American History up to 1865

 American History up to 1865

Choose an individual or event in American History up to 1865 and make an argument about why the person or event is significant. This topic should be completely different than the topic used for your Archives assignment. This topic should also be different from the topics already discussed. If for some reason you choose a topic and you later see it covered, choose a different topic to answer.

Each paragraph of your paper should reiterate and enforce the argument with evidence. Overall, there should be more analysis than a summary in the paper. Note that a thesis is not a factual statement. It has to be something that is a shade of gray that could be proven or disproved depending upon the evidence you choose to examine. I suggest that you review the following website that can help you understand how to construct a great historical thesis: http://www.bowdoin.edu/writing-guides/thesis.htm 

This short paper is at least three double-spaced pages of text (Times New Roman, font size 12) and you must consult a minimum of three academically credible sources. Your bibliography and citations may be in APA or MLA.

 If you use any of the information from your sources word-for-word, you must cite the source by using endnotes, footnotes, or parenthetical citations.  If you read the information and write it in your own words and it is not common knowledge, then you must cite the source because you are paraphrasing someone's information.

 A short paper is normally 3-5 pages long. You must include a bibliography at the end of your paper. While composing your paper, use proper English. Do not use abbreviations, contractions, passive voice, or first/ second person (I, you, we, our, etc). Check your grammar and use spell check. Remember, the way you talk is not the way you write a paper. 

Please note that the key to writing a short essay is including only the most pertinent information necessary to make your point. If possible, make sure you take breaks to keep the creative juices flowing 

Please submit a topic on individual or event for approval