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Best History Research Paper Topics

Dive into the world of historical scholarship with our comprehensive guide to the best history research paper topics . Primarily designed for students tasked with writing history research papers, this guide presents a curated list of 100 exceptional topics, divided into 10 distinct categories, each with a unique historical focus. The guide offers clear and practical advice on how to choose the most compelling history research paper topics, and provides 10 handy tips on crafting an outstanding research paper. In addition to academic guidance, the guide introduces the superior writing services of iResearchNet, a reliable option for students needing customized history research papers.

Comprehensive List of Best History Research Paper Topics

The following comprehensive list of the best history research paper topics is crafted to stimulate your curiosity and ignite your passion for historical study. These topics cover a range of historical periods and geographical locations to cater to the diverse interests of history students.

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Ancient History Topics

• The Causes and Effects of the Fall of the Roman Empire
• Daily Life in Ancient Egypt
• The Influence of Alexander the Great’s Conquests on the Hellenistic World
• The Role of Women in Spartan Society
• The Construction and Significance of the Great Wall of China
• The Impact of Confucianism on Ancient Chinese Society
• Trade Routes and their Role in the Expansion of Ancient Civilizations
• The Cultural and Political Influence of the Phoenician Civilization
• Comparing Democracy in Ancient Greece to Modern Democracy
• The Religious Practices and Beliefs of the Mayans

Medieval History Topics

• The Role of the Catholic Church in Medieval Europe
• The Impact of the Black Death on Medieval Society
• The Cultural Significance of the Knights Templar
• Gender Roles and Family Structure in Medieval Japan
• The Causes and Consequences of the Hundred Years War
• The Political Structure of the Byzantine Empire
• The Influence of the Carolingian Renaissance on Europe
• The Role of Vikings in European Trade and Exploration
• The Crusades: Causes, Events, and Consequences
• The Architecture and Symbolism of Gothic Cathedrals

Early Modern History Topics

• The Causes and Effects of the Protestant Reformation
• The Role of the Enlightenment in the French Revolution
• The Impact of the Scientific Revolution on European Society
• The Socioeconomic Consequences of the Industrial Revolution
• The Influence of the Ottoman Empire on Southeast Europe
• The Role of Slavery in the Colonial Economies
• The Politics and Culture of the Renaissance in Italy
• European Imperialism in Africa and Asia
• The Cultural and Political Impacts of the Mughal Empire
• The American Revolution: Causes, Events, and Legacy

Modern History Topics

• The Causes and Global Consequences of World War I
• The Great Depression: Causes and Effects
• The Role of Propaganda in World War II
• The Impact of the Cold War on International Relations
• The Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall and the End of the Cold War
• The Effects of Decolonization in the 20th Century
• The Role of Women in the World Wars
• The Formation and Impact of the European Union
• The Causes and Consequences of the Arab Spring

Asian History Topics

• The Cultural Impact of the Silk Road in Asia
• The Effects of Colonial Rule in India
• The Legacy of the Mongol Empire in Asia
• The Cultural and Political Changes in China’s Cultural Revolution
• The Korean War: Causes, Events, and Consequences
• The Role of Samurai in Feudal Japan
• The Impact of the Opium Wars on China
• The Influence of Buddhism on Asian Cultures
• The Cambodian Genocide under the Khmer Rouge
• The Role of Gandhi in India’s Independence

American History Topics

• The Impact of the New Deal on the American Economy
• The Vietnam War: Causes, Events, and Legacy
• The Influence of the Beat Generation on American Culture
• The Role of Manifest Destiny in Westward Expansion
• The Cuban Missile Crisis and Its Effects on the Cold War
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement in the United States
• The Native American Civil Rights Movement
• The Role of the Transcontinental Railroad in American Expansion
• The Civil War: Causes, Events, and Aftermath
• The Immigration Wave at Ellis Island: Causes and Effects

European History Topics

• The Impacts of the Russian Revolution
• The Influence of Martin Luther’s Theses on Europe
• The British Empire: Rise, Dominance, and Fall
• The Role of Art in the French Revolution
• The Impact of the Spanish Inquisition on Spain and its Colonies
• The Rise and Influence of Fascism in Europe
• The Role of the Catholic Church in the Middle Ages
• The Consequences of the Treaty of Versailles
• The Formation and Impact of NATO
• The Role of the Media in the Fall of the Berlin Wall

African History Topics

• The Effects of Apartheid in South Africa
• The Influence of the Trans-Saharan Trade on West African Societies
• The Role of Nelson Mandela in Ending Apartheid
• The Scramble for Africa and its Effects on the Continent
• The Impact of the Atlantic Slave Trade on West Africa
• The Rwandan Genocide: Causes and Consequences
• The Role of the African Union in Continental Politics
• The Impact of Islam on North Africa
• The Decolonization of Africa in the 20th Century
• The Role of Women in Pre-Colonial African Societies

