best research topics for history

Verify originality of an essay

Get ideas for your paper

Find top study documents

Complete List of 200+ Exciting History Research Paper Topics

Updated 08 Jul 2024

Most college and university students across the United States find history assignments way too challenging or even uninteresting. This 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 are both interesting and unique. When a correctly chosen assignment topic inspires its author, it automatically becomes interesting for the target audience, increasing the chances of the assignment receiving 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. For example, when writing about Pearl Harbor, the key rule is to outline a thesis statement and proceed with arguments or assumptions that constitute body paragraphs.

The most difficult yet still important part is narrowing down vague ideas to ensure that the information presented is not scattered through all overwritten assignments. 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. A good paper will always make it clear in the Introduction, but even then, one should use topic sentences that help the reader to be aware of the 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.

Need more writing assistance?

Connect with our top writers and receive a paper sample on history crafted to your needs.

Unique History Research Topics Tips

If you want hard work to pay off with success and good grades, ensure 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, message 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 an outline. This approach allows keeping information logical and structured. In most cases, it should include an Introduction with a Thesis Statement, 3-5 Body Paragraphs, one of which is a counterargument or opposite opinion, and a 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. battle campaigns, let experts work and meet even the 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

Get professional fact-checking and editing!

Ensure accuracy and enhance quality in your papers. Our experts provide thorough fact-checking and editing for just $7/page.

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 from all the existing topics; there are many more. Contact our professional essay writing or ideas help, and you’ll receive more history research paper topics for college students adjusted in accordance with your personal preferences.

Professional & Reliable Research Assistance Made Affordable

We all have been through times when college professors decreased grades for wrong use of chronology or sources that are not academic for otherwise excellent work. It may even be worse when incorrect citation or extra spaces simply ruined all your efforts, which transformed history research into nightmare. An only solution is turning to experts that can help you ensure that final work is flawless. With years of experience in the market, EduBirdie prides itself as affordable and reliable online paper writing services that provide 100% plagiarism-free assignments as all the college papers for sale is written from scratch.

Choosing writer by subject, credentials, user reviews, works completed, you always remain in direct contact via private chat, which makes it easy to make adjustments if necessary. Each assignment also includes professional formatting, grammar, punctuation, structure check, which completely eliminates proofreading problems. With affordable prices, experienced writers, and 24/7 online support, you do not have to risk your academic future as we will help you nail down even most complex tasks.

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback, related blog posts, 100 original political science research topics.

Political Science research papers can easily become overly complex and weak if there are too many ideas scattered across assignment. In order to re...

Explore Our Top Cultural Research Paper Topics

Culture is a broad term that covers an endless number of possibilities for crafting research topics. You can view it as a global aspect and write a...

What is qualitative research? Approaches, methods, and examples

Students in social sciences frequently seek to understand how people feel, think, and behave in specific situations or relationships that evolve ov...

Join our 150K of happy users

  • Get original papers written according to your instructions
  • Save time for what matters most

best research topics for history

Explore your training options in 10 minutes Get Started

  • Graduate Stories
  • Partner Spotlights
  • Bootcamp Prep
  • Bootcamp Admissions
  • University Bootcamps
  • Coding Tools
  • Software Engineering
  • Web Development
  • Data Science
  • Tech Guides
  • Tech Resources
  • Career Advice
  • Online Learning
  • Internships
  • Apprenticeships
  • Tech Salaries
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • University Admissions
  • Best Schools
  • Certifications
  • Bootcamp Financing
  • Higher Ed Financing
  • Scholarships
  • Financial Aid
  • Best Coding Bootcamps
  • Best Online Bootcamps
  • Best Web Design Bootcamps
  • Best Data Science Bootcamps
  • Best Technology Sales Bootcamps
  • Best Data Analytics Bootcamps
  • Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps
  • Best Digital Marketing Bootcamps
  • Los Angeles
  • San Francisco
  • Browse All Locations
  • Digital Marketing
  • Machine Learning
  • See All Subjects
  • Bootcamps 101
  • Full-Stack Development
  • Career Changes
  • View all Career Discussions
  • Mobile App Development
  • Cybersecurity
  • Product Management
  • UX/UI Design
  • What is a Coding Bootcamp?
  • Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It?
  • How to Choose a Coding Bootcamp
  • Best Online Coding Bootcamps and Courses
  • Best Free Bootcamps and Coding Training
  • Coding Bootcamp vs. Community College
  • Coding Bootcamp vs. Self-Learning
  • Bootcamps vs. Certifications: Compared
  • What Is a Coding Bootcamp Job Guarantee?
  • How to Pay for Coding Bootcamp
  • Ultimate Guide to Coding Bootcamp Loans
  • Best Coding Bootcamp Scholarships and Grants
  • Education Stipends for Coding Bootcamps
  • Get Your Coding Bootcamp Sponsored by Your Employer
  • GI Bill and Coding Bootcamps
  • Tech Intevriews
  • Our Enterprise Solution
  • Connect With Us
  • Publication
  • Reskill America
  • Partner With Us

Career Karma

  • Resource Center
  • Bachelor’s Degree
  • Master’s Degree

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.

Find your bootcamp match

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.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

What's Next?

icon_10

Get matched with top bootcamps

Ask a question to our community, take our careers quiz.

Jardin Hope

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Apply to top tech training programs in one click

  • How It Works
  • PhD thesis writing
  • Master thesis writing
  • Bachelor thesis writing
  • Dissertation writing service
  • Dissertation abstract writing
  • Thesis proposal writing
  • Thesis editing service
  • Thesis proofreading service
  • Thesis formatting service
  • Coursework writing service
  • Research paper writing service
  • Architecture thesis writing
  • Computer science thesis writing
  • Engineering thesis writing
  • History thesis writing
  • MBA thesis writing
  • Nursing dissertation writing
  • Psychology dissertation writing
  • Sociology thesis writing
  • Statistics dissertation writing
  • Buy dissertation online
  • Write my dissertation
  • Cheap thesis
  • Cheap dissertation
  • Custom dissertation
  • Dissertation help
  • Pay for thesis
  • Pay for dissertation
  • Senior thesis
  • Write my thesis

60+ History Research Paper Topics From Our Top Writers

History Research Paper Topics

Finding that fascinating topic for history research paper can be a pain in some students’ necks. In this article, we reveal our only suggestions of ideas for good history research topics.

Whether you need United States history research paper topics, Europe and across the world, we have you covered. We have selected relevant topics with a clear statement to jumpstart your writing process. Check out our ultimate list of American history research paper topics for college students:

US History Research Paper Topics

  • What was the history and culture of Native Americans before the invasion by Europeans?
  • How did 9/11 change the US foreign policy?
  • Why did Japan target Pearl Harbor and how significant was it to the US?
  • Why did American Revolution leaders fail to achieve equality for everyone?
  • What traditions define Independence Day in the US?
  • What events led to the abolishment of slavery?
  • Who were the initial inhabitants of the US, and how was it found?
  • Did the US have to use two atomic bombs on Japan?

World History Research Paper Topics

  • What happened in Germany after the fall of Hitler and the Nazis?
  • Communism and why it is considered it is considered a lousy system historically.
  • Explain why nationalism is a primary source of identity everywhere else but has failed among the Arab States
  • In what ways did the assassination of John F. Kennedy change the course of US politics?
  • Who was Abu Hamid al-Ghazali, and what were the impacts of his ideas on the Islam world?
  • What was the primary intention of the US dropping atomic bombs on Japan? Was it to end the war or to prevent the Soviet Union from amassing influence in Asia?
  • Why is the fall of Constantinople in 1453 perceived as the saddest moment in the history of humankind?

European History Research Paper Topics

  • Why Eastern Europe has always trailed Western Europe in terms of development
  • Which other country used women in World War Two other than Russia?
  • What was Hitler’s reasoning for attacking the Soviets during WWII?
  • What European nation has the most influential culture in history?
  • What are some of the events that shifted France and England’s relationship from enemies to allies?
  • Point out some of the differences between feudalism in Eastern Europe and Western Europe
  • How were European countries affected by the Industrial Revolution?
  • Define the factors the led to the mass degradation of French women in the aftermath of WWII

Ancient History Research Paper Topics

  • Explain how philosophy became so popular in Ancient Greece
  • What are some of the similarities between Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome?
  • Alexander the Great; who was he, and why is he considered one of the most outstanding leaders in history?
  • In what way was ancient Egypt unique from Ancient Rome and Greece?
  • Point out the difference and similarities between Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome
  • What is the origin of democracy in Ancient Greece, and how did it come to be in general?
  • What is the story of Theagenes of Thasos, the strongest fighter in Ancient Rome?

Modern World History Research Topics

  • What was the status of women in the USSR through the 20th century?
  • Why didn’t any western countries intervene in Communist China in the mid-20th century?
  • What was the necessity of using an atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
  • What are some of the reasons behind US policies towards immigrants in the 21st century?
  • What is the price of industrialization to the American nation?
  • What are some of the most prominent inventors and industrialists in the modern-day world?
  • How did industrialization influence social movements in the USA?
  • Explain American foreign policy from the start of the 21st century

History Topics To Write About Africa

  • How Idi Amin did change the world’s attitude to Uganda
  • In what ways is the Democratic Republic of Congo different from its neighboring countries?
  • Why did it take until the 19th century for European powers to start colonizing Sub-Saharan Africa?
  • How were oil and petroleum discovered in Ethiopia?
  • Explain why North Africa went from the wealthiest regions during times of the Roman Empire to a regional backwater
  • Historically speaking, what are the wealthiest countries in Africa, and what contributed to the wealth in those counties?
  • What are some of the post-colonial drawbacks that Africa has had to deal with in recent times?
  • What was the African continent’s state in the 1600s? Was it similar to Asia and Europe?
  • What religions were practiced in Africa before being influenced by Europe and Asia?
  • What were some of the most potent African empires between the 6th and the 8th century?
  • What were the consequences of German Warfare in Africa in 1884?

Middle East Historical Research Paper Topics

  • The Sumerians; what made the first great civilization of humankind?
  • What are some of the less known facts about the Byzantine Empire?
  • Explain how the Ottoman Empire spread to the Middle East
  • Which countries in the Middle East have been powerful economically throughout history?
  • In what ways were the Byzantine and Roman cultures adapted to and incorporated in the Middle East?
  • What are the main events that altered the Middle East in modern history?

African American History

  • What were some of the impacts of Martin Luther King’s speech on the African American community?
  • What was the position of black Americans during the industrial age?
  • What were the struggles of the African American population after the Civil War?
  • What are some of the beliefs and traditions of African American culture?
  • In what way did the African American women help during WWII?
  • What did the 14th amendment have to offer the black community?
  • What are some of the legends and cultural traits in black history?

Music History Research Paper Topics

  • What is the history of the film industry and classical composers?
  • How Classical German composers influenced further music development
  • How classical melody has been impacted by technology
  • Discuss the origins of classical composing
  • Analyzing Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony
  • A study of early music history and the evolution of musical instruments

History papers carry a lot of weight, allowing college students to learn the culture, traditions, and past of other nations. With our vast range of ideas, you should have a smooth time selecting an ideal topic.

Remember, you can always find research paper writing help online. Online writing services provide cheap, yet quality research papers that are carefully crafted by expert writers. What are you waiting for when help is only a few clicks away?

international relations research topics

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comment * Error message

Name * Error message

Email * Error message

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

As Putin continues killing civilians, bombing kindergartens, and threatening WWIII, Ukraine fights for the world's peaceful future.

Ukraine Live Updates

  • Privacy Policy

Research Method

Home » 300+ American History Research Paper Topics

300+ American History Research Paper Topics

American History Research Paper Topics

American history is a vast and complex subject that encompasses a wide range of events, movements, and individuals who have shaped the country’s past and present. From the struggles for independence and civil rights to the exploration and settlement of the continent, American history provides an abundance of topics for research papers . Whether you’re interested in politics, social issues, cultural trends, or military history, there are numerous topics to choose from that will help you delve deeper into the fascinating story of the United States. In this arcticle, we will explore some of the most compelling and thought-provoking American history topics that you can choose to explore in your own research .

