the Olympic Games and their role in international diplomacy.

The emergence and impact of the modern environmental movement.

The historical development of the European Union and its challenges in the 21st century.

Top History Research Topics 

The impact of the Black Death on medieval Europe and its long-term consequences.

The history of the Great Wall of China: construction, purpose, and legacy.

The role of the Opium Wars in shaping modern China's relationship with the West.

The origins and consequences of the Haitian Revolution as the first successful slave rebellion.

The history and significance of the Code of Hammurabi in ancient Mesopotamia.

The Silk Road: Trade, culture, and the exchange of ideas between East and West.

The historical development of the Hollywood film industry and its global influence.

The role of espionage during World War I and the birth of modern intelligence agencies.

The history of the Women's Liberation Movement and its impact on gender equality.

The Ottoman Empire: Rise, expansion, and eventual decline as a global power.

Trending History Research Topics

The impact of social media on contemporary political movements and activism.

Finding history and implications of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.

The role of artificial intelligence and automation in changing labor markets throughout history.

The history of pandemics and lessons learned from past global health crises.

Environmental history: Examining the historical roots of modern environmental challenges.

The impact of globalization on cultural exchange and identity in the 21st century.

Reevaluating historical perspectives on indigenous peoples and their rights.

The history of space exploration and its implications for the future of humanity.

LGBTQ+ history: Progress, challenges, and the fight for equal rights.

The history of cyber warfare and its evolving role in modern conflicts.

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Art History Research Paper Topics

Portraits of artists in Western European engraving of the 16-18th century.

The role of impressionism in shaping contemporary visual culture

The connection between French caricatures of the 19th century and Goya’s prints. 

Discuss the development and rise of Cubism in the early 20th century. 

The world history and techniques used in printmaking.

Examine the Petrarchan madrigals of the 16th century.

What contributed to making Paris a center of art in the 20th century?

Expressionists and their impact on modern art.

Renaissance artists changed the world of art.

Is the feminist movement vital for modern art?

US Civil War Topics

Exploring the role of women in the US Civil War.

Analyzing the economic factors that fueled the US Civil War.

The impact of the Emancipation Proclamation on slavery.

Examining the battle strategies of General Robert E. Lee.

The socio-political ramifications of the Gettysburg Address.

Investigating the medical practices and innovations during the Civil War.

The Underground Railroad and its contribution to the Civil War effort.

Assessing the Reconstruction era and its challenges.

The influence of Abraham Lincoln's leadership on the Civil War outcome.

The role of African American soldiers in the US Civil War.

Great Depression Research Topics

The Great Depression: causes and effects

The role of the government during the Great Depression

Life during the Great Depression – how did people manage?

The impact of the Great Depression on different sectors ( agriculture, industry, etc)

The Dust Bowl – one of the most devastating effects of the Great Depression

The effect of the Great Depression on families and children

The Great Depression and the New Deal

The end of the Great Depression – what factors led to its recovery?

The legacy of the Great Depression – did it have any positive outcomes?

Compare and contrast the Great Depression and the current economic recession.

French Revolution Research Topics

The causes of the French Revolution

The main events of the French Revolution

The impact of the French Revolution

Was the French Revolution a success or failure?

The role of Napoleon in the French Revolution

The significance of the Jacobin Club in the French Revolution

The significance of the storming of the Bastille

The Reign of Terror – Was it justified?

The aftermath of the French Revolution

The legacy of the French Revolution

American Revolution Research Topics

Causes of the American Revolution

The Stamp Act and its impact on the Revolution

The Boston Tea Party and its impact on the Revolution

The Declaration of Independence and its impact on the Revolution

The Battle of Bunker Hill and its impact on the Revolution

The Battle of Lexington and Concord and its impact on the Revolution

The Battle of Saratoga and its impact on the Revolution

The Battle of Yorktown and its impact on the Revolution

The Impact of the American Revolution on Slavery

Women in the American Revolution

Industrial Revolution Research Topics

The effect of the Industrial Revolution on the environment.

The working conditions during the Industrial Revolution.

The rise of factories and mass production during the Industrial Revolution.

The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society and culture.

The role of technology in the Industrial Revolution.

The economic impact of the Industrial Revolution.

The political impact of the Industrial Revolution.

The social impact of the Industrial Revolution.

The spread of the Industrial Revolution around the world.

The legacy of the Industrial Revolution.

Miscellaneous History Research Topics

The history of witch hunts and trials across different cultures.

The evolution of fashion and its reflection of societal changes throughout history.

The impact of the printing press on the spread of knowledge during the Renaissance.

The history of espionage and covert operations in the Cold War era.

The role of women in espionage and intelligence gathering throughout history.

The history of the Olympic Games: controversies, boycotts, and memorable moments.

The origins and significance of ancient trade routes like the Incense Route.

The history of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in non-Western cultures.

The Great Emu War in Australia: Causes, consequences, and historical significance.

The history of prohibition movements and their effects on alcohol consumption.

Tips for Selecting a Good History Research Topic

Here are 9 quick tips for selecting a history research topic:

Personal Interest: Choose a topic that genuinely interests you, as your enthusiasm will fuel your research.

Relevance: Ensure your topic aligns with the assignment or course objectives.

Scope: Pick a manageable scope to avoid overwhelming research.

Available Sources: Confirm there are enough credible sources on your chosen topic.

Originality: Seek a unique angle or perspective to stand out in your research.

Complexity: Opt for a topic with depth and room for critical analysis.

Consultation: Discuss your ideas with professors or peers for valuable insights.

Historiography: Consider the existing debates and interpretations within the chosen topic.

Multidisciplinary: Explore topics with connections to other disciplines for a broader perspective.

In conclusion, the world of history is a vast and intriguing landscape, filled with countless stories waiting to be explored. In this blog, we've covered over 300 history research paper topics, each offering a unique opportunity to uncover the history. 

Now, you have a range of topics to choose from for your history research paper. But, if you still require professional assistance, consult MyPerfectWords.com . We are the leading custom essay service  dedicated to assisting you through every stage of the writing process.

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Exciting Research Topics for Middle Schoolers to Fuel Curiosity

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Middle school is a time of burgeoning curiosity and the perfect opportunity for students to engage in research that not only educates them academically but also cultivates skills for the future. By encouraging young learners to explore topics they are passionate about, educators and parents play a pivotal role in their intellectual development and the growth of their intrinsic motivation. This blog post outlines a diverse range of research topics suited to the inquiring minds of middle school students, giving them the freedom to deepen their understanding of various subjects while honing critical thinking and independent study skills.

Uncovering the Mysteries of History

Middle schoolers often find history fascinating, particularly when learning about the past from distinct perspectives. Here are some intriguing historical research topics to consider:

• The Unsung Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement: Apart from the well-known leaders, students can explore the contributions of lesser-known figures who played a significant role in the struggle for equality.
• The Impact of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Society: Researching the ways in which the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, or other ancient societies have influenced contemporary culture, politics, and technology offers a broad canvas for exploration.
• Everyday Life in Different Historical Periods: Focusing on the routines, customs, and technologies that shaped people’s daily lives in times gone by can provide valuable insights into societal norms and individual experiences.

Science and the Natural World

The sciences are a playground of wonder, with an infinity of topics waiting to be explored. Here are some research ideas that can nurture a love for discovery and experimentation:

• Climate Change: Effects and Solutions: Investigating the causes and potential solutions to this global challenge can make students aware of their role in protecting the planet.
• The Wonders of the Solar System: Encouraging a study of the planets, their moons, and the vast expanse of space they inhabit can ignite dreams of interstellar exploration.
• Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation: Researching the variety of life on Earth and strategies to protect and sustain ecosystems can foster a sense of environmental stewardship.

Literature, Language, and Creative Expression

Language and literature are potent forms of human expression, allowing students to explore complex ideas and emotions. Here are some topics that bridge the gap between art and academia:

• Interpreting Classic Literature for Modern Relevance: Encouraging the study of timeless works can lead to discussions on their contemporary significance and the evolution of societal values.
• The Structure and Evolution of Language: Investigating the origins and changes in language over time can be a rich area of study, especially when paired with the examination of cultural shifts.
• The Intersection of Art and Literature: Exploring how visual arts and writing intersect to convey messages and emotions can be a fertile ground for interdisciplinary research.

Mathematics and Logic Puzzles

The precision and patterns found in mathematics can be both satisfying and thought-provoking. Middle school students often enjoy the thrill of solving problems and unraveling puzzles. Here are some mathematical research topics that can engage students’ analytical minds:

• Famous Mathematical Conjectures: Researching unsolved problems, such as the Goldbach conjecture or the Riemann hypothesis, can introduce students to the excitement of open questions in mathematics.
• The Application of Math in Various Industries: Investigating how mathematical principles underpin fields like music, art, sports, and technology can illuminate the subject’s real-world utility.
• The History of Mathematical Discoveries: Tracing the lineage of mathematical concepts through different cultures and periods can showcase the universality and timelessness of mathematics.

Social Sciences and Human Interaction

Studying human behavior and society can help students develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Here are some social science research ideas to explore:

• The Impact of Social Media on Friendships and Relationships: Research could focus on positive and negative effects, trends, and the future of social interaction.
• Cultural Traditions and Their Meanings: Investigating the origins and contemporary significance of customs from various cultures can foster respect for diversity and a global perspective.
• The Psychology of Decision Making: Exploring the factors that influence human choices, from cognitive biases to social pressures, can provide insights into individual and collective behavior.

Technology and Innovation

Middle schoolers are often tech-savvy and interested in the latest gadgets and advancements. Here are some technology and innovation research topics to tap into that curiosity:

• The Impact of Gaming on Society: Research could examine how video games influence education, social issues, or even career choices.
• Emerging Technologies and Their Ethical Implications: Encouraging students to study technologies like artificial intelligence, gene editing, or wearable tech can lead to discussions on the ethical considerations of their use and development.
• Inventions That Changed the World: Chronicling the history and influence of significant inventions, from the wheel to the internet, can provide a lens through which to view human progress.

By providing middle schoolers with the opportunity to conduct meaningful research in a topic of their choosing, we not only deepen their education but also equip them with the skills and passion for a lifetime of learning. This list is just the beginning; the key is to foster curiosity and guide young minds toward engaging, challenging, and diverse research experiences. Through such explorations, we empower the next generation to think critically, communicate effectively, and, most importantly, to nurture their innate curiosity about the world.

Implementing Research Projects in the Classroom

Encouraging middle school students to undertake research projects requires a strategic approach to ensure sustained interest and meaningful outcomes. Here are some methods educators can employ:

• Mentorship and Support: Pairing students with teacher mentors who can guide them through the research process, provide feedback, and encourage critical thinking is essential for a fruitful research experience.
• Cross-Curricular Integration: Linking research topics to content from different subjects helps students appreciate the interconnectedness of knowledge and develop versatile learning skills.
• Use of Technology and Media: Incorporating digital tools for research, presentation, and collaboration can enhance engagement and teach essential 21st-century skills.
• Presentation and Reflection: Allocating time for students to present their findings nurtures communication skills and confidence, while self-reflection activities help them internalize their learning journey.

These strategies can create a robust framework within which students can pursue their curiosities, leading to a more personalized and impactful educational experience.

What is a good topic to research for middle school?

A good topic for middle school research could delve into the Role of Robotics in the Future of Society . Students can explore how robotics may transform jobs, healthcare, and everyday life. They can examine the balance between automation and human work, predict how robots could augment human abilities, and discuss the ethical dimensions of a robotic future. This inquiry not only captivates the imagination but also encourages critical thinking about technology’s impact on tomorrow’s world.

What are the 10 research titles examples?

• The Evolution of Renewable Energy and Its Future Prospects
• Investigating the Effects of Microplastics on Marine Ecosystems
• The Influence of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Democracy
• Understanding Black Holes: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Cosmos
• The Impact of Augmented Reality on Education and Training
• Climate Change and Its Consequences on Coastal Cities
• The Psychological Effects of Social Media on Teenagers
• Genetic Engineering: The Possibilities and Pitfalls
• Smart Cities: How Technology is Shaping Urban Living
• The Role of Nanotechnology in Medicine: Current Applications and Future Potential

Fascinating Facts About Middle School Research Topics

• Interdisciplinary Impact : Research projects in middle school often blend subjects, such as the integration of art and mathematics when exploring patterns and symmetry, which helps students discover the interconnectivity of different fields of knowledge.
• Skill Building : Engaging in research equips middle schoolers with advanced skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management, which are beneficial across their academic journey and beyond.
• Diversity in Content : Middle school research topics are notably diverse, ranging from examining the role of robotics in society to exploring the psychological effects of social media, catering to a wide array of student interests and strengths.
• Tech Savvy Learning : Technology-based research topics, such as the influence of smart cities or the impact of augmented reality in education, are deeply relevant to tech-savvy middle school students, making learning more engaging and relatable.
• Cultural Relevance : Researching topics like cultural traditions and their meanings encourages middle schoolers to develop a global perspective and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity within their own school community and the world at large.

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Interactive, Hands-on lessons and test prep ideas for US History Classrooms

Decades Project for US History

March 16, 2023

Have you ever assigned a decades project for your US History class?  It’s the end of the year.   You’ve finished your US History curriculum and need something engaging for students to go as an end of the year project?  It’s time to try a US History end of the year decades project!

Are you like me?

It’s May and standardized testing season is over.  You feel like you’ve done all of the fun review activities you can handle for the year.  You need to keep your students engaged and everyone is exhausted!  You want something that students can do independently that will hold their interest.  Sound familiar?

I have tried several projects over the years:  Oral History projects, “pick a topic from this year and research deeper”, Instagram summaries, etc.  All of these were fine, but I found that students really didn’t “get into them” and the work they produced was just ok.  

What is a decades project?

I created a one-pager type summary page for each decade covering the 1920s – 2010s.  Students will research a decade and create images for a variety of topics that relate to that decade.  Finally, they explain how each image relates to the decade they chose.  

The final product is a highly visual representation of each decade!

Benefits of a decades project?

• High interest due to student choice and topics
• Independent research means no direct teaching from you!
• Hand drawn or digital – students get to choose!
• Students love to research the “non history” stuff of a decade such as fashion and music.

How does it work?

• I created a sign up sheet for each decade.
• Students sign up for the decade of their choice.  I capped each decade at 4 because, let’s be honest, 1999s rap is cool.
• After students sign up, they choose to complete the digital version or hand drawn version.
• Students begin their research on the following topics for their decade:  fashion, innovations, music, fads, key events, literature, popular culture, kids/toys.  
• For each topic, students would include 4 images.  You could require more or less.
• I allowed students to include keywords with their visuals, but told them not to use sentences.  The point is to have each decade be a visual representation.
• I required students to use color and be neat.
• Students created a separate document/paper that explained each image for the decade.  They stapled it to their decades page or added a slide before turning it in. 

Student feedback?

Students love this project.  They love the ability to have free research time and that they can be creative.  

Why do I love it?

• The creativity students have is outstanding!
• I love the high quality work they produce on this project!
• We have been so content/standards driven all year, it’s nice to allow students a chance to breathe and research the fun stuff!  
• While they are working I can wrap up end of the year requirements for my school, like grades.

High interest, low stress = it’s a win, win for both teachers and students.  Check out this free and editable decades project and let me know how your students love it! 

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100 Unique Middle School Research Topics and Ideas

Table of Contents

Identifying an ideal topic and writing a well-structured research paper is a challenging task that requires a lot of skills and time. In specific, the majority of middle school students experience more difficulties with research topic selection. Therefore, in this blog, for the convenience of middle school students, we have shared certain tactics on how to select an ideal topic and compose a brilliant middle school research paper. Additionally, we have presented a list of outstanding middle school research topics on various themes.

If you are a middle school student struggling to identify an appropriate topic for your research paper, explore this blog and get amazing topic ideas.

Know How to Choose a Middle School Research Topic

When it comes to preparing a middle school research paper, topic selection is the first step you must concentrate on. Usually, your teachers will provide you with interesting research titles or questions. But sometimes, you will be given a chance to pick a topic on your own. In such instances, follow these steps to spot the right topic for your middle school research paper.

• First, start by investigating the topics that excite you, or the areas in which you are interested.
• Next, formulate a research question by examining the main points of your paper and other topics that your audience would find exciting.
• Third, evaluate potential study titles and eliminate those that are not applicable.
• Fourth, focus on a topic that both you and your audience will find relevant.
• Finally, make sure you follow all of your teacher’s instructions regarding the paper.

Steps for Writing a Middle School Research Paper

Writing middle school research papers is no different from writing assignments in other stages of the academic career. Here are some steps to get started with the task:

Understanding the Assignment Requirement: Before you start writing, consider what the teacher expects to see in the final copy of your research paper. You will come across multiple rules and procedures. Know the format you are supposed to write and bear in mind the due dates.

Complete Your Pre-Writing: Select up to 3 topics when you first ideate your subjects for writing your paper. From there, choose the best one to write on. Then, jot down the valid and useful information from your research.

Compose the Paper:   Elaborate on the jotted-down details and craft the paper. Let your ideas flow in the first draft. The paper should contain necessary sections such as the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Edit and Proofread Your Work: Editing and proofreading are essential. Begin the revision process with editing. From your first draft, remove the unnecessary sections and insert details you think you missed.  Look for spelling and punctuation errors. Also ensure that your work is neat, accurate, logically structured, and has a smooth flow.

Citations and References: Finally, cite and reference your work. Follow the format given by your teacher to write references for your research paper. References will emphasize the sources of the data collected to develop your research paper.

Types of Research Topics

There are significant components that aid in the process of picking middle school research topics. Once you can determine the type of research paper, it will become easier for you to compose your solution. There is an array of categories but three of them are the most crucial ones. Read the below points to find out about them.

• Descriptive– These topics are based on vigilant and complete observation of an occurrence, occasion, theme, trait, etc. to distinguish it in feature and to potentially uncover essential, appealing, non-depicted aspects or patterns.
• Causal – These ideas investigate whether altering some variables leads to changes in other variables suggesting a causal relationship.
• Comparative– These topics inspect resemblance and dissimilarity between two or more entities

Features of a Good Research Paper Topic

Searching for an appropriate middle school research topic becomes easy when you know the characteristics of an excellent topic. The following are the features of an excellent middle school research topic:

• Precise and real:  Research goals and predictable results must be obvious and focused
• Original:  scrutinizing aspects, units, and associations that have never been researched before
• Highly important: Effective for community, civilization, and a professional field
• Highly relevant: The topic should be relevant for probable readers, reviewers
• Trending: Rising disciplines and subjects ignite more interest in their originality and yet the uncharted possibility

List of Middle School Research Topics

Have you been assigned to develop a middle school research paper? Are you looking for some excellent ideas to develop your paper? Then, take a look at the range of topics mentioned below.

Middle School Research Questions on Science & Technology

In your middle school research paper, you may focus on any ideas that are associated with physics, chemistry, biology, or technology. Find here, some excellent science and technology research topics for middle school students.

• How has light become an instrument to treat cancer and other diseases?
• What is the present substantiation that Mars has had water and maybe life?
• Can nanomedicine potentially expand the human lifespan?
• What is the prospect of computing and artificial intelligence?
• What function does cryogenics play in the future?
• Can alternative energy efficiently restore fossil fuels?
• Is it advantageous for wild animals to have connections with people?
• What evidence do we have that CMB is the consequence of the Big Bang?
• How will self-driving cars alter the technique in which people live?
• Can using currency systems like Bitcoin help safeguard identity theft?

Middle School Research Ideas On Mathematics

For your middle school research paper on math, you can concentrate on topics from areas such as algebra, arithmetic, geometry, etc. From here, get a collection of the finest research questions on mathematics.

• The power of algorithms.
• Is it possible to develop a successful monopoly policy?
• Why is ‘x’ the unknown?
• How has math altered the world?
• What is the answer to the McDonald’s math issue?
• How do math geniuses solve extremely difficult math concepts so quickly?
• Should high school math competitions be banned?
• Describe the relationship between math and music
• Are math formulas ever implicated in real life?
• What are some of the most puzzling math issues ever?

Informative Middle School Research Topics

Working on an informative middle school research paper will help you to widen your subject knowledge. So, for your convenience, here, we have listed some informative middle school research titles to get started.

• Discuss the history of cryptography.
• Suggest some effective strategies for waste recycling.
• Analyze how a person’s behavior changes in the crowd.
• Discuss the possible consequences of drug legalization.
• Explain the meaning of music in modern life.
• Investigate what influences healthy self-esteem.
• Explain how propaganda works.
• Analyze the impact of family issues on the development of the children’s personality.
• Discuss the geological periods of Earth’s development.
• Write about internet safety.

Middle School Research Paper Topics on Politics

For your middle school research paper, you may focus on ideas related to laws, policies, and government. The following are some exclusive research ideas on politics for middle school students.