Military History Topics

• The Influence of Technological Innovations on Warfare
• The Role of the French Foreign Legion in Global Conflicts
• The Impact of the Manhattan Project on World War II and Beyond
• The Role of the Spartans in Ancient Greek Warfare
• The Impact of Drones on Modern Warfare
• The Influence of the English Longbow on Medieval Warfare
• The Role of the Maginot Line in World War II
• The Impact of Naval Power on the British Empire
• The Influence of Nuclear Weapons on International Politics
• The Role of Propaganda in World War I

This expansive list of best history research paper topics offers a comprehensive exploration of the past, crossing different eras, regions, and themes. They form a rich tapestry of human experience and a foundation for understanding our present and future. Choose a topic that piques your interest, ignites your curiosity, and promises a journey of intellectual discovery. Remember that the exploration of history is a journey into the roots of our shared humanity and an exploration of the forces that shape our world.

History and What Range of Best Research Paper Topics it Offers

As a subject of study, history is more than a chronological list of events, dates, and prominent figures. History is the exploration of human experiences, societal changes, political upheavals, cultural transformations, economic shifts, and technological advancements across different periods and regions. This exploration allows us to understand how the past has shaped our present and how it can potentially shape our future. It teaches us to appreciate the complexities and nuances of human nature and society, making history a rich field for research paper topics.

History is an interdisciplinary field, interweaving elements from various areas of study, including politics, sociology, economics, anthropology, geography, and literature. This interdisciplinary nature provides a wide array of best history research paper topics. Moreover, the global scope of history further broadens the pool of topics, as it encompasses every region of the world and every period from the dawn of human civilization to the present day.

Exploring Different Periods

Historical research often focuses on specific periods, each offering unique topics for exploration. For instance, Ancient History provides topics related to ancient civilizations like Rome, Greece, Egypt, China, and India, and key events such as Alexander the Great’s conquests or the fall of the Roman Empire.

The Medieval Period offers topics related to the socio-political structure of societies, the influence of religion, the impact of plagues, and the role of significant historical figures. Researching the Renaissance can focus on cultural, artistic, and scientific revolutions that have shaped the modern world.

The Modern History category contains topics related to significant events and transformations, such as world wars, the Great Depression, the Cold War, decolonization, and various national and international movements.

Geographical Perspectives

Geographical focus is another common approach in historical research. Asian history encompasses topics ranging from the influence of Confucianism in China to the impact of colonial rule in India. European history explores events such as the Enlightenment, the French and Russian revolutions, and the formation of the European Union. American history topics can cover everything from Manifest Destiny to the Civil Rights Movement. African history can delve into the effects of the Atlantic Slave Trade, the apartheid era, and decolonization.

Thematic Approaches

In addition to period- and region-based topics, history offers an extensive range of thematic topics. These themes often intersect with other disciplines, leading to exciting interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Social and cultural history, for instance, covers diverse topics such as the influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African American culture, the counterculture movement of the 1960s, the role of film and television in shaping societies, or the impacts of the Internet on global culture.

Military history provides a wide range of topics related to warfare, strategy, technological developments, and the influence of military conflicts on societies and politics. From the use of the English longbow in medieval warfare to the impact of drones on modern warfare, this field offers a variety of fascinating topics.

Making the Right Choice

The choice of a research paper topic in history should ideally be guided by your interest, the available resources, and the requirements of your assignment. With such a wide range of topics, it can be challenging to make a choice. But remember, a good history research paper topic is not just about the past; it should also engage with the present and potentially shed light on the future. The best research paper topics are those that not only delve deep into the annals of history but also resonate with current issues and debates.

The study of history is a gateway into the vast narrative of human civilization. With an extensive range of periods, regions, and themes to choose from, history offers a rich reservoir of research paper topics. As we delve into the past, we discover the forces that have shaped our world, gain insights into the human experience, and glean lessons for our future. This journey of exploration makes history an incredibly exciting field for research papers.

How to Choose Best History Research Paper Topics

Choosing the best history research paper topic can be the first step towards a rewarding intellectual journey. It’s not just about meeting academic requirements; it’s about uncovering facets of the past that intrigue you and may potentially contribute to the broader understanding of history. Here are twenty in-depth tips that will guide you through the process and help you select the best topic for your history research paper.