American History Research Paper Topics

American History Research Paper Topics are as follows:

  • The Salem witch trials: religious hysteria and persecution.
  • The California Gold Rush: immigration and economic boom.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: cultural movements and African American creativity.
  • The Stonewall riots: LGBTQ+ rights and activism.
  • The Underground Railroad: abolitionist movement and escape from slavery.
  • The New York City Draft Riots: racial tensions and class conflict during the Civil War.
  • The Battle of Little Bighorn: Native American resistance and US expansionism.
  • The Scopes Monkey Trial: evolution and religion in the public school system.
  • The assassination of Abraham Lincoln: political upheaval and the aftermath.
  • The Bracero Program: labor migration and Mexican American relations.
  • The Japanese American internment: civil liberties and government policies during WWII.
  • The Black Panthers: civil rights and revolutionary politics.
  • The Montgomery bus boycott: racial segregation and nonviolent protest.
  • The War of 1812: US-British relations and national identity.
  • The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution: US involvement in Vietnam and presidential power.
  • The Trail of Tears: forced relocation of Native Americans and government policy.
  • The Louisiana Purchase: westward expansion and territorial acquisition.
  • The Emancipation Proclamation: Abraham Lincoln and the end of slavery.
  • The Boston Tea Party: colonial resistance and the American Revolution.
  • The Haymarket Riot: labor movements and the struggle for workers’ rights.
  • The Sacco and Vanzetti trial: political prejudice and the justice system.
  • The Nixon administration and Watergate: political corruption and media coverage.
  • The Battle of Gettysburg: turning point in the Civil War and military strategy.
  • The United States’ entry into WWI: neutrality and international relations.
  • The assassination of JFK: conspiracy theories and the impact on American politics.
  • The Montgomery GI Bill: post-WWII veterans’ benefits and education.
  • The 1968 Democratic National Convention: anti-war protests and police brutality.
  • The Space Shuttle Challenger disaster: NASA and government accountability.
  • The Wounded Knee Massacre: Native American activism and government response.
  • The Oklahoma City bombing: domestic terrorism and extremism.
  • The Pentagon Papers: government secrecy and media freedom.
  • The American eugenics movement: racial science and government policy.
  • The Zoot Suit Riots: racial tensions and discrimination in WWII-era Los Angeles.
  • The Tet Offensive: turning point in the Vietnam War and media coverage.
  • The 1920s: flappers, jazz music, and cultural transformation.
  • The Seneca Falls Convention: women’s suffrage and gender equality.
  • The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: civil rights and the struggle for racial justice.
  • The Tea Party movement: conservative populism and political polarization.
  • The space race and the moon landing: US-Soviet competition and national pride.
  • The Gulf War: US military action in the Middle East and international relations.
  • The Hurricane Katrina disaster: government response and racial inequality.
  • The Rodney King verdict and LA riots: police brutality and racial justice.
  • The Iran-Contra scandal: government corruption and foreign policy.
  • The civil rights movement and the Freedom Riders: nonviolent protest and desegregation.
  • The Flint water crisis: environmental racism and government negligence.
  • The Occupy Wall Street movement: economic inequality and social justice.
  • The AIDS epidemic: public health crisis and societal attitudes.
  • The American Revolution: causes and consequences.
  • The impact of slavery on the development of the United States.
  • The Reconstruction Era: successes and failures.
  • The Civil War: social, political, and economic impacts.
  • The women’s suffrage movement: progress and setbacks.
  • The rise of industrialization and its impact on society.
  • The Progressive Era: reforms and political changes.
  • The New Deal: success or failure?
  • The impact of the Great Depression on American society.
  • The Second World War: America’s involvement and impact.
  • The Cold War: the US and Soviet Union’s global influence.
  • The civil rights movement: leaders and strategies.
  • The Vietnam War: political, social, and cultural impacts.
  • The Watergate scandal: corruption and the presidency.
  • The Reagan Revolution: conservatism and change.
  • The Gulf War: America’s role in international conflict.
  • The 9/11 terrorist attacks: effects on domestic and foreign policy.
  • The Obama presidency: achievements and controversies.
  • The rise of Silicon Valley: technology and innovation.
  • The labor movement: unionization and workers’ rights.
  • The Trail of Tears: the forced relocation of Native Americans.
  • The Mormon migration: religious freedom and settlement.
  • The gold rush: economic and social impacts.
  • The women’s liberation movement: progress and setbacks.
  • The rise of the suburbs: lifestyle changes and the American Dream.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: cultural and artistic movements.
  • The Dust Bowl: environmental disasters and migration.
  • The Ku Klux Klan: racism and terror in America.
  • The rise of the Christian Right: religion and politics.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis: America and the Soviet Union on the brink of war.
  • The Manhattan Project: the development of nuclear weapons.
  • The Bay of Pigs invasion: US foreign policy in Latin America.
  • The Space Race: America’s competition with the Soviet Union.
  • The Black Power movement: self-determination and political activism.
  • The Stonewall riots: the birth of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
  • The War on Drugs: the impact on minority communities.
  • The rise of hip hop: cultural expression and social commentary.
  • The Iraq War: America’s intervention in the Middle East.
  • The Tea Party movement: populism and conservative politics.
  • The Dakota Access Pipeline protests: Indigenous rights and environmentalism.
  • The #MeToo movement: sexual harassment and assault in the workplace.
  • The 2020 presidential election: controversies and historical significance.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic: social, economic, and political impacts.
  • The climate crisis: America’s role in mitigating global warming.
  • The opioid epidemic: public health crisis and government response.
  • The gig economy: labor rights and the changing nature of work.
  • The immigration debate: policies and social attitudes towards immigrants.
  • The Black Lives Matter movement: racial justice and police reform.
  • The Battle of Antietam: bloodiest day in American history and its impact on the Civil War.
  • The Salem Witch Trials: causes and consequences of the infamous witch hunt.
  • The Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment: examining the unethical medical study conducted on African American men.
  • The Stonewall Riots: analyzing the LGBTQ+ rights movement and the impact of the Stonewall uprising.
  • The Bay of Pigs Invasion: evaluating the failed US attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro’s regime in Cuba.
  • The Battle of Little Bighorn: examining the conflict between the US Army and Native American tribes.
  • The Red Scare: analyzing the fear of communism in the US during the Cold War.
  • The Manhattan Project: evaluating the development of the atomic bomb during World War II.
  • The Seneca Falls Convention: examining the first women’s rights convention and its impact on American society.
  • The My Lai Massacre: analyzing the massacre of Vietnamese civilians by US soldiers during the Vietnam War.
  • The Treaty of Versailles: evaluating the impact of the treaty that ended World War I.
  • The Dust Bowl Migration: examining the migration of farmers from the Great Plains to California during the Great Depression.
  • The Black Lives Matter Movement: analyzing the movement for racial justice and police reform in the US.
  • The Oregon Trail: examining the westward expansion of the US and the impact of the Oregon Trail.
  • The 1968 Democratic National Convention: evaluating the protests and violence that occurred during the convention.
  • The Indian Removal Act: examining the forced relocation of Native American tribes in the 1830s.
  • The Great Society: evaluating the social and economic reforms of President Lyndon B. Johnson.
  • The Wounded Knee Massacre: analyzing the US Army’s killing of Native American men, women, and children in 1890.
  • The Ku Klux Klan: examining the rise and fall of the white supremacist group.
  • The Gadsden Purchase: evaluating the US acquisition of land from Mexico in 1853.
  • The Second Great Awakening: analyzing the religious revival of the early 19th century and its impact on American society.
  • The Haymarket Riot: examining the labor unrest and violence that occurred during the 1886 Chicago labor rally.
  • The Dust Bowl Art: analyzing the art and literature inspired by the Great Plains drought.
  • The Roe v. Wade Decision: evaluating the impact of the landmark Supreme Court decision on abortion rights.
  • The Salem Customs House: examining the significance of the customs house in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel “The Scarlet Letter.”
  • The Homestead Strike: analyzing the violent labor dispute that occurred at the Carnegie Steel Company in 1892.
  • The War of 1812: evaluating the US conflict with Great Britain and its impact on American society.
  • The Sacco and Vanzetti Trial: examining the controversial trial of two Italian immigrants in the 1920s.
  • The Scopes Monkey Trial: evaluating the trial that pitted science against religion in the 1920s.
  • The Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty: examining the US treaty with Panama that led to the construction of the Panama Canal.
  • The Bonus Army: analyzing the World War I veterans who marched on Washington, D.C. to demand government benefits.
  • The O.J. Simpson Trial: evaluating the impact of the high-profile murder trial on American culture.
  • The Iran-Contra Affair: examining the political scandal that involved the US selling weapons to Iran and using the profits to fund anti-communist rebels in Nicaragua.
  • The Buffalo Soldiers: analyzing the history of the African American soldiers who served in the western frontier.
  • The American Civil War: examining the factors that led to the conflict.
  • The New Deal: evaluating the impact of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s economic policies.
  • The Space Race: the competition between the US and Soviet Union to explore space.
  • The Vietnam War: analyzing the US involvement in the conflict.
  • The American Revolution: evaluating the role of key figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
  • The Civil Rights Movement: examining the fight for racial equality in the US.
  • The Gold Rush: exploring the impact of the California Gold Rush on American society.
  • The Watergate Scandal: the political scandal that brought down President Nixon.
  • The Great Migration: analyzing the movement of African Americans from the South to Northern cities.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: examining the cultural and artistic movement of the 1920s.
  • The Trail of Tears: evaluating the forced removal of Native American tribes from their lands.
  • The Cold War: analyzing the political and economic tensions between the US and Soviet Union.
  • The Industrial Revolution: examining the changes brought about by industrialization in the US.
  • The Boston Tea Party: evaluating the impact of the colonial protest against British taxation.
  • The Underground Railroad: analyzing the network that helped slaves escape to freedom.
  • The Women’s Suffrage Movement: examining the fight for women’s right to vote.
  • The Dust Bowl: evaluating the environmental and economic impact of the Great Plains drought.
  • The Emancipation Proclamation: analyzing Lincoln’s decision to free slaves in Confederate states.
  • The Transatlantic Slave Trade: examining the forced migration of Africans to the US.
  • The Louisiana Purchase: analyzing the impact of the US acquisition of Louisiana from France.
  • The Spanish Flu Pandemic: examining the global pandemic that killed millions.
  • The Attack on Pearl Harbor: evaluating the impact of the Japanese attack on the US.
  • The Montgomery Bus Boycott: analyzing the nonviolent protest against segregated public transportation.
  • The Panama Canal: examining the construction of the canal and its impact on international trade.
  • The Salem Maritime Trade: analyzing the economic and social impact of maritime trade in the colonial period.
  • The Cuban Revolution: examining the overthrow of Batista and the rise of Fidel Castro.
  • The Iraq War: analyzing the US invasion of Iraq in 2003.
  • The New York City Draft Riots: evaluating the racial and class tensions that led to the riots.
  • The Black Panther Party: examining the political and social impact of the Black Panther movement.
  • The American West: analyzing the expansion and settlement of the American West.
  • The Berlin Wall: examining the construction and fall of the Berlin Wall.
  • The 19th Amendment: evaluating the impact of women’s right to vote on American society.
  • The United States and the United Nations: analyzing the US involvement in the UN.
  • The Jim Crow Laws: examining the laws that enforced racial segregation in the US.
  • The Bracero Program: analyzing the US-Mexico labor agreement during World War II.
  • The Korean War: evaluating the US involvement in the conflict.
  • The Alamo: examining the battle that became a symbol of Texas independence.
  • The Assassination of JFK: analyzing the impact of the assassination on American politics and society.
  • The Great Chicago Fire: evaluating the impact of the fire that destroyed much of Chicago in 1871.
  • The Americanization Movement: examining the movement that sought to assimilate immigrants into American culture.
  • The Spanish American War: US imperialism and expansion in the late 19th century.
  • The Red Scare: political repression and the fear of communism in the 20th century.
  • The National Parks system: conservation and environmentalism in the US.
  • The Women’s Liberation Movement: feminism and gender equality in the 1960s and 1970s.
  • The Brown v. Board of Education decision: landmark ruling on desegregation in public schools.
  • The Gulf of Mexico oil spill: environmental disaster and corporate responsibility.
  • The American Revolution: causes, major events, and legacy.
  • The Great Depression: economic crisis and government response in the 1930s.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964: legislative landmark in the struggle for racial justice.
  • The Dust Bowl: ecological disaster and its impact on American agriculture.
  • The Waco Siege: government overreach and religious extremism.
  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire: workplace safety and labor reform.
  • The Black Lives Matter movement: police brutality and racial justice in the 21st century.
  • The Homestead Strike: labor dispute and the fight for workers’ rights.
  • The Panama Canal: engineering marvel and US influence in Central America.
  • The Marshall Plan: US aid to Europe after World War II and the Cold War.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis: nuclear brinksmanship and US-Soviet relations.
  • The Montgomery Improvement Association: nonviolent resistance and the bus boycott.
  • The Roe v. Wade decision: reproductive rights and the women’s movement.
  • The My Lai Massacre: war crimes and US military conduct in Vietnam.
  • The Salem-Keizer school desegregation case: busing and the limits of integration.
  • The Flint sit-down strike: labor unrest and unionization in the auto industry.
  • The transcontinental railroad: westward expansion and economic growth.
  • The Iranian Hostage Crisis: US foreign policy and Middle East tensions.
  • The Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty: US control of the Panama Canal and sovereignty issues.
  • The Black Sox Scandal: corruption and gambling in Major League Baseball.
  • The Freedom Summer: civil rights activism and voter registration in the South.
  • The Salem maritime trade: piracy and international commerce in the colonial period.
  • The Stono Rebellion: slave rebellion and resistance in South Carolina.
  • The Alaska Purchase: US acquisition of Alaska and its impact on Native Alaskans.
  • The United States and the League of Nations: US foreign policy and internationalism.
  • The Chicago Seven trial: political dissent and government repression during the Vietnam War.
  • The Reagan Revolution: conservative politics and the changing face of American politics.
  • The American Indian Movement: Native American rights and activism.
  • The Battle of Bull Run: first major battle of the Civil War and its impact.
  • The Wounded Knee Occupation: Native American sovereignty and government response.
  • The Whiskey Rebellion: taxation and the limits of federal authority in the early US.
  • The Iran-Iraq War: US involvement and Middle East politics.
  • The United States and the Cold War: US-Soviet relations and the arms race.
  • The Ku Klux Klan: white supremacy and domestic terrorism in American history.
  • The Battle of Midway: turning point in World War II and military strategy.
  • The Montgomery Bus Boycott: analyzing the civil rights movement and its impact on segregation in the South.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis: evaluating the US and Soviet Union’s tense standoff in 1962.
  • The Trail of Tears: examining the forced removal of Native American tribes from their lands in the 1830s.
  • The Space Race: analyzing the competition between the US and Soviet Union to explore space.
  • The Emancipation Proclamation: evaluating the impact of President Lincoln’s proclamation on slavery during the Civil War.
  • The Black Panthers: examining the rise and fall of the Black Panther Party in the 1960s and 1970s.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: analyzing the cultural movement that celebrated African American art, literature, and music in the 1920s and 1930s.
  • The Korean War: evaluating the US and UN’s conflict with North Korea and China in the 1950s.
  • The Boston Tea Party: examining the protest that sparked the American Revolution.
  • The National Parks System: analyzing the history and impact of the National Parks System in the US.
  • The New Deal: evaluating President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s economic reforms during the Great Depression.
  • The Black Codes: examining the laws passed in Southern states after the Civil War to restrict the rights of African Americans.
  • The Watergate Scandal: analyzing the political scandal that led to the resignation of President Nixon.
  • The War on Drugs: evaluating the US government’s policies and actions to combat drug use and trafficking.
  • The McCarthy Hearings: examining the anti-communist hearings led by Senator Joseph McCarthy in the 1950s.
  • The 1906 San Francisco Earthquake: analyzing the disaster and its impact on the city and American society.
  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: examining the tragedy that led to significant labor reforms in the early 20th century.
  • The Rodney King Riots: analyzing the 1992 riots in Los Angeles following the acquittal of police officers in the beating of Rodney King.
  • The Transcontinental Railroad: evaluating the construction of the railroad and its impact on American transportation and commerce.
  • The New York Draft Riots: examining the violent protests against the Civil War draft in New York City in 1863.
  • The Tulsa Race Massacre: analyzing the 1921 race massacre in Tulsa, Oklahoma and its aftermath.
  • The 1918 Influenza Pandemic: examining the deadly global pandemic and its impact on American society.
  • The Battle of Gettysburg: evaluating the pivotal Civil War battle and its impact on the war and American history.
  • The Mexican-American War: analyzing the US conflict with Mexico and its impact on American expansion.
  • The American Indian Movement: examining the Native American organization and its activism for Indigenous rights.
  • The War in Iraq: evaluating the US-led war in Iraq and its impact on US foreign policy.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964: analyzing the landmark legislation that prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
  • The Jim Crow Laws: examining the laws that enforced racial segregation in the South after the Civil War.
  • The Women’s Suffrage Movement: evaluating the fight for women’s right to vote in the US.
  • The Anti-Vietnam War Movement: analyzing the protests and activism against the US involvement in the Vietnam War.
  • The Donner Party: examining the ill-fated wagon train journey and its impact on westward expansion.
  • The Great Migration: analyzing the mass movement of African Americans from the South to the North and West in the early 20th century.
  • The Red Scare: examining the anti-communist hysteria in the US during the Cold War era.
  • The Alamo: evaluating the 1836 battle in Texas and its significance in American history.
  • The Cuban Revolution: analyzing the revolution led by Fidel Castro and its impact on US-Cuban relations.
  • The Dust Bowl: examining the environmental disaster that devastated the Great Plains in the 1930s.
  • The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: analyzing the impact of the civil rights leader’s death on American society.
  • The California Gold Rush: evaluating the rush of people to California in search of gold in 1849.
  • The Salem Witch Trials: examining the 1692 witch hunt and its impact on American society.
  • The Reconstruction Era: analyzing the period of US history following the Civil War that aimed to rebuild the South and integrate newly freed slaves into society.
  • The Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster: evaluating the tragic 1986 event that claimed the lives of seven astronauts.
  • The Great Society: examining President Lyndon B. Johnson’s domestic policies in the 1960s and their impact on American society.
  • The Bataan Death March: analyzing the brutal forced march of American and Filipino prisoners of war by the Japanese in World War II.
  • The Detroit Race Riot: examining the violent 1967 riots in Detroit and their impact on American race relations.
  • The Wounded Knee Massacre: analyzing the 1890 massacre of Sioux Indians by US troops and its impact on Native American relations with the US government.
  • The Spanish-American War: evaluating the US conflict with Spain in 1898 and its impact on American imperialism.
  • The Cold War: examining the geopolitical tensions between the US and Soviet Union from 1945-1991.
  • The Underground Railroad: evaluating the network of secret routes and safe houses used to help enslaved people escape to freedom in the 19th century.
  • The Tuskegee Airmen: examining the all-Black fighter squadron that served in World War II and their impact on American history.
  • The Boston Massacre: analyzing the 1770 event in which British soldiers killed five colonists and its impact on American revolutionary sentiment.
  • The 1968 Democratic National Convention: examining the protests and clashes between police and anti-war demonstrators during the convention.
  • The Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision: evaluating the landmark decision legalizing abortion in the US in 1973.
  • The Louisiana Territory: analyzing the US acquisition of the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803.
  • The Stock Market Crash of 1929: examining the causes and impact of the crash that led to the Great Depression.
  • The Lusitania sinking: analyzing the 1915 sinking of a British passenger ship by a German submarine and its impact on American entry into World War I.
  • The Second Great Awakening: evaluating the religious revival movement in the US in the early 19th century and its impact on American society.
  • The Black Panthers: analyzing the impact of the Black Panther Party on the civil rights movement and American society in the 1960s.
  • The Mexican-American War: examining the US conflict with Mexico in the 1840s and its impact on US expansionism.
  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: analyzing the 1911 tragedy and its impact on workplace safety regulations.
  • The Transcontinental Railroad: evaluating the building of the railroad in the late 19th century and its impact on American transportation and economy.
  • The Stono Rebellion: examining the 1739 slave uprising in South Carolina and its impact on American slavery laws.
  • The Battle of Gettysburg: analyzing the 1863 battle and its significance in the Civil War.
  • The Black Sox Scandal: evaluating the 1919 scandal in which members of the Chicago White Sox baseball team were accused of throwing the World Series.
  • The Oregon Trail: examining the westward expansion of American settlers to the Pacific Northwest in the 19th century.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964: analyzing the landmark legislation outlawing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
  • The Indian Removal Act: evaluating the 1830 law that authorized the forced removal of Native American tribes from their lands in the Southeastern US.
  • The Battle of Antietam: analyzing the 1862 battle and its impact on the Civil War.
  • The Iran-Contra Affair: examining the political scandal involving the Reagan administration’s secret arms sales to Iran and illegal funding of Contra rebels in Nicaragua.
  • The Pullman Strike: analyzing the 1894 labor strike by railway workers and its impact on American labor laws.
  • The 1920s: examining the cultural, social, and political changes that occurred during the “Roaring Twenties.”
  • The Battle of Little Bighorn: analyzing the 1876 battle between US forces and Sioux and Cheyenne warriors and its impact on Native American relations with the US government.
  • The Montgomery GI Bill: evaluating the legislation that provided education and training benefits to US veterans after World War II.
  • The Black Codes: examining the laws enacted in the South after the Civil War that restricted the rights and freedoms of newly freed slaves.
  • The Korean War: analyzing the US involvement in the conflict and its impact on American foreign policy.
  • The Seneca Falls Convention: evaluating the 1848 convention advocating for women’s suffrage and its impact on the women’s rights movement.
  • The Bay of Pigs Invasion: examining the failed 1961 US attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro’s government in Cuba.
  • The Homestead Strike: analyzing the 1892 labor strike by steelworkers and its impact on American labor relations.
  • The Gadsden Purchase: evaluating the US acquisition of land from Mexico in 1853 and its impact on American territorial expansion.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: examining the cultural and artistic movement in the 1920s and 1930s that celebrated Black creativity and identity.
  • The Fourteenth Amendment: analyzing the constitutional amendment that granted citizenship and equal protection under the law to all persons born or naturalized in the US.
  • The Battle of New Orleans: evaluating the 1815 battle in which American forces led by Andrew Jackson defeated British troops and its impact on American nationalism.
  • The Birmingham Campaign: analyzing the 1963 civil rights campaign in Alabama and its impact on the movement.
  • The Pullman Palace Car Company: examining the company’s history and impact on American railroad travel and labor relations.