• Is it necessary to reduce the drinking age?
• Should adults have the privilege to carry a hidden handgun?
• More gun control laws should be performed
• How can the global community prevent Iran from creating nuclear weapons?
• How can racial assassination be stopped?
• The current outlook for peace between Israel and the Palestinians
• How would the world be without wars?
• How to avoid personnel reduction?
• Should the death sentence be allowed?
• Is socialism achievable?

Psychology Topics for Middle School Students

Take a look at anything related to mental health or mental illness in your middle school research paper. Listed below are some outstanding middle school research questions to be considered in psychology.

• Is autism an illness or a progressive peculiarity?
• How to predict and form behavioral patterns?
• How to control child violence?
• How to handle a mental breakdown?
• The effect of classical music on the functioning of the brain
• How does insomnia impact our health?
• How badly do dreams impact our mood?
• Is stress truly damaging?
• How does depression affect the immune system?
• Are some people intellectually gifted?

Interdisciplinary Middle School Research Topics

Are you searching for an interdisciplinary middle school research title? Take a look at the list published below. In the list, we have included amazing interdisciplinary research ideas for middle school students.

• Explain how climate change affects biodiversity.
• Analyze the impact of technology on society and culture.
• Explain the role of music in mental health.
• Examine the history and science of flight.
• Explain how food and nutrition affect brain development and scholastic performance.
• Analyze how social media affects the self-esteem of a person.
• Explain the impact of sports on physical and mental health.
• Discuss the history of ancient civilizations.
• Analyze the psychology and biology of addiction.
• Examine the relationship between art and science in developing visual illusions.

Middle School Research Topics on Business

Do you need awesome ideas on business for your middle school research paper? If yes, then make use of the following business research titles. It will help you in composing a detailed research paper worthy of top grades.

• How do filthy business tactics work?
• Can you start a business without money?
• Infamous business leaders.
• Private enterprise and family business.
• Moral decision-making in everyday work situations.
• What are the most successful strategies for endorsing a small business?
• Is it worth it to spread out the business into a new region or country?
• How to develop a victorious startup.
• The function of global business and sustainable development.
• The effect of climate change on international business strategies.

Simple Middle School Research Questions

You will not find your research process exhausting if you work on easy middle-school research paper topics. So, instead of working on complex research ideas, give preference to any simple research questions listed below.

• Is becoming vegan the healthiest option for you?
• Is natural greenhouse more effective or artificial?
• The reason, impacts, and results of earthquakes
• How many computer games do you play without getting addicted?
• Princess Diana and her empire.
• Why is competition so essential for humans?
• How did poetry evolve?
• How did ancient sailors find their way around the globe?
• Importance of Gender Roles in Children’s Books and Cartoons
• Who is the most powerful individual to have lived on the planet?

Unique Middle School Research Topics

Are you interested in composing a top-score-fetching middle school research paper? If yes, then work on original research titles that make your work stand unique in the crowd. The following are some authentic middle school research ideas on different themes.

• The methods deal with addressing drug addiction cases in high school.
• Physical vs. digital communications.
• Body Image and the Korean Pop Culture.
• The significance of school volunteering and social work.
• The alterations to the academic procedure because of Covid-19.
• The Legacy of the Trail of Tears.
• The responsibility of motivation in becoming a better student.
• The function of books in print and the libraries.
• How to improve school safety?
• Discuss the importance of parents to get involved in their children’s schoolwork.

Argumentative Middle School Research Topics

Find here, a collection of argumentative middle school research questions. All these ideas will help you in conducting in-depth research and developing interesting arguments with valid supporting pieces of evidence.

• Why is education not free for everyone?
• Bloggers and influencers are not professionals. Share your views on the statement.
• Serving in the military is an act of maturity. What are your views on the statement?
• Unlimited internet access to college professors is harming the quality of education offered at colleges and universities.
• The death penalty is not an ethical way to reduce crime.
• The fashion industry has a negative influence on youngsters.
• Fairplay is only beneficial if it comes with a financial reward.
• Indoor consumption of tobacco should be illegal.
• Religious differences often lead to wars
• The greater part of mobile applications symbolize the invasion of privacy

The Bottom Line

All the topics suggested above will help you in composing a compelling middle school research paper. If you are interested in picking a topic on your own, give preference to the title that is unique, interesting, and researchable. After choosing a topic, conduct extensive research on it and then compose a well-structured middle school research paper that is flawless and plagiarism-free. However, to get the desired results, you should make sure to prove your thesis statement in your paper with valid supporting evidence.

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The Top 10 Most Interesting History Research Topics

Choosing history research topics is one of the hardest and most time-consuming things to do, especially if there is no guidance. You have to employ the right research skills to find authentic sources and ensure that your history research questions are precise and clear.

So to make your work easier, we have curated history research paper topics for college students and high schoolers, as well as examples of history research questions you can use for your assignment.

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What makes a strong history research topic.

Clarity makes a strong history research topic. History is a broad subject, so your topic should be well-defined and your language should be simple enough for the reader to understand the basic outline of your history research project. In other words, there should be no ambiguity. An ambiguous topic will be much harder to write than a clear one.

Tips for Choosing a History Research Topic

• Understand the requirements. Pay attention to your academic level and make sure that you are clear on what is expected of you. Keep referring to your assignment as you go along to ensure that you do not deviate from it.
• Choose a topic that interests you. If your history topic is boring, doing the research and writing the paper will become tedious work. It is important that you select a topic that appeals to you and that you will enjoy writing about. Even if you choose a controversial topic, it’s worth pursuing as long as it will motivate you to keep writing.
• Be objective. Movies such as Pearl Harbor have romanticized history as their subject, so make sure you select a topic based on facts and not merely your opinion. This will help in removing bias from your research questions as well.
• Begin your search for research sources early. Ensure that there are adequate primary and secondary sources for your research assignment. You can also consult other alternative sources for your research. Remember to also make use of your high school or college librarian. They will guide you toward reliable sources.
• Consult others when necessary. Whenever your assignment requirements are unclear to you, consult your professor. You can also brainstorm with fellow students to get more ideas on what topic you should select, or visit your university’s writing center to get a refresher on how to write strong topic sentences.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

A research topic refers to a broad idea that you may have chosen for your history research paper. For example, “modern history” is a general topic from which you can get various, more specific topics, such as “the role of globalization in industrialization.”

A research question takes a broad topic and narrows it down to a more specific subject. Your question will help in selecting the right sources. A research question answers the what, why, and how of the research topic. For example, what role has industrialization played in globalization?

How to Create Strong History Research Questions

A strong history research question should be empirically sound. This means that it should be narrow enough to do an in-depth analysis. However, it should not be so narrow that it can be answered with a simple yes or no. A simple search on Google should not answer your research question.

According to Kristin Poling from the Department of History at Harvard, formulating a research question requires preliminary research. You need to see whether there are authentic sources available to answer your question, and you need to understand where the gaps in the literature are. Strong questions lead to strong thesis statements.

Top 10 History Research Paper Topics

1. religion in ancient greece.

Any list of history topics about ancient Greek religion is bound to contain some gems. By digging into cultural patterns, you can explore how religion affected the social, political, religious, military, and economic development of Greece. You could even venture outside the boundaries of Greece and investigate how Christian symbols were influenced by the ancient Greeks.

2. Causes of the American Revolution

The American Revolution, also known as the United States War of Independence, is an important American historical event that occurred between 1775 and 1783. Researching the American revolutionaries behind the Boston Tea Party is a great way to understand how monumental social conflicts bring about the rise and fall of nations.

3. American Neutrality in World War Ⅰ

Also known as the First War or the Great War, World War Ⅰ was the first major global war of the 20th Century, and it lasted between 1914 and 1918. If you choose this topic, you will be able to analyze why America first made the foreign policy decision to avoid taking part in the war, as well as why it changed its mind later on.

4. Effects of the Allies’ Occupation of Germany

The Allied occupation of Germany began in 1945 after Germany was defeated in the Second World War. It refers to the joint occupation of Germany by the US, Great Britain, Soviet Union, and France. If you select this history research topic for your assignment, you will be able to delve deeper into the effects of the occupation on both Germany and the rest of the world.

5. Ronald Reagan and the End of the Cold War

The Cold War was a 20th Century battle of supremacy between the United States and the Soviet Union involving nuclear weapons. By discussing the role Ronald Reagan played in ending the Cold War, you could gain insight into the diplomatic history between these two powers or interpret how Reagan’s actions affected the course of American society.

6. Political, Economic, and Social Causes of the French Revolution

The French Revolution, which occurred between 1789 and 1799, significantly shifted the social and political ideals of all 18th Century European countries. This riveting European history research topic provides a means to explore the dangers of classism and its effects on civilian life.

7. The Legacy of Alexander the Great

You cannot learn about historical figures in ancient times without coming across Alexander the Great, the king of ancient Macedonia. Selecting this ancient history topic for your assignment will be a fascinating dive into how this key figure in history influenced Greek and Asian culture as he expanded his empire.

8. Rise of the Catholic Church as a Political Institution in the Middle Ages

The Middle Ages is a historical era between the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 CE and the beginning of the Renaissance period in the 14th century. Selecting this topic will help you understand the factors that influenced the rise of the Catholic Church as a powerful political institution in medieval Europe.

9. Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Working-Class Families

The Industrial Revolution was an era between the late 18th century and the middle of the 19th century when great strides were made in engineering, production, and manufacturing. It affected the economic and social lives of the working class and shifted gender roles. Studying industrialization effects would lend itself well to university students with access to rare books.

10. The Role of Martin Luther King Jr in the Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement is one of the best Black history research paper topics for college students. One of the most impactful social movements, this movement was a response to the social injustice toward African Americans that continued after the abolition of slavery. Martin Luther King Jr was a key figure whose importance to American history cannot be overstated.

Other Examples of History Research Topics & Questions

History research topics.

• American Folk Art History
• Religious Symbolism in the Renaissance Era
• Impact of the Westward Expansion on Native Americans
• Amelia Earhart’s Impact on Women in Aviation
• The Rise and Fall of the Dutch Republic

History Research Questions

• In what ways have Alois Riegl’s theories shaped modern art today?
• How did the Renaissance shift the worldview of European thinkers?
• How did the Berlin Conference influence British Colonialism in Africa?
• How have women in tech history shaped the role of American women in STEM in the 21st Century?
• In what ways did the 17th century’s political and military shifts in Spain affect British rule?

Choosing the Right History Research Topic

Whether you are a high school or a college student, there are many history topics from which you can select your research project. Selecting history topics for history is highly dependent on the type of paper you have chosen to write. Argumentative research paper topics will yield different results than a comparative study or a descriptive study.

Whether you choose to select a historical figure, the military clashes between the American settlers and Native Americans, or the role of women in industrialization, make sure that you narrow down your topic and choose something that answers a specific question about an interesting issue, period, or event.

History Research Topics FAQ

Historiography is the study of recorded historical events and their interpretations. In other words, historiographies help us understand how experienced writers have shaped what, how, and why a specific history subject was recorded and interpreted a certain way.

You start a research paper by beginning with a historical overview from which you can narrow down your topics and the history research questions that you want to address. From there, you will be able to carefully choose your primary and secondary sources. According to Purdue OWL, evaluating sources is an excellent place to begin a research assignment.

You can find many research sources from online university libraries as well as websites devoted to history. The Internet is full of curated libraries such as the American Historical Association, which has resources for historical researchers to help you join the ranks of the most expert writers in the field.

Yes, you can pursue an online degree in history. Many major universities offer online history degrees as an alternative to in-person degrees. You can look up the university of your choice and check the requirements for enrollment.

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Research Paper Guide

History Research Paper Topics

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Good History Research Paper Topics For Your Help

By: Nathan D.

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Jan 4, 2022

Research papers can be boring and time-consuming for some high school and university students. However, students will easily create a successful paper if they pick a great research paper topic. Some professors assign topics and make them easy for students. At the same time, others leave the choice to students by giving them the freedom to choose what they want.

The following blog post is a helpful resource for students who need ideas on what topics they can write about. It includes some great topics from which you'll be able to choose the best topic or get inspiration for your paper.

History is a fascinating subject that we should all know more about. There are many topics, and it's always hard to pick which one will work best for your research paper.

However, for your help, we compiled a great list of history  research paper  topics that can be divided into different categories. So, pick the one that matches your interest and academic level.

On this Page

History Research Paper Topics For College Students

• Nuclear weapons and their influence on the world military clashes
• The Crusades and Jihad: What are the similarities and differences?
• Constitutional change in America: what is the role of the amendments?
• What does religion have to do with the colonist wars?
• How were ziggurats used in ancient Mesopotamia?
• Ancient conquests and their impact on modern world map development
• When were vaccines invented? Are they really useful?
• The influence of Japanese art on European culture
• How did segregation affect the American music industry?
• Is racial discrimination still a part of American society?

History Research Paper Topics Before 1877

• How did the border states perceive the battles of the Civil War?
• Impact of the 1964 elections on civil rights
• History before 1877: cause & effect
• Explain the strengths and weaknesses of the Fourteenth Amendment
• Explain American history before 1877
• Labor unions, conflicts, and strikes in the 1800s
• The British rule in the Americas and the first British settlements
• United States foreign policy in the early 19th century
• Why was the Bill of Rights added to the Constitution?
• The role of faith in American history before 1877

History Research Paper Topics Philippines

• The fundamentals of the Barrio Government System
• The origins of the name the Philippines
• Communist Party of the Philippines
• Trading with the Chinese
• The Consequences of Magellan’s murder
• US colonization of the Philippines
• Fire Mummies of the Philippines
• Christian-Muslim relations in the Philippines
• The religious belief system in the Philippines
• The reorganization of town governments under the Maura law of 1893

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Indian History Research Paper Topics

• What are the European influences evident in Indian culture?
• The establishment of the British East India company
• British colonialism in India
• The real problem at the heart of goa's Devasthan regulation
• Indian art and the impact of Hinduism
• The issues of the partitioning of India in 1947
• First European powers in India and their trade relations
• What were the devastating impacts of British rule in India?
• India’s first empire and the rise of Buddhism
• The political activism of Dalits in India

History Research Paper Topics 20th Century

• McKinley role for American imperialism
• The reasons and causes for the start of prohibition and its effects on subsequent US history
• The assassination of John Kennedy in 1963 and its consequences
• Were imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th century justified?
• The implication of atomic weapon
• China in the 20th century
• Hiroshima and Nagasaki events
• The role of America in the Cold War
• The analysis of Martin Luther King’s speeches
• Rise of mafia

History Research Paper Topics 1900s

• Queen Victoria died-World politics and the monarchy
• What was the role of women in the 1900s?
• The formation of the league of nations
• Psychiatric methods in early 1900s America
• The first electric washing machine
• The NAACP is first founded-politics and civil rights
• The New York subway opens-innovation and science
• The origin of the piano
• How did sports help promote equality for African Americans in the 1900s?
• Gender roles of the Sioux tribe before 1900

Art History Research Paper Topics

• Why were the sculptures of great importance in ancient Greece?
• Comparative analysis of Mikhail Vrubel and Gustave Moreau art
• The relevance of Abbey Church of St. Denis in Gothic architecture
• The shifts in the art development in ancient Greece
• Can impressionism be termed as simple art or art for the simple?
• The significance of Christian symbols in Renaissance art
• The influence of Hinduism on art from ancient India
• Color psychology in the works of Kazimir Malevich.
• The Influences of Sumerian art found in Hittite art creations
• Construction of the Great Wall of China

European History Research Paper Topics

• European colonization impact on Native Americans
• The history of the French Revolution: new perspectives from Chartier and Furet
• What made Pope Alexander VI controversial?
• Great mistakes of Napoleon
• How did Venetian history affect present Europe?
• The role of politics in the spread of Christianity across Europe
• How were cities developed in Medieval Europe?
• Historical development of East European Jewry
• The main battles of World War I
• Between World War I and World War II, what are the military innovations?

Environmental History Research Paper Topics

• What is the little ice age, and what impact it may have on the climate?
• Landscape painters and environmental photography
• Renewable energy
• Discuss the most significant causes of climate change
• Global warming: what could happen if ice glaciers melt?
• Prehistoric wildlife and its importance in future eco-systems
• How do organisms survive under extreme conditions?
• What effects does biodiversity loss have on humanity?
• Ecosystem health
• Biomes and Ecosystems. What is considered a biome?

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Theatre History History Research Paper Topics

• Attitudes towards women and their role in American musical theatre
• Puppetry influence on cartoons these days
• President of the greater Euclid little theatre
• Women in restoration theatre: stages of liberation
• Theatre role as a tool in social commentary
• Artaud’s theatre influence
• Ancient Greek theatre and drama
• Theatre play
• State theatre
• The use of historically accurate costumes on stage

Interesting History Research Paper Topics

• The process of abolition of slavery and its meaning for the world
• Timeline of the 21st century
• American revolution facts
• How have taxes been introduced throughout USA history?
• Queen Elizabeth. The truth about her life.
• The conditions of life for soldiers in the First Crusade
• African American soldiers during the war
• Money and its uses in the Ancient Greek world
• The power of denial: Buddhism, purity, and gender
• Polio vaccines: historical development, types, and efficiency

Us History Research Paper Topics

• Industrialization effects on American social movements
• Amelia Earhart: Who was she? What is the truth about her life and death?
• Effect of the cotton gin on economy and slaves labor
• What did “American” mean in the 18th century?
• The oldest universities: who founded them?
• How and why were National Parks created?
• Immigrants and their ideas of the American Dream
• What did France lose because of Louisiana’s purchase?
• How did the war affect social life and citizens’ psychology?
• German-American immigration in 1854-1894

19th Century American History Research Paper Topics

• What struggles did women face in the Nineteenth Amendment?
• The genre of black popular music
• American south religious practices
• Tobacco trade in early American colonies
• The beginning of slavery in British America and the middle passage
• Women’s suffrage movement
• 1968 democratic convention in Chicago
• Was there a need to bomb Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
• The role of the United States during World War 2
• What conditions were faced by the Americans in the 19th century?

Tips for Choosing the Best History Research Paper Topic

• Here are some things to consider when choosing the topic for a history research paper.
• Make sure your topic meets the assignment requirements. Consult your professor for feedback if you're not sure, and then use their input as guidance in completing it.
• Choose a topic that interests you and will make the writing process more engaging.
• A topic that is too broad might seem impossible to research. But, the right scope will enable you to find information relevant and focused.
• Do some research and then select the topic.
• Read other researchers’ thesis statements and get an idea from them.
• Find history research papers from the past and read them for a better understanding.
• Keep the audience’s interest in mind and then choose the topic.

Keep these points in mind, and then select the best topic, then add it to our AI essay generator to get instant essay help!

But, if you still have any confusion, simply consult the best essay writing service 5StarEssays.com .

We offer the best paper writing services and have helped countless students just like you with their academic tasks. Now, finding a good history topic is easy with the help of our expert writers.

So, don’t hesitate to contact us and avail the best  write essay for me?  writing help.

Masters Essay, College Admission Essay

Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

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Complete List of 200+ Exciting History Research Paper Topics

Updated 04 Jun 2024

Most college and university students across the United States find history assignments way too challenging or even uninteresting. It happens because one has to brainstorm diverse subjects and look through countless lengthy books. Yet, what many fail to consider is finding good history research paper topics that would be both interesting and unique. When correctly chosen assignment topic inspires its author, it automatically becomes interesting for target audience, increasing chances of assignment to receive better grades.

From Economics and Political Science to History & Anthropology, good research paper should include verified sources and correct information. Turning to professional writers at EduBirdie, every student will easily find excellent history research topics ideas and receive all kinds of professional writing help.

Which Research Topic is Considered Good

Defining good history research topic may be challenging when approached without prior outline and topic analysis by novice college students. It makes sense when working with large history projects that involve discussion and arguments. Once applicable topic is found, it should include strong thesis statement or an argument that reveals author’s intention and main idea. Remember that you can always use our thesis statement generator for research paper or turn directly to one of our writing experts when unsure about what kind of an argument should be made in relation to chosen subject.

With an endless amount of diverse topics existing, good idea search should start with the following:

• Topic is relevant, has clear statement
• Vague arguments are avoided, thus allowing author to focus on specific event or issues
• Prior literature along with facts are checked and supported by sources
• Chronology is included if historic events are mentioned
• Outline with thesis statement & structure
• One idea - one paragraph rule helps define key ideas, connecting them to thesis statement

In most cases, when working on a research paper you are required to choose a particular writing style. It might be either reflective, analytical, argumentative or comparative one. It is essential, as most college professors want to see your personal input in the work. Try consulting our cheap research papers writers in case you encounter difficulties when choosing your own style. 