• Understand the Assignment: Understanding your assignment’s requirements is the primary and most critical step in selecting a topic. Take time to carefully read the guidelines given by your instructor. Are there any specific historical periods, geographical regions, or themes you are required to focus on? Do the instructions indicate the scope or complexity level of the topic? Comprehending the parameters set by your instructor will significantly narrow down your options.
• Choose a Time Period: One way to approach the topic selection is by focusing on a particular time period that sparks your interest. It could be anything from the Bronze Age, to the Renaissance, to World War II. The more interested you are in the chosen time period, the more engaged you will be in the research process.
• Pick a Region: Similar to choosing a time period, selecting a particular region or country can also help narrow down potential topics. Are you fascinated by the history of East Asia, intrigued by ancient Egypt, or drawn to the socio-political history of Europe? Starting with a geographic focus can provide a strong foundation for your research.
• Identify a Theme: In addition to or instead of a time period or region, you might want to choose a theme that you wish to explore. Themes can range from political history, cultural history, history of science and technology, to gender history, among others. A thematic approach can offer a unique perspective and can even allow you to cross over different time periods or regions.
• Conduct Preliminary Research: Even before you have a firm topic in hand, engage in some preliminary research. This could involve reviewing textbooks, scholarly articles, or reputable online resources related to your chosen period, region, or theme. Preliminary research can give you a general sense of the historical context and inspire potential topics.
• Seek Inspiration from Existing Works: As part of your preliminary research, look at other research papers, theses, or dissertations in your area of interest. This can give you a good idea of what has been done, what gaps exist in the research, and where your research could potentially fit in.
• Scope Your Topic: The scope of your topic should be proportionate to the length and depth of your paper. If your paper is relatively short, a narrow, focused topic would be more suitable. For a longer and more complex paper, a broader topic that explores multiple facets or perspectives would be more appropriate.
• Consider the Relevance: Another aspect to consider when selecting a topic is its relevance. Does the topic have any relation to the course you are undertaking? Does it reflect on current historical or social debates? A topic that connects your historical research to broader academic or social issues can make your paper more impactful and engaging.
• Look for Unique Angles: While not every research paper can revolutionize the field, striving for some degree of originality in your work is always a good practice. Look for unique angles, underexplored areas, or new perspectives on a well-trodden topic. Presenting a fresh approach can make your paper more interesting for both you and your readers.
• Assess the Availability of Sources: Your research paper is only as good as your sources. Before finalizing your topic, make sure there are enough primary and secondary sources available to you. This could be in the form of books, academic articles, documentary films, archives, databases, or digital resources.
• Evaluate the Feasibility: Beyond the availability of sources, consider other practical aspects of your chosen topic. Is it feasible to conduct the research within the given time frame? Is the topic too complex or too simplistic for your current academic level? A realistic evaluation of these factors at an early stage can save you a lot of time and effort down the line.
• Reflect on Your Interests: Above all, select a topic that genuinely piques your curiosity. A research paper is a significant undertaking, and your interest in the topic will sustain you through potential challenges. If you are passionate about the topic, it will reflect in your writing and make your paper more compelling.
• Solicit Feedback: Seek advice from your instructor, classmates, or any other knowledgeable individuals. They may be able to provide valuable feedback, point out potential pitfalls, or suggest different perspectives that can enrich your research.
• Be Flexible: Be prepared to tweak, adjust, or even overhaul your topic as you delve deeper into the research process. New information or insights may emerge that shift your focus or challenge your initial assumptions.
• Bridge the Past and Present: Try to find topics that allow you to connect historical events or phenomena with contemporary issues. This can provide additional depth to your paper and may also appeal to a broader audience.
• Consult Specialized Encyclopedias and Guides: These can provide overviews of various topics and can often suggest areas for research. They also offer bibliographies which can serve as a starting point for your research.
• Draft a Preliminary Thesis Statement: Once you have a potential topic, try drafting a preliminary thesis statement. This can help you focus your ideas and give you a clear direction for your research.
• Ensure Your Topic Meets the Assignment Goals: Check back with your assignment guidelines to make sure your chosen topic meets all the requirements. It’s a good idea to do this before you start your in-depth research.
• Be Ready to Invest Time and Effort: Choose a topic that you are ready to spend time on. Remember, you will be working on this topic for an extended period, so choose something that you find interesting and engaging.
• Enjoy the Process: Finally, remember that the process of researching and writing a history paper can be a source of enjoyment and intellectual satisfaction. Choose a topic that not only meets academic requirements but also gives you a sense of accomplishment and discovery.

Choosing the best history research paper topic is not merely about fulfilling an academic requirement. It’s about setting the stage for a journey into the past, an exploration of humanity’s collective memory. The right topic will not only make this journey enjoyable but also deeply enlightening. By considering these tips, you can select a topic that resonates with you and holds the potential for a meaningful scholarly contribution.

How to Write a Best History Research Paper

Writing a history research paper can be a rewarding experience, providing an opportunity to delve into the past and explore the events, ideas, and personalities that have shaped our world. However, crafting a high-quality paper requires more than just an interest in the subject matter. It involves thorough research, analytical thinking, and clear, persuasive writing. Here are twenty comprehensive tips on how to write a best history research paper.