About the author

' src=

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

You may also like

Climate Change Research Topics

500+ Climate Change Research Topics

Environmental Research Topics

500+ Environmental Research Topics

Qualitative_Research_Topics

500+ Qualitative Research Titles and Topics

Research Paper Topics

1100+ Research Paper Topics

Physics Research Topics

500+ Physics Research Topics

Cyber Security Research Topics

500+ Cyber Security Research Topics

100 History Research Paper and Essay Topics

15 August, 2021

13 minutes read

Author:  Richard Pircher

History is reasonably one of the most important subjects every student encounters in their school, college, or university life. Some students adore it and prioritize history among all other subjects, while others hate it and find it ultimately boring. The truth is, history class is quite essential: it teaches you how to think critically, reflect on the events, find links between cases and occasions, and gives you a valuable opportunity to develop analytical skills. Indeed, studying what happened in the past is critical for understanding the future and being able to interpret current events. Moreover, learning history can make us capable of controlling the things happening around us and contributing to the better quality of our own lives.

History Research Paper and Essay Topics

As a history student, you are certainly expected to compose sound essays on world history topics as well as elaborate on any American history topic. To make sure you write quality essays , you need to learn how to process history essay topics, outline your arguments, and depict historical events in a convincing and accurate way. All in all, keeping some pieces of advice in mind can do you good if your goal is to come up with interesting history topics and craft excellent essays. In the following guide, we will talk about the key features of a history research paper, discuss how to choose history topics to write about, and provide you with sample history topics.

interesting history topics

What Is a History Research Paper?

A history research paper challenges students with analyzing literature sources that are relevant to a particular historical event or historical era. Writing such a paper requires thorough preparation as well as in-depth research. Just like other types of college essays, a history essay follows a standard structure, where you need to develop a thesis statement and support it with relevant arguments and respective data. Thus, the only difference between a history research paper and other types of academic essays is that the first one analyzes solely historical events.

When writing a history research paper, it is critical to keep several points in mind, namely:

  • Relevance of the topic: why is it worth being discussed these days?
  • How is the topic related to the current times?
  • Why was the topic critical in the past?
  • How can a topic contribute to solving current economic and social issues?

Once you consider all the tips outlined above, you’ll become a pro at mastering any subject, from United States history research paper topics to the history of the middle ages.

Problems with writing Your History Research Paper ? Try our Essay Writer Service!

A Quick Guide to Choosing the Right Topic

If your goal is to craft an amazing history research paper with a strong thesis statement and not a less strong argument, there is a lot of effort to be made. A huge component of success lies in choosing the right topic. If you select a good and interesting one, you facilitate the writing process for yourself as well as make sure you will ultimately grab the reader’s attention. You might need to step out of your comfort zone and avoid limiting yourself to typical topics that have already been discussed thousands of times. Take a look at some tips that will help you come up with interesting but at the same time controversial topics in history:

It is always helpful if you take a look at existing, ongoing research topics. Coming up with your topic might be quite a challenge if you have no idea of what is going on in History research. For instance, find 20-30 US history topics, take a look at them, and think for a while. Which one has grabbed your interest the most? Which topic has the most potential  and the biggest importance to you?

Do some prior research

Once you know the approximate direction of your research, go to the Internet and discover what others write about it. Try to search for some evidence you might need to apply in your paper. Once you find enough support and information, you will be able to narrow down the research topic and come up with your arguments for an essay.

Select the best sources

Writing a history research paper has a lot to do with literature research. You will need to find a bunch of online sources and select only the ones that are most relevant to your research topic. Make sure you use only the most reliable sources and always apply appropriate citations to avoid plagiarism.

Start outlining

Once you’re all set with a research paper topic, don’t forget to structure your history paper. Outlining is the key to writing a proficient, coherent, well-argumented paper. You will need to follow standard outlining: introduction, main body paragraphs, and a summary paragraph at the end. Make sure you have reasonable arguments and evidence for each point of your outline.

Develop multiple thesis statements

A thesis statement plays a critical role when we talk about history research papers. First, it gives the reader an idea of what you will be talking about in the essay. Additionally, it does let the reader know which line of arguments you will follow later on and helps them understand why you decided to talk about a specific historical event. To make it easier for you to structure body paragraphs, develop several statements. If you do so, you will develop several different arguments and finally choose the best ones.

interesting history topics

Without further ado, take a look at 100 history research paper topics that will serve you as a basis for your own piece of writing:

Ancient History

  • Ancient Rome vs. ancient Greece: which one had more power in the past, and whose impact can be traced better today?
  • The philosophy of ancient greeks and its impact today
  • How the voting system of ancient Greece was organized
  • Protests in the ancient era: how demonstrations were organized in the past
  • The political system of ancient Rome
  • The military forces in ancient Greece
  • How Gladiator games were organized and which goal they pursued?
  • The society organization in ancient Egypt
  • Alexander the Great as one of the most leading figures in ancient History
  • Ancient Rome and civilian life

Middle Ages History Research Paper Topics

  • Crimes in the middle ages and how criminal behavior was treated
  • European Cities’ infrastructure during the medieval times
  • Philosophers of Medieval times and their impact on life today
  • The role of interfaith marriages in Medieval Europe
  • The most meaningful discoveries during the Middle Times and their contribution to the world economy
  • Revival of the Byzantine: the role and importance of the notion
  • Quran and its role in Medieval Europe
  • Middle Ages and the impact on the history of Europe
  • Why do some historians associate the Middle Ages with the era of discoveries?