Choosing Relevant Topic for Research Writing

Unless student is already presented with certain history research paper topics, he or she is left with almost no time until deadline and challenges of narrowing down grand ideas to what fits within word count and research paper rules. This is where choosing relevant bits of information makes it crucial before outline is composed. Since majority of good research assignments include 3-5 body paragraphs, start by checking whether you may find at least 5 key ideas to write about when looking through existing ideas. An example, when writing about Pearl Harbor, key rule is to outline thesis statement, proceed with arguments or assumptions that constitute body paragraphs.

Most difficult, yet still important part is narrowing down vague ideas to ensure that information presented is not scattered all overwritten assignment. In order to avoid trouble, always divide topics into several sections. When choosing Ancient Egypt, it is most likely that task is to write about something specific. Good paper will always make it clear in Introduction, but even then, one should use topic sentences that help reader to be aware of main ideas. Need help with research paper ? We will get you through it.

For example, if it is immortality paradigm, paragraph should start with a sentence like “Immortality in Ancient Egypt played not only religious role, but also controlled social status of each ruler…”

This way, audience knows that author focuses on symbolic significance and importance of chosen idea. Later on, one may use “Immortality & Religion” or “Immortality in Social Relationships” to specify areas of research. This way paper remains structure, also has logical transition between paragraphs.

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Unique History Research Topics Tips

If you want hard work pay off with success and good grades, make sure that you do not limit yourself to what is most popular and easy. Do your best to choose something unique, an inspiring topic that you can relate to because if you do not feel motivated, your audience will feel the same way, too. It is no secret that history work may be time-consuming and impossible to complete with chronology and key figures involved, yet these simple tips will help you make it fun.

Brainstorm existing research topics. What it means is that you should look through at least twenty different topics, then take some rest and come back to it again to see what inspires you the most. Likewise, if you have some ideas or need unique U.S. history research paper topics, send a message to our writing experts and we will do our best to expand on it.

Do prior research of chosen subject. Once settling on good ideas, always continue with searching to make sure that you can find enough information and sources to support crucial facts and ideas. Remember that correct citation helps to avoid plagiarism.

Work out several thesis statements in advance. Since this is what will make the heart of any written assignment, come up with different variations of thesis as it will be easier to adjust it later when you have body paragraphs ready.

Find reliable sources. As you have list of sources ready, ensure that they come from reliable resources or checked by your college professor, if required. Likewise, accurate formatting style is essential for good grades.

Start with outline . Such approach allows keeping information logically, also structured. In most cases, it should include Introduction with Thesis Statement, 3-5 Body Paragraphs, one of which is counter argument or opposite opinion, finish with Conclusion.  

100 History Research Paper Topics

For your convenience, topics are sorted by relevant categories. From APUSH research paper topics to important figures in U.S. battles campaigns, let experts work and meet even most urgent deadlines!

Ancient History

• Symbolism in Ancient Egypt
• From Assyria to Byzantium: Study of Power in Empires
• Women Role in Prehistoric Britain
• Responsibilities Distribution in Iron Age
• Sumerian Culture and Traditions
• Near Eastern Civilizations Analysis
• Water Sources Value for Central Anatolia
• Religion and Prophets
• Palestine History
• Death and Immortality in Ancient Egypt

Julius Caesar Topics Ideas

• How Julius Caesar Inspired Loyalty Among His Soldiers
• The Military Genius Of Julius Caesar – Innovative Tactics And Strategies
• The Dictatorship Under Julius Caesar
• Marcus Junius Brutus And His Role In The Assassination Of Julius Caesar
• Julian Calendar As A Major Social Reform
• The Rise And Fall Of Julius Caesar
• The Political Alliance Of Caesar And Cleopatra
• Julius Caesar And His Role In Building The Roman Republic
• The First Triumvirate – Gaius Julius Caesar, Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus And Marcus Licinius Crassus
• Lessons Learned From Julius Caesar’s Memoirs

Middle Ages Research Topics

• The Role Of Religion In Everyday Life During The Middle Ages
• Asia During The Middle Ages
• Witch Trials In The Middle Ages – Prosecution Of The Powerless
• Scientific Advancements In The Dark Ages
• Developments Of Weapons And Armor In The Middle Ages
• The Crusades – Cruel Pilgrimage Or A Rightful Holy War?
• The House Of Medici And Its Powerful Role Towards The End Of The Middle Ages
• How The Invention Of Gunpowder Changed The Art Of War In The Middle Ages
• Rise Of Urbanization In Medieval Europe – Cause And Effect
• Chivalry In The Middle Ages

The Age of Exploration

• Navigational Advances: The Tools That Guided Explorers
• Christopher Columbus: Voyages to the New World
• The Impact of Exploration on Indigenous Populations
• Trade Routes and the Spice Trade: Economic Impacts of Exploration
• Colonization and Settlement: The Establishment of New Societies
• Cultural Exchanges and Influences during the Age of Exploration
• The Role of Religion in Motivating and Shaping Exploration
• The Legacy of Exploration: Modern Perspectives and Reevaluations
• Famous Explorers and their Journeys: Stories of Discovery
• The Environmental Impact of Exploration and Colonization

Modern History

• Evolving Role of NATO for the World Community
• Globalization Negative Role
• U.S. Involvement in Afghanistan
• Patriot Act Analysis
• From Ground Zero: Rebuilding United States
• Great Recession
• Social Inequality Reasons
• Chernobyl Explosion
• Reasons for the Syrian Conflict
• Cultural Changes in the Modern World

U.S. Civil War

• Abraham Lincoln's Assassination
• What Lies Behind Alabama Claims
• History Before 1877: Cause & Effect
• Atlanta Campaign Key Figures
• Battle of Chancellorsville
• Civil War and Its Legacy
• Confederate Monuments in the United States
• Homestead Act
• Civil War Facts and Controversies
• Mary Chestnut Personality

World History Research Paper Topics

• Mexican-American War
• Religion and Crusades
• Causes of Thirty Years War
• Use of Weapons in Ancient Civilizations
• Bridal Ceremonies in Ancient Rome
• Apartheid Impact
• South America Colonization
• Social Relationships in Medieval Europe
• Cold War Aftershocks
• Britain and Spain in Battle of the Seas

European History

• Military Innovations Between World War I and World War II
• Europe Nationalistic Trends
• Gender bias in England of 17th century
• Empiricism Rise in Europe
• Catholic Church and Witch Hunts
• Western Theories Propaganda
• French Revolution: Force Distribution
• Women Civil Rights in 18th century France
• Mid-Tudor Crises Analysis
• 19th century European literacy

Salem Witch Trials Research Paper Topics

• Religious And Social Causes Of The Salem Witch Trials
• Smothering Women’s Independence Under The Guise Of The Salem Witch Trials
• The Most Renowned “witches” Of The Salem Witch Trials
• Male Victims Of The Salem Witch Trials
• John Proctor As The First Male Witch
• The Puritan Views Of Women And Their Original Sin
• Tituba’s Trial And Ultimate Confession To Witchcraft
• Hawthorne’s "Young Goodman Brown" – An Analysis Of The Puritan Mindset During The Salem Witch Trials
• Beyond Salem – Witch Hunts Around The World
• The Consequences Of The Salem Witch Trials

Renaissance Topics

• The Birth of Humanism: A New Worldview Emerges
• Renaissance Art: Masters and Their Masterpieces
• The Printing Revolution: The Impact of Gutenberg’s Printing Press
• Exploration and Discovery: Navigating the Globe
• The Medici Family: Patrons of the Renaissance
• Renaissance Architecture: Innovations and Icons
• The Scientific Renaissance: Pioneers and Discoveries
• Literature and Poetry: Voices of the Renaissance
• Political Thought and Philosophy: Machiavelli and Beyond
• The Role of Women: Contributions and Challenges in the Renaissance Era

French Revolution Topics

• The First Phase Of The French Revolution And Le Chapelier Law
• Reveillon Factory And The Start Of The French Revolution
• Louis XVI, The Palace Of Versailles, And The French Revolution
• The Three Estates Of The Realm During The French Revolution
• Political, Economic, And Social Position Of Women Before And After The French Revolution
• The Rise Of Napoleon Bonaparte During The French Revolution
• The Role Of Emmanuel Joseph Sieyès In The French Revolution
• Assessment Of The Champs De Mars Massacre
• The Impact Of Declaration Of The Rights Of The Man And Of The Citizen
• Life And Death Of Louis XVI

Great Depression Research Topics

• The Main Causes Of The Great Depression
• What Did The Great Depression Affected The Most
• Herbert Hoover And His Role In The Great Depression
• Assessment Of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal
• The Great Depression Of The 30s Vs. The Great Recession Of The Aughts
• The Great Depression And Its Impact On International Relations
• The Effects Of The Great Depression On The Average US Household
• The Disproportionate Impact Of The Great Depression On Minorities
• Women In The Workforce During The Great Depression
• Family Life In The Midst Of The Great Depression

World War I

• The Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand: Catalyst for War
• Trench Warfare: Life and Combat in the Trenches
• The Role of Women in World War I: Beyond the Home Front
• Technological Advancements and Warfare Strategies in WWI
• The Impact of WWI on Civilian Life in Europe
• Propaganda and Information Warfare in WWI
• The Consequences of the Treaty of Versailles
• The Involvement and Impact of Colonial Troops in WWI
• The Role of the United States in WWI: From Neutrality to Intervention
• The Influence of WWI on Art, Literature, and Music

World War II

• The Rise of Fascism: Preconditions of World War II
• The Holocaust: Atrocities and Lessons
• D-Day: The Turning Point of the War in Europe
• The Pacific Theater: Key Battles and Strategies
• The Manhattan Project: Development and Impact of Nuclear Weapons
• Women in World War II: Roles and Contributions
• The Resistance Movements: Underground Efforts to Defy Oppression
• Economic Aspects of WWII: Financing the War Effort
• The Aftermath: Rebuilding and the Establishment of the United Nations
• War Propaganda: The Role of Media and Art in WWII
• The Iron Curtain: Division of East and West
• The Space Race: Competition Beyond Earth
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: Brink of Nuclear War
• Proxy Wars: Global Impact of the Cold War
• The Role of Propaganda: Influencing Public Opinion
• The Korean War: A Conflict of Ideologies
• Nuclear Arms Race: Strategies and Deterrence
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall: Symbol of the Cold War’s End
• Espionage and Intelligence: Covert Operations
• Diplomacy and Treaties: Efforts to Ease Tensions

African American History Research Paper Topics

• 14th Amendment
• Abolitionist Movement
• Angela Davis
• Black Codes
• Black History Month Origin
• African American Women in Art and Literature
• Civil Rights Act of 1964
• Dr. Martin Luther King
• Black History Legends and Cultural Traits

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United States History

• Declaration of Independence 1776
• Events That Lead To The Creation Of The Declaration Of Independence
• The Declaration Of Independence And Its Persisting Impact On The Modern USA
• “All Men Are Created Equal” – Equality Issues Not Addressed In The Declaration Of Independence
• John Adams And His Movement Towards Independence
• The Role Of The Founding Fathers In Shaping Early American Culture
• United States and Slavery
• Emancipation Proclamation of 1863
• Civil War Causes
• Interwar Period Analysis
• Native American Cultural Impact
• Ethics and Vietnam War
• Industrialization Effects on American Social Movements
• American South Religious Practices
• Revolutionary War Personalities

American Revolution Battles & Key Events

• Bunker Hill Battle
• Camden Battle
• Alexander Hamilton's Role
• Long Island Battle
• Saratoga Battle
• Boston Tea Party
• Charles Cornwallis
• Benedict Arnold
• Trenton and Princeton Battles
• Townshend Acts Analysis

Industrial Revolution Paper Topics

• How The Industrial Revolution Impacted The Environment
• Why Was The Invention Of The Cotton Gin Critical For The Industrial Revolution
• The Production Of Iron Before And After The Industrial Revolution
• The Positive And Negative Impacts Of The Industrial Revolution On The Working Class
• Industrial Revolution In The US Vs. Industrial Revolution In Europe
• Child Labor During The Industrial Revolution
• A Glimpse Into The Working Conditions In Factories During The Industrial Revolution
• The Influence Of The Industrial Revolution On Public Education
• Immigration And Industrialization – The Changing Face Of The USA
• The Effects Of The Industrial Revolution On Agricultural Sectors

20th Century History Topics

• Reasons Behind Dictatorship
• Economic Depression Causes
• Nuclear Age Cause and Effect
• Russian Revolution and Labor Class
• Organized Crime in American Society (1920s)
• Veterans Day History
• McKinley Role for American Imperialism
• Chicano Movement Impact
• Democratic Movements Uprising
• Hiroshima and Nagasaki Events

Of course, these are far not all existing topics, there are many more. Get in touch with our professional essay writing or ideas help, you’ll receive more history research paper topics for college students adjusted in accordance with your personal preferences.

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250 Interesting History Research Paper Topics

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People often say that time travel is impossible. I beg to differ. Did you know that researching historical events can be regarded as time traveling? Because you will get more information about events as if you were there. Most university and college students in the United States consider writing history papers uninteresting. Some of their negative opinions stem from inability to come up with unique and fascinating historical research topics. If you have a history assignment and are stuck on finding a suitable title that can guarantee you success, you are in the right place. Our research paper writers for hire have compiled various history research paper topics that can inspire your essays. Select from different interesting topics in history to research and write on. Apart from giving you 250 research themes, this article also explains what these topics are, their characteristics, and how to choose them.

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History research paper topics refer to titles that explore past times, events, and the evolution of cultures and traditions. As a branch of more broad  social science research topics , they evaluate social, political, scientific, and economic developments that humans have made since the beginning of time. History research topics majorly focus on recorded and unrecorded past events and times. The theme you choose for your research paper or thesis will guide your overall content. You may be provided with history paper topics by lecturers or professors in your school or required to come up with one of your own. In this case, we have got a huge list for your selection.

Before writing any history paper, you should come up with or select a suitable title. Choosing good history topics to research is a challenging task. As a scholar, you may falter at this stage and pick a topic that is unsuitable for your paper, which eventually affects your grade. Since we want to make it easy for you, we will provide a checklist of characteristics to look out for when selecting titles for your essay. Good topics for a history research paper should be: 

Unless you are provided with a title to write on, most times, you will be required to come up with your research topics in history. Generally, this is a broad subject covering different areas. As a result, it may be a tedious task for you to try and select a suitable research topic for history paper. However, do not worry because we will present a series of steps to guide you in choosing a title for your essay. Follow this procedure when you want to pick historical topics to write about:

To succeed in your essays, it is vital to come up with good research topics for history. Therefore, you should select unique and interesting historical topics to research. Below are examples of best history research paper topics:

The following list offers everyone what they need. If not, ask our experts for a piece of advice or generate a title to your liking with our Topic Generator .

There are many interesting history research paper topics that you can write on. However, we strive to provide you with the best. We have compiled a list of most interesting history topics for you to pick:  

Apart from interesting titles, there are also good topics for history research paper that can guarantee you high grades in your paper. Below is a list of good history paper topics: 

To stand out from other scholars, you ought to have unique history research topics. To get you there, we have provided history topics to write about:

Before you start writing a History research paper, go deep into the area you are studying and don't skip important dates. Get proficient paper help 24/7 if that sounds like a waste of time for you.

Your selection of research topics on history may also be driven by popularity. If that is the case, we have a list of history research paper topics for you below: 

Sometimes you are striving to beat deadlines for submitting your paper. Such times call for easy history topics to research. When you find yourself in such a situation, look at these easy historical events to write about for your inspiration: 

Most students always encounter challenges when it comes to selecting historical topics to research. Choosing the right title can make a difference between success and failure in your paper. This is why you need to have various history research questions to help you in selecting your focus area. It does not matter whether you are in middle school, high school, or college because we have a list of topics that will help you get good grades .

There are times when middle school students are required to select historical events to write about. If you find yourself in this situation, we have interesting topics in history suggested for you:

If you are a high school student looking for research topics in history, you have arrived at the right place. Below we have compiled history project topics for you to choose from: 

There is a wide range of history research topics for college students. However, to achieve the highest grade, you must find the best history thesis topics for your term paper. The following is a list of the most popular American history research paper topics for college students: 

Writing a history paper should be a fun affair. To make your experience worthwhile, we have different cool history topics for research papers. Selecting a theme from these classifications will make it easy for you to write a unique and interesting essay for your research. Go through these topics for history project and use any of them as sources of inspiration for your paper. When you decide on the idea, make sure to check how to write a research paper properly. 

One of the most fun titles to write on is interesting world history topics. Although this category is broad, you should not be confused about what to research and write because we have got you covered. Below are world history topics for research paper that you can choose: 

There are a lot of American history research paper topics that you can select. However, to guarantee your success in this process, we have provided the best US history topics for research paper below: 

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Finding the best European history research paper topics may be difficult because of European countries' different historical and cultural backgrounds. Nevertheless, below we have created interesting European history topics that will make it easy for you:

European history has various events described in literature. If you want to focus on how any event is depicted in literary works, don't hesitate to browse for literature research paper topics.  

The French Revolution is a significant historical period. If you are searching for the best historical topics to research about this period, look no further. Below are best history topics ideas for you to start with: 

Another popular category to write on is American history research topics. When asked to write about the American Revolution, do not be confused. The following are interesting American history research paper topics for your ideas: 

When looking for popular US history topics to write about, you should consider the Civil War. If that is the case, we have good US history research topics about the Civil War for your inspiration: 

The Cold War has some of the most interesting history topics to research. If you want to be inspired by the Cold War historical investigation topics, we have a list for you below:

Are you searching for 20th-century history paper ideas? Look no further. Below are interesting research topics about history and development witnessed in the 20th century:

You may be asked to write a paper on modern history topics. When you find yourself in this situation, go through the following history topics for research paper to get your inspiration: 

You can never fully exhaust historical titles because history is constantly changing and being written. But, by now, we hope you have a clear picture of interesting history research paper topics you can write on. But if you still need more inspiration for your essay, we will provide you with extra history research paper topic ideas classified in the following different categories.

Do you wish to study for your history exam and are looking for US history research topics to get you going? Not only do we have various topics on American history to aid you, but we also have interesting world history research topics. Below is a list that can jump-start your revision:

>> Read more: How to Write a DBQ

There are many interesting things to learn about in history. All you have to do is seek a fascinating historical topic to investigate and learn about. To start you off, we have topics you can look at below:

Scholars should not be the only ones looking for stimulating ancient history research paper topics. Experts can also find inspiration in various US history paper topics that we have provided for you below: 

Need more ideas? We have a full assortment of titles in different fields. From education research topics or philosophy paper topics to business research topics , you are sure to choose the one you need. 

As a history scholar, choosing a title for your essay can seem both daunting and exciting. There are many interesting topics of history you can select to write on. However, picking the right one can be challenging. This article has provided various ideas on the US and world history topics to research and write argumentative essays on. We hope that the above list makes it easy for you to choose a title or inspire you to come up with your own. There are many good historical events to write about. All you need is to go through the list we have provided and make your choice. 

