Individual or event in American History from 1877-1945 Short Essay

For this first paper, you need to choose an (individual or event in American History from 1877-1945) and make an argument about why the person or event is significant. Each paragraph of your paper should reiterate and enforce the argument with evidence. Overall, there should be more analysis than 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 If you have questions or would like me to provide some feedback on your thesis/topic prior to submission, please feel free to message me.

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 two academically credible sources. Your bibliography and citations may be in APA, MLA, or Chicago Style format.  Students majoring in history must use Chicago Style format.

The short paper needs to be turned in through the assignment section for grading. 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.

The short paper must include a cover page with your name, course number and course title, instructor’s name, and date. You must also 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). Before submitting your paper, check your grammar and use spell check. Remember, the way you talk is not the way you write a paper. Please label your paper as follows: lastnamefirstnameHIST102ShortPaper.