Modern History

  • The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki: the reasons and possible prevention mechanisms
  • Native Americans in the US today
  • US immigrant policy: the challenges that are being put on the foreign residents
  • Social movements and the role of the industrialization
  • Social movements in the US today
  • The notion of Westward Expansion
  • The most prominent inventions of the 21st century and their inventors
  • Industrialization and its consequences for the US
  • Great Recession: tracing the adverse consequence of the crisis today
  • The role of NATO in the modern society

World History Research Paper Topics

  • The war between the United States and Mexico: the reasons and outcomes
  • The colonization of South America
  • The famous battle at sea Spain and Great Britain
  • How Medieval Europe shaped and perceived social interactions and personal relationships
  • The long-term consequences of the Cold War between the countries of the Soviet Bloc and the United States
  • The Chernobyl explosion: one of the biggest nuclear catastrophes of the mankind
  • 1968 student revolts
  •  Formation of the European Union and the key events that contributed to it

European History

  • French revolution and the force distribution that followed
  • The history of the European economy
  • Early Modern Europe
  • Muslims of Europe
  • The propaganda of western theories in the 20th century
  • England of the 17th century and the problem of gender bias
  • The analysis of Mid-Tudor Crises in Europe
  • The history of Nazi Germany: comparing German government of the past to the government of today

World War I

  • The Treaty of Versailles and its impact on the events of World War I
  • The Gallipoli campaign and the World War I
  • The image of eastern and western fronts in ​​World War I
  • Chemical Weapon in World War I: economic necessity or a hazard?
  • The entrance of America into the World War
  • Most influential alliances during the times of World War I
  • World War I and the Russian revolution
  • Battle at sea vs battle in the air: which countries used which strategies and why?
  • People and World War I: the cost of lives

World War II

  • How the Soviet army entered World War II and why its entry was critical for the World history
  • Child labor during the times of World War II
  • Africa and the World War II
  • Why did America decide to take a neutral role during World War II?
  • The fate of Germany after the end of the World War II
  • The state of diplomacy during World War II
  • The occupation of Japan
  • The events of the final year of World War II
  •  Resistance towards Hitler in Germany during the times of World War II

African American History Research Paper Topics

  • The role of the 14th Amendment in the lives of African American society
  • Attempts to end slavery via Abolitionist Movement: success and failure factors
  • Angela Davis – one of the greatest civil rights activists in African American society
  • How Black Codes were designed to limit the freedoms of African Americans
  • Black History month: the roots of an opportunity to fight racism and learn the history of African Americans
  • Dr. Martin Luther King and his impact that finds reflection in the African American society today
  • Malcolm X and the rights of the people of color
  • How cultural movements of African Americans contributed to the cultural diversity of the United States
  • Robert F. Kennedy and the success of his speech

United States History

  • The causes of civil war in the United States
  • 1776: the years of independence declaration
  • The key personalities during the times of revolutionary war
  • American social movements and the consequences that industrialization has had on the first
  • The history of slavery and human rights deprivation in the United States
  • The role of indigenous people: how is modern culture shaped by the impact of native Americans?
  • Analyzing the period between the wars
  • Emancipation Proclamation of 1863
  • Alcohol prohibition in the US: the roots and long-term consequences for the economy
  • Some of the most prominent historical events that took place during the times of Cold War
  • The Image of the United States during the Cold War
  • Cold War ar the period of uncertainty, fear, and resilience
  • The reason why Europe’s impact has been constantly shrinking at the times of cold war
  • Countries involved in the cold war and their role in it
  • Was it possible to prevent the Cold War or reduce its duration?
  • The influence of the Cold War in the current era: comparison of Russian vs. American pop cultures
  • The culture of the Soviet Union at the times of the Cold War
  • Chinese Communist Revolution during the Cold War

20th Century History Topics

  • American history of the 21st century
  • Ronald Reagan and the impact of the Mixed Legacies
  • The Holocaust and Roosevelt’s administration
  • Vietnam war: the role of females
  • Political Risks in American History during the reign of Harry Truman
  • Dictatorship in North Korea: the reasons behind it
  • The uprising of democratic movements
  • The history of organized crime in the 1920s in America
  • The greatest causes and consequences of the Great Depression
  • The death of the Soviet Union: how the world’s biggest country came to an end

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

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

History research paper topics

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.

History research paper topics

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

Order Essay

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

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?

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

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.

Nathan D.

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.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

  • How to Write a Research Paper - Writing Guide & Examples

History research paper topics

  • 20+ Thesis Statement Examples for Research Papers

History research paper topics

  • Learn How to Write an Abstract - Steps & Examples

History research paper topics

  • How to Write a Literature Review: Steps and Outline

History research paper topics

  • How to Start a Research Paper - 9 Simple Steps

History research paper topics

  • Psychology Research Topics - 170+ Ideas for Your Paper

History research paper topics

  • How to Write a Hypothesis - A Step-by-Step Guide

History research paper topics

  • Writing a Research Proposal - Outline, Format, and Examples

History research paper topics

  • Good Research Paper Topics & Ideas for Students

History research paper topics

  • How to Cite a Research Paper with the Help of Examples

History research paper topics

  • How to Write a Research Methodology in 10 Simple Steps

History research paper topics

  • Research Paper Outline - Basic Format & Sample

History research paper topics

  • Research Paper Example: Samples to Write a Research Paper

History research paper topics

  • Great Sociology Research Topics & Ideas (2024)

History research paper topics

People Also Read

  • how to avoid plagiarism
  • thesis statement examples
  • thesis introduction writing
  • classification essay
  • writing narrative essay

Burdened With Assignments?

Bottom Slider

Advertisement

  • Homework Services: Essay Topics Generator

© 2024 - All rights reserved

Facebook Social Icon

US History Research Paper Topics: Moments that Shaped a Nation

image

Table of contents

  • 1.1 Interesting US History Topics for Research Paper Before 1877
  • 1.2 US History Paper Topics on the Civil War
  • 1.3 American History Topics for Research Paper on Industrialization
  • 1.4 American History Research Topics on Reconstruction
  • 1.5 20th-Century American History Paper Topics
  • 1.6 US History Term Paper Topics in World War I and II
  • 1.7 American History Paper Topics about the Civil Rights Movement
  • 1.8 Native American History Thesis Topics
  • 2 Which Topics to Choose for History Research?
  • 3 Conclusion: Reflections on America’s Past

Exploring the rich and complex narrative of the United States, this article is designed as a resource for students and researchers embarking on assignments that require a deep dive into American history. Perfect for term papers, thesis projects, and detailed historical analyses, the guide presents a curated selection of interesting US history research paper topics.

  • We provide a comprehensive guide for students, researchers, and history enthusiasts seeking engaging and insightful topics for their research papers on American history.
  • These topics cover critical eras and events shaping America, from the early days before 1877 to the transformative 20th century.

With these good US history research topics in mind, let’s go over each one in-depth, creating a foundation for smart research and analysis.

List of 160 American History Research Paper Topics

History is a rich and complex subject, ripe for exploration in academic research. Whether you’re a student seeking a topic for an assignment or a history enthusiast looking to delve deeper into America’s past, this list offers a diverse range of subjects. From early colonial times to the modern era, each topic provides a unique lens through which to examine the nation’s history.

Interesting US History Topics for Research Paper Before 1877

  • The impact of European colonization on Native American societies.
  • The Salem Witch Trials: Causes and effects.
  • The role of the Seven Years’ War in shaping early American society.
  • The Declaration of Independence: Context and legacy.
  • The Articles of Confederation: Strengths and weaknesses.
  • The Constitutional Convention of 1787: Key debates and outcomes.
  • The Federalist vs. Anti-Federalist debate: Impact on the US Constitution.
  • The Louisiana Purchase: Motivations and consequences.
  • The War of 1812: Causes, course, and outcomes.
  • Manifest Destiny: Ideology and impact on westward expansion.
  • The Trail of Tears and Native American Removal Policies.
  • The role of slavery in antebellum America.
  • The Mexican-American War: Origins and effects.
  • The Gold Rush of 1849 and its impact on American expansion.
  • The Compromise of 1850 and its role in the lead-up to the Civil War.
  • The Dred Scott Decision: Implications and controversy.
  • The Underground Railroad: Key figures and operations.
  • The election of 1860 and its role in the secession crisis.
  • The role of women in antebellum America.
  • Early American foreign policy: Principles and practices.

US History Paper Topics on the Civil War

  • The causes of the American Civil War: A comprehensive analysis.
  • Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and its impact on the Civil War.
  • The role of slavery in sparking the Civil War.
  • Military strategies of the Union and the Confederacy.
  • The Emancipation Proclamation: Intentions and effects.
  • Key battles of the Civil War: Gettysburg, Antietam, and others.
  • The role of technology in the Civil War.
  • The impact of the Civil War on civilian life in the North and South.
  • The role of African American soldiers in the Civil War.
  • The diplomatic dimensions of the Civil War.
  • Reconstruction plans: Lincoln vs. Johnson.
  • The assassination of Abraham Lincoln: Impact on post-war America.
  • The economic consequences of the Civil War for the South.
  • The role of women during the Civil War.
  • The Draft Riots of 1863: Causes and impact.
  • The impact of the Civil War on American literature and art.
  • The role of nurses and medical practices during the Civil War.
  • The use of propaganda in the Civil War.
  • The transition from slavery to freedom during and after the Civil War.
  • The legacy of the Civil War in American memory.

American History Topics for Research Paper on Industrialization

  • The Second Industrial Revolution: Key innovations and their impact.
  • The rise of American industrial tycoons: Carnegie, Rockefeller, and others.
  • The impact of the railroad expansion on American society and economy.
  • Urbanization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Labor movements and strikes of the late 19th century.
  • The rise of monopolies and antitrust laws in the United States.
  • The impact of immigration on American industrial growth.
  • The role of women and children in industrial labor.
  • Technological advancements and their societal impact during industrialization.
  • The emergence of consumer culture in the late 19th century.
  • The environmental impact of industrialization.
  • Social Darwinism and its influence on American society.
  • The rise of organized labor and the American Federation of Labor.
  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and its aftermath.
  • The Homestead Strike: Causes and consequences.
  • The impact of the Industrial Revolution on American agriculture.
  • The role of education during the Industrial Revolution.
  • Transportation innovations and their impact on American life.
  • The evolution of American business practices during industrialization.
  • The Gilded Age: Wealth, poverty, and social disparity.

American History Research Topics on Reconstruction

  • The Reconstruction Amendments: Impact and limitations.
  • Presidential vs. Congressional Reconstruction: A comparative analysis.
  • The role of the Freedmen’s Bureau in post-Civil War America.
  • Sharecropping and tenant farming: Continuation of slavery by another name?
  • The rise and impact of the Ku Klux Klan during Reconstruction.
  • The Compromise of 1877 and the end of Reconstruction.
  • The Black Codes: Purpose and effects.
  • The impeachment of President Andrew Johnson: Causes and consequences.
  • The role of African Americans in politics during Reconstruction.
  • Economic challenges of the South during Reconstruction.
  • The establishment of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
  • The legacy of Reconstruction in the South.
  • The Jim Crow laws: Origins and impact.
  • The role of women during Reconstruction.
  • The Slaughterhouse Cases and their impact on civil rights.
  • The Enforcement Acts and their effectiveness in protecting African American rights.
  • The impact of Reconstruction on Northern society and politics.
  • Education reform in the South during Reconstruction.
  • The role of the U.S. military in enforcing Reconstruction policies.
  • The long-term effects of Reconstruction on American race relations.

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

20th-Century American History Paper Topics

  • The Progressive Era: Reforms and key figures.
  • The impact of World War I on American society and politics.
  • The Roaring Twenties: Culture, economics, and politics.
  • The Great Depression: Causes and the New Deal response.
  • The impact of World War II on the American home front.
  • The Cold War: Key events and American foreign policy.
  • The Civil Rights Movement: Key figures and legislative milestones.
  • The Vietnam War: Causes, course, and impact on American society.
  • The Women’s Rights Movement of the 1960s and 1970s.
  • The Watergate Scandal and its impact on American politics.
  • The Space Race: Technological advancements and Cold War implications.
  • The rise of environmentalism in the 20th century.
  • The impact of the automobile on 20th-century American life.
  • The rise of the American suburbs in the post-World War II era.
  • The counterculture of the 1960s and its impact on American society.
  • The Reagan Era: Policies and impact on the United States.
  • The War on Drugs: Origins, strategies, and consequences.
  • The impact of technological advancements on late 20th-century life.
  • The rise of the internet and its impact on society and culture.
  • The 9/11 attacks and their aftermath on American foreign policy.

US History Term Paper Topics in World War I and II

  • The causes and consequences of American entry into World War I.
  • The impact of the Treaty of Versailles on post-war America.
  • American isolationism between World War I and World War II.
  • The Lend-Lease Act and American support for the Allies before entering World War II.
  • The attack on Pearl Harbor: Causes and immediate effects.
  • The home front during World War II: Women, minorities, and the war effort.
  • The role of propaganda in American support for World War II.
  • The development and use of the atomic bomb.
  • The impact of World War II on American foreign policy.
  • The internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.
  • The role of African Americans in World War II.
  • The D-Day invasion: Planning, execution, and significance.
  • The Battle of Midway: Turning point in the Pacific War.
  • American military strategy in the European and Pacific theaters.
  • The Holocaust and American responses to it.
  • The post-war world order and the establishment of the United Nations.
  • The GI Bill and its impact on post-war American society.
  • The Nuremberg Trials: Legal and moral implications.
  • The Marshall Plan and American post-war economic policy.
  • The start of the Cold War: Origins and early confrontations.

American History Paper Topics about the Civil Rights Movement

  • The Montgomery Bus Boycott: Causes and outcomes.
  • The role of Martin Luther King Jr. in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • The Little Rock Nine and school desegregation.
  • The Freedom Rides: Objectives and impact.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964: Development and effects.
  • The Voting Rights Act of 1965: Importance and consequences.
  • The role of women in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • The Black Power Movement: Ideals and key figures.
  • The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on other minority groups.
  • The assassination of Malcolm X: Context and aftermath.
  • The Selma to Montgomery marches: Significance and outcomes.
  • The role of the NAACP in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • The Birmingham Campaign and the use of nonviolent protest.
  • The role of the media in shaping public perception of the Civil Rights Movement.
  • The Civil Rights Movement in the North: Challenges and Achievements.
  • The Economic Bill of Rights proposed by the Poor People’s Campaign.
  • The role of music in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on American law and society.
  • The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC): Contributions and challenges.
  • The legacy of the Civil Rights Movement in contemporary America.