• Meaningful.
• Unambiguous.
• Attractive.
• Expressive.
• Well-defined.
• Brainstorm ideas and determine the best one.
• Evaluate all background information that has been provided.
• Focus on issues that are interesting to you.
• Create a keyword list or an outline for your topic.
• Be flexible in your research.
• Ensure all titles meet assignment requirements.
• What were major impacts of slave trade in Europe?
• Historical development of the industrial revolution.
• Factors that promoted construction of pyramids in Egypt.
• Negative consequences of World Wars on the global economy.
• Effects of the American Civil War on people’s ways of life.
• Historical origin of the American Revolution.
• Impacts of European scramble for and partition of Africa.
• Factors that led to the US-Mexico war in 1846.
• Major reasons why the Soviet Union collapsed.
• Expressionist movement and its impacts on modern art.
• What processes were taken in abolishing slave trade?
• Queen Elizabeth: A historical background of how she came to power.
• Factors that led to Americans going into Civil War.
• Main uses of money in ancient Greece.
• Science that led to discovery of polio vaccines.
• Key facts about the American Revolution.
• Assassination attempts on US Presidents in the last 70 years.
• Effects of child labor during the Puritan era.
• Major roles played by America during World War I.
• What factors made the Titanic sink?
• Environmental impacts of industrial revolution.
• What economic role did women play during the Great Depression?
• How did the Germantown Battle start?
• What influenced the Spanish-American War ?
• Roles played by religious leaders during the Aztec era.
• Historical origin of the Roman Empire.
• What tactics were used by Greeks in their win against Persians?
• Famous war strategies employed by Alexander the Great in his conquest of Egypt.
• What lesson can we learn from construction and implementation of the Great Wall of China?
• Most successful attacks by Julius Caesar on Great Britain.
• Hun's first invasion of Europe: An analysis of its success.
• Challenges faced by Mohammed in his journey from Mecca to Medina.
• Impacts of Aristotle’s philosophical ideas in today’s world.
• First Greek Olympiad and its legacy.
• Famous African American soldiers during the Civil War.
• Achievements of Genghis Khan in Asia.
• Russia-Ukraine war: Origin of this conflict.
• Challenges faced by the American army in Vietnam.
• Economic implications of Versailles Treaty on European nations.
• Major causes of World War II.
• Historiography of reasons that led to World War I.
• Adoption of Rococo artistic style in architecture.
• Major environmental impacts of late Warthe retreat in central Europe.
• What political impacts did cartoons and propaganda experts have during World War II?
• What vital religious roles did sculptures play in ancient Greece?
• History of famous Christian symbols and their significance.
• Psychological significance of Kazimir Malevich's artworks.
• Origin and political importance of Dalits in India.
• How did Julius Caesar and Cleopatra’s relationship affect his leadership?
• Famous medics who played a crucial role during World War II.
• What key implications did Balkan Wars have on the European map?
• Achievements of Queen Victoria’s first year in office.
• Discovery of X-Rays: How and by who?
• Spanish Civil War: An analysis of first 100 days during the war.
• Key events that followed after Pearl Harbor was attacked.
• What factors triggered the Great Depression?
• History of the Cold War.
• Black Death: Separating facts from myths.
• Greatest scientific inventions that have shaped how we communicate.
• Islamic Empire: Its origin and positive impacts.
• Hundred Year War: Economic impacts on French and English kingdoms.
• What key weapons were used during medieval warfare?
• What was life like during the Dark Ages?
• Significant events that took place during the Crusades.
• What caused the American Revolution?
• Similarities between the current economic recession and the Great Depression.
• Significance of French Revolution.
• Factors that led to slavery abolition in America.
• Roles played by women during the Civil War.
• Consequences of the Cold War in the Soviet Union.
• Major impacts of World War I.
• Key achievements of the Women's Rights Movement in the past century.
• Economic impacts of the biggest earthquake in America.
• Salem Witch Trials: Causes and impacts.
• How did the European invasion of Africa affect levels of education on the continent?
• Achievements of the Ottoman Empire.
• Apartheid in South Africa: Its social and political impacts.
• Causes of rise and fall of Roman Empire.
• Significant inventions during the Middle Ages.
• How Native Americans reacted to European invasions of their lands.
• Strategies used by the American government to overcome the Great Depression.
• How important was Pearl Harbor during World War II?
• Consequences brought by nuclear weapons in Europe.
• Common effects of Greek culture in Europe.
• Major roles played by Shogun in Japanese history.
• European Middle Ages: Major challenges that were witnessed during that era.
• Gender bias roles and how they have changed over time in Britain.
• How many soldiers did America lose during World War I?
• In what ways have nuclear weapons changed the military?
• What measures were taken to abolish slavery in America?
• History of the United Kingdom monarch.
• How were enslaved people transported to America?
• Impacts of the Cold War on the European economy.
• Who were the first settlers in America?
• Agrarian revolution: Origin and impact in Europe.
• Evolution of man according to Darwin.
• Positive impacts brought by the Ottoman Empire .
• Significance of Shakespearean plays to modern theaters.
• Factors that facilitated the growth of the industrial revolution.
• How the motor industry developed in America.
• Factors that promoted growth of the Byzantine Empire.
• Repercussions brought by World War II to Britain.
• History and growth of Civil Rights Movement in America.
• How did World War I cripple Germany's military power?
• Major factors that made it easy for colonies to win the American Revolution.
• Challenges faced by China in its space exploration attempts.
• Why was America reluctant to participate in World War II?
• Key benefits of the Cold War to Russia.
• Factors that led to eradicating most Native Americans’ cultural practices.
• American Wild West: Analysis of myths as portrayed by popular culture.
• History of the American constitution.
• Fight against terrorism: Its origin and development.
• Berlin Wall: Its social impacts on the people of Germany.
• Major social revolutions in Britain.
• Revolution of the internet.
• A comparison between Crusaders and Jihadists.
• Most effective farming tools that were used in Mesopotamia.
• In what ways has Japanese art influenced European cultures?
• Impacts of racial segregation on development of music industry in America.
• Major racial events that have plagued American society in the past 50 years.
• Key constitutional amendments that have taken place in the US over the last 100 years.
• How did Europeans use religion to conquer countries?
• Origin and benefits of vaccines to people.
• Significance of Marie Antoinette during the American Revolution.
• In what ways did the Medici family influence the Renaissance?
• How did communist manifesto influence European countries?
• Controversial issues surrounding Pope Alexander VI.
• Roles played by women during the Vietnam War.
• Manson family: Truths and myths surrounding them.
• Historical account of first space exploration by America.
• Significant environmental consequences of Persian Gulf War.
• Factors that contributed greatly to the fall of Aztec Civilization.
• What were the economic impacts brought by the rise of the Qing Dynasty?
• Key chain of events that led to the Russian Revolution and rise of communism.
• How did the Samurai culture greatly impact nations around Japan?
• Life and achievements of Nelson Mandela and his struggle to liberate South Africa from colonial rule.
• Major reasons why the Great Wall of China was constructed.
• Factors that contributed to Babylon collapsing.
• Economic significance of Constantinople in the Byzantine Empire.
• Mughal architectural influences in constructing Taj Mahal.
• Ways in which early settlers in America learned to coexist together.
• Major factors that contributed to Witch Trials in Salem.
• What laws were put in place to control enslaved people in America?
• Key reasons why Boston Massacres occurred.
• What factors led to the American Revolution?
• Reasons why George Washington is regarded as one of the greatest leaders in American history.
• New roles for women after the American Revolution.
• Key events that took place in creating the American Constitution.
• Conflicts between British and Native Americans in the 19th century.
• Modern activism groups. Their origin and development in the USA.
• Niccolo Machiavelli's philosophy and its impacts.
• Most renowned artist of the Renaissance period.
• Maximillian Robespierre: Impacts brought by his reign of terror during the French Revolution.
• Factors that led to creation of Austria-Hungary.
• Rise and fall of the Viking era.
• Characteristics that are associated with Gothic art.
• Origin and impacts of Romanticism.
• A comparison of great works by Mozart and Bach in the 18th century.
• How Cubism revolutionized the art movement in Europe.
• Military role played by British women in World War II.
• Achievements of King Louis IV.
• Factors that contributed to Napoleon losing the Waterloo battle.
• Major causes of the French Revolution.
• How has the French Revolution affected modern France?
• Major roles played by the French Revolution in Europe.
• What was the significance of Robespierre during the French Revolution?
• How did the French Revolution influence music and French operas?
• How was Napoleon’s conquest affected by the French Revolution?
• Key societal transformation after the French Revolution.
• Causes and impacts brought by Champ De Mars Massacre.
• Social consequences caused by the American Revolution.
• What role did women play during the revolution?
• How did the American Revolution impact Europe?
• How did typical Americans live during this revolution?
• Famous female writers during the American Revolution.
• Negative social impacts of the American Revolution.
• Similarities between the Trenton and Princeton Battles.
• Significant achievements of Alexander Hamilton during the American Revolution.
• How did the revolution change the perception of America by British?
• How did George Washington affect the outcome of the American Revolution?
• What factors led to the American Civil War?
• How is the American Civil War represented in popular culture?
• What were the roles played by African Americans during this period?
• Impact of Civil War on American society.
• Effects brought by the Civil War on ending slavery in America.
• Key roles played by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War.
• Major roles played by women during the Civil War.
• Major course of American Civil War.
• What are the key advantages of the American Civil War?
• How did the Civil War impact distribution of wealth in America?
• What key roles did America play during the Cold War?
• What interventions were made by the UN during the Cold War?
• How were popular cultures affected by the Cold War?
• Why is the Cold War described as an era characterized by fear?
• Key events that led to discussions to end the Cold War.
• What impacts did the Cold War have on European economic development?
• Key events that led to the Cold War.
• What major countries were involved in the Cold War?
• What was the aftermath of the Cold War?
• Cultural shifts during the Cold War.
• Successful tactics used by Gandhi to revolt against British oppression.
• Reasons why the assassination of King Carlos of Portugal failed to provoke a revolution.
• How the Marne Battle made it easy to stop advancement of German forces.
• Factors that facilitated the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
• How did the attack on Pearl Harbor change the course of the war?
• Methods used to spread and promote Communism ideologies in Europe.
• How did the relationship between the Soviet Union and America change over time after 1945?
• Factors that led to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
• Friendship treaties signed between Fidel Castro and the USSR.
• Cuban missile crisis: Origin and consequences.
• Columbian Exchange: Its origin and consequences.
• Foods taken by people during the Industrial Revolution.
• How was it living in the Wild West?
• Aftermath of the Great Famine in Ireland and how people coped.
• Negative impacts brought by David Livingstone's exploration in Africa.
• Russia's expansion of its territories and how they annexed Siberia.
• Characteristics associated with the Commercial Revolution and its impact on world finances.
• Positive consequences brought by spice trade in shaping the modern world.
• Key inventions that facilitated the Age of Exploration.
• Why was Alexander II assassinated?
• Gender roles in 19th century England.
• Economic repercussions brought by World War II in France.
• Major people who fought for abolition of apartheid rule in South Africa.
• How Roosevelt contributed to ending World War II.
• How Alabama's claim impacted America.
• Factors that contributed to the rise of communism in China.
• Origin and development of the Syrian crisis.
• University education in Europe: Its origin and development.
• How colonization of America impacted the Natives.
• History and development of Veteran’s Day.
• Similarities between European and American industrial revolutions.
• Negative effects brought by the industrial revolution on the working class.
• Reasons why Black Death spread rapidly in Europe.
• Origin and development of poetry.
• Islamic architecture’s influence on modern structures.
• Negative environmental effects brought by World War II.
• Importance of Mathematics in ancient Egypt.
• Major roles played by women during the Great Depression.
• Why was iron important during the industrial revolution?
• Origin of the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
• Gulf War: Its causes and social effects on the people.
• Social impacts of conflicts witnessed in Syria.
• Most respected general during the Roman Empire's rule.
• Negative consequences of the Cold War on global politics and direction.
• Social and political impacts brought by racism in America.
• History of education development in Europe.
• What causes the Mexican-American wars?
• Factors that facilitated the rise of the Dutch Republic?
• Controversial issues surrounding the American Civil War.

What Are History Research Paper Topics?

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506 Interesting History Topics to Research

Did you know that time travel is possible? Researching historical topics allows us to do that. It not only reveals the origins of our existence. It also tells us who we are, and even enables us to glimpse into the future!

The process of investigating a topic in history is called a historical inquiry. Here are some recommendations on how to get started:

• Select an interesting history topic. It can be focused on an event, a person, or an idea.
• Define a research question within that topic. Make it narrow and manageable.
• Analyze historical data from different sources.
• Create a historical narrative using the data you’ve found. Use evidence to support your ideas.

Remember: working on a history project can be easy and fun if you find a research idea that excites you! Custom-writing.org experts are here to help in case you’re stuck when choosing a history topic. In our collection below, you can find cool historical events to write about. There are numerous topics on ancient and modern history of the US & the world. Go on reading to find the most inspiring idea! After you’re done but still not sure about a suitable variant, you can try a history topic generator with all the keyword options from our list.

• 🔝 Top 10 Topics
• 🇺🇸 US History
• 🌎 World History
• 🏰 European History
• 💂 British History
• 📜 History before 1500
• 🏭 Modern History
• 📡 20th Century History
• 🔝 20 Research Questions
• 🔍 References

🔝 Top 10 Interesting History 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
• Economic impact of the Titanic ’s sinking
• Bracero Program’s economic effect
• 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

🇺🇸 Interesting US History Topics

The history of the United States starts before the European colonization . Then it follows a turbulent period of building an entirely new nation. In a short time, America became a global superpower. From the first colonies to Roaring Twenties and the Cold War – discover the highlights of American history!

• What were the relations between the first American colonies? That is a fascinating historical question for a research paper. See how the early settlements co-existed before the 1760s. Learn how their alliances were used for asserting defense and control.
• Alternatively, you could study the Stamp Act crisis of 1765. See how it helped to unite the colonies and set the basis for future partnerships.
• The society of Puritans: truth and myths is a fascinating topic for those who are interested in people’s psychology and motivations. Puritans were a rigorous and highly religious society rooted in misogyny. See if they were really as prudent as today’s media portrays them.
• Tobacco Trade in early American colonies is another great US history topic. Tobacco plantations in Virginia became a way for laborers to be granted freedom. This caused a rapid expansion of the New World colonies.
• What are the reasons behind the Salem witch trials? That is one of the best US history research topics. A group of girls caused mass hysteria in superstitious Puritan society. Learn about their possible motives and the gruesome consequences of their actions.
• In the early colonies, there existed laws aimed at restricting slaves’ behaviors. Choose Slave Codes and their influence on society as your essay topic and learn about the ruinous consequences of this practice.
• The Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party were the culmination of the growing tension between the colonists and the British authorities. You can write an excellent paper about the reasons behind these events.
• One of the iconic documents in US history, the Declaration of Independence , can be the subject of your essay. See how different colonies contributed to the drafts of the Declaration. 
• The American Revolution was a conflict between America and Britain. You can write about the way the two countries perceived each other and how it influenced the outcome of the revolt.
• You can choose to write about an important person in US history. What made George Washington a key figure in Revolutionary America? That is a fascinating paper topic. One of the greatest leaders in US history, he proved that he could be trusted with power.
• How the Battle of Saratoga changed the course of the war? This one is another excellent history research essay topic. The victory in this battle provided Americans with much-needed confidence and gave them a new ally – France.
• What factors helped Americans win the revolutionary war? That is an exciting topic for high school students who want to understand early American history. You can mention the difficulties faced by the British, as well as the most prominent advantages of the American army.
• You can write a fascinating argumentative essay on the American Revolution and its effects on society.
• Another topic is life after the Revolution. Discover how life in America changed for women, African Americans, and Native Americans after the Revolution.
• The creation of the American constitution is full of twists and turns. Americans had many different views on how their country should be governed. See how they managed to reach a compromise.
• Southern society before the Revolution is a topic that includes the analysis of the most prominent features of the Old South, such as its conservatism and emphasis on honor.
• Closely connected to it is the topic of the American South as a slave society before 1865.
• See how the early Americans justified slavery from the Biblical, historical, and economic points of view.
• The American North before the revolution had many intriguing features, such as Manifest Destiny , progressiveness, and a riotous optimism… you can discuss it in an essay!
• Reconstruction of the South took place after the Revolution. See how it was planned and carried out over the course of 12 years. (You can focus on a particularly interesting aspect, such as the lives of African American people during the Reconstruction.)
• How the US became the world’s largest industrial nation? That is an interesting history research paper idea. During the second half of the 19th century, the US developed very rapidly. See how the Industrialization led to the birth of Capitalism as we know it today!
• Women in American society of the late 19th century were on the way of transforming the old values. They didn’t like the cult of domesticity and wanted to take an active part in society. Learn how the traditional female roles were changing during that epoch.
• The cowboy era: truth and myths is an exciting topic about one of the quintessential American images. Discover how the cowboys really lived, and what led to the decline of the cattle industry.
• The conflicts with Native Americans in the late 19th century is an important controversial topic. The closure of the final frontier was achieved through bloodshed and horrifying violence. Learn about the reasons behind these events.
• An exciting essay can be written about urbanization and immigration of the early 20th century. The glamour of American big city life was alluring to many people from different countries. Unfortunately, the reality was not all that glamorous…
• If you choose the Progressive Era of the USA as your essay topic, you can learn about the origins of modern activism groups. See how they were fighting with organized crime, inequality, and many other vital issues.
• A closely connected topic is women’s suffrage movement. The long struggle for women’s right to vote resulted in the Nineteenth Amendment. It was an essential step towards equality.
• The preservation movement of the early XX century is another topic concerning activism. President Roosevelt recognized that industrialization damages America’s wildlife. See how his policies gave rise to nature conservation and even Scouting!
• You can write a great essay on what caused the financial panic of 1907. The financial panic rocked Wall Street and exposed many problems with the American economy at the time.
• The Spanish-American war: causes and consequences is an intriguing essay topic. Learn how the United States managed to win the war while not being prepared for it at all. 
• Write an essay about American expansion after 1877 and see how America was stretching its boundaries overseas. There were many reasons for it, including nationalist, economic, and religious.
• USA and Asia: the Boxer Rebellion is a topic closely connected to the expansion policies. In 1900, an attempt to occupy China resulted in disaster. Discuss the conflict and its consequences in an essay.
• An essential part of American history is wars. When Germany sank the ship Lusitania, killing many Americans, the country stopped being neutral. Choose the USA in World War I as your essay topic and see where it led.
• One of the most fascinating United States history research paper topics is Roaring Twenties : the culmination of the industrial era. During that epoch, the standard of living increased like never before. See how the country changed in just ten years.
• Prohibition era: the rise of organized crime is a topic that includes many interesting aspects, such as highly romanticized gangsters. However, the reality was not all that romantic. You can write about the reasons why Prohibition era turned out to be a disaster.
• The birth of mass media: radio, cinema, early television is one of fun and easy history topics for research paper for middle school students. Learn about the origins of the entertainment culture and mass media stars in times of great uncertainty.
• Alternatively, you can focus on the question of what led to the birth of consumerism? Back in the 1920s, there were many technological advances for the middle-class people. This gave rise to advertising as we know it today.
• When America seemed to be at the peak of its triumph, everything fell apart. The beginning of the Great Depression is an intriguing subject. Learn about the chain of events that plunged the US into the longest and deepest crisis in its history.
• Write about the role of the USA in World War II and see how unresolved tension left after World War I influenced the political decisions of the Allies.
• The Vietnam War has left many scars on the American nation. Learn about the causes and consequences of the war that kept influencing US foreign policy for many decades.
• Watergate scandal and its lasting legacy is one of the most interesting American history topics. Discuss how the scandal led to paranoia and disillusionment in the US government.
• You may like to explore the question: who won the Cold War? While no one actually won the Cold War, it did influence ex-Soviet countries and the US in many negative ways. Discuss them in your essay!

Here are some other samples of American history research paper topics:

• Quakers: their views and legacy.
• Survival in the Jamestown colony.
• French intervention in the American revolution .
• The true story of Pocahontas.
• Eleanor Roosevelt and her role in American history .
• How did Valley Forge change the course of the Revolutionary war?
• What is Manifest destiny as a concept?
• American political and economic history.
• Daniel Boone and the Wilderness Road.
• Donner party: the true story of survival.
• American revolutions in Early 19th century
• The historical significance of the Oregon Trail.
• Californian Gold Rush: outcomes and consequences.
• Why and how did the US get involved in the Korean war?
• The Lewis and Clark expedition.
• Railroads and their impact on the US economy.
• Social welfare history in the USA
• What were the relations between America and France during the revolutionary war?
• The Underground Railroad: history and impact.
• Colonial unrest in Virginia, New York and Massachusetts .
• African Americans in the Civil War.
• The Civil War. The letters from the soldiers .
• How did the Federalist Party create the basis for the national economy and foreign policy?
• In what ways was the Whiskey Rebellion important?
• Benjamin Franklin’s biography.
• The American identity during Revolution: Loyalists vs. Patriots.
• James Madison and his role im shaping the American Constitution .
• Founding Fathers and republicanism.
• In what ways does the Constitution reflect the principles of both republican and democratic forms of government ?
• Shay’s rebellion and its aftermath.
• What is the legacy of the Amistad Case?
• Malcolm X as civil rights activist.
• Women in the Civil War.
• Racism in America between 1783 and 1836.
• Alexander Hamilton and the foundation of American government.
• The legacy of John Brown.
• The civil rights movement in USA.
• Roger Sherman and the Connecticut Compromise.
• How did the Missouri Compromise trigger the Civil War?
• Dunmore Proclamation and its impact.
• What was the controversy around the Tenure of Office Act?
• How did the Mexican-American war help to shape the geographical boundaries of the USA?
• How did Black Laws affect the lives of African Americans?
• Ulysses S. Grant as a military leader and as a president.
• The true story of the notorious Wyatt Earp.
• Frederick Douglass’ fight for freedom.
• What are the reasons behind the lasting legacy of the Monroe doctrine ?
• Indian reservations: truth and myths.
• Native Americans in the 19th century: assimilation and resistance.
• Outstanding Native American leaders: Sitting Bull, Tecumseh, Geronimo.
• What was the impact of the Great Chicago Fire?
• Muckrakers and the birth of investigative journalism.
• Rockefeller, Carnegie, Vanderbilt : the first tycoons.
• Why did the Homestead Strike fail?
• Child labor in the 19th century US.
• The 19th century nationalism in America.
• World War I and the Christmas Truce.
• The Battle of the Somme and its legacy.
• How did the building of the Panama Canal affect world trade?
• San Francisco earthquake: immediate and long-term effects.
• The history of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency.
• The reaction of the American citizens to the US entry into World War I.
• What was the impact of the Spanish flu epidemic in the US?
• Outstanding women: Dorothea Dix, Ida B. Wells , Alice Paul.
• The controversy of the Scopes Monkey Trial.
• The beginning of the Hollywood industry.
• Woodrow Wilson’s first and second administrations.
• Presidency and post-presidency of Theodore Roosevelt .
• What factors fuelled the rise of the Ku Klux Klan?
• Dust Bowl: causes and consequences.
• Harlem Renaissance and its impact on art and culture.
• What was the role of women in World War II ?
• The American Dream in the postwar US.
• Howard Hughes: magnate, aviator, eccentric.
• Mississippi Freedom Summer in 1964: whites in the movement .
• How did the 1968 Democratic Convention change America’s political landscape?
• Orangeburg Massacre: reasons, backlash, and the aftermath.
• 1969 Moon landing and the Space Race.
• The legacy of the Woodstock Music Festival.
• What was the cultural impact of the Kennedy assassinations ?
• The Freedom of Information Act: pros and cons.
• Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society.
• Women in the Vietnam War.
• Manson family : truth and myths.
• The changing attitudes of the 60s.
• The history and legacy of Pop Art.
• Three Mile Island: the worst commercial nuclear accident in the history of the USA.
• The global nuclear arms race and the anti-nuclear movement.
• What were the lasting effects of the energy crisis ?
• McCarthyism and Red Scare.
• Richard Nixon: presidency and impeachment.
• Ronald Reagan’s foreign policy.
• How did the Exxon Valdez oil spill change the oil industry?
• Bill Clinton’s New Economy.
• The aftermath of 9/11: Ground Zero.