• Understand the Assignment: Begin by thoroughly understanding the assignment. Ensure you grasp the requirements, the scope of the paper, the format, and the deadline. Clear any doubts with your professor or peers before you start.
• Select a Suitable Topic: As discussed earlier, choosing an appropriate topic is crucial. It should be engaging, manageable, and meet the assignment’s requirements. Consider your interests, the available resources, and the paper’s scope when choosing the topic.
• Conduct In-Depth Research: Once the topic is decided, embark on thorough research. Use a variety of sources, such as books, academic journals, credible online sources, primary sources, and documentaries. Remember to take notes and record the sources for citation purposes.
• Formulate a Thesis Statement: The thesis statement is the central argument or point of your paper. It should be clear, concise, and debatable, providing a roadmap for your entire paper. The thesis statement should guide your research and each main point you make in your paper should support this central idea.
• Create an Outline: An outline helps organize your thoughts and arguments. Typically, it should include an introduction (with the thesis statement), body paragraphs (with topic sentences), and a conclusion. Each point in your outline should be a reflection of your thesis statement.
• Start with a Strong Introduction: The introduction should be engaging, provide some background on the topic, and include the thesis statement. It sets the tone for the rest of your paper, so make it compelling and informative.
• Develop Body Paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea that supports your thesis. Begin with a topic sentence, provide evidence or arguments, and then conclude the paragraph by linking it back to your thesis. Be clear and concise in your arguments.
• Use Evidence Effectively: Support your arguments with evidence from your research. This could include quotations, statistics, or primary source materials. Remember to interpret the evidence and explain its relevance to your argument.
• Maintain a Logical Flow: The ideas in your paper should flow logically from one point to the next. Use transitional words and phrases to maintain continuity and help guide your reader through your paper.
• Write a Compelling Conclusion: Your conclusion should sum up your main points, restate the thesis in light of the evidence provided, and possibly offer areas for further research or a concluding insight. It should leave the reader with something to think about.
• Cite Your Sources: Always cite your sources properly. This not only gives credit where it’s due but also strengthens your argument by indicating the breadth of your research. Ensure you follow the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
• Revise for Clarity and Coherence: After finishing your initial draft, revise your work. Check for clarity, coherence, and consistency of argument. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus, and that the paragraphs flow smoothly from one idea to the next.
• Proofread: Proofread your paper for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Such errors can distract from the content and undermine your credibility as a writer. Reading your paper aloud or having someone else read it can help catch errors you might have missed.
• Seek Feedback: Before finalizing your paper, consider seeking feedback from your professor, peers, or a writing center tutor. They can provide valuable perspectives and suggestions for improvement that you might not have considered.
• Write in a Formal Academic Style: Your paper should be written in a formal academic style. Avoid slang, colloquialisms, and overly complex language. Be clear, concise, and precise in your expression.
• Avoid Plagiarism: Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. Ensure that all ideas and words that are not your own are properly cited. When in doubt, it’s better to over-cite than to under-cite.
• Stay Objective: A good history paper is objective and does not include personal opinions or biases. It relies on facts and evidence, and presents balanced arguments. Stick to the evidence and avoid emotional language.
• Be Original: Strive for originality in your argument and interpretation. While your topic might not be entirely new, your perspective on it can be. Don’t be afraid to challenge established interpretations if you have evidence to support your argument.
• Use Primary Sources Wisely: Primary sources are invaluable in historical research. However, remember that they should be used to support your argument, not to construct it. Your analysis and interpretation of the sources are what matters.
• Enjoy the Process: Finally, remember to enjoy the process. Writing a research paper is not just an academic exercise, but a journey into the past. It’s a chance to learn, explore, and contribute to our understanding of history.

In conclusion, writing a best history research paper requires careful planning, thorough research, clear writing, and detailed revision. However, the process can be highly rewarding, leading to new insights and a deeper understanding of history. These tips provide a comprehensive guide to help you craft a top-notch history research paper. Remember, history is a continually evolving dialogue, and your paper is your chance to join the conversation.

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• In-Depth Research: Our writers are committed to conducting meticulous and comprehensive research to gather relevant information and provide insightful perspectives for your paper.
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In conclusion, iResearchNet offers a comprehensive suite of academic writing services designed to support students in their academic journey. From expert writers and custom written works to in-depth research and timely delivery, iResearchNet is equipped to handle any history research paper with excellence and dedication. We believe in delivering high-quality, original, and impactful research papers that can elevate your academic experience and success. So why wait? Avail of iResearchNet’s services today and experience the relief and satisfaction of handing in a top-quality history research paper.

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The 1960s History

By: History.com Editors

Updated: June 26, 2020 | Original: May 25, 2010

The 1960s started off as the dawn of a golden age to most Americans. On January 20, 1961, the handsome and charismatic John F. Kennedy became president of the United States. His confidence that, as one historian put it, “the government possessed big answers to big problems” seemed to set the tone for the rest of the decade. However, that golden age never materialized. On the contrary, by the end of the 1960s, it seemed that the nation was falling apart. Lyndon Johnson’s “Great Society” splintered as the Democratic Party split and America became increasingly enmeshed in the Vietnam War.