Native American History Thesis Topics

  • The impact of European colonization on Native American cultures.
  • The Trail of Tears: Causes, course, and consequences.
  • Native American resistance movements: King Philip’s War, Pontiac’s Rebellion, and others.
  • The impact of the Indian Removal Act of 1830.
  • Native American life on reservations in the 19th and 20th centuries.
  • The role of Native Americans in American wars.
  • The Ghost Dance Movement and the Wounded Knee Massacre.
  • Native American boarding schools: Policies and impact on culture.
  • The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 and its implications.
  • The American Indian Movement (AIM): Goals and major actions.
  • The impact of the Dawes Act on tribal land and culture.
  • The role of Native American women in their societies.
  • Contemporary Native American issues: Sovereignty, land rights, and cultural preservation.
  • The Native American Renaissance: A cultural and literary overview.
  • The impact of environmental changes on Native American communities.
  • The repatriation of Native American artifacts and remains.
  • The role of treaties in Native American history.
  • Native American spiritual beliefs and practices.
  • The impact of the fur trade on Native American societies.
  • Contemporary Native American political activism.

Which Topics to Choose for History Research?

Given the breadth and diversity of US history topics, choosing one to write about can be difficult. To reduce your options, think about your interests and the extent of your investigation. Look for themes that provide a balance of available materials and new perspectives to explore.

When choosing a topic, consider its significance in the larger context of American history. Consider how the topic has influenced or reflected societal, political, or economic trends. For example, topics such as the Civil Rights Movement and World War II provide insights into moments of revolutionary change and struggle.

Also, examine the availability of primary and secondary sources. A well-documented topic provides for a more thorough study and a stronger argument. Always ensure that your chosen topic adheres to the criteria and objectives of your assignment or research aim.

Conclusion: Reflections on America’s Past

In this journey through American history, we have explored various topics that offer a window into the nation’s complex and multifaceted past. From the struggles and triumphs of early American society to the transformative events of the 20th century, these topics provide a foundation for understanding how the United States has evolved. Engaging with these topics enriches our historical knowledge and deepens our understanding of the present. As students, scholars, or simply curious minds, delving into these aspects of America’s past can provide valuable insights and perspectives on the nation’s journey and its ongoing story.

Readers also enjoyed

Best Research Paper Topic on History for Students

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

best research topics for history

Illustration

  • Research Paper Guides
  • Research Paper Topics

250 Interesting History Research Paper Topics

  • Speech Topics
  • Basics of Essay Writing
  • Essay Topics
  • Other Essays
  • Main Academic Essays
  • Basics of Research Paper Writing
  • Miscellaneous
  • Chicago/ Turabian
  • Data & Statistics
  • Methodology
  • Admission Writing Tips
  • Admission Advice
  • Other Guides
  • Student Life
  • Studying Tips
  • Understanding Plagiarism
  • Academic Writing Tips
  • Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

Illustration

  • Essay Guides
  • Formatting Guides
  • Basics of Research Process
  • Admission Guides
  • Dissertation & Thesis Guides

history_research_paper_topics

Table of contents

Illustration

Use our free Readability checker

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.

What Are History Research Paper Topics?

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.

Characteristics of Good History Research Topics

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: 

  • Meaningful.
  • Unambiguous.
  • Attractive.
  • Expressive.
  • Well-defined.

How to Choose a History Research Topic?

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:

  • 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.

List of History Topics to Research

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:

  • 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.

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 .

Interesting History Topics to Research

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:  

  • 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.

Good History Research Paper Topics

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: 

  • 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.

Unique Historical Research 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:

  • 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.

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.

Popular History Research Topics

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: 

  • 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.

Easy History Topics to Write About

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: 

  • 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.

History Research Paper Topics for Students

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 .

History Research Topics for Middle School

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:

  • 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.

History Research Topics for High School

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: 

  • 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.

History Research Paper Topics for College Students

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: 

  • 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.

Historical Events to Write About

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. 

World History Research Paper Topics

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: 

  • 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.

US History Research Paper Topics

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: 

  • 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.

Looking for anyone to work on your History paper? Stop googling ‘ pay someone to write my research paper ’, just contact Studycrumb and get proficient writing help. 

European History Research Topics

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:

  • 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.

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.  

French Revolution Research Topics for History

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: 

  • 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.

American Revolution History Research Paper Topics

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: 

  • 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?

History Research Paper Topics on US Civil War

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: 

  • 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?

Cold War History Research Topics

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:

  • 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.

20th Century Research Paper Topics

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:

  • 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.

Modern History Research Paper Topics

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: 

  • 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?

Extra History Research Paper Topics

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.

History Research Paper Topics for Exam

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:

  • 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.

>> Read more: How to Write a DBQ

History Research Paper Topics for Academics

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:

  • 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?

History Research Paper Topics for Experts

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: 

  • 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.

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. 

Bottom Line on History Research Topics

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. 

Illustration

Contact our writing website for help with relevant topics! We will be glad to provide students with interesting solutions and unique ideas. If you don't have time or desire to write a research paper, we can do it for you! Check out our website for more details! 

Joe_Eckel_1_ab59a03630.jpg

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

You may also like

thumbnail@2x.png

How To Write A Research Paper

History Research Paper Topics

Nova A.

200+ Outstanding History Research Paper Topics With Expert Tips

24 min read

Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Last updated on: Jul 23, 2024

History Research Paper Topics

People also read

How to Write a Research Paper Step by Step

How to Write a Proposal For a Research Paper in 10 Steps

A Comprehensive Guide to Creating a Research Paper Outline

Types of Research - Methodologies and Characteristics

300+ Engaging Research Paper Topics to Get You Started

Interesting Psychology Research Topics & Ideas

Qualitative Research - Types, Methods & Examples

Understanding Quantitative Research - Definition, Types, Examples, And More

Research Paper Example - Examples for Different Formats

How To Start A Research Paper - Steps With Examples

How To Write a Literature Review for a Research Paper | Steps & Examples

Types of Qualitative Research Methods - An Overview

Understanding Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research - A Complete Guide

How to Cite a Research Paper in Different Citation Styles

Easy Sociology Research Topics for Your Next Project

How To Write a Hypothesis in a Research Paper | Steps & Examples

How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper - A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Write a Good Research Paper Title

How to Write a Conclusion for a Research Paper in 3 Simple Steps

How to Write an Abstract For a Research Paper with Examples

How To Write a Thesis For a Research Paper Step by Step

How to Write a Discussion For a Research Paper | Objectives, Steps & Examples

How to Write the Results Section of a Research Paper - Structure and Tips

How to Write a Problem Statement for a Research Paper in 6 Steps

How To Write The Methods Section of a Research Paper Step-by-Step

How to Find Sources For a Research Paper | A Guide

Share this article

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. 

On This Page On This Page -->

History Research Paper Topics for Colleg"e 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.

Order Essay

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

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. 

You get a complete list of good research paper topics for your history paper. You can get started with your paper with our essay writer AI .

However, if you lack writing skills and need help, simply consult CollegeEssay.org . We are always ready to help you, no matter your academic assignment.  

So, get help from the best writing service at affordable rates. In fact our experienced essay writers can craft a top notch essay that is 100% unique! That too with a 100% money back guarantee if the service isn't delivered on time! 

So why delay when all you have us? Our online essay writing service is all you need to upgrade your academic journey! 

Nova A. (Literature, Marketing)

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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

Get Help

Keep reading

History Research Paper Topics

Legal & Policies

  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookies Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Refunds & Cancellations
  • Our Writers
  • Success Stories
  • Our Guarantees
  • Affiliate Program
  • Referral Program
  • AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

best research topics for history

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!

New-York city skyline.

  • 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!

Cultures by ethnicity.

  • 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.

Global network connection world map.

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!

Europe is the cradle of modern civilization.

  • 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!

Oscar Wilde quote.

  • 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!

Ancient egypt hieroglyphics.

  • 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!

Andre Maurois quote.

  • 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!

P. J. O'Rourke quote.

  • 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.

You might also be interested in:

  • 280 Good Nursing Research Topics & Questions
  • 226 Research Topics on Criminal Justice & Criminology
  • 204 Research Topics on Technology & Computer Science
  • 178 Best Research Titles about Cookery & Food
  • 180 Best Education Research Topics & Ideas
  • 110+ Micro- & Macroeconomics Research Topics
  • 417 Business Research Topics for ABM Students
  • 190+ Research Topics on Psychology & Communication
  • 512 Research Topics on HumSS
  • 281 Best Health & Medical Research Topics
  • 501 Research Questions & Titles about Science
  • A List of Research Topics for Students. Unique and Interesting
  • 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
  • Share to Facebook
  • Share to Twitter
  • Share to LinkedIn
  • Share to email

Research Proposal Topics: 503 Ideas, Sample, & Guide [2024]

Do you have to write a research proposal and can’t choose one from the professor’s list? This article may be exactly what you need. We will provide you with the most up-to-date undergraduate and postgraduate topic ideas. Moreover, we will share the secrets of the winning research proposal writing. Here,...

278 Interesting History Essay Topics and Events to Write about

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

150 Argumentative Research Paper Topics [2024 Upd.]

Argumentative research paper topics are a lot easier to find than to come up with. We always try to make your life easier. That’s why you should feel free to check out this list of the hottest and most controversial argumentative essay topics for 2024. In the article prepared by...

420 Funny Speech Topics: Informative, Persuasive, for Presentations

One of the greatest problems of the scholarly world is the lack of funny topics. So why not jazz it up? How about creating one of those humorous speeches the public is always so delighted to listen to? Making a couple of funny informative speech topics or coming up with...

Gun Control Argumentative Essay: 160 Topics + How-to Guide [2024]

After the recent heartbreaking mass shootings, the gun control debate has reached its boiling point. Do we need stricter gun control laws? Should everyone get a weapon to oppose crime? Or should guns be banned overall? You have the opportunity to air your opinion in a gun control argumentative essay....

Best Childhood Memories Essay Ideas: 94 Narrative Topics [2024]

Many people believe that childhood is the happiest period in a person’s life. It’s not hard to see why. Kids have nothing to care or worry about, have almost no duties or problems, and can hang out with their friends all day long. An essay about childhood gives an opportunity...

A List of 272 Informative Speech Topics: Pick Only Awesome Ideas! [2024]

Just when you think you’re way past the question “How to write an essay?” another one comes. That’s the thing students desperately Google: “What is an informative speech?” And our custom writing experts are here to help you sort this out. Informative speaking is a speech on a completely new issue....

435 Literary Analysis Essay Topics and Prompts [2024 Upd]

Literature courses are about two things: reading and writing about what you’ve read. For most students, it’s hard enough to understand great pieces of literature, never mind analyzing them. And with so many books and stories out there, choosing one to write about can be a chore. But you’re in...

335 Unique Essay Topics for College Students [2024 Update]

The success of any college essay depends on the topic choice. If you want to impress your instructors, your essay needs to be interesting and unique. Don’t know what to write about? We are here to help you! In this article by our Custom-Writing.org team, you will find 335 interesting...

147 Social Studies Topics for Your Research Project

Social studies is an integrated research field. It includes a range of topics on social science and humanities, such as history, culture, geography, sociology, education, etc. A social studies essay might be assigned to any middle school, high school, or college student. It might seem like a daunting task, but...

626 Dissertation Topics for Ph.D. and Thesis Ideas for Master Students

If you are about to go into the world of graduate school, then one of the first things you need to do is choose from all the possible dissertation topics available to you. This is no small task. You are likely to spend many years researching your Master’s or Ph.D....

192 Free Ideas for Argumentative or Persuasive Essay Topics

Looking for a good argumentative essay topic? In need of a persuasive idea for a research paper? You’ve found the right page! Academic writing is never easy, whether it is for middle school or college. That’s why there are numerous educational materials on composing an argumentative and persuasive essay, for...

126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions

Modern history covers an impressive number of significant events. It is fascinating but, at the same time, quite complicated. Therefore, the understanding of the key concepts can be challenging.

The unpredicted turn of events and difficulties in setting the exact time frames often confuse people. As a result, they become lost and discouraged. Sometimes, history studying even becomes a real torture for students.

Are you struggling with the search for modern history topics for your essay? You are on the right page! The selection of the appropriate and useful ideas for your successful paper has never been this easy. Our team created a comprehensive modern history topics list. We encourage you to use it to write a well-developed and robust history essay.

🔝 Top-10 Interesting Modern History Topics

📋 historical investigation topics: modern history, 🐉 16th-17th centuries, 🚂18th-19th centuries, ☢️ 20th century, 🚢 16th-17th centuries, ⚔️ 18th-19th centuries, 🏭 20th century, 🏹 16th-17th centuries, 🏗️ 18th-19th centuries, 🚀 20th century, ❓ modern history essay questions.

  • The Great Depression.
  • Modern history of Asia.
  • The Cold War.
  • World War 2.
  • The American Revolution.
  • The Mexican-American war.
  • Modern history of Africa.
  • Black Lives Matter Movement.
  • Modern Indian history.
  • Famous art movements in history.

To find relevant history essay topics, you need to be confident in detecting the time frames. The modern history is divided into three periods:

  • Early Modern Period (1500-1750)
  • Late Modern Period (1750-1945)
  • Contemporary Period (1945-present)

For your convenience, we divided modern history essay questions into several categories. We grouped our ideas according to location and time frames.