🌎 Interesting World History Topics

World history studies past, present, and future from a global perspective. It includes many cultures and nations, each with their unique qualities. You can focus on differences or common features between cultures. Choose a global history research paper topic that you find particularly interesting and write an excellent world history research paper!

• Genghis Khan is an outstanding Mongol leader who can be the subject of your essay. Learn how he managed to establish the largest land empire in history while bringing together the East and the West.
• Or you can choose to write about an extraordinary woman, such as the Empress Dowager Cixi. She has been called a ruthless despot for many years, but currently, her legacy is being re-evaluated.
• An exciting period in the history of China, the fall of the Qing Dynasty , marked the end of the Chinese Empire. A study of these events could be a great essay subject.
• Alternatively, you can write about the fall of the Aztec civilization. It’s one of the most interesting world history research paper topics. Discover what led to the end of the most intricate civilization in Mesoamerica.
• Persian Gulf War is one of the most significant military operations of the past 50 years. What started as a “limited” war turned into a decades-long conflict and had severe environmental consequences, which you can discuss in your essay.
• Alternatively, you can choose the Korean War . The conflict between Soviet-backed North Korean and pro-Western South Korean countries was the first military manifestation of the Cold War . The peninsula remains divided to this day.
• Or you can write about the Russo-Japanese war. It is sometimes called World War Zero because the consequences of this conflict influenced both subsequent World Wars.
• You can also choose a significant event from the Vietnam War, such as the fall of Saigon. It marked the end of the war and the unification of Vietnam into the Socialist Republic we know today.
• The Russian Revolution lasted for ten days in the 1900s. It shook the world and led to the rise of communism. You can write about the chain of events that triggered it or discuss its long-lasting consequences.
• Samurai culture is a fascinating world history topic for those interested in Japanese history. The influence of samurai and their philosophy – bushido still manifests itself in Japanese culture.
• The political activism of Dalits in India is a great and inspiring topic. See how the activism of a minority group formerly known as “untouchables” led to drastic changes in Indian politics and mentality.
• Another topic concerning human rights activism is Nelson Mandela. The first president of South Africa and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, he is considered to be an icon of democracy.
• Yet another outstanding person who influenced human rights activism, Mahatma Gandhi . See how his philosophy of nonviolent resistance shaped the ideas of Martin Luther King and others.
• The Great Wall of China is an excellent topic for an essay. See who and why built the longest wall in the world, and learn about its legends and myths.
• Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most beautiful and majestic buildings. You can discuss the history of Mughal architecture and the Taj Mahal in particular in your essay.

Here are some other ideas of interesting world history research paper topics:

• Korea in the Middle Ages.
• History of Aztec music
• Unification of China: the “warring states” period.
• How did the Han dynasty develop its highly efficient civil service?
• India’s first empire and the rise of Buddhism.
• The revival of Persia: the period of Sassanid rule.
• What were the key reforms during the Song dynasty?
• Lost empires: Khmer, Pagan, Dai Viet.
• The Persian war and Athenian progress.
• The rise of the Ottoman Empire .
• The age of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent .
• Why was the Tang dynasty considered China’s golden age?
• The tribes of the steppes: Scythians and Kushans.
• Prominent figures of Classical Antiquity.
• What were the major trading centers south of Sahara?
• Palestine and the Crusades .
• Women empowerment: role of women in Chinese society .
• Constantinople: the capital of the Byzantine Empire.
• The rise and fall of Babylonia.
• Baghdad as the Islamic world in 8th-11th centuries
• The cities and civilization in the Indus Valley .
• The cultures of South America and Mesoamerica: Maya , Zapotec, and Nazca.
• What were the three kingdoms of ancient Egypt ?
• How did the Islamic faith spread around the world?
• How were the islands of the South Pacific colonized?
• Bastet the Goddess and her role in Egyptian history .
• Japan’s “great peace”: the Edo period.
• Japan’s development of a unique cultural identity during the period of isolation.
• The “prosperous age” of China and the tree emperors.
• India: the jewel in the crown of the British Empire.
• What were the high and low points of the Byzantine Empire under the Palaiologan dynasty?
• The Seven Years War: the first global conflict.
• How did Europeans colonize the African continent?
• The Young Turks revolt.
• How and why were Africans sent to work in colonial plantations?
• The rise and fall of Assyrian civilization.
• The Soviet rule: collectivization, industrialization, and oppression.
• How did the former colonies in the Middle East and Southeast Asia assert their independent rule?
• The State of Israel: its foundation and effects on the Middle East.
• The foundation of the Islamic state of Iran.
• The end of the system of Apartheid.
• Tiger economy and the economic boom in Asia.
• What are the reasons behind Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Over Jerusalem?
• How did the Soviet satellite states become independent?
• The Hanging Gardens of Babylon – truth or myth?
• Delhi Sultanate: the great Islamic state in India.
• Pre-Columbian Americas: Aztecs and Incas.
• The struggle for freedom in the Spanish and Portuguese colonies.
• Opium Wars and other conflicts between Britain and China.
• Mikhail Gorbachev and the collapse of the USSR.
• Protests Theatre role in Apartheid South Africa .
• What factors led to the Yugoslav wars?
• The colonization process of New France .
• Oil crisis in the Middle East.

🏰 European History Research Topics

Europe is the cradle of modern civilization. From the Roman Empire to the Renaissance and the Industrial Revolution – the history of Europe is vibrant and colorful. The countries of Europe are very diverse, yet many leaders attempted to unify them. Discover how geography and definition of Europe changed over time!

• The philosophy of Niccolo Machiavelli is an excellent topic for history students. Discover the individual whose name inspired the term “Machiavellian.” You can also include the analysis of some “machiavellian” characters.
• Great artists of the Renaissance period is a fun history topic to research. It can be even better if you make a presentation to accompany your essay!
• Marie-Antoinette is a fascinating person. You can choose to study her public image or her role in the Revolution.
• Another topic related to the French Revolution is Maximillian Robespierre and the Terror. The Reign of Terror was a period of massacres and executions. It’s an example of what fear and paranoia can lead to.
• Or you can research the question why was Louis IV known as the Sun King? Learn how he transformed France into one of the most powerful countries in Europe. You could also discuss Versailles in your essay.
• Choose “ How did Bismarck unite Germany ?” as the topic of your essay and discuss the policies of the Iron Chancellor. See how his policies influenced both World Wars.
• Alternatively, you could write about Napoleon’s campaign in Egypt. Learn how it influenced Egyptian language studies and more!
• Bastille Day is an essential date in the history of France. Discuss how the Bastille fortress became a symbol of Liberty.
• What was the role of Joan of Arc in the Hundred Years War? is one of the best history research paper topics. Joan of Arc ‘s charisma helped her lead the French army to victory. Despite her tragic demise, she continues to be celebrated today.
• Voyages of Ferdinand Magellan can be an exciting topic for your essay. Discuss the impact of Magellan’s explorations, his background, and more!

Here are some other ideas of European history research topics:

• The policies of Cesare Borgia.
• Mercantilism in Europe
• Medici family and their impact on the Renaissance.
• What philosophical movements triggered the Renaissance?
• What were the characteristics of the Third French Republic?
• The effects of French Revolution on European peasantry .
• What was the influence of the Communist Manifesto ?
• Scientific discoveries of the Renaissance period.
• Why was Galileo Galilei accused of heresy?
• What made Pope Alexander VI controversial?
• The War of 1812 .
• Torquemada: the great inquisitor.
• What was the legacy of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile ?
• The creation of Austria-Hungary.
• Rise and fall of the Carolingian Empire.
• Great Viking leaders: Leif Erickson and Eric the Red.
• What are the characteristics of Gothic art and architecture?
• Renaissance and Ancient Greece: a comparison.
• What were the first universities in Europe?
• Why is Charlemagne considered “the father of Europe”?
• Feudalism and social hierarchy in medieval Europe.
• What were the achievements of St. Thomas Aquinas ?
• Enlightenment in philosophy, politics, and art.
• What led to the emergence of Romanticism ?
• Ludwig II of Bavaria: the Fairy Tale king.
• Great composers of the 18th century: Mozart, Bach, Beethoven .
• Peter the Great and Catherine II: cultural revolution of the Russian Empire.
• Legacy of the Crusades.
• How was printing invented?
• Spain under the reign of the Bourbon kings.
• How Prussia influenced the history of Germany?
• Turkish war: background and consequences.
• Why did Napoleon lose the battle of Waterloo?

💂 British History Research Topics

The history of the United Kingdom begins in 1707. However, the nations have existed on the British Isles long before that. Many invasions, wars, and revolutions have shaped Britain as we know it today. There is plenty of interesting research topics in the history of the UK. Learn about major events or study the lives of extraordinary people – the choice is yours!

• Paston family letters is a fascinating topic for a history research paper. The first-hand account of a family surviving the Plague offers a unique glimpse into the past.
• Alternatively, you can study Henry V: myth and facts. See how literary works and propaganda shaped the public’s perception of the king.
• Perhaps you would like to learn about the origins of everyday things. The King’s Posts is an interesting topic concerning the beginning of the English Mail and postage system as we know it.
• Another great topic is the marriages of King Henry VIII. Learn the fate of all six wives: from Catherine of Aragon to Catherine Parr.
• Or you can write an essay about one of Henry VIII’s wives. For example, Anne Boleyn in popular culture is an interesting topic that lets you explore the real person behind the myths.
• Princess Diana’s influence on British culture is an intriguing topic. Explore the legacy of Diana and charitable acts that made her a legend.
• > What if the Gunpowder Plot didn’t fail? can be the theme of an exciting essay for college students. Study the available theories and formulate a what-if scenario.
• Highland Clearances is an important and controversial topic. See why many people were dispossessed of their land, and what is the cultural impact of the evictions.
• Another good history topic for a research paper about Scotland is Edinburg: the Athens of the North. See how Edinburg grew from a small town into one of the most important cities in Britain.
• Margaret Thatcher’s influence in 20th century Britain was immense. Still, her legacy remains controversial. Present your point of view on the Iron Lady in an essay!

Here are some other ideas of British history research paper topics:

• What is the difference between the English Law before and after Henry II?
• Normans and their reforms.
• Humanities and justice in Britain during 18th century
• What tactics were used by William of Normandy during the Battle of Hastings ?
• The creation of Magna Carta.
• King John and Richard I : the “good” king and the “bad” king.
• How did the Hundred Years War change England?
• Political influence of William Shakespeare in XVI century in England .
• What led the crisis of authority during the reign of Richard II?
• Marriage of Margaret Tudor and James IV: what were the long-term consequences?
• How and why did England become Protestant?
• English colonization in the 18th century .
• How did Mary I earn the nickname “Bloody Mary”?
• What was Elizabeth I’s approach to religion?
• Characteristics of the Elizabethan Era.
• What makes Oliver Cromwell a pivotal figure in the history of England?
• The public’s reaction to the execution of Charles I.
• The Great London Fire and its aftermath.
• What caused the Glorious Revolution?
• What were the tactics used by the commanders of three armies at the battle of Waterloo?
• Admiral Nelson and Battle of Trafalgar: consequences and legacy.
• Britain’s reaction to the French Revolution.
• British Empire in the East.
• How did the industrial revolution cause social reforms in Britain?
• Industrial revolution and its effects on British workers’ lives .
• British Naval supremacy during the Victorian Era.
• What caused the Potato Famine in Ireland?
• How did the Crimean War influence World War I?
• The Home Rule movement in Ireland.
• Urbanization and rural exodus in Victorian England.
• How did women’s status in Britain change after World War I ?
• Winston Churchill: a politician, a soldier, a hero.
• The role of Britain in World War II.
• Britain as a member of EU.

📜 Topics in History of Ancient World (before 1500)

This section includes ideas for history research papers starting from ancient civilizations up to the pre-modern era. At that time, many cultures had their “golden age” epochs. Ancient Greece and Egypt, the Roman Empire, Mesoamerica, and the Byzantine Empire still fascinate us today. Discover for yourself some of the greatest civilizations of the past!

• Probably the most interesting subject in ancient history is Egypt. For example, you can write about the Old Kingdom of Egypt – an epoch known as the “Age of Pyramids.”
• Or you can write about the iconic personalities of ancient Egypt, such as Imhotep. He was not only an outstanding architect, but also a priest, a poet, a physician, and an astronomer!
• Science and technology of ancient Egypt is a great essay topic in itself. The inventions and scientific achievements of ancient Egyptians continue to fascinate us even today.
• Besides, their civilization was very progressive when it comes to gender roles. Write an essay about women in ancient Egypt and discover it for yourself!
• Another iconic civilization of that period is ancient Greece. You can choose to write about the beginning of Greek culture – the Mycenaean civilization and its mythology.
• Or you can discuss the Golden Age of Greece: science and philosophy in your essay. Democracy, drama, history, atomic universe theory – ancient Greece is the birthplace it all!
• Sparta and its fighters is a fascinating essay topic. Learn about the legendary Spartans, their society, and their military.
• Or perhaps you would like to learn about another great civilization, the Roman Empire. Choose several great leaders of ancient Rome (for example, Julius Caesar , Pompey the Great, and Marcus Antonius) and compare their policies.
• In an essay about Pompeii before the volcano eruption, you can discuss the daily life of ancient Romans . See what discoveries were made on the richest archaeological site in the world.
• There were also other civilizations with an exciting history in the ancient world. Hammurabi: the conqueror of Mesopotamia is an excellent topic for high school history essay. Learn about his Code that served as a blueprint for many civilizations.
• Or you can write about Phoenicians as traders. See what helped Phoenicia become one of the greatest trading powers of its time!
• You could even write an essay about the production and trading of chocolate in Mesoamerica! Chocolate was immensely popular across the Americas. It was often enjoyed as a drink and even used as a form of currency.
• Tartessos and its culture is a fascinating history essay topic. Discover the place that gave rise to the legend of El Dorado.
• You could also write about the Akkadian Empire during the reign of Sargon the Great. Sargon came from a humble background. Learn how he rose to power and created the first multinational empire in history.
• Women rulers of the ancient world can be the topic of an excellent essay. Hatshepsut , Cleopatra, Semiramis – these outstanding women changed history and became legendary.

Here are some other ideas of history research paper topics before 1500:

• Ancient Rome: economy and trade.
• The murder of Caligula: what were the circumstances?
• Who were the five “Good Emperors” of Rome?
• What was the role of trade contacts in Greek colonization?
• Women in ancient Greek society .
• Ancient explorers: Hanno, Polybius, and others.
• The fall of Jerusalem and its consequences.
• Antiquity: the Golden Age .
• Akhenaten and the Amarna Period.
• How did Amenhotep IV reform Egyptian religion?
• Wari civilization and their art.
• The Lost City of Atlantis .
• Vandals and the fall of Rome.
• Battle of AlQadisiyyah
• How and where did the Vikings travel?
• What were the main attributes of ancient Chinese philosophy?
• What was the importance of the Olympic Games ?
• First Punic war: causes and consequences.
• The foundation of the Caliphate .
• The destruction and re-development of Carthage.
• Achaemenid Empire under the reign of Cyrus II.
• The Arab conquest of Egypt.
• Cambodia: the Angkor period.
• How did Harold I unify Norway?
• Rurik and the founding of Russia.
• How did Boleslav I turn Poland into one of the most powerful nations at the time?
• What was the origin of Christianity?
• Alexius I and the First Crusade.
• Who was Leonidas I of Sparta?
• The amazing life of Telemachus
• The rise and fall of Gauda Kingdom.
• What was the role of Corinth in the ancient world?
• The Koryo Dynasty and the unification of Korea.
• Why did the Second Crusade end in a disaster?
• Valdemar II: the expansion of the Danish Empire.
• What were the possible causes of the Bronze Age Collapse?
• Korea: the Three Kingdoms period.
• Confucius and his philosophy.
• The Umayyad-Hashemite civil war and the birth of the Sunni-Shiite islamic schism .
• What did Alexander the Great do for the popularization of Greek culture?
• The architecture of Toltec civilization.
• What is “the great migration”?
• What was the usage of Circus Maximus?
• Ptolemaic dynasty: Greek monarchs in Egypt.
• Sumerian religion and mythology.
• The early history of Franks.
• The Hatti and their culture.
• Why is Justinian I considered one of the greatest Byzantine emperors?
• The Lombard kingdom under the reign of Alboin.
• How did the Roman Republic become the Roman Empire?
• Rome from 140 BCE to the reign of Octavian
• Octavian : the first and greatest Roman emperor.
• Etruscan society, religion, and art.

🏭 Topics in History of Modern World

From the late medieval period up to the 19th century – modern history covers a period of intense development and industrialization. Old civilization fell, and new ones replaced them. Almost every major country faced a revolution, and the standard of living around the world started to grow rapidly. There are many good history topics to research – choose one for yourself!

• How the Aztec military compared to the Spanish army? is an interesting essay question that can help you in better understanding Mesoamerican culture. Aztecs had a complex military structure and tactics specific only to them.
• Witch hunts in England and America is an interesting essay topic. You can also include your opinions on why witches were usually women.
• Discussion of positive and negative outcomes of the Columbian Exchange can be a basis for an excellent essay.
• Re-evaluation or Greek and Roman texts by Humanist authors is a topic concerned with philosophy and art. You can include an analysis of authors such as Petrarch and Machiavelli and discuss the influence if classical texts in their works.
• Or you can focus on the daily lives of people from the past. Food and diet during the Industrial Revolution can be an interesting health topic. (This includes changes in people’s health.)
• You can choose to write about the Golden age of piracy and learn the truth about one of the most romanticized periods in the history of early modern Europe.
• Or choose life in the Wild West as the topic of your history essay and see if the popular perception of the era is accurate.
• Thomas More’s Utopia and its legacy is an interesting topic for history research paper. Learn about the origins of Utopia and how it influenced the Communism in the 20th century.
• The Great Famine was a turning point in Irish history. Study the aftermath of the Great Famine and see how it influenced rebel movements in Ireland.
• Alternatively, you can write about extraordinary people from the modern era. For example, the childhood of Elizabeth I includes the education and upbringing of the future Queen, as well as the development of her qualities as the nation’s leader.
• Lucrezia Borgia is a prominent historical figure whose legacy is now being reevaluated. You can explore popular myths about Lucrezia Borgia and see if they have any factual basis.
• You can focus your research on great explorers, such as David Livingstone : a missionary in Africa . He greatly influenced the popular perception of Africa in positive as well as negative ways.
• Another good topic for a history research paper is the social impact of the Little Ice Age . Learn how emerging cultures survived in a colder climate, and what psychological effects the Little Ice Age had on people.
• The Dutch East India Company is an interesting example of an early corporation. See how it pioneered business practices that we still use today. It’s a good topic for International Studies students.
• Russia in the 17th century was a multiconfessional and multiethnic country. You can write about the exploration of Siberia and other ways by which Russia was expanding its territory.