The Great Society

During his presidential campaign in 1960, John F. Kennedy had promised the most ambitious domestic agenda since the New Deal : the “New Frontier,” a package of laws and reforms that sought to eliminate injustice and inequality in the United States. But the New Frontier ran into problems right away: The Democrats’ Congressional majority depended on a group of Southerners who loathed the plan’s interventionist liberalism and did all they could to block it. The Cuban Missile Crisis and failed Bay of Pigs invasion was another disaster for Kennedy.

Did you know? On June 27, 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City’s Greenwich Village. The bar’s patrons, sick of being subjected to harassment and discrimination, fought back: For five days, rioters took to the streets in protest. “The word is out,” one protester said. “[We] have had it with oppression.” Historians believe that this “Stonewall Rebellion” marked the beginning of the gay rights movement.

It was not until 1964, after Kennedy was shot, that President Lyndon B. Johnson could muster the political capital to enact his own expansive program of reforms. That year, Johnson declared that he would make the United States into a “ Great Society ” in which poverty and racial injustice had no place. He developed a set of programs that would give poor people “a hand up, not a handout.” These included Medicare and Medicaid, which helped elderly and low-income people pay for health care; Head Start, which prepared young children for school and a Job Corps that trained unskilled workers for jobs in the deindustrializing economy. Meanwhile, Johnson’s Office of Economic Opportunity encouraged disadvantaged people to participate in the design and implementation of the government’s programs on their behalf, while his Model Cities program offered federal subsidies for urban redevelopment and community projects.

The War in Vietnam

Unfortunately, the War on Poverty was expensive–too expensive, especially as the war in Vietnam became the government’s top priority. There was simply not enough money to pay for the War on Poverty and the Vietnam War. Conflict in Southeast Asia had been going on since the 1950s, and President Johnson had inherited a substantial American commitment to anti-communist South Vietnam. Soon after he took office, he escalated that commitment into a full-scale war. In 1964, Congress authorized the president to take “all necessary measures” to protect American soldiers and their allies from the communist Viet Cong. Within days, the draft began.

READ MORE:  Who Was Involved in the Vietnam War? 

The war dragged on, and it divided the nation. Some young people took to the streets in protest, while others fled to Canada to avoid the draft. Meanwhile, many of their parents and peers formed a “silent majority” in support of the war.

The Fight for Civil Rights

The struggle for civil rights had defined the ‘60s ever since four black students sat down at a whites-only lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina , in February 1960 and refused to leave. Their movement spread: Hundreds of demonstrators went back to that lunch counter every day, and tens of thousands clogged segregated restaurants and shops across the upper South. The protesters drew the nation’s attention to the injustice, brutality and capriciousness that characterized Jim Crow.

In general, the federal government stayed out of the civil rights struggle until 1964, when President Johnson pushed a Civil Rights Act through Congress that prohibited discrimination in public places, gave the Justice Department permission to sue states that discriminated against women and minorities and promised equal opportunities in the workplace to all. The next year, the Voting Rights Act eliminated poll taxes, literacy requirements and other tools that southern whites had traditionally used to keep blacks from voting.

But these laws did not solve the problems facing African Americans: They did not eliminate racism or poverty and they did not improve the conditions in many black urban neighborhoods. Many black leaders began to rethink their goals, and some embraced a more militant ideology of separatism and self-defense.

READ MORE:  Civil Rights Movement: Timeline, Key Events

The Radical ’60s

Just as black power became the new focus of the civil rights movement in the mid-1960s, other groups were growing similarly impatient with incremental reforms. Student activists grew more radical. They took over college campuses, organized massive antiwar demonstrations and occupied parks and other public places. Some even made bombs and set campus buildings on fire. At the same time, young women who had read The Feminine Mystique celebrated the passage of the 1963 Equal Pay Act and joined the moderate National Organization for Women were also increasingly annoyed with the slow progress of reform. They too became more militant.

The counterculture also seemed to grow more outlandish as the decade wore on. Some young people “dropped out” of political life altogether. These “ hippies ” grew their hair long and practiced “free love.” Some moved to communes, away from the turbulence that had come to define everyday life in the 1960s.

The Death of the 1960s

The optimistic ‘60s went sour in 1968. That year, the brutal North Vietnamese Tet Offensive convinced many people that the Vietnam War would be impossible to win. The Democratic Party split, and at the end of March, Johnson went on television to announce that he was ending his reelection campaign. (Richard Nixon, chief spokesman for the silent majority, won the election that fall.) Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy, the two most visible leftists in American politics, were assassinated . Police used tear gas and billy clubs to break up protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago . Furious antiwar protestors took over Columbia University in New York as well as the Sorbonne in Paris and the Free University in Berlin. And the urban riots that had erupted across the country every summer since 1964 continued and intensified.

Shreds of the hopeful ‘60s remained. In the summer of 1969, more than 400,000 young people trooped to the Woodstock music festival in upstate New York, a harmonious three days that seemed to represent the best of the peace-and-love generation. 