These modern history topics are for both essays and research papers.

For a proper search, first, choose a country of your interest—it can be the USA, for instance. Then, decide on the period that your assignment requires. For example, you may need interesting 20th-century history topics. After that, go to the corresponding section and explore the topic list. Pick one that you find the most fascinating and start creating your successful essay!

🗺️ Modern World History Topics

Starting from the 16th century and moving to the present times, modern history is developing. Think about it: what we have now reflects on what happened in the past. Analyzing the impact of historical events and figures, we cannot deny their significance.

The civilization went through two world wars, the industrial revolution, demographic movements, etc. All these events contribute to world development to a great extent.

Below, you’ll see modern history essay questions and topics. To examine a picked title on a deeper level, you may need to quite a lot of research. Worth it, though.

  • Religious symbolism in renaissance paintings .
  • China’s Qing Dynasty .
  • The growth of Daoism during the late Qing dynasty .
  • How did Buddhism become a tool of the Chinese Empire’s transformation?

Buddha presented the Four Noble Truths as guiding principles.

  • The 17th-century Catholic church: the historical authenticity vs. horizon expansion.
  • What was the history of the human rights’ evolution vs. violation in the modern world?
  • Ottoman–Safavid war of 1623–1639: a great conflict between the Ottoman Empire and Safavid Persia.
  • Slavery in Africa . What was the dimension of slavery in Africa? Comment on who and how acquired native population for slavery. What were the roles of salves? Discuss the effects of slavery in Africa.
  • Qing dynasty : the last dynasty of China. How was the Qing dynasty developing? Comment on the origins of the Qing dynasty. Investigate political and economic development during the Qing Dynasty. How did the dynasty collapse?
  • Renaissance as the Revival of the World. What are the time frames of the Renaissance period? Discuss the origins of the Renaissance. Introduce the leading representatives of the Renaissance period? Explain why humanism was the central concept of the renaissance period.
  • The industrial revolution and beyond: culture, work, and social change .
  • What was the role of trade unions in the 18th-19th centuries?
  • Russo-Turkish war of 1877-1878.
  • Evolution of the scientific revolution : the development of science.
  • History of Fukuzawa Yukichi: westernization of Japan.
  • Industrial revolution history . Briefly introduce the background of the industrial revolution. Which effects did the revolution have on society? Examine the world economy improvement due to the industrial revolution.
  • What were the cornerstones of scientific development? Examine the progress in biology studying. Who are the leading representatives of the biology progress of the given period? Comment on the impact of natural strides on the modern world. What are the most significant accomplishments of scientists?

The 19th century introduced photography and telephones.

  • Durrani Empire – the great empire of the 18th-19th centuries. How was the empire established? Who were the rulers? The Afgan state foundation as a part of the Durrani Empire’s existence. What was the relationship of the Durani Empire with China? Describe the decline of the empire.
  • Social studies advancement. What branches of social studies were the most developed in the 16th-17th centuries? Focus your attention on political science, geography, economics, sociology, psychology. Explain the reason for ongoing social studies’ progress.
  • Taiping Rebellion in China: the bloodiest conflict of the 19th century. Examine the causes of the conflict. What were the outcomes of the Taiping Rebellion? Discuss why Hong Xiuquan (the leader of the Taiping Rebellion) proclaimed himself Jesus’s younger brother.

The 20th century is one of the most influential and landmark periods in recent history. It focuses mainly on two world wars. The events of this period directly affect current society formation. The list below presents 20th-century world history essay topics. So, take benefit of it! Choose the most appropriate topic for your essay!

  • World War I origins (how and why the war started)
  • World War II positive and negative repercussions
  • Cold War major aspects and events
  • Feminist Movement in Canada.
  • What is the heritage of the Soviet Union ?

The Soviet Union was erased from world maps because it could not sustain itself.

  • The communist party in the Soviet Union and China.
  • The major causes of the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States.
  • What is the King–Byng affair? Consider the constitutional crisis in Canada of 1926. Discuss the causes and effects of the King-Byng affair. Examine how did the King-Byng lead to constitutional reform.
  • China’s democracy movement . Examine the beginning of the Chinese democratic movement. Consider the new democratic revolution and the cultural revolution. How do these events reflect on China’s democracy movement? Discover the issue of democracy wall movement. What was the reason for political persecution in China caused by the democratic movement?
  • World War I vs. World War II . Examine the differences and similarities of the two world wars. Analyze the causes and the outcomes of both wars. Give your own opinion: which war do you think has more positive effects on social development? Which war has more negative consequences on social development?

🛠️ European Modern History Research Topics

Modern European history is quite versatile and broad. Therefore, it offers a wide variety of topics to explore. The period of the 16th-20th centuries is full of landmark events. They are the reformation, the age of discovery, various worldwide conflicts, etc.

For easier writing, search for modern history topics about discoveries and inventions.

Our writing team developed a list of modern European history essay topics. So, if you need to compose an outstanding essay, you are more than welcome to use the ideas presented below!

  • European Christianity and its decline from the 16th century .
  • The significance of Martin Luther and the protestant reformation in the history of western civilization .
  • Age of discovery in Europe.
  • How and in what ways did the use of print change the lives of early modern Europeans?
  • The Spanish Armada: Britain and Spain in Battle of the Seas.
  • The centers of Christianity placement: a European approach to Christianity spreading.
  • The Enlightenment. How did the enlightenment philosophy affect Europe’s religions in the 16th and 17th centuries? Explain how the enlightenment philosophy impacted Europe’s political institutions. In what way did the enlightenment philosophy influence Europe’s social class in the 16th and 17th centuries?
  • Studies of Western Europe: Columbus’ journey. Discuss an account of Columbus’ voyage. How did Columbus’ journey influence the development of geography in the 16th-17th centuries? Examine the theories leading to Columbus’s voyage.
  • The Thirty Years War. Indicate the origins of the war. What were the outcomes of the war? Analyze the casualties and diseases caused by the Thirty Years War.
  • Reformation and development of the arts. Discuss the spreading of the reformation in Europe. Who were the key players in the reformation era? What was the effect of reformation on the arts?
  • The French Revolution and Napoleon’s governance.
  • Napoleon’s French army, 1800-1808: motivation and military culture
  • The most outstanding philosophers of Europe on the Enlightenment Age.

Some of the most important writers of the Enlightenment were the Philosophes of France.

  • The British Empire and international affairs.
  • Napoleon Bonaparte: His successes and failures.
  • Napoleon: A child and destroyer of the French Revolution.
  • James Cook – the first European to land on the Hawaiian Islands . Conduct small research on James Cook’s biography. Examine his three voyages. How did his discovery of the Hawaiian Islands impact Europe? Did the perception of American geography change?
  • Irish Rebellion of 1798 as the protest against British rule in Ireland . What was the background of the Irish Rebellion? Provide a detailed description of the timeline of the rebellion. What are the positive and negative outcomes of the Irish Rebellion?
  • The scientific progress in the 18th-19th centuries. Discuss the three outstanding inventions listed below: a. The identification of X-Rays by Wilhelm Röntgen. b. How did Joseph Swan invent the first electric lightbulb? c. The Hansen Writing Ball (the first commercially sold typewriter) by Rasmus Malling-Hansen. How did these inventions push the scientific progress forward?
  • The Kulturkampf (“Culture War”). Examine the timeline and laws established during the Culture War. What are the differences and similarities of the Culture War in the following countries: a. Germany b. Switzerland c. Austria d. Italy e. Belgium

The 20th Century is a watershed period in European history. The events, which occurred during that time, considerably contribute to European society formation. The list below includes 20th-century European history essay topics. Enjoy using it for your successful work!

  • What were the critical technological advancements in Europe during World War I?

The most important World War I technologies.

  • World War II Innovations.
  • How useful is the term ‘fascism’ when applied generically to describe the far-right in interwar Europe?
  • Role of the Woman during the Spanish Civil War.
  • Cold War Consequences for European Countries.
  • Has security been the main driver behind European integration since World War Two?
  • The Great Depression of 1929–1939 . What is the impact of depression in Eastern Europe and on Western Europe? Explain the role of the League of Nations in dealing with the Great Depression. What are the causes of the Great Depression in Europe?
  • How did European poets and writers of the 20th century describe World War I and World War II in the books? The visualization of the conflicts occurred during the wars in the literature.
  • Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact. Briefly discuss reforms in the Eastern Europe geographical division. What was the compromise of Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin? Analyze the consequences of Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact for different countries. Consider the effects on Finland, Poland, the Baltic States, and Romania. What was the outcome of the pact?
  • The cultural development of Europe in the 20th century. There are two famous influencers of European art advancement: a. Consider Richard Georg Strauss as the key figure of the 20th-century European music. b. Was Pablo Ruiz Picasso a significant figure of 20th-century European art progress? Discuss how these individuals contributed to the cultural flourishing in 20th-century Europe.

Pablo Picasso was a Spanish painter, sculptor, printmaker, ceramicist, and stage designer considered one of the greatest and most influential artists of the 20th century.

📻 US History Topics to Write about

The USA is a relatively young nation. Nevertheless, American history impresses with a wide variety of significant events. During its lifespan, the country faced wars, revolutions, inner and outer conflicts, reformations, and more.

The list of essential episodes of USA history is unbelievably long. So if you are overwhelmed with the oversaturation, don’t be confused and upset. Take a look at our modern American history topics. You will find something useful here.

  • The Native Americans’ history.
  • Conquest and colonization of America by Europeans.
  • How did religion affect the pattern of colonization in America and life in those colonies?
  • The importance of the process of colonization and the formation of unique cultures in America to the formation of the United States.
  • Royal African Company. Why did a trading company have the greatest impact on the slave trade establishment in the USA?
  • What was the impact of European colonization on American culture?
  • The colonization of America as one of the most famous early American history topics . What were the goals of the conquest? What countries took part in the colonization of the USA?
  • French-Indian War of 1754–1763. Examine the background of the war. Then, describe the course of the war. What were the consequences of the conflict through economic and political perspectives?
  • How did the 17th century become the beginning of the slavery era in the USA?

The system of African slavery came slowly to the English colonists.

  • American History: the Road to Civil War
  • The political reforms in 18th-century America.
  • How does American literature reflect on the events of the Civil War?
  • The Ideas of Freedom and Slavery in Relation to the American Revolution
  • Visual art of the USA. Comment on Europe as a significant influencer of American art flourishing.
  • Causes of the Civil War in the USA.
  • History of the African-Americans Religion During the Time of Slavery
  • United States Declaration of Independence of 1776: causes and effects.
  • The Opium Trade: the new way of exporting goods from China to Britain through the USA.
  • Industrialization as the leading cause of economic growth in the 19th century.
  • The War of 1812 in American history .
  • Anti-slavery movements in the United States. The people’s desire to abolish slavery: a fiction or a reality? Who were the most outstanding leaders od the anti-slavery movement? Explain how movement pushed the slavery abolishment forward.

You may notice that the 20th century US history topics are diverse. An impressive number of landmark events occurred during the 1900s. They immensely contributed to modern USA development.

The following essay questions will help you investigate. Find the most significant events of 20th-century American history and start your research.

  • The American strategic culture in the Vietnam War.
  • How did Ellis Island become a hospital for the American army during World War I?

During the peak years of Ellis Island’s operation, almost two thousand people passed came every day.

  • Cold War Major Aspects and Events .
  • What were the USA contributions to the space age?
  • The problem of the USA exposed by the Great Depression.
  • Latinos’ civil rights’ winning in the post-war U.S.
  • America in World War II – experiences and impacts.
  • Martin Luther King as the main leader of the civil rights movement.
  • Immigration Act of 1924. Examine the provisions of the act. What was the reason for the Immigration Act implementation? What was the result of this event?
  • Charles Cough as the key figure of the populism movement in the U. S. Introduce the central concepts of populism. How did it affect America? Analyze Cough’s activities as a populist figure. What role did the National Union for Social Justice play in the movement?
  • When Does Modern History Begin?
  • What Is Meant by Modern History?
  • What Is an Example of Modern History?
  • When Did Modern History Start?
  • What Are the Features of Modern History?
  • Why Is the Study of Modern History Critical?
  • What Is the Difference Between Ancient History and Modern History?
  • How Is Modern History Different From Contemporary History?
  • What Is the Difference Between Medieval History and Modern History?
  • When Did Modern History Start and End?
  • What Are the Five Eras of Modern History?
  • What Are the Four Essential Characteristics of Modern History?
  • Who Is Known as the Father of Modern History?
  • Is Modern History Helpful?
  • What Is the Modern History Concept?
  • Who Is the Father of Modern History?
  • What Is Greek and Roman Influence on Modern History?
  • How Did Human Subjectivity Affect Foundations of Modern History?
  • What’s the Role of Liberalism Through Modern History?
  • How Modern History Changes the Family?
  • How Does the Printing Press Affect Modern History?
  • How the Boxer Rebellion Was a Turning Point in China’s Modern History?
  • Why Should Modern History Begin With 1815?
  • What Are the Similarities Between the History of the Easter Islands and the Modern History of Our Society?
  • Who Is Called the Mother of Modern History?

Thank you for visiting our page! We hope the article was helpful for your studies. Don’t forget to leave your comments and share this page with your friends.