Here are some other ideas of modern world history research paper topics:

• The history of London Underground.
• What factors brought about the Age of Enlightenment ?
• Mona Lisa and Renaissance humanism
• Muhammad Ali of Egypt and his modernizing reforms.
• Nationalism in 18th century Europe
• The French in Vietnam: reasons and aftermath of the conquest.
• Key features of the Commercial Revolution.
• History: the decline of Rome in the 3rd century
• How did the spice trade shape the modern world?
• The impacts of war on social development in Europe between 1500 and 1815 .
• Technology that influenced the Age of Exploration.
• The impacts of peinted press on European society .
• Isolation policies of Ming Dynasty: causes and consequences.
• What’s the difference between shogunates and the “Tokugawa period” in Japan?
• Culture and science in the Mughal Empire.
• Patriots: The rebellions in Lower Canada 1837-38
• The use of elephantry during the battle of Plassey.
• What caused the Protestant Reformation ?
• The role of gunpowder in wars during the modern period.
• Inquisition and censorship.
• The role of indulgences in religious life during the Middle Ages.
• Abolition of slavery in the US.
• Characteristics of serfdom in Russia.
• Ivan the Terrible : the first Tsar of Russia.
• What were the reasons behind Alexander II’s assassination?
• Frankfurt Parliament and the concept of Germania.
• What led to the decline of Spain in the 17th century?
• What caused the economic and social decline of Venice?
• What was the role of merchants in Europe’s development?
• The Paris Commune: the world’s first socialist government.
• The reforms of Maria Theresa.
• The assassination of Abraham Lincoln.
• What caused the Russian peasant uprising of 1773?
• How did Martin Luther influence the Great Peasant Revolt of 1525?
• How did Darwin’s theory of evolution affect society?
• How was the Spanish Armada defeated?
• The fall of the Habsburg dynasty.
• Cromwell and the Puritan Revolution.
• The consequences of the serfdom abolition in Russia.
• Russian anarchism and its legacy.
• Absolute monarchy in Germany and its decline.

📡 Historical Topics on the 20 th Century

The last century of the second millennium saw many drastic changes. They directly influenced our contemporary world. On the one hand, there were the World Wars, revolutions, pandemics, and nuclear disasters. On the other hand, we had new technology, human rights activism, and a high standard of living. Choose the best 20th century research topic for your essay!

• During the Gandhi-led revolt against British rule, the police attacked the unarmed crowd. See how Mahatma Gandhi and his followers managed to emerge victoriously.
• Stalin’s collectivization policy was aimed at increasing of the food supply. It turned out to be a disaster that severely damaged Soviet agriculture. Discuss why it happened in your essay.
• The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand was the event that triggered World War I. You can write about the reasons and the consequences of the murder in your essay.
• Similarly, the assassination of King Carlos of Portugal was carried out in hopes of provoking a revolution. See why it didn’t work out as planned.
• World War I was a devastating conflict that forever changed Europe. Its course was strongly influenced by the first battle of Marne. Write an essay about how it stopped the advance of Germany.
• Or you can choose another battle, such as the Second battle of Ypres, during which poison gas was used for the first time.
• One of the best 20th century European history research paper topics is the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Learn about the reasons behind these conflicts. (You can include the definition of IRA and “low-level war.”)
• History department students can write a great essay on the aftermath of Pearl Harbor . Initially, Japan considered the attack a successful move. In reality, it doomed them to defeat.
• Juan Peron and Evita is a very interesting topic. See how Evita helped her husband become immensely popular, and discuss the influence of Peronism.
• Communism propaganda is another fascinating topic. The promotion of communist ideology was carried out in many forms. Discuss its influence on society. Use a presentation to illustrate your points.
• Instead, you could write about anti-communist propaganda. Discuss where it comes from and its effects on Western society.
• Another topic closely connected with the Cold War is the contacts between USSR and the USA after 1945. Study the events when the leaders of the two countries visited each other. Describe how the relations changed over time.
• The Cuban missile crisis was an event that almost triggered a nuclear war. Write an essay about it and learn how the conflict was resolved.
• The most notable atomic bomb explosion is an important topic connected with the current issues. Trinity test, Operation Crossroads, and Japan explosions changed the world forever. Discuss if it’s possible to justify these events.
• A closely connected topic is the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl . Learn about the factors that led to the tragedy, and discuss its long-term consequences.

Here are some other ideas of 20th century research topics:

• How did the union between Norway and Sweden end?
• The Senkaku islands territorial disputes .
• What were the consequences of Fidel Castro signing a friendship treaty with the USSR?
• The policies of Nikita Khrushchev.
• The art of the Weimar Republic.
• The “watershed” history moments between 1960 and 1990 .
• History of postmodernism .
• What were the consequences of Germany’s invasion of Belgium?
• The Velvet Revolution and the aftermath of Communism.
• Why are the Nuremberg Trials considered to be the greatest trials in history?
• Che Guevara’s biography and revolutionary path .
• The legacy of Che Guevara.
• History of post WWII.
• India’s nuclear weapons program.
• How did the US react to the launch of Sputnik?
• Cuban missile crisis and its aftermath.
• The Arab defeat reasons in the 1967 War
• What were the ambitions of the Nazi party during World War II?
• Zionism and anti-Semitism in Nazi Germany.
• Nazi propaganda in cinematography.
• How was the European Union formed?
• Invasion of Poland: the beginning of World War II.
• Social and economic Life in the Soviet Union during the 1930s.
• How did the dissatisfaction with the Treaty of Versailles impact Mussolini’s rise to power?
• What’s the difference between the Red and White Russian Army?
• Concentration camps and “Death Camps”: a comparison.
• What caused the Beer Hall Putsch?
• U.S atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
• What factors helped spread Communist ideology across the world?
• Night of the Long Knives and Hitler‘s rise to power.
• Mao Zedong and Maoism.
• What events led to the Kashmir Crisis?
• Fall of the Berlin Wall : what was the immediate effect?
• Kosovo war and propaganda.
• South Pole expeditions: Roald Amundsen.
• The invention of the PC and the Internet .
• What was the role of Lawrence of Arabia in the Arab Revolt?
• Francois Mitterrand: legacy and controversies.
• What was the political atmosphere during the 1936 Olympic Games?
• What factors led to the Communist victory in China?
• The consequences of civil war in El Salvador.
• 1968 student revolts.
• Kristallnacht and the world’s response to it.
• What is the difference between Fascism and National Socialism?

🔝 20 History Research Questions

Research questions are derived from research topics. You answer the research question in an essay or paper.

Broad questions can be used for theses, Ph.D. dissertations, and proposals. Narrow questions fit better for essays. You can also use them to prepare for AP US essays. Research questions can be focused on different aspects:

• What caused a historical event,
• The consequences of an event,
• The origin of something,
• The role of a particular person in history,
• The cultural context of an event, etc.

Here is the list of top 20 history research questions for you to choose from:

• What was the role of Alexander the Great in the creation of the modern world?
• What was the importance of Roman Peace?
• What impact has Christianity had on Western culture?
• How did the Plague influence European society?
• How was Constantinople conquered?
• In what ways did the Renaissance improve life in Europe?
• Why is the Printing Press considered one of the greatest inventions?
• What were the positive and negative sides of the Protestant Reformation?
• Why did Europe eventually lose control over its colonies?
• In what ways did the American Revolution inspire other countries?
• How did the French Revolution influence the Enlightenment?
• What would have happened in the North lost the Civil War?
• What challenges did the Industrial Revolution provide for lower classes?
• How did the Medical Revolution change the world?
• What aspects of the industrial Revolution triggered World War I?
• What factors led to the popularity of Communism in Russia?
• How did the Great Depression influence World War II?
• Why was Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Party popular in 1930s Germany ?
• What is the Iron Curtain , and why was it created?
• In what ways did Space Race advance technology?

🤔 Historical Topics FAQ

The importance of history can’t be underestimated. It plays a crucial in understanding other cultures as well as our own. It teaches us to think, compare, and draw conclusions. It provides us with role models and examples of how to manage societies. Besides, it covers every single facet of life, from art and television to sports and video games. That’s why history is not only important but also relatable and fun.

• Choose a topic that will be interesting for you to research.
• Decide on a solid historical argument.
• Formulate a thesis statement.
• Find reliable sources and study them from a critical standpoint.
• Make an outline for your paper.
• Write the first draft.
• When you quote, cite your sources correctly.
• Proofread and write the final draft.
• Find reliable resources and analyze them.
• Describe the imagery of the artwork
• Provide a brief analysis of imagery or symbolism.
• Describe the stylistic category to which the artwork belongs.
• Write about the time in which the artwork was created.
• Discuss how it relates to the author’s life.
• Discuss the place of the artwork in a broader historical context.
• Choose your subject.
• Formulate your thesis statement.
• Find credible sources, biographies, and articles.
• Write a draft plan.
• Describe the formative years of the historical person.
• Discuss their most important achievements that relate to your thesis statement.
• Include particularly interesting lesser-known facts about them.
• Describe their legacy and impact.
• Write a conclusion.
• Proofread your paper.

Primary sources relate directly to the subject of the study. This includes art, literature, and documents from that period. Primary sources are created at the time of the event, usually by people who participated in the event. The best examples of primary source documents would be diaries, interviews, and letters.

Secondary sources are the sources created after the time of the event. They are usually scientific, written from a historical point of view, and include evaluation of the information derived from the primary sources. The best examples of secondary source documents would include academic analyses, research papers, reviews, critiques, scientific journals, biographies, and encyclopedias.

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• Good Research Topics, Titles and Ideas for Your Paper

🔎 References

• Databases for Research & Education: Gale
• Topics: History
• Historical Research Capabilities: UCLA History
• 25 Most Important Events In History: List 25
• How to Write a History Research Paper: Carleton
• Historic Places and the Inquiry Method: National Park Service
• Historical narrative: Britannica
• Historical Research: Oxford Academic
• Introduction to Historical Research: UW Libraries
• Tools and techniques for historical research: University of Cambridge
• Historical Research – Checklist: History Detectives
• Studies in History: SAGE Journals
• History Research: Science PG
• History: Academia
• Databases for History & Culture Research: Smithsonian Libraries
• Writing a Good History Paper: Hamilton
• Research: Cornell, the Department of History
• History Research Areas: McGill
• Research Areas: History Department, Vanderbilt University
• Areas od Study: Department of History and Philosophy of Science and Medicine, Indiana University Bloomington
• U.S. History and Historical Documents: US Government
• Colonial North America: Harvard Library
• United States of America: Topics (Colorado State University)
• European History: ThoughtCo.
• The history of the European Union: EU Official Website
• The history of British slave ownership has been buried: now its scale can be revealed (The Guardian)
• Women Creating Change (Before 1500): Albany
• The 20th century: Khan Academy
• Timeline of 20th and 21th century wars: Imperial War Museum
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206 Middle School Research Topics: Original Ideas List

As middle schoolers prepare to go to high school, they are introduced slowly to essay and research writing. They are sometimes given homework that involves picking suitable topics and writing on them. However, it should be noted that i t is not easy to write a research paper for a high grade. Middle schoolers in their preteen age are taught how to be creative, air out their opinions and conduct little research. It helps make them critical thinkers and prepares them for more writing tasks as they advance in their education. This article will help middle schoolers understand what is expected of them when asked to write an essay or research on a topic. It will also expose them to different areas where they can write and many research topics for middle school they can pick from.

What Should Be In A Middle School Research Paper?

Middle school research papers are often not required to be extended. They are in a unique position where they move from writing simple pieces to more detailed essays and research papers. This is the foundation where they learn to write excellent papers as they transcend to high school and eventually college. Writing an essay in middle school is not very different from writing in other stages. Some steps to get you started are

• Understanding the Assignment :Before you begin, you should understand your teacher’s expectations when turning in your finished work.There will be rules and procedures to follow. Know the format the essay is supposed to be written in, and keep the due dates in mind. If you do not understand any aspect of the assignment, please ask for clarification, as this will help you deliver a clear and concise essay at the end.
• Do Your Pre-Writing :Start with brainstorming on middle school research topics to determine what you would like your essay to be about. There are many options to pick from and several general subjects to break down into topics you want.

Pick up to three topics when you first brainstorm. From there, you can select the best one to write on. When you find a topic, start writing all you know about it. Create a rough paper where you jot down information from your research that will be useful in your essay. Feel free to write freely, as this will be your first draft, and you have the chance to edit it as you go.

• Edit Your Work : Editing is essential. It helps give your paper structure. From your rough work, take out parts that are not necessary and add details you think you missed. This is where you should be detailed and try to make your work as neat and correct as possible. You are almost at the end of writing the paper.When you are sure your paper is good, it is time to proofread. Check for spelling and punctuation errors. One expert way to do this is to read the report from the bottom up, and this can help you spot any spelling errors.
• Citations and References : Your teacher would have given you a format to write references for your work. Ensure that you are following the prescribed format.References will highlight the sources of the information gathered to make your essay.

What Can Middle Schoolers Write About?

There are many general subjects that middle schoolers can write about in their assignments. Streaming from what they have been taught in the classroom or their experiences outside class. Some issues that can create good middle school research paper topics include:

Science : This broad aspect covers earth science, geology, physical science, life science, and genetics. Science research paper topics for middle school will encourage the students to be interested in growth and learning how things work. Social Studies : This will involve learning about their history, other people’s cultures, human interaction, family, etc. This will create fun research topics for 6th graders, learning about life and how relationships work. Literature : This is the best time to learn about books and works of art. The literature will provide many topics to research for middle school students.

There are many more aspects that middle school students can research and write papers on. Discover more than 200 interesting research topics for middle school students below. However don’t worry if the assignment seems too difficult for you. You are only at the beginning of the path and our cheap research writing service will be happy to get you through with your paper.

Good Research Topics For Middle School

Students who have no experience writing papers and are looking for good research topics to work on are in luck. The topics below are suitable for all middle schoolers and can create detailed essays.

• Should students be compelled to wear a specific uniform?
• Textbooks or tablets: which is better to read from?
• Obesity in American youth: Causes and solutions.
• Should boys and girls be allowed to play on the same athletics team?
• Should young people be allowed to play violent video games?
• Impact of continuously playing violent video games.
• When can we say someone is spending too much time in front of the screen?
• Listening to music during class: Does it disturb concentration?
• How to recognize harmful content on the internet?
• Should all businesses be compelled to recycle?
• What is the appropriate punishment for students who engage in cyberbullying?
• Should school hours be adjusted to later in the morning?
• Should our scientists be allowed to test drugs on animals?
• Why do people’s behavior change in different settings?
•  Is sex education important?
• Different types of poetry and how they came about.
• What to do if you are being bullied on the internet.
• How to have healthy self-esteem.
• Why does the human body need sleep?
• Insect repellents, are they helpful?
• Why did dinosaurs go extinct?
• What is skateboarding?
• The effects of tobacco on the body.
• Artificial tanning: Risks and benefits.
• What is spam email? Where does it come from, and how can we stop it?
• What is a desert mirage? How does it affect people?
• What are penguins? Where do they stay, and what do they eat?
• When and how was America created?
• Who are some well know and inspirational women?
• Who are some famous inventors?
• What famous inventions helped in shaping human existence?
• Steps you can take to protect yourself from scammers online.
• What is a cryptocurrency, and why is it so popular?
• What did the invention of the mobile phone do to change the world?
• How to handle stress from school.
• How can issues in the family affect a child?
• Is your school working hard enough to prevent bullying?
• Should we use mobile phones and tablets in class?
• Does technology make you smarter?
• What is an unhealthy life, and what are the effects?
• Is there any benefit of doing homework?
• What is video game addiction, and how to stop it?
• What is a museum, and what can be found in it?
• What can we do to reduce climate change?
• Is soda suitable for children?
• Does everyone have to go to college?
• Comparing homework and class assignments.
• What is physical education?
• How the internet has changed our life
• What is peer pressure?
• What effect has global warming had on the environment?
• What is racism?
• What is a healthy diet?
• Should students be able to pick what they learn?
• Do movies depict what happens in real life?
• Is arts a vital part of the school curriculum?
• What are the challenges students face?
• How do we conserve energy in our homes?
• What is pop culture?
• Should parents monitor their children’s social media?

Fun Research Topics for Middle School

Writing an essay shouldn’t always be stressful or tedious. These topics will make writing papers fun. The topics below can hold the researcher’s attention for a long time as they work on completing their project.

• How should celebrities who break the law be punished?
• What is bulletproof clothing made of?
• All there is to know about hip-hop.
• What do we know about ninjas?
• Do lie detector tests work?
• What are the ingredients contained in a hotdog?
• Sharks, how do they hunt, and what do they eat?
• How do search engines work?
• Some fascinating extinct animals, and what happened to them?
• How to manage time effectively.
• How does insufficient sleep affect the brain?
• How to let go of bad habits?
•  How do parents help us grow?
• How to become a better writer.
• Are dogs and cats enemies?
• Why do parents punish children for bad behavior?
• What is the best punishment for naughty kids?
• Is magic real?
• How to save money effectively?
• What is self-development?
• How to motivate yourself to be a better student?
• When should you begin to earn money?
• What’s the secret of having a successful life?
• How not to become a game addict.

Middle School Research Project Ideas

Research shouldn’t always end as essay writing. Sometimes, you need hands-on projects to keep the middle schooler busy. The list below can serve as an ideal hub for research ideas for middle school students and work as interesting essay topics.

• Investigating what life is like inside a beehive.
• Steps in creating a movie.
• How do our brains store memories and retrieve them when we need them?
• What is a landform?
• What are some important holidays around the world, and who celebrates them?
• What are some significant symbols used in world holidays?
• Creating an ecosystem: what’s the process involved?
• Research on some exotic underwater creatures.
• What is a meteor?
• How to build a crossword puzzle.
• What is advertising: create a short advertisement campaign.
• Write the story of your life.
• Create a calendar highlighting critical events in your life.
• Create your family tree.

Science Research Topics for Middle School

Science is an exciting part of our lives. Because of science, the quality of our lives has increased, and there are many more inventions to come. These topics can engage the curious mind of the youngster and introduce them to science-related subjects to work on.

• Earthquakes: Its causes and effects.
• Computer viruses. What are they, and how do they spread?
• Evolution of human beings.
• Are human beings still evolving?
• What is alchemy?
• What is a black hole? How is it formed?
• What is a submarine? Who uses them, and how do they work?
• What is the cause of tornadoes?
• What is a sinkhole, and how do they form?
• Research on one of the planets in the solar system.
• Understanding glaciers and icebergs.
• What are volcanoes, and how do they form?
• The different types of volcanoes and what causes them.
• Who are the most famous scientists, and what are they famous for?
• What are the components of airplanes that make them fly?
• What are fossils, and what do they teach us?
• How do genetics and DNA affect how we look?
• Why does the moon change color and shape sometimes?
• What is a Lunar eclipse?
• What is pollution?
• The different types of pollution and what can be done to curb them?
• Can fruits play a part in medicine?
• What is flooding?
• What is an ecosystem?
• What measures do butterflies take to defend themselves?
• Different types of butterflies.
• What is a skeleton, and why is it an essential part of the body?
• How many bones are in a skeleton? Which are the most important?
• Who is a marine biologist?
• What is the connection between a marine biologist and the weather?
• What are the risks marine biologists face when they dive?
• Different types of fossils?
• Are whales still hunted?
• What is scientific research, and who conducts it?
• What is the job of the nervous system?
• Understanding the concept of hibernation?
• What are the necessities plants need to grow?
• Who are the people who study dinosaurs?
• Mammals and reptiles: Similarities and differences.
• Why don’t human beings float?
• What is a prism, and what does it do?
• What gives humans the ability to lift heavy things?
• What factors can cause earthquakes?
• How is wind measured?
• What differentiates a planet from a star?
• What is a galaxy? What galaxy is the earth?
• Who is an astronaut, and what is their job?
• What is a waterfall?
• Do plants drink water?
• Why do oil and water not mix?
• What is microbiology?
• How can we preserve our natural resources?
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of exploring space.
• What are bacteria, and how useful is it to humans?
• The similarities between temperature and heat.

Other Topics to Research for Middle School

We cannot run out of topics for middle schoolers, as several aspects are available to look at. Here are some other topics that can jump-start your essay writing process.