READ MORE: Woodstock, the Legendary 1969 Festival, Was Also a Miserable Mud Pit

By the end of the decade, however, community and consensus lay in tatters. The era’s legacy remains mixed–it brought us empowerment and polarization, resentment and liberation–but it has certainly become a permanent part of our political and cultural lives.

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The 1960's "a closer look" choice board research project.

Directions:  Choose one of the 1960's topics listed below for your research topic. Use the links provided for that topic to start your research. Then, use the choice board linked here to complete your research project.

1960's Civil Rights

• The Civil Rights Movement
• Civil Rights Movement Timeline
• The Civil Rights Act of 1964
• March on Washington
• Voting Rights Act of 1965
• Civil Rights (Video)

1960's NASA-Space Exploration

• Space Program
• Sputnik's Impact on America
• The Space Race (1955-1975) (Video)

1960's Fashion

• Fashion History: 1960s
• 1960-1969 Fashion
• History Brief: 1960s Daily Life and Pop Culture (Video) (Start Time: 10:18)

1960's Pop Culture

• Pop Culture
• The Sixties Moments in Time Timeline
• History Brief:1960s Daily Life and Pop Culture (Video)
• The 1960s in Color - Life in America (Video)

1960's Music

• Elvis Presley
• History Brief: 1960s Daily Life and Pop Culture (Video) (Start Time: 8:49)

1960's World Events

• Cuban Missile Crisis
• The History of the Cuban Missile Crisis (Video)
• John F Kennedy Assassination
• Vietnam War

Helpful Tools for Creating Your Final Products

Here is a list of helpful websites for creating your final products. (See the "Web 2.0 Tools" tab on the library website for more helpful websites/tools!) 

• Story Board That  - You can use this website to make a comic strip.
• Canva  - You can use this website to make a infographic or newsletter 
• Thinglink  - You can use this website to make an interactive infographic
• Kidblog - You can use this website to make a blog.
• Last Updated: Oct 4, 2021 11:41 AM
• URL: https://bluevalleyk12.libguides.com/1960sresearch

Module 12: America in the 1960s (1960-1970)

Why it matters: america in the 1960s, why learn about america in the 1960s.

The 1960s were a period of immense change. Citizens historically excluded from education, political participation, or economic prosperity successfully mounted grassroots movements to demand justice and equality. The U.S. government, under the presidential leadership of John F. Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson, responded to these movements by passing laws and mobilizing resources to address issues of inequality and poverty.

The events of the 1960s had a profound impact on the people who lived through the decade. Many voted for the first time; others benefited from federal programs that provided healthcare, job training, and food security. Student movements reshaped campus policies, classrooms, and governance. The Black Power and Chicano movements provided a new sense of pride in racial identities and the women’s movements offered many women a new sense of independence.

The 1960s matter, in part, because of the incredible impact the events of the decade had on the people who lived through it. The decade matters for its impact on the present too. The civil rights, student, and women’s movements rewrote the playbook for protest. Their use of sit-ins, marches, boycotts, and the media to accomplish their goals are common strategies in the social justice movements of the 21st century. Likewise, the progressive programs of the Great Society are now key elements of domestic policy. Each year, thousands of Americans benefit from the services and support of Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP benefits, school lunch programs, community development initiatives, and job training organizations.

It’s easy to paint a triumphal picture of the decade, which was indeed characterized by progress toward greater inclusivity. Yet it was also a period of tension and often violence. Abroad, the Kennedy administration grappled with Cold War relations in Cuba and Vietnam. Johnson’s presidency included a still deeper and more controversial commitment to Vietnam as he mobilized U.S. troops in Southeast Asia.

At home, activists experienced resistance to their efforts. Most infamously, White citizens who opposed racial equality bombed buses and assaulted protesters, often aided by local police officers. Employers hired new workers to replace striking Mexican-American and Filipino workers while newspapers sensationalized women seeking equal pay and bodily autonomy as bra-burning radicals. Even within their own ranks, civil rights and other activists disagreed about how best to accomplish their goals. Was a non-violent, moderate path the surest way to equality? Or was a degree of violence and radicalism the better way to respond to long histories of discrimination in the United States?

The 1960s also matter because the decade prompts us to consider the complexity of any given time period. To tell the fullest, richest story of this period of U.S. history, we need to grapple with the coexistence of progress and opposition, peace and violence, triumph and failure.

• US History. Provided by : OpenStax. Located at : http://openstaxcollege.org/textbooks/us-history . License : CC BY: Attribution . License Terms : Access for free at https://openstax.org/books/us-history/pages/1-introduction

Articles on The 1960s

Displaying all articles.