🔗References

  • Internet Modern History Sourcebook: Paul Halsall for the History Department of Fordham University, New York
  • 100 Good Research Paper Topics for History Class: Jule Romans for Owlcation
  • Writing Historical Essays: History Department, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
  • How To Write a Good History Essay: Robert Pearce for History Today
  • The Journal of Modern History, Vol 92, No 1: The University of Chicago Press Journals
  • Early Modern Europe: Department of History, Princeton University
  • Writing a Thesis and Making an Argument: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, The University of Iowa
  • Tips for Writing Essay Exams: LSJ Writing Center, the University of Washington
  • Beginning the Academic Essay: Patricia Kain for the Writing Center at Harvard University
  • Demographics Topics
  • Modernization Theory Research Topics
  • Crime Ideas
  • Economic Topics
  • Culture Topics
  • Ethnographic Paper Topics
  • Globalization Essay Topics
  • Immigration Titles
  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, October 27). 126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/

"126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions." IvyPanda , 27 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2023) '126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions'. 27 October.

IvyPanda . 2023. "126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions." October 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions." October 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions." October 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/modern-history-essay-topics/.

Ancient History Research Paper Topics

Academic Writing Service

Embarking on a journey through the labyrinth of ancient history research paper topics , this comprehensive guide has been expertly crafted for students tasked with writing a research paper in history. The page unveils an extensive array of 100 topics, divided into ten distinct categories, thus providing a wealth of options for exploration. To further equip students for their research endeavors, a thorough guide to choosing the perfect ancient history research paper topic is included, accompanied by practical advice on how to compose an impactful research paper on ancient history. Subsequently, the page introduces the iResearchNet’s professional writing services, offering students the opportunity to commission custom ancient history research papers on any topic.

100 Ancient History Research Paper Topics

Ancient history is a vast field of study that reveals the early cultures, civilizations, and events that have shaped our world. Here are ten categories each with ten possible topics that you may consider for your ancient history research paper:

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

Ancient Civilizations

  • The rise and fall of the Sumerian civilization.
  • Egypt under the Pharaohs: A study of the Old Kingdom.
  • The Indus Valley Civilization: Art, culture, and trade.
  • The social hierarchy in the Ancient Mayan civilization.
  • The technological advancements of the Ancient Chinese civilization.
  • The political system of Ancient Athens.
  • Roman Republic vs Roman Empire: A comparative study.
  • The agricultural practices of the Ancient Aztecs.
  • The role of the Oracle in the Ancient Greek civilization.
  • The fall of Carthage: An analysis of the Punic Wars.

Significant Figures in Ancient History

  • Alexander the Great: His conquests and legacy.
  • Cleopatra: Her influence in Egypt and Rome.
  • Socrates: His philosophy and influence on future generations.
  • Julius Caesar: His rise to power and assassination.
  • Hannibal Barca: His strategies and role in the Punic Wars.
  • Ashoka the Great: His reign and conversion to Buddhism.
  • Tutankhamun: His reign and the significance of his tomb.
  • Pericles and the Golden Age of Athens.
  • Confucius: His teachings and impact on Chinese society.
  • Queen Boudica and her rebellion against the Romans.

Ancient Warfare and Conflicts

  • The causes and effects of the Peloponnesian War.
  • Military strategies in the Roman Empire.
  • The role of chariots in Ancient Egyptian warfare.
  • An examination of the Trojan War: Myth and history.
  • The Battle of Marathon: A turning point in the Persian Wars.
  • Hannibal’s tactics in the Battle of Cannae.
  • The Hunnic invasions and their impact on Eurasia.
  • The Siege of Masada: A study of Jewish resistance to Roman rule.
  • Spartacus and the Slave Revolt.
  • The significance of the Battle of Actium in the shift from Roman Republic to Roman Empire.

Religion and Mythology in Ancient Cultures

  • The role of Greek gods and goddesses in ancient Greek society.
  • The cult of Osiris in ancient Egypt.
  • The impact of Zoroastrianism on the Persian Empire.
  • The religious practices in the ancient Mayan civilization.
  • The pantheon of the Roman gods and their Greek counterparts.
  • Buddhism in ancient India: Its inception and impact.
  • The mythology of the Norse gods.
  • Monotheism in ancient civilizations: The case of Aten in ancient Egypt.
  • The ancient Celtic rituals and druids.
  • The role of sacrifice in Aztec religion.

Ancient Cultural Practices and Beliefs

  • Death and afterlife beliefs in ancient Egypt.
  • The philosophy and teachings of Stoicism in ancient Greece.
  • Slavery in ancient Rome: A societal perspective.
  • The significance of the Olympic Games in ancient Greece.
  • The role of women in Sparta versus Athens.
  • The caste system in ancient India and its impact on society.
  • The practice of human sacrifice in ancient cultures.
  • The concept of democracy in ancient Athens.
  • The importance of the Nile River in the lives of ancient Egyptians.
  • The role of the Colosseum in Roman society.

Ancient Art and Architecture

  • The architectural marvel of the Egyptian pyramids.
  • The cultural significance of Mayan glyphs.
  • The symbolism in ancient Greek pottery.
  • The evolution of Roman architecture: From the Colosseum to the Pantheon.
  • Buddhist stupas and sculptures in ancient India.
  • The significance of the Sphinx and its mysteries.
  • The stylistic features of ancient Chinese calligraphy.
  • The construction techniques and purposes of Stonehenge.
  • The portrayal of myths and legends in ancient Greek sculpture.
  • The function of hieroglyphics in ancient Egyptian society.

Ancient Scientific and Technological Innovations

  • The astronomical knowledge of the ancient Mayans.
  • The ancient Roman aqueducts and their impact on society.
  • The development of mathematics in ancient Egypt.
  • The ancient Chinese inventions that shaped the world: Paper, compass, gunpowder, and printing.
  • The construction techniques of the Great Wall of China.
  • Ancient Greek contributions to medicine: The Hippocratic Oath.
  • The development of the Julian and later Gregorian calendar.
  • The engineering marvels of ancient Roman roads.
  • Ancient Indian contributions to mathematics: Zero, decimal system, and geometry.
  • The technology behind the Nazca Lines.

Trade and Commerce in the Ancient World

  • The role of the Silk Road in cultural exchange.
  • The impact of the spice trade in ancient India.
  • The trade relations between ancient Egypt and the Near East.
  • The significance of the Phoenicians in maritime trade.
  • The Roman trade with China: Silk and spices.
  • The economic significance of the agricultural surplus in Mesopotamia.
  • The role of coinage in the Persian Empire.
  • The wine trade in the ancient Mediterranean.
  • The ancient Incas: Trade without a currency system.
  • The marketplaces in ancient Rome: A study of the Forum.

Legal Systems and Governance in Ancient Cultures

  • The Code of Hammurabi: An analysis of Babylonian law.
  • The political system of the Roman Republic.
  • The governance and bureaucracy of ancient Egypt.
  • The legal and political institutions of ancient Athens.
  • The Mauryan administration under Emperor Ashoka.
  • The Roman law: Principles and influence on modern legal systems.
  • The role of the Senate in the Roman Empire.
  • The feudal system in ancient China.
  • The role of Spartan law in maintaining a military society.
  • The judicial practices in the ancient Inca civilization.

Health and Medicine in the Ancient World

  • The practice of medicine in ancient Egypt.
  • Ancient Greek understandings of disease and healing.
  • The role of Ayurveda in ancient Indian medicine.
  • Roman public health systems: Aqueducts, baths, and sanitation.
  • The use of herbs and acupuncture in ancient Chinese medicine.
  • The medical treatments and surgical techniques in the Hippocratic Corpus.
  • The role of the Asclepeion in ancient Greek medicine.
  • The understanding of the human body in ancient Egypt.
  • Mental health and neurology in ancient cultures.
  • The significance of the Edwin Smith Papyrus in the study of ancient medicine.

This diverse list of ancient history research paper topics provides a launchpad for you to explore the fascinating epochs, individuals, and events that have formed the foundation of our current civilizations. Choose a subject that you find engaging and let the past inspire and guide your research journey.

Ancient History: Scope and Range of Research Paper Topics

History, by definition, is the study of the past. The narrative of mankind’s journey from the cradle of civilization to modern society is not just a collection of dates, events, and personalities. It is a vast, intricate tapestry that interweaves the collective experiences, cultures, and achievements of human civilizations. Among the various eras and aspects of human history, the study of ancient history stands out due to its profundity and influence on the course of humanity. This section will guide you through the landscape of ancient history and the diverse range of ancient history research paper topics it offers.

To begin with, let’s understand what ‘ancient history’ encapsulates. Typically, it refers to the period from the earliest recorded human history to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD. Ancient history spans across numerous civilizations and continents, providing a rich soil for research that encompasses social, cultural, political, technological, and personal facets of past societies.

The study of ancient history takes you on a journey across thousands of years, from the Neolithic Revolution when humans transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to settled farming, to the rise of city-states, and eventually to the formation of vast empires. This wide temporal frame and the spectrum of social and cultural evolution it contains are a treasure trove of potential ancient history research paper topics.

Within this broad timeline, civilizations such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, Chinese, Indus Valley, Greeks, and Romans laid the foundation stones of our modern world. They pioneered the principles of governance, law, philosophy, mathematics, and science that we still rely upon today. Researching these civilizations’ histories allows us to delve into their society’s fabric, examining their values, their interactions with one another, their struggles, and their triumphs.

For instance, one could study the grandeur of Egyptian Pharaohs, their obsession with afterlife, or their monumental feats of engineering like the Pyramids of Giza. The Greeks offer a wealth of topics from their Pantheon of gods, the philosophy of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, their pioneering concept of democracy in Athens, to their legendary wars such as the Trojan War or the Persian Wars. When studying the Romans, one could delve into their vast empire’s administration, the evolution of their republic into an autocracy, their innovative architectural designs, or their sophisticated law system.

Moreover, ancient history is not confined to the Mediterranean and Near East. Civilizations in ancient India, China, Mesoamerica, and Africa offer a variety of unique cultural, philosophical, and historical perspectives. The philosophies of Buddhism and Confucianism, the Mayan and Aztec temples and astronomical knowledge, and the great African kingdoms of Nubia and Aksum contribute to the diverse tapestry of ancient history.

Another rewarding area of study in ancient history is the analysis of significant figures and their influence on their civilizations and future generations. Famous rulers such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, or Emperor Qin Shi Huang left indelible marks on history. Their lives, their leadership styles, their achievements, and their failures offer fascinating insights into human nature and the nature of power.

Ancient warfare and its strategies, tools, and impact on society and politics is another aspect that provides an array of ancient history research paper topics. The strategies of Hannibal Barca, the construction and use of Egyptian chariots, or the methods of the Roman legions all offer intriguing perspectives on how ancient civilizations waged war.

Religion and mythology formed the backbone of ancient societies, affecting their worldviews, their laws, and their daily lives. Researching ancient religions, the role of gods and goddesses, the creation of myths, and the function of priests and rituals in society can provide illuminating insights into the spiritual lives of ancient people.

Furthermore, the field of ancient history isn’t solely focused on political and cultural topics. The study of ancient economies, trade routes, and commerce provides a grounding in the practical aspects of these civilizations. Topics such as the use of coinage, the trade goods and routes of the Silk Road, or the economic significance of agriculture offer an understanding of the economics of the ancient world.

Finally, there’s an entire world to explore in terms of ancient history’s influence on art, literature, and philosophy. From the epic poems of Homer to the sophisticated drama of ancient Greece, from the hieroglyphics of Egypt to the classical statuary of Rome, ancient history offers a wealth of subjects for artistic and literary analysis.

In conclusion, the scope of ancient history is vast, offering a plethora of research topics ranging from detailed studies of specific civilizations, significant figures, wars, religion, culture, economics, to the art of the ancient world. Each of these aspects offers unique perspectives and opportunities for detailed analysis and research, providing students with the potential to delve into the intricacies of our shared past. No matter the area of interest, ancient history has something for every curious mind, and the lessons we learn from the past invariably shine a light on our present and future.

Choosing Ancient History Research Paper Topics

Choosing the right research paper topic is crucial for a successful and engaging project. In the realm of ancient history, where countless fascinating subjects await exploration, it’s essential to select a topic that aligns with your interests and allows for meaningful research. This section provides expert advice on how to choose ancient history research paper topics that are both compelling and manageable.

  • Understand Your Interests : To begin your research paper journey, take some time to reflect on your personal interests within the realm of ancient history. Consider the civilizations, time periods, events, or figures that captivate your curiosity. By focusing on what intrigues you the most, you’ll be more motivated and invested in your research.
  • Explore Different Time Periods : Ancient history spans thousands of years, encompassing various civilizations and eras. Expand your understanding by exploring different time periods, such as the ancient Near East, ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, and ancient Rome. Each period offers unique historical contexts and research opportunities.
  • Narrow Down Your Topic : Once you’ve identified your general area of interest, narrow down your focus by selecting a specific aspect or theme within ancient history. For example, if you’re fascinated by ancient Egypt, you might choose to explore the role of religion in the construction of pyramids or the influence of pharaohs on political and cultural developments.
  • Consider the Available Sources : Before finalizing your research topic, evaluate the availability and accessibility of relevant sources. Ensure that there is sufficient scholarly literature, primary sources, and archaeological evidence to support your research. This will enable you to delve deep into your chosen topic and present a well-rounded analysis.
  • Consult with Your Instructor or Mentor : Seek guidance from your instructor or mentor who can provide valuable insights and suggestions based on their expertise in ancient history. They can offer recommendations, point you towards reputable sources, and help refine your research question.
  • Engage with Current Debates and Research : Stay up-to-date with the latest scholarship and ongoing debates in ancient history. This will enable you to identify gaps in existing knowledge and contribute to the academic discourse. Consider exploring topics that are currently generating scholarly interest or challenging conventional interpretations.
  • Balance Complexity and Manageability : Strike a balance between selecting a research topic that is intellectually challenging yet manageable within the scope of your research project. Avoid overly broad topics that may be difficult to cover comprehensively. Instead, focus on specific research questions or subtopics that allow for in-depth analysis.
  • Be Mindful of Available Resources : While choosing your research topic, be mindful of the resources available to you. Consider the accessibility of libraries, archives, online databases, and other research materials. It’s essential to ensure that you have access to the necessary resources to conduct thorough research.
  • Consider Multidisciplinary Approaches : Ancient history intersects with various disciplines, such as archaeology, art history, anthropology, and literature. Embrace multidisciplinary approaches by integrating different perspectives and methodologies into your research. This will enrich your analysis and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of your chosen topic.
  • Stay Passionate and Flexible : Throughout your research journey, it’s important to maintain enthusiasm and adaptability. As you delve deeper into your chosen topic, new discoveries and insights may arise, requiring adjustments to your research direction. Stay open-minded and flexible, allowing your passion for ancient history to guide your exploration.