• Is it advisable for students to be with their cell phones all day?
• Should the minimum age for getting a driving license be raised?
• The differences between homeschooling and standard schooling: which is better?
• Does social media have a positive or negative impact on teenagers?
• Going vegan, is it good for your health?
• Who is a Monk, and what is his lifestyle/routine?
• How did humans domesticate cats and dogs, and why?
• How is America helping endangered animals?
• How is climate change affecting us?
• What are the effects of video games on teenagers and children?
• Do Athletes make good models?
• Who is to blame for the number of homeless people in America?
• Should we have shorter school weeks?
• Should parents monitor websites visited by their children?
• What is cybercrime?
• What can we don’t protect our environment?
• Instant messaging, do they affect literacy?
• What are the most effective ways of achieving academic excellence?
• What is a good movie that influenced us in 2023?
• Are tests a good way of judging a student’s intelligence?
• How does music help us feel better?
• How to choose the best research project ideas for middle school students.
• Why is it important to learn multiple languages?
• Do learning techniques affect behavior?
• Bullying and its effects on mental health.
• All you need to know about distant learning
• Should prayer be part of school activities?
• Do we need math formulas in real scenarios?
• When should students start undergoing leadership training?
• How to write a good essay.
• How does night vision work?
• What is the solar system?
• What is Nasa, and what do they do?
• What is a natural disaster, and what can cause one to happen?
• What is the process of becoming a president of the United States?
• How many presidents has the United States had?
• What are some of the responsibilities and privileges of the president?
• Learning about Vice Presidents and First Ladies of the United States.
• Is social media dangerous for children?
• Does the location where you grow up affect who you become?
• What is a participation trophy? Is it necessary?
• Should there be a screen time limit for children?
• What are the responsibilities of a government to its citizens?
• What is a curfew, and why do kids have them?
• Is grounding an effective punishment?
• Should physical education be necessary for everyone?
• What are some advantages of knowing how to read?
• How can cell phones be used productively while in class?
• What are the qualities of a good leader?
• What are hobbies, and what do they do for us?
• Should less homework be given to students?
• What is summer school? Does it help students?
• What age is appropriate for children to be left alone at home?

If You Need Paper Writing Help

There are many ways to brainstorm ideas for your middle school homework. The research project ideas for middle school and the topics listed above will make it easier to begin. After picking a suitable topic, the next step is writing the entire paper. This will involve a lot of research and fact-finding to get accurate information for your paper. It doesn’t end at research, as you still have to write a great essay to score high marks. This could be a daunting task for many students. Don’t be afraid to get research paper help from our professional writers. After attending class, you may not have adequate time to write your essay yourself, if this is your situation, it’s okay to search for help on the internet. A quick google search for “write my paper” will result in several websites promising to write the best essay for you. However, you need to make your research before hiring an online writer for your assignment. If you need someone to write your assignment, we can be of help. We provide fast, reliable, custom paper writing services that can be completed online. Our services are available to every student, including university, middle school, high school, and college students. Our team of writers consists of professionals and teachers who are always available to ensure that you meet your deadlines. Contact us with a message “ do my research paper for me ” and enjoy the perfect result!

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How To Write A Research Paper

History Research Paper Topics

200+ Outstanding History Research Paper Topics With Expert Tips

24 min read

Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Research papers might be tedious and time-consuming for some high school and university students. However, you might have no trouble writing a successful paper if you choose a good research topic. 

Some professors assign topics and make the topic-selection process easy for students. However, sometimes teachers leave it to students and allow them to choose a topic of their own choice.  

If that’s the case then you’re at the right spot!

Read on to find interesting and catchy history research paper topics. Also, get tips on how to select the best topic for your paper. 

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History Research Paper Topics for College Students

• How could World War II be prevented?
• British Colonialism: How did it affect life in several parts of the world?
• Allied occupation in Japan.
• The role of religion in everyday life during the middle ages
• The life and achievements of Alexander of Macedonia
• The impact of science on sculptures in Ancient Greece
• Explain the term “popular sovereignty.”
• How does the Aztec military compare to the Spanish army?
• Why is Frederick Douglass such an important person in American History?
• Evidence and significance of symbolism in Ancient Egypt

History Research Paper Topics India

• What are the European Influences Evident in Indian Culture?
• Prevention of Cyber Crimes: Legal Strategies in India
• The establishment of the British East India company
• What is the impact of Indian art on other cultures?
• Impacts of the first world war on British policies in India
• Influence of Hinduism on early Indian art
• The issues of the partitioning of India in 1947
• The political activism of Dalits in India
• India’s nuclear weapons program.
• Mohandas Gandhi's involvement with Indian independence

History Research Paper Topics Philippines

• History of the Philippines from different perspectives.
• Historical analysis of inter-regional migration in the Philippines
• The Barrio Government System's Foundations
• The Philippines Communist Party has a long history.
• Commerce with the Chinese
• The Aftermath of Magellan's Death
• The United States colonized the Philippines.
• The Philippines' Fire Mummies
• Christian-Muslim relations in the Philippines
• Under the Maura law of 1893, municipal governments were reorganized.

History Research Paper Topics 1900s

• What was the role of women in the 1900s?
• The Russian Revolution lasted for ten days in the 1900s.
• Describe fast food in the early 1900s.
• What traditions followed in the 1900s?
•  The New York subway opens-innovation and science
• What is the ancient history of the 1900s?
• What did the western world think of the Middle East in the early 1900s?
• The most impressive growth happened in the 1900s.
• Events that caused the beginning of World War I
• Gender and US literature, 1830–1900

History Research Paper Topics Before 1877

Here are some middle ages research topics to help you select the perfect historical theme.

• The role of faith in American history before 1877 and after.
• The U.S. revolution history before 1877
• The first landing of Christopher Columbus and the new world
• Why was the Bill of Rights added to the Constitution?
• In what ways did the Compromise of 1877 affect politics?
• The role of civil war before 1877
• Cause and Effect- History before 1877.
• What effect did the compromise of 1877 have on politics in the North and South?
• The world history has some relation with 1877
• The role of labor before 1877

History Research Paper Topics Before 1500

Before 1500 is mostly referred to ancient history. So here are some ancient history research topics for your ease.

• The early history of Franks.
• Who were the five “Good Emperors” of Rome?
• Empire and religion in the Middle East 1200-500 BCE 
• What was it like to live in London during the 15th century?
• An overview of the world from prehistory to 1500 CE
• Early Modern History 1500-1700
• The cold war history 
• The American revolution history
• World civilization 
• Why do monarchies still exist around the globe?

History Research Paper Topics 20th Century

Here are some amazing 20th century history research paper topics to select from:

• Scientific advancements in the dark ages
• Why should America rebuild New Orleans?
• Apollo 8 and the story of the first-ever voyage to the moon.
• How did the US become the world’s largest industrial nation?
• Islamic empire
• San Francisco before and after the great earthquake and fire
• Fashion in the 20th century
• What caused the division in Christian values of the 20th century?
• Analysis of Eastern Civilization vs. Western Civilizations
• Ancient Rome and civilian life

History Research Paper Topics for Middle School

• Is racial discrimination still a part of American society?
• Fire Mummies of the Philippines
• Rise of mafia
• Color psychology in the works of Kazimir Malevich.
• How did the Apartheid period impact global politics?
• A comparison between communism and capitalism.
• Establishment of a new government
• Mozart’s music: a phenomenal case study.
• Marriage, divorce, and children in Ancient Rome

Art History Research Paper Topics

• The depiction of beauty in ancient art
• Why is photogravure used more than encaustic painting?
• The costumes of the early Italian Renaissance in 1420-1490.
• The determining factor behind the main principles of Medieval art
• The Chiaroscuro and its role in the history of art
• Biblical motives in the early paintings of Leonardo da Vinci.
• Where you can locate gifted Russian artists
• Discuss the history of printmaking
• Hidden messages in famous works of art
• Discuss the development and importance of photography in art history. 

Struggling to understand the worth of these topics? Watch this video to understand how to ace your history class

European History Research Paper Topics

• 19th-century European literacy
• Medieval economic history
• Discuss 1984 with respect to the 20th-century history of Europe
• Did women have any position in the history of Germany?
• Events leading to World War I
• Who was Europe’s most influential composer?
• The role of politics in the spread of Christianity across Europe  
• How did Venetian history affect present Europe?
• Nationalism in Europe
• Gender bias in 18th century Britain.

US History Research Paper Topics

• Confederate monuments in the United States
• The aftermath of the Battle of Chattanooga
• Amelia Earhart: Who was she? What is the truth about her life and death?
• Discuss the emergence of joint-stock companies. 
• The beginning of slavery in British America and the Middle Passage.
• German-American immigration in 1854-1894
• What important role did the Militia play in the revolution?
• History of New York City in the 19th century.
• Slavery in the USA
• Should Immigration be banned?

Interesting History Research Paper Topics

• What caused Hitler's rise to power?
• The significance of the French Revolution in world history
• Reasons why nationalism is becoming popular worldwide
• Analysis of the daily lives of medieval Europe’s peasants
• What were the prominent features of the Roman Empire?
• Human sacrifices in the world of ancient Maya.
• The history of Native Americans
• Discuss the African American soldiers bravery
• Explain the economic conditions of the world in ancient times?
• Is a great depression possible today?

African American History Research Paper Topics for College Student

• The genre of the black popular music
• The changes in schooling in the 19th century
• African Americans during the civil war
• Exploring the low-income black college students life
• 1968 democratic convention in Chicago
• The politics of race and class in the age of Obama
• Women’s suffrage movement
• Terror trophies of WWI in America.
• African countries’ reliance on the west and how the west is taking advantage of this.
• The genre of black popular music

Women's History Research Paper Topics

• How did women contribute to the labor force in WWI?
• The fight for equal suffrage and its outcome
• The role of women in Ancient Rome 
• Women’s rights during World War II: a brief overview
• The impact of Elizabeth I on gender roles and feminism.
• Discuss history from the female perspective
• Analyze gender roles in the 20th century
• The representation of women in the media
• Discuss the role of women in a developing country
• Rise of feminism in 21st-century America.

World History Research Paper Topics

Check out these famous history topics for your next essay:

• The significance of the industrial revolution to world history
• The role of Genghis Khan in the Mongol Empire
• Exploring maritime trade routes in medieval times.
• Discuss the silk road and its impact on global trade 
• Roman colosseum: an iconic symbol of ancient rome
• Analysis of Islamic caliphates’ conquest in the 7th century
• Impact of world war II on the global society
• The rise and fall of Napoleonic France
• Rise and fall of The Ming Dynasty 
• The cold war: its influences on world politics. 

Best US History Research Paper Topics

• The civil rights movement and its achievements 
• The US Constitution: Its evolution and modern role
• Impact of religion on political decisions in America 
• Analyze the impact of transatlantic slavery on US economy 
• The Vietnam war: Was it a justified conflict ?
• The role of the American Revolution in world history Analyze the military tactics used during World War I
• Was the Watergate scandal a turning point in US History?
• Impact of environmental movements in changing political views.  
•  The significance of Westward Expansion in US History. 

U.S. Civil War Topics

• Impact of the surrender of Appomattox on the North and South 
• The role of Abraham Lincoln in the US Civil War
• Discuss the roles played by women during the civil war
• Significance of military strategies used in battles
• Effects of Reconstruction policy on US Economy 
• The role of African American soldiers in the US Civil War
• Analysis of the political decisions leading to the US civil war 
• Impact of technology in the US Civil War 
• Was secession a justified response and what were its consequences?  
• Exploring how different states participated in the civil war.

French Revolution Topics

• Discuss the role of Robespierre in the French Revolution 
• Was the Reign of Terror justified? 
• Impact of Philosophers on Revolutionary Ideas 
• The role of women in the French Revolution  
• Analysis of Napoleon’s rule and its effects on France 
• Exploring the socio-economic causes leading to the Revolution 
• Impact of the French Revolution on global history  
• Analysis of the importance of trading agreements to France’s economy 
• The significance of US support for the French Revolution 
• Was the Declaration of Rights just a political move? 

Related: Read this rubric for historical essays to craft a compelling essay

History Project Topics 

• The history of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• The impact of World War II on the global economy
• The rise and fall of the British Empire
• The history of apartheid in South Africa
• The impact of the French Revolution on European politics and society
• The history of the Cold War
• The role of women in the American Revolution
• The impact of the Industrial Revolution on labor and society
• The history of the American Westward Expansion
• The legacy of colonialism in Latin America

Great Depression Research Topics

• The role of the US government in alleviating poverty during the Great Depression 
• Impact of trade policies on global economies 
• Discuss Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal 
• The effects of the economic downturn on women and minorities 
• Analysis of Hoovervilles and its impact on public opinion  
• Exploring the role of the media in shaping public opinion during the Great Depression 
• Discuss the gold standard and its impact on global markets 
• Examining US foreign policies during the Great Depression 
• Impact of labor unions on wages and working conditions during the Great Depression 
• Significance of Jazz music, literature, and art during the era.

World War II Topics

• Analyzing the roles of military intelligence in Allied victory 
• Examining the role of women during World War II 
• The significance of rationing programs to the war effort 
• Discuss Japanese internment camps and their implications  
• Exploring how different countries participated in World War II 
• Analysis of the tactics used in major battles 
• The role of propaganda in influencing public opinion during the war 
• Impact of German Blitzkrieg tactics on Allied forces 
• Significance of technology in World War II 
• Discuss the impact of Holocaust on European culture.

European and United States History

• Examining the role of the Medici family in Italian Renaissance
• Exploring the causes and consequences of the French Revolution
• Impact of colonialism on African countries
• Discussing the roles played by European women during WWI and WWII
• Analyzing how different religions influenced medieval Europe 
• The significance of the industrial revolution in Europe
• Exploring how the slave trade affected economies of European countries
• Discussing the role and impact of NATO on world politics
• Analyzing US foreign policies during the Cold War 
• Impact of various civil rights movements on American society.

American Revolution Battles & Key Events

• The Battle of Bunker Hill 
• The Siege of Yorktown 
• Exploring the role of General Washington’s leadership in the Revolution  
• Discussing the impact of French involvement in the war 
• Analysis of British naval tactics used during the war 
• Examining how loyalists participated in the American Revolution 
• Discussing the significance of the Declaration of Independence 
• The role of African Americans and Native Americans during the war 
• Impact of taxes on public opinion prior to the revolution  
• Exploring Continental Army tactics and strategies used in battles.

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Industrial Revolution Essay Paper Topics

• The impact of industrialization on working class lives
• Examining the role of steam power in boosting production
• Discussing how inventions changed people’s lives during this period
• Exploring the role of migrant workers in the industrial revolution 
• Analysis of factories and their effects on society
• Discussing how industrialization benefited wealthy landowners
• Examining the role of unions in promoting labor rights
• Impact of new technologies on transportation and communication
• Exploring how cities were affected by industrialization 
• Discussing successes and failures of the industrial revolution.

Related: List of good research paper topics for your history paper.

Tips for Choosing the Best History Research Paper Topic

The following are the tips for choosing the best history research paper topic that our writers recommend. This will give you an idea of which research topic is considered good.

• Choose a topic that meets your teacher’s requirements.
• Pick a topic that is relevant and unique.
• Do some research and then pick the topic for your research paper.
• Read different research papers and get ideas from them for your topic.
• Find history paper topics from reliable sources and study them.
• Avoid choosing a topic that is too broad and simple.
• Get help from the paper writing service writers. 
• Keep the audience’s interest in mind and then choose the topic.

These unique history research topics tips will surely help you select the thought-provoking historical topic. 

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Go Back: Virtual Middle School Library Home / Web Sites for Students Menu / Social Studies Menu / U. S. History

United States History

The Thirteen Colonies | The American Revolution | From the Constitutional Convention to 1860 | The Civil War | From Reconstruction to 1900 | The Twentieth Century | General Information | People of America |

The Thirteen Colonies

• The Age of Exploration - Christopher Columbus and all of the other explorers who traveled far and discovered the new world. From the Mariners Park and Museum
• History of Jamestown - English settlement in 1606.
• Mayflower History - The Mayflower Compact, the Mayflower passenger list, and lots more information on the first permanent settlement in New England.
• The Pilgrim Story - The history of the Pilgrims from Pilgrim Museum in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
• The Road to American Revolution - This is a history of the 13 colonies. Check the menus on this page for more information. This is from Thought Co.
• Colonial Williamsburg - Visit a colonial town.
• USHistory.Org - Information on colonial Philadelphia, and links to other American history sites. By the Independence Hall Association of Philadelphia
• Virtual Tour of Historic Philadelphia - Take a tour of the most historic mile in America. See Independence Hall, Carpenters Hall, The Liberty Bell and much, much more.
• Explore Pennsylvania History - Information about the history of the state.
• Fort Necessity - The French and Indian war started at this fort in Pennsylvania.
• The French and Indian War - A YouTube video by Watertown High School.
• The French and Indian War Timeline - From PBS.

The Revolution and the Writing of the Consitiution

• Seven Black Heroes of the American Revolution - From History.com
• Uniforms of the American Revolution - From the Boston Tea Party Museum.
• The Museum of the American Revolution - A great place to visit in Philadelphia.
• The Philadelphia Campaign 1777 - Revolutionary war battles in the Philadelphia area - includes Germantown, Brandywine, Whitemarsh, and Valley Forge.
• Historic Valley Forge - Visit the site of the winter camp of the Colonial army during the Revolutionary War.
• The Betsy Ross Homepage - Information on the history of the US flag.
• The Revolutionary War in the South - Important battles for American freedom were fought in the Southern States.
• The War in the South - a video about the war in the Southern States.
• The Declaration of Independence - See a copy of the Declaration and read about its history.
• Important American Historical Documents - The Declaration of Indepence, the Constitution and other important document. This is from Ben's Guide to the Government.
• The Constitutional Convention

From the Constitutional Convention to 1860

• Lewis and Clark - For two years, Lewis and Clark explored the western part of North America.
• The War of 1812 Website - This site has articles, a chronology and battle maps.
• The Star Spangled Banner - Inspired by the raising of the flag over Fort McHenry in 1814, Francis Scott Key wrote the words for our national anthem.
• The Erie Canal: A Brief History - Opened in 1825 in New York, this canal was important to the growth of the young United States.
• The Donner Party - Logs of the members of a wagon train who were trapped in the snow in the mountains of the west in the years of 1846 - 1847.
• The Mexican War - One page summary of the Mexican war.
• The Oregon Trail - OK, you've played the game, now learn more about the trail.
• The California Gold Rush - The discovery of gold in California caused many people to travel to California in 1849 and the years after this.
• The Discovery of Gold in California - John A. Sutter tells how he discovered the gold in California.
• The Pony Express - Early way to deliver mail by very daring riders.
• I Will Be Heard - Abolitionism in America. This site tells about the history of movement to abolish slavery. It also has biographies of abolitionists.
• Journeys to Freedom - The Underground Railroad. From the US National Park Service.

The Civil War

• The Civil War - A chronology of the Civil War.
• The Civil War - This site has lots of information about the war. Look at some of the Harper's Weekly magazines which have articles and pictures of the war.
• Eyewitness History: The Civil War - Real people describe the historical events that they lived through.
• Manassas Battlefield - Site of the first and second battles of Bull Run (Manassas).
• Antietum - Sept. 17, 1862. The bloodiest battle of the Civil War.
• Vicksburg - The battle for Vicksburg was conducted from March to July of 1863.
• The Battle of Gettysburg - from Ducksters.
• Sherman's March to the Sea
• Appomattox Court House - Where the Civil War ended.

From Reconstruction to 1900

• The Transcontinental Railroad - Americans could now cross the continent by train. From Ducksters
• The Gilded Age - The time period between 1865 and 1901 which saw industrial prosperity, westward expansion, the arrival of many immigrants, and the beginning of the formation of labor unions.
• The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow - A century of struggle for rights for African Americans which begins with Reconstruction. From PBS
• The Western Indian Wars - "If white men take my country, where can I go" - Sitting Bull.
• The Cattle Trails - The cowboys brought beef from the ranch and into the American diet.
• The Age of Imperialism - The history of the US during the late 19th and early 20th century. Expansion of the US interests to Pacific and Latin America.
• Timeline of the Woman's Rights Movement - from Infoplease.
• Votes for Women - A history of how women got the vote. This site has nice time line.
• The Spanish American War - An introduction.
• The Spanish American War in Motion Pictures - the first time that the motion picture camera was used to film a war.

The Twentieth Century

• World War I Facts - From National Geographic.
• The Jazz Age - An age of spending, prohibition, the Harlem Renaissance, and jazz.
• The Great Depression - Many Americans lost their jobs and their money. Western farms suffered from a long drought, and many farmers had to move.
• The New Deal - America during FDR's administration between 1930 and 1940.
• World War Two - The United Kingdom in World War II by the BBC.
• The Korean War - Information from InfoPlease.
• The Civil Rights Timeline - a history of the modern civil rights movement. From Infoplease.
• The Vietnam Veterans Memorial - A monument to theleast popular war in American history.
• The First Gulf War - 1990 - 1991. America secures its oil interests in the Persian Gulf.
• The Iraq Timeline - A history of Iraq and its wars.

