History Term Papers

A history term paper is a formal document and often worth a significant percentage of course credits. It’s easy when the subject is history to fall into a pattern of reeling off dates, chronologies and timelines. Although these may accurately reflect the facts as learned, they do not make for very interesting reading. They also show a lack of initiative on the part of the student to delve deeper. History term papers have the potential to reflect the events of history in a creative and interesting way. If you can find that perspective you will take your paper up several notches in terms of readability and interest. Although technically a history term paper need only reflect the knowledge of the events you learned about in the past term, every facet of history has a very human and aesthetic component which can and should be brought to life.

A well written paper will reflect on the subject content while adding a new perspective based on the students reflections. Going the extra mile and finding personal stories that bring to life the times specific to your period of study, or providing graphic evidence of artistic styles of the time, will serve to embellish your paper with a passion for the topic.

Although history affords the student with an opportunity to be creative the fundamentals still apply. A strong introduction and conclusion; well segmented chapters about what was covered throughout the course and correct citation are all very important components of a great history term paper. Although additional research and delving deeper into the subject matter will always earn students kudos, it is important to remember that a term paper, unless otherwise specified, is a reflection specifically about what was taught and studied during a particular term. Stay focused and stay within those parameters.

Related Links and Resources

• Writing the History Paper – dartmouth.edu
• American History Paper Topics
• Strategies to help you write effectively in history courses – unc.edu