What being a teenage girl in 1960s Britain was really like

Penny Tinkler , University of Manchester

How alternative communities have evolved – from pacifist communes to a solution to the ageing population

Kirsten Stevens-Wood , Cardiff Metropolitan University

Good profits from bad news: How the Kennedy assassination helped make network TV news wealthy

Michael J. Socolow , University of Maine

Black students in Washington state played key role in the Civil Rights Movement, new book states

Marc Arsell Robinson , California State University, San Bernardino

Minneapolis’ ‘long, hot summer’ of ‘67 – and the parallels to today’s protests over police brutality

Rashad Shabazz , Arizona State University

The soundtrack of the Sixties demanded respect, justice and equality

Michael V. Drake , The Ohio State University

Red-state politics in and out of the college classroom

Natasha Zaretsky , Southern Illinois University

How Canadian boomers got into pot

Catherine Carstairs , University of Guelph

Magical Mystery Tour: a rare Beatles flop – but it paved the way for Monty Python

Adam Behr , Newcastle University

Related Topics

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• Civil rights movement
• Higher education
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Top contributors

Senior Lecturer in Popular and Contemporary Music, Newcastle University

Professor, Department of History, University of Guelph

President, The Ohio State University

The Ohio State University

Associate Professor of History, Southern Illinois University

Associate Professor at the School of Social Transformation, Arizona State University

Assistant Professor of History, California State University, San Bernardino

Professor of Sociology and History, University of Manchester

Professor of Communication and Journalism, University of Maine

Senior Lecturer, Cardiff Metropolitan University

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Home — Essay Samples — History — Contemporary History — 1960S

Essays on 1960s

1960s entertainment, research of whose philosophy made the most sense for america in the 1960’s, the impact of 1960s-70s movements on america, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

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The Impact of Native American Organization after 1960

1 January 1960 – 31 December 1969

The 1960s were one of the most tumultuous decades in world history, so many important events occurred during the decade: the civil rights movements, the Vietnam War, Cuban Missile Crisis, the assassinations of US President John F Kennedy and Martin Luther King.

The major wars and conflicts of the decade were: The Vietnam War, The Bay of Pigs Invasion, Six-Day War, The Cuban Missile Crisis. The confrontation between the US and the Soviet Union dominated geopolitics during the 1960s.

The decade began with a recession from 1960 to 1961 in America. By the end of the 1950s, war-ravaged Europe finished reconstruction and began a huge economic boom.

The Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union dominated the 60s. Yuri Gagarin was the first man, who was sent into outer space on 12 April 1961. On 20 July 1969, Apollo 11 mission, the first human spaceflight landed on the Moon.

The main movements of the decade include the civil rights movement, the student movement, Hispanic and Chicano movement, the anti-war movement, the women’s movement and the gay rights movement.

Peace signs and flowers were an aesthetic of the decade. In the 1960s occurred an increased use of LSD and Marijuana. The counterculture movement had a significant effect on cinema.

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1960s - Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

The 1960s were a tumultuous and transformative decade marked by civil rights movements, anti-war protests, cultural shifts, and significant political events across the globe. Essays on the 1960s might delve into the various movements that shaped the decade, like the Civil Rights Movement, the Feminist Movement, or the Anti-Vietnam War Movement. They could also explore the impact of significant events like the Cuban Missile Crisis, the assassination of JFK, or the moon landing. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about 1960s you can find in Papersowl database. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s

The Civil Rights and Equal Rights movement is one of many events that has transformed United States history. It is recognized as a time of emergence for many well-known leaders who have left their mark. The Civil and Equal Rights era is also a time of many ideologies and philosophies to try and solve issues of the past whose presence were felt through many actions in the 1960s and present day. The Civil Rights Movement was essential in bringing attention […]

The Role of Woman in the American Society in the 1950’s -1960’s

What were the role of woman in the 1950’s- 1960’s? The primary evidence of the role women in that time were in advertisements. Advertisements from 1950's and 1960’s suggest that women were perceived as inferior to men, were expected to be great housewives focused mostly on pleasing their husbands and play the role of mothers. Advertisements from 1950's and 1960's promote the idea that a woman is expected to be a homemaker. In the appendix A, we have an advertisement […]

African-American Representation in Hollywood

As the 1960s rolled around the United States became highly unstable in terms of social justice. Forms of racism and discrimination skyrocketed, while social class placement became the new hot topic for gossip. This all took place during the time known as the civil rights era. The beginning of this eventful decade with the presidential election of John F. Kennedy. Kennedy provided the United States with a heart of hope until he was assassinated. This tragic moment in history soon […]

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Open to Growth – Women in American Society

In America’s History women have played a key role in society. However, Women’s roles in society have changed. Women’s changing role in society can be shown clearly in three time periods, The Great Depression, 1940s through the 1960s, and Today, 2010-present. Without women, the United States would not be anywhere it is today without women. The great depression was the United States worst economic point in history. The stock market crash was caused by Bank Failures, Reduction in purchasing of […]