Other Information

• America's Story - Introduction to American history and geography. Meet amazing Americans, visit the states, travel in time, and learn about America's music.
• The American Currency Exhibit - The history of money in the United States. There are lots of illustrations.
• Historical Maps of the United States - From the Perry Castenada Map Collection.
• Nature Transformed: The Effect of Environment on American History - Essays on the impact of the environment on the development of America.
• The American Memory - A variety of topics in American history illustrated with photos and other materials from the Library of Congress.
• The American Experience - Videos and articles from PBS

The People Who Make America

• America's Stone Age Explorers - Who were the first inhabitants of the Americas and where did they come from?.
• Index of Native American Resources on the Internet - A good starting point for your search for information on Native Americans.
• Native American Nations - Links to web site by and about Native American tribes.
• NativeTech: Native American Technology and Art - The arts and crafts of New England's native Americans. Very clear explanations of how the native Americans used beadwork, plants, weaving, and pottery.
• The Indians of Pennsylvania
• K-12 Electronic Guide for African Resources on the Internet - From the University of Pennsylvania.
• The African-American Mosaic - Exhibits on African-American history from the Library of Congress.
• Famous Arab Americans
• Asian-Nation: The Landscape of Asian Americans - information on the history and culture of Asian-Americans.
• Ancestors in America - This site has a timeline and links to other Asian-American web sites. By PBS.
• Ellis Island - Huge numbers of immigrants to American came through Ellis Island in the 1800's and 1900's.
• Jews in America - From the Jewish Virtual Library.
• The National Museum of American Jewish History - Located in Philadelphia

This site is maintained by Linda Bertland, retired school librarian. Please address any comments, additions, or corrections to [email protected].

• Our Mission

7 Strategies to Captivate Students in History Class

These subtle tweaks to lessons can tap into the drama of historical moments and ignite student curiosity.

When high school history teacher Alex Brouhard mentions his job to other adults, he often hears a similar response: “I disliked the subject in school, but now I find it interesting.”

This left Brouhard with a nagging question: If people tend to enjoy history as adults, why do so many middle and high school students report feeling bored and uninterested in the topic?

Students often say that history lessons are full of “dates, people, and places which often require rote memorization,” Brouhard writes in an article for EdSurge . But “if taught with the intent to inspire and engage, history is far from boring or monotone.”

Over time, Brouhard developed strategies in his high school classroom to connect his students more deeply to the topic—such as starting units at dramatic moments in history and finding ways to bring family and local history into lessons.

Building on the approaches Brouhard lays out—and several others shared by educators—these subtle tweaks to existing lesson plans can help make your history classes more engaging to students.

FOCUS ON INDIVIDUALS TO BUILD CONNECTION

History teachers too often focus on the big picture, says Brouhard, but the stories of individuals are typically more engrossing and “can help students feel more emotionally invested in the history they’re learning.”

For example, instead of lecturing students about military tactics used during World War I, have them read about it from the perspective of someone who was there: “Describing what trench warfare entailed is one thing, but reading a firsthand account of a soldier who lived through it—exposed to rats and standing in frigid water amidst piled-up bodies—is another,” Brouhard writes.

Making an effort to humanize historical figures—without shying away from discussing their mistakes and flaws—can help students relate to prominent individuals in our past and develop a better understanding of their decisions, says eighth-grade history teacher Lauren Brown in an article for MiddleWeb . “All the famous characters in history had key moments in their childhood or early adulthood that helped shape who they became—tell students about those moments.”  

To incorporate more first-person accounts into history lessons, educator and author Jennifer Gonzalez recommends presenting oral histories from witnesses of specific events or trends in the past—or even the present.

EXAMINE HISTORY FROM OTHER PERSPECTIVES

When covering a global historical event, showing students how other countries describe that same event—through old newspaper articles, textbooks, or other online sources—can help them broaden their perspective and discover that descriptions of the same event diverge widely depending on who is telling the story.

When teaching about the Vietnam War, John DeRose, a history teacher from Wisconsin, has students compare their textbook’s account of the war with that of a Vietnamese textbook or newspaper article. Students can be split into groups to discuss the differences between the accounts—or even debate which they think is more accurate and why, DeRose writes .

During a unit on the Spanish-American war, history teacher William Colglazier has students read excerpts from Cuban and Filipino textbooks, which suggest that the USS Maine was deliberately sunk by an explosion caused by American spies. The controversial claim—sort of like the conspiracy theories that kids may encounter online—tends to interest students, and Colglazier has them practice using the analytical skills of a historian to research the claim and attempt (unsuccessfully) to find credible sources that corroborate it.

START WITH THE JUICY PART

Many history teachers feel that it’s most natural to teach a historical era chronologically. But often, the most exciting part of the story is in the middle, or even at the end. So, why not start there?

For example, when teaching World War I, “rather than explaining Balkan nationalism, start with the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, which provides an immediate point of interest and relevance for students,” suggests Brouhard. Or, you could start a unit on the civil rights era with Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous March on Washington—then work backward to explore why such a march was necessary in the first place. 

“This approach is similar to a TV crime show that reveals the body in the first minute and then spends the rest of the show assembling evidence,” Brouhard writes.

TRY AI TO BRING HISTORY TO LIFE

If you’ve ever wished you could bring Abraham Lincoln or Albert Einstein to class as a guest speaker, artificial intelligence may be able to offer the next best thing, edtech professor Maureen Yoder said in a presentation at ISTE 2023 .

AI chatbots like Hello History allow students to have text-based conversations with models trained to imitate historical figures. Students can grill Cleopatra about the specific challenges that women leaders face or ask Gandhi about what it felt like to go on a hunger strike. Hello History has dozens of figures to choose from, but the free version limits users to 20 messages per day. For longer conversations, students can turn to ChatGPT and prompt it: “For the rest of this conversation, please role-play as [historical figure].”

Given that AI-generated responses are far from reliable, historian and history educator Jonathan S. Jones drives students’ critical thinking by asking them to scrutinize history-related output from ChatGPT and look for “factual errors and information that was missing crucial context.”

GET INTO CHARACTER

To bring history to life, ask students to step in the shoes of the historical figures they’re learning about. (Use your best judgment, of course, as some figures and historical events may be inappropriate for classroom reenactment.)

One monthlong project-based learning project —developed in conjunction with Lucas Education Research—has students serve as delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. Through discussions and debates, students develop their understanding of the founders’ goals and intentions and how those intentions still shape our lives today.

These activities can be modified for use in individual lessons, too. For example, in one class period, students can take the role of federalists and anti-federalists and debate how much power should be concentrated in the hands of the federal government and how much in the state governments. They can even consider how this debate is still shaping current-day issues like immigration policy.

BRING HISTORY CLOSER TO HOME

When discussing global wars, Brouhard brings his great-grandfather’s World War I uniform into class (students are always fascinated by the dent in the metal helmet) and reads excerpts from his other great-grandfather’s journal detailing his time as a prisoner of war in Germany during World War II.

To connect his students to the history they’re learning about, Brouhard encourages them to bring historical artifacts from their own families to class for show and tell. This might include old photos, diaries, magazines and publications, or, according to educator Rebecca Alber , interesting keepsakes—like an older relative’s quinceañera invitation or a military lapel pin from the Vietnam War.

Educator and director of technology Kevin Brookhouser says students can also create their own oral histories by writing up questions and interviewing elders in their family or community to gain their perspective on important events and issues they might be studying in class. “This is not just about sharing family stories; it’s the academic work of a historian, creating primary sources,” Brookhouser writes .

Teaching students about the history in their own backyard can also make topics more personal, says high school history and government teacher Benjamin Barbour . There are a variety of local sites that can make for interesting history-oriented field trips, such as nonprofits and civic organizations, nearby colleges and universities, long-standing local businesses, and even cemeteries. Primary sources from the library or local historical societies are useful too. In a unit on slavery, Katie Durkin’s eighth-grade students in Wilton, Connecticut, visited the library to deepen their understanding of slavery in their town by “reading letters from townspeople, looking at paintings and images, and piecing together the role townspeople played as both enslavers and abolitionists.”

GAMIFY YOUR HISTORY LESSON

There are several free, online platforms that offer a wide variety of history and social studies games that can help enliven lessons.

Mission US : Mission US offers seven detailed, story-driven games based on different eras in American history. Each game takes an hour or two to finish, but they save players’ progress and can be completed in multiple sittings. For example, in “ For Crown or Colony? ” students play as a printer’s apprentice in 1770 Boston and interact with both patriots and loyalists to decide where their loyalties lie. “Along the way, they engage in empathy and explore issues of liberty, equality, and perspective,” writes educator Rebecca Rufo-Tepper .

iCivics : iCivics offers about 20 games with modern, animated graphics designed to teach kids about U.S. governance—such as “ Do I Have a Right? ,” a game that simulates running a civil rights law firm, and “ LawCraft ,” which challenges students to craft a bill and try to get it through Congress. The games boost interest in subject matter “that might otherwise be boring to 12- and 13-year-olds,” writes educator Matthew Farber .

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History teachers, if you have a method for bringing historical subjects to life and boosting classroom engagement, please let fellow educators know in the comments.

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The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer!

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge round-up of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

• Argumentative Essay Topics
• Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
• Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
• Descriptive Essay Topics
• Expository and Informative Essay Topics
• Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

• Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
• Personal Essay Topics
• Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some possible argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

• The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
• The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
• All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
• Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
• The best country in the world is …
• Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
• Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
• Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

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• Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
• Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
• Does social media do more harm than good?
• Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
• What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
• Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
• Are men and women treated equally?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

• Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
• Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
• What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
• Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

• How does playing sports affect people?
• What are the effects of loving to read?
• Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
• What effect does violence in movies or video games have on kids?
• Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
• Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

• Public and private schools
• Capitalism vs. communism
• Monarchy or democracy
• Dogs vs. cats as pets

• Paper books or e-books
• Two political candidates in a current race
• Going to college vs. starting work full-time
• Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
• iPhone or Android
• Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

• Who is the funniest person you know?
• What is your happiest memory?
• Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
• Write about your favorite place.
• When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
• Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
• What is your earliest memory?

• What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
• Describe your favorite pet.
• What is the most important item in the world to you?
• Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
• Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
• Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
• Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
• Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( See 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

• What makes a good leader?
• Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
• What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
• Describe how the internet changed the world.
• What does it mean to be a good teacher?

• Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
• Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
• Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
• Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
• What does “financial responsibility” mean?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

• What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
• What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
• Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
• Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.

• Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
• Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
• Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
• Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
• Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

• Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
• Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
• Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
• Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .

• Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
• Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
• Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
• Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
• Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics.

• Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
• Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
• Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
• Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
• Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.

• Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
• Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
• Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
• Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
• Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
• What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
• Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
• Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
• Tell about your proudest moment.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience, so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

• Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
• Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
• What animal makes the best pet?
• Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
• Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
• Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
• Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
• The best music genre is …

• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Is capitalism the best form of economy?
• Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
• Should schools have dress codes?
• If I could change one school rule, it would be …
• Is year-round school a good idea?

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

• Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
• Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
• Describe the causes and effects of a specific war.
• Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
• What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?

• Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
• Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
• Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
• Choose one animal from the endangered species list, and propose a realistic plan to protect it.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

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What the data says about gun deaths in the U.S.

More Americans died of gun-related injuries in 2021 than in any other year on record, according to the latest available statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That included record numbers of both gun murders and gun suicides. Despite the increase in such fatalities, the rate of gun deaths – a statistic that accounts for the nation’s growing population – remained below the levels of earlier decades.

Here’s a closer look at gun deaths in the United States, based on a Pew Research Center analysis of data from the CDC, the FBI and other sources. You can also read key public opinion findings about U.S. gun violence and gun policy .

This Pew Research Center analysis examines the changing number and rate of gun deaths in the United States. It is based primarily on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The CDC’s statistics are based on information contained in official death certificates, while the FBI’s figures are based on information voluntarily submitted by thousands of police departments around the country.

For the number and rate of gun deaths over time, we relied on mortality statistics in the CDC’s WONDER database covering four distinct time periods:  1968 to 1978 ,  1979 to 1998 ,  1999 to 2020 , and 2021 . While these statistics are mostly comparable for the full 1968-2021 period, gun murders and suicides between 1968 and 1978 are classified by the CDC as involving firearms  and  explosives; those between 1979 and 2021 are classified as involving firearms only. Similarly, gun deaths involving law enforcement between 1968 and 1978 exclude those caused by “operations of war”; those between 1979 and 2021 include that category, which refers to gun deaths among military personnel or civilians  due to war or civil insurrection in the U.S . All CDC gun death estimates in this analysis are adjusted to account for age differences over time and across states.

The FBI’s statistics about the types of firearms used in gun murders in 2020 come from the bureau’s  Crime Data Explorer website . Specifically, they are drawn from the expanded homicide tables of the agency’s  2020 Crime in the United States report . The FBI’s statistics include murders and non-negligent manslaughters involving firearms.

How many people die from gun-related injuries in the U.S. each year?

In 2021, the most recent year for which complete data is available, 48,830 people died from gun-related injuries in the U.S., according to the CDC. That figure includes gun murders and gun suicides, along with three less common types of gun-related deaths tracked by the CDC: those that were accidental, those that involved law enforcement and those whose circumstances could not be determined. The total excludes deaths in which gunshot injuries played a contributing, but not principal, role. (CDC fatality statistics are based on information contained in official death certificates, which identify a single cause of death.)

What share of U.S. gun deaths are murders and what share are suicides?

Though they tend to get less public attention than gun-related murders, suicides have long accounted for the majority of U.S. gun deaths . In 2021, 54% of all gun-related deaths in the U.S. were suicides (26,328), while 43% were murders (20,958), according to the CDC. The remaining gun deaths that year were accidental (549), involved law enforcement (537) or had undetermined circumstances (458).

What share of all murders and suicides in the U.S. involve a gun?

About eight-in-ten U.S. murders in 2021 – 20,958 out of 26,031, or 81% – involved a firearm. That marked the highest percentage since at least 1968, the earliest year for which the CDC has online records. More than half of all suicides in 2021 – 26,328 out of 48,183, or 55% – also involved a gun, the highest percentage since 2001.

How has the number of U.S. gun deaths changed over time?

The record 48,830 total gun deaths in 2021 reflect a 23% increase since 2019, before the onset of the coronavirus pandemic .

Gun murders, in particular, have climbed sharply during the pandemic, increasing 45% between 2019 and 2021, while the number of gun suicides rose 10% during that span.

The overall increase in U.S. gun deaths since the beginning of the pandemic includes an especially stark rise in such fatalities among children and teens under the age of 18. Gun deaths among children and teens rose 50% in just two years , from 1,732 in 2019 to 2,590 in 2021.

How has the rate of U.S. gun deaths changed over time?

While 2021 saw the highest total number of gun deaths in the U.S., this statistic does not take into account the nation’s growing population. On a per capita basis, there were 14.6 gun deaths per 100,000 people in 2021 – the highest rate since the early 1990s, but still well below the peak of 16.3 gun deaths per 100,000 people in 1974.

The gun murder rate in the U.S. remains below its peak level despite rising sharply during the pandemic. There were 6.7 gun murders per 100,000 people in 2021, below the 7.2 recorded in 1974.

The gun suicide rate, on the other hand, is now on par with its historical peak. There were 7.5 gun suicides per 100,000 people in 2021, statistically similar to the 7.7 measured in 1977. (One caveat when considering the 1970s figures: In the CDC’s database, gun murders and gun suicides between 1968 and 1978 are classified as those caused by firearms and explosives. In subsequent years, they are classified as deaths involving firearms only.)

Which states have the highest and lowest gun death rates in the U.S.?

The rate of gun fatalities varies widely from state to state. In 2021, the states with the highest total rates of gun-related deaths – counting murders, suicides and all other categories tracked by the CDC – included Mississippi (33.9 per 100,000 people), Louisiana (29.1), New Mexico (27.8), Alabama (26.4) and Wyoming (26.1). The states with the lowest total rates included Massachusetts (3.4), Hawaii (4.8), New Jersey (5.2), New York (5.4) and Rhode Island (5.6).

The results are somewhat different when looking at gun murder and gun suicide rates separately. The places with the highest gun murder rates in 2021 included the District of Columbia (22.3 per 100,000 people), Mississippi (21.2), Louisiana (18.4), Alabama (13.9) and New Mexico (11.7). Those with the lowest gun murder rates included Massachusetts (1.5), Idaho (1.5), Hawaii (1.6), Utah (2.1) and Iowa (2.2). Rate estimates are not available for Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont or Wyoming.

The states with the highest gun suicide rates in 2021 included Wyoming (22.8 per 100,000 people), Montana (21.1), Alaska (19.9), New Mexico (13.9) and Oklahoma (13.7). The states with the lowest gun suicide rates were Massachusetts (1.7), New Jersey (1.9), New York (2.0), Hawaii (2.8) and Connecticut (2.9). Rate estimates are not available for the District of Columbia.

How does the gun death rate in the U.S. compare with other countries?

The gun death rate in the U.S. is much higher than in most other nations, particularly developed nations. But it is still far below the rates in several Latin American countries, according to a 2018 study of 195 countries and territories by researchers at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington.

The U.S. gun death rate was 10.6 per 100,000 people in 2016, the most recent year in the study, which used a somewhat different methodology from the CDC. That was far higher than in countries such as Canada (2.1 per 100,000) and Australia (1.0), as well as European nations such as France (2.7), Germany (0.9) and Spain (0.6). But the rate in the U.S. was much lower than in El Salvador (39.2 per 100,000 people), Venezuela (38.7), Guatemala (32.3), Colombia (25.9) and Honduras (22.5), the study found. Overall, the U.S. ranked 20th in its gun fatality rate that year .

How many people are killed in mass shootings in the U.S. every year?

This is a difficult question to answer because there is no single, agreed-upon definition of the term “mass shooting.” Definitions can vary depending on factors including the number of victims and the circumstances of the shooting.

The FBI collects data on “active shooter incidents,” which it defines as “one or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area.” Using the FBI’s definition, 103 people – excluding the shooters – died in such incidents in 2021 .

The Gun Violence Archive, an online database of gun violence incidents in the U.S., defines mass shootings as incidents in which four or more people are shot, even if no one was killed (again excluding the shooters). Using this definition, 706 people died in these incidents in 2021 .

Regardless of the definition being used, fatalities in mass shooting incidents in the U.S. account for a small fraction of all gun murders that occur nationwide each year.

How has the number of mass shootings in the U.S. changed over time?

The same definitional issue that makes it challenging to calculate mass shooting fatalities comes into play when trying to determine the frequency of U.S. mass shootings over time. The unpredictability of these incidents also complicates matters: As Rand Corp. noted in a research brief , “Chance variability in the annual number of mass shooting incidents makes it challenging to discern a clear trend, and trend estimates will be sensitive to outliers and to the time frame chosen for analysis.”

The FBI found an increase in active shooter incidents between 2000 and 2021. There were three such incidents in 2000. By 2021, that figure had increased to 61.

Which types of firearms are most commonly used in gun murders in the U.S.?

In 2020, the most recent year for which the FBI has published data, handguns were involved in 59% of the 13,620 U.S. gun murders and non-negligent manslaughters for which data is available. Rifles – the category that includes guns sometimes referred to as “assault weapons” – were involved in 3% of firearm murders. Shotguns were involved in 1%. The remainder of gun homicides and non-negligent manslaughters (36%) involved other kinds of firearms or those classified as “type not stated.”

It’s important to note that the FBI’s statistics do not capture the details on all gun murders in the U.S. each year. The FBI’s data is based on information voluntarily submitted by police departments around the country, and not all agencies participate or provide complete information each year.

Note: This is an update of a post originally published on Aug. 16, 2019.

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February 16, 2024 Game Over Albert Fox Cahn, Evan Enzer

Reversing the Global Backlash Against LGBTQI+ Rights

Diego Garcia Blum discusses advocating for the safety and acceptance of LGBTQI+ individuals, as well as the state of anti-LGBTQI+ legislation across the globe.

Reflections on Decades of the Racial Justice Movement

Gay McDougall discusses her decades of work on the frontlines of race, gender, and economic exploitation. 

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View and listen to all of the  Justice Matters  podcast episodes in one place.

Justice for Victims: Lessons from Around the World

Phuong Pham and Geoff Dancy discuss evidence-based, victim-centered transitional justice and its implications for peace, democracy, and human rights around the world.

Indigenous Sovereignty and Human Rights in the U.S.

Angela Riley, Chief Justice of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation and Professor at UCLA, discusses what sovereignty means for indigenous tribes in the United States.

A Human Rights-Based Approach to Mental Health

Bevin Croft and Ebony Flint from the Human Services Research Institute discuss mental health and human rights in the wake of new guidance issued in 2023 by the WHO.

Human Rights and Indigenous Rights in New Zealand

Claire Charters discusses the status of Māori representation in New Zealand's government, the right-wing pushback against indigenous rights, and more.

The Human Rights Violations of Abortion Bans

A discussion of the human rights violations caused by the reversal of  Roe v. Wade  and the move to ban abortion in the United States. 

“The Carr Center is building a bridge between ideas on human rights and the practice on the ground—and right now we're at a critical juncture around the world.”

Mathias risse, faculty director.