Choosing the right ancient history research paper topic is a critical step towards a successful academic project. By understanding your interests, exploring different time periods, narrowing down your topic, considering available sources, seeking guidance, engaging with current debates, balancing complexity and manageability, being mindful of resources, embracing multidisciplinary approaches, and staying passionate and flexible, you can select a compelling research topic that will ignite your curiosity and lead to a rewarding research experience.

How to Write an Ancient History Research Paper

Writing an ancient history research paper requires careful planning, thorough research, and effective organization. This section provides a step-by-step guide on how to write an engaging and well-structured research paper on ancient history.

  • Understand the Assignment : Before you begin writing, carefully read and understand the assignment guidelines provided by your instructor. Pay attention to the research question, required length, formatting style, and any specific requirements or restrictions.
  • Conduct In-Depth Research : Start your research by exploring a variety of credible sources, including books, scholarly articles, academic journals, primary sources, and reputable online databases. Take detailed notes, ensuring to record the source information for proper citation later on.
  • Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : Formulate a clear and concise thesis statement that articulates the main argument or focus of your research paper. The thesis statement should be specific, debatable, and supported by evidence from your research.
  • Organize Your Ideas : Create an outline that organizes your ideas and research findings into a logical structure. Divide your paper into sections, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each section should focus on a specific aspect of your research topic.
  • Write an Engaging Introduction : Begin your research paper with an engaging introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and provides context for your research. Introduce the topic, provide background information, and present your thesis statement.
  • Support Your Arguments with Evidence : In the body paragraphs, present your arguments and support them with evidence from your research. Use a combination of primary and secondary sources to provide a comprehensive analysis of your topic. Ensure that each paragraph focuses on a single main idea and includes relevant evidence to support it.
  • Analyze and Interpret the Evidence : Go beyond summarizing the information and engage in critical analysis and interpretation of the evidence. Explore the historical context, evaluate different perspectives, and present your own analysis based on the available evidence.
  • Incorporate Citations and References : Throughout your research paper, properly cite all the sources you have used using the required citation style (such as APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). Include in-text citations for paraphrased or quoted information and provide a comprehensive list of references at the end of your paper.
  • Craft a Strong Conclusion : Summarize your main findings and arguments in the conclusion section. Restate your thesis statement and highlight the significance of your research. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion and provide a sense of closure to your paper.
  • Revise and Edit : Once you have completed the first draft, take time to revise and edit your research paper. Review the content for clarity, coherence, and logical flow. Check for grammatical and spelling errors, and ensure that your paper adheres to the required formatting style.

Writing an ancient history research paper requires a systematic approach that involves thorough research, effective organization, and critical analysis. By understanding the assignment, conducting in-depth research, developing a strong thesis statement, organizing your ideas, writing an engaging introduction, supporting your arguments with evidence, analyzing and interpreting the evidence, incorporating citations and references, crafting a strong conclusion, and revising and editing your paper, you can produce a well-structured and compelling research paper on ancient history.

iResearchNet’s Writing Services

At iResearchNet, we understand the challenges that students face when it comes to writing high-quality research papers on ancient history. Our professional writing services are designed to provide you with the support and expertise you need to excel in your academic journey. With our team of experienced writers, commitment to excellence, and range of services, we are your trusted partner in ancient history research papers.

  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers : Our writing team consists of expert writers who hold advanced degrees in history and related fields. They have a deep understanding of ancient history and are equipped with the knowledge and research skills necessary to deliver exceptional research papers.
  • Custom Written Works : We believe in providing customized solutions tailored to your unique requirements. Our writers carefully analyze your instructions and craft research papers from scratch, ensuring originality, authenticity, and adherence to your specific guidelines.
  • In-Depth Research : Research is at the core of every successful research paper. Our writers are skilled researchers who delve into reputable sources, both primary and secondary, to gather relevant and reliable information. They are well-versed in accessing academic databases and libraries to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date research.
  • Custom Formatting : Formatting plays a crucial role in presenting your research paper professionally. Whether your paper requires APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, Harvard, or any other formatting style, our writers are proficient in following the specified guidelines to ensure consistency and accuracy.
  • Top Quality : We are committed to delivering top-quality research papers that meet the highest academic standards. Our writers pay attention to detail, maintain a scholarly tone, and use proper grammar and language throughout the paper. We strive for excellence in every aspect of our work.
  • Customized Solutions : We understand that every research paper is unique, and we take a personalized approach to meet your specific needs. Whether you require a comparative analysis, a case study, or an exploration of a particular aspect of ancient history, our writers tailor their approach to fulfill your research objectives.
  • Flexible Pricing : We offer flexible pricing options to accommodate the budget constraints of students. Our pricing structure is transparent, and we provide a detailed breakdown of costs upfront. We believe in fair pricing that reflects the quality of our work and the expertise of our writers.
  • Short Deadlines : We recognize that students often face tight deadlines when it comes to research paper submissions. Our team is equipped to handle urgent orders, with the ability to deliver high-quality research papers within short timeframes, even as quick as 3 hours.
  • Timely Delivery : We understand the importance of timely submission. Our writers work diligently to ensure that your research paper is delivered within the agreed-upon deadline. We prioritize punctuality without compromising on the quality of our work.
  • 24/7 Support : Our dedicated support team is available round the clock to address any inquiries or concerns you may have. Whether you need assistance with placing an order, tracking its progress, or communicating with your assigned writer, our support team is here to provide prompt and helpful responses.
  • Absolute Privacy : We prioritize your privacy and confidentiality. All personal and order-related information is handled securely and treated with the utmost confidentiality. We never disclose any customer information to third parties, ensuring complete privacy throughout the entire process.
  • Easy Order Tracking : With our user-friendly platform, you can easily track the progress of your research paper. You’ll have access to a personal account where you can communicate with your writer, monitor the status of your order, and download the final paper once it’s completed.
  • Money-Back Guarantee : We are committed to customer satisfaction, and we back our services with a money-back guarantee. If you’re not completely satisfied with the quality of your research paper, we will work with you to make it right. Your satisfaction is our priority.

When it comes to ancient history research papers, iResearchNet is your trusted partner. With our team of expert writers, commitment to quality, customized solutions, flexible pricing, timely delivery, 24/7 support, absolute privacy, easy order tracking, and money-back guarantee, we are dedicated to helping you excel in your academic pursuits. Place your trust in iResearchNet and unleash your potential in ancient history research papers.

Unleash Your Potential with iResearchNet

Are you ready to take your ancient history research papers to the next level? Look no further than iResearchNet’s professional writing services. Our team of expert writers, commitment to quality, and range of personalized solutions make us the ideal partner for your academic success. Unleash your potential and achieve outstanding results with our ancient history writing services.

Don’t let the challenges of writing ancient history research papers hold you back. iResearchNet is here to empower you on your academic journey. With our tailored solutions, expert writers, commitment to quality, timely delivery, confidentiality, and exceptional customer support, we are ready to help you unleash your potential and achieve outstanding results. Place your trust in iResearchNet and embark on a path to academic excellence. Take the first step today and experience the difference of our ancient history writing services.

Order now and unlock your academic success with iResearchNet!

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

best research topics for history

IMAGES

  1. Shortlist of Captivating History Topics for Your Paper

    best research topics for history

  2. 180 Best History Research Paper Topics

    best research topics for history

  3. 200+ Fascinating History Research Topics to Deal With

    best research topics for history

  4. 200+ Fascinating History Research Topics to Deal With

    best research topics for history

  5. 60+ Unique History Research Paper Topics in 2021

    best research topics for history

  6. Choose the Appropriate History Capstone Topics

    best research topics for history

VIDEO

  1. Research Topics for PhD in English Literature

  2. 12 Most Incredible Ancient Finds That Change History

  3. 12 Most Incredible Finds That Change History

  4. History rewritten: Amazing Finds by Archaeologists!

  5. Top 15 Best Research Topics for microbiology for researchers and M.sc. students #study #yt #video

  6. 15 Recent Archaeological Discoveries That No One Is Talking About

COMMENTS

  1. 140 Good Research Topics for History Papers

    This article will help you find good research paper topics for history in many different eras and time periods and give you good suggestions for generating unique ideas. All suggested topics are focused, specific, and easily divided into three main sections.

  2. Best History Research Paper Topics

    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 ...

  3. Cool History Topics: 151 Great Historical Events & Ideas

    Looking for interesting history topics and events to learn and write about? 🤔 Need an idea for historical research? Then check our cool history topics!

  4. Best 110 History Research Raper Topics for Students

    Discover research paper topics about the world and US history. Interesting, controversial and actual topic ideas from ancient history till nowadays.

  5. 200+ History Research Paper Topics Your Teacher Will Like

    Get inspired by the list of best history research paper topics. Impress your teacher with using an excellent history research topics.

  6. The Top 10 Most Interesting History Research Topics

    If you are looking for a history research paper topic, check out this article to discover the 10 most interesting history topics to write about.

  7. 300+ Research Paper Questions and Topics for History Class

    Examine the writing process for a history-based research paper and get over 300 paper questions and topics suitable for history classes in high school, college, and beyond.

  8. World History Research Paper Topics

    100 World History Research Paper Topics World history is an expansive realm, brimming with diverse cultures, societies, and epochal events that have shaped human civilization. For history students embarking on research papers, this page offers an extensive compilation of world of world history research paper topics thoughtfully divided into 10 categories, each providing an intriguing window ...

  9. History Research Paper Topics

    History Research Paper Topics. There are numerous history research paper topics you can choose from. This page is dedicated to providing students studying history with a comprehensive collection of 200 history research paper topics. With a focus on diverse categories and subtopics, students can find inspiration and guidance as they embark on ...

  10. 60+ Unique History Research Paper Topics in 2021

    60+ History Research Paper Topics From Our Top Writers Finding that fascinating topic for history research paper can be a pain in some students' necks. In this article, we reveal our only suggestions of ideas for good history research topics.

  11. 300+ American History Research Paper Topics

    American history is a vast and complex subject that encompasses a wide range of events, movements, and individuals who have shaped the country's past and present. From the struggles for independence and civil rights to the exploration and settlement of the continent, American history provides an abundance of topics for research papers. Whether you're interested in politics, social issues ...

  12. 100 History Research Paper and Essay Topics

    Composing a history research paper is easy when you know what to write about. Explore some of the widely used history topics that are worth your attention.

  13. 150 Strong History Dissertation Topics to Write about

    ️ Willing to write a dissertation in history, but no ideas come to mind? We've got an article for you! Check our list of great history dissertation topics.

  14. Good History Research Paper Topics For Your Help

    Looking for great history research paper topics? Check this list of over one hundred ideas that can help guide you in your topic selection phase.

  15. 160 US History Research Paper Topics

    Dive into the depths of America's past with this selection of US History research paper topics, covering pivotal events, figures, and movements that have shaped the nation's journey.

  16. 250 History Research Paper Topics: Best Ideas to Choose

    Looking for history topics to research? Here is a list of the most interesting historical research topics for papers. Get ideas and inspiration with StudyCrumb.

  17. History Thesis Topics: List of 69 Outstanding Ideas

    Not sure how to start your history thesis paper? ★ Start with an idea! 🥇 Check our history thesis topics list to find the perfect one for academic writing.

  18. List of 200+ Good History Research Paper Topics (2024)

    Get the complete list of history research paper topics that our professional writers recommend. Pick the best one that matches your needs and interests.

  19. 506 Interesting History Topics to Research

    Get inspired 🤓 by an extensive collection of interesting history topics! Here you'll find a list of cool historical events to research & write about: topics in history of the US world history.

  20. Interesting American History Research Paper Topics

    100 Interesting American History Research Paper Topics. Exploring the fascinating realms of American history offers students and researchers a multitude of opportunities to delve into captivating topics. In this section, we present a comprehensive list of interesting American history research paper topics, carefully organized into 10 categories.

  21. 126 Modern History Topics: Essential Essay Ideas & Questions

    Are you lost in modern history essay topics? 💡 Searching for the perfect one? ★ Check out our 126 modern history topics to research to find the best one.

  22. Highlighting Resources from the Library: Today in History

    By using the "This Collection" search bar, students can enter in a keyword or phrase related to a topic of interest or a subject assigned for further research. Today in History is an excellent resource for highlighting or learning more about anniversaries of significant events.

  23. UNMC seeks permission from Regents to plan $2.19 billion health center

    The project, which would be the largest in University of Nebraska history, would provide more — and more modern — space for education, research and patient care.

  24. Ancient History Research Paper Topics

    This diverse list of ancient history research paper topics provides a launchpad for you to explore the fascinating epochs, individuals, and events that have formed the foundation of our current civilizations. Choose a subject that you find engaging and let the past inspire and guide your research journey.