The 1960s: a Decade of Transformation and Turbulence

The 1960s stands out as a remarkable era in the tapestry of human history, marked by a confluence of cultural, social, and political shifts that reverberated across the globe. It was a decade defined by both the pursuit of new frontiers and the unearthing of deep-seated societal fissures. From the civil rights movement to the countercultural revolution, the 1960s encapsulated a spectrum of transformative experiences that shaped the trajectory of the ensuing decades. One of the defining moments of the […]

The 1960s: a Decade of Dynamic Change

The 1960s unfolded as an extraordinary chapter in the tapestry of human history, marked by a convergence of cultural, social, and political shifts that resonated globally. It was a period defined not only by the pursuit of new horizons but also by the revelation of deep-seated societal rifts. From the United States to Europe and beyond, the 1960s witnessed a kaleidoscope of transformative experiences that would go on to shape the trajectory of the ensuing decades. Central to this transformative […]

Resonance of Change: the Transformative Decade of the 1960s

Within the tempestuous tableau of the 1960s, a decade characterized by seismic shifts in societal, political, and cultural landscapes, the reverberations of change echoed globally. Emerging from the conservative cocoon of the 1950s, the '60s emerged as a crucible for metamorphosis, where the dreams, conflicts, and aspirations of a generation unfolded against a backdrop of unprecedented transformation. At its core, the era pulsated with an ardent yearning for liberation and self-expression, epitomized by the counterculture movements that defined the decade. […]

Dancing through the Decade: the Dynamic Transformation of the 1960s

In the pulsating heart of the tumultuous 1960s, an electrifying dance unfolded across the global stage—a kaleidoscope of cultural, social, and political transformations that left an indelible mark on the canvas of history. The decade, akin to a rebellious teenager, grappled with identity, wrestled with norms, and boldly sought to redefine the very fabric of society. Amid the harmonious chaos, the musical notes of change reverberated in the air. The arrival of The Beatles on American shores in 1964 was […]

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In four pages this essay examines how the 1960s social movements had a predominantly positive impact upon attitudes regarding wome... ...

In five pages this paper assesses American liberalism as they manifested themselves in JFK's New Frontier and LBJ's Great Society ... ...

In eleven pages this paper examines the economic and political history of Ohio with such topics of Cincinnati's industrial evoluti... ...

In twelve pages the Students for a Democratic Society and its failure during the 1960s is assessed. Eleven sources are cited in t... ...

In five pages this paper considers how American value systems parents taught to their children changed after the Sixties with the ... ...

In this paper consisting of five pages comparing and contrasting viewpoints of the protest movements of this era are offered inclu... ...

This paper is written in the form of a fictitious letter from a NAACP attorney during the 1960s. The attorney represents an Afric... ...

In six pages America's sexual revolution during the 1960s is examined in an overview of the impact of birth control and liberal at... ...

In a paper consisting of five pages the cartoons produced by these two studios during this time period are contrasted and compared... ...

In five pages this paper examines the challenges confronting new generations during the time periods of the 1870s through the 1890... ...

This text is reviewed in a paper consisting of three pages. There are no other sources listed.... ...

In four pages changes since the 1960s regarding schools and the education system as a whole are examined. Four sources are cited ... ...

In thirteen pages this paper examines the impact of Jimi Hendrix and the counter music revolution on the American culture of the 1... ...

This 4 page paper discusses the Civil Rights movement as well as the Vietnam War protestors, explains both sides, and considers th... ...

A 4 page paper which examines the women’s liberation of the 1960s. Bibliography lists 5 sources.... ...

This paper looks at Philip K Dick's novel Ubik in relation to the period in which it was written, and draws parallels with the eve... ...

This 11 page paper discusses Lt. William Calley, the My Lai Massacre and the draft resistors as examples of what it was like in Am... ...

This paper describes Thunder Storm's tall tale of his journey through the turbulent Sixties. The annotated bibliography cites 6 s... ...

Examines the influences of happenings in the 1960s, and their impact on today. There are 3 sources listed in the bibliography of t... ...

In five pages the Persian Gulf War's impact upon the economy of the United States in terms of residual effects is discussed. Seve... ...

In sixty pages this research paper discusses Asia trade, applies various trade models, and then considers the effects of technolog... ...

In ten pages this paper examines contemporary society in an assessment of the importance of such concepts as productivity, unemplo... ...

In eight pages the Euro common currency is examined within the context of France and its national implications. Nine sources are ... ...

This paper consists of two pages and evaluates fixed exchange rates in a consideration of their primary advantages and disadvantag... ...

In eight pages this paper argues in favor of China retaining its most favored nation economic trading status by the United States.... ...

In four pages this paper considers the Kennedy administration's approaches to the American economy with the year 1963 the primary ... ...

In ten pages this paper discusses the impact of the Euro currency on Europe, investors, and on the US. Fifteen sources are cited ... ...

In five pages economic forecasting is considered in terms of econometric models' impact. Five sources are cited in the bibliograp... ...

In six pages this paper discusses the causes of the 1987 crash of the stock market and the consequences that resulted. Five sourc... ...

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