Whether it’s for a history degree or as part of a course for pupils studying history at school, the history essay is a key part of any student’s journey through academia.
However, writing a history essay can be challenging if a student doesn’t understand how to structure a history essay in a clear and logical format. Additionally, students may also find that coming up with a history essay topic that is both interesting and engaging can be difficult.
In this article, we will explore how to write a history essay in a clear and concise format and provide 240 history essay topics that will help students craft a writing assignment that will impress their instructor and help them pass their course.
What Types of History Essays Can Be Written?
A history essay has many writing formats depending on the topic being covered. However, there are a few key types of history essays that students will likely encounter during their academic career.
Analytical History Essay
In this type of essay, the student will be asked to analyze a historical event or topic and discuss how it has impacted the world we live in today. For example, the student might be asked to discuss how the legacy of World War 2 has shaped our world today.
Descriptive History Essay
In this type of essay, the student is asked to write a detailed and vivid description of a historical event or topic that can help others visualize what happened during that time period. For example, the student might describe life in Ancient Egypt based on archeological evidence.
Expository History Essay
In this type of essay, the student is asked to research a specific aspect of history and then write about it using direct quotes from experts or primary sources that can help support their argument. For example, the student might be asked to write an essay about the origins of World War 2 and why it happened.
Argumentative History Essay
In this type of essay, the student is asked to craft an argument supporting or refuting a historical claim or theory. For example, the student might be asked to write an essay arguing whether the origins of World War 2 were due to the Treaty of Versailles or some other factor.
When it comes to writing a history essay, students need to understand that there are no strict guidelines on how to write a history essay outline. The important thing is that they cover all aspects of their topic and add enough detail to convince their instructor that they understand what is being discussed.
What Questions Should a Student Answer When Writing a History Essay?
Depending on the type of essay and the topic, students must be sure to answer questions such as the following:
- What is the main issue?
- What is the background to this issue?
- How did it begin?
- What factors contributed to it?
- Who or what was involved, and what were their motivations, goals, and agendas?
- Has it occurred before or after other events, and how does it interact with them?
- Is there a solution, and what are the potential consequences of it?
While not all of these questions may be necessary to answer in a particular history essay, they are considered the essential elements of any essay.
How to Structure a History Essay?
Because of the detail-specific nature of a history essay, it’s important to structure the writing in a way that makes sense both logically and chronologically. The following is an example of how a history essay might be structured:
Introductory Paragraph
- Establish the topic
- Introduce any necessary background information
- Detail the thesis statement (the purpose of the essay)
Body Paragraphs
- Start with a topic sentence that summarizes the main point of the paragraph
- Add an example that supports the point
- Discuss the consequences of that event or trend
- Conclude with a restatement of the main topic and transition into the next
Pro Tip: Only include one point or argument per body paragraph. Typically, a history essay will need a minimum of three body paragraphs. Still, you may need more depending on the nature of the topic or the number of examples needed to support the thesis statement.
Conclusion
- Summarize the essay and restate the thesis statement
- Provide a thought-provoking question that will leave the reader thinking about the topic
When writing a history essay, students need to make sure that they are organized and that their points are clear. In addition, they should always use proper citations whenever they use someone else’s work in their essay. By following these guidelines, students can produce high-quality essays that demonstrate their understanding of the material they are learning.
240 History Essay Topics
Are you having trouble writing your history essay? Need a topic that will get the juices flowing? Check out our list of 240 history essay topics that will cover a variety of topics and time periods.
History Essay Topics About Ancient Civilizations
- How did the fall of the Roman Empire impact the development of Western Europe?
- Compare and contrast the societies of Ancient Greece and Rome.
- What caused the decline and fall of the Maya civilization?
- Discuss the rise and fall of the Inca Empire.
- What effect did the development of large cities have on society in Ancient Greece and Rome?
- How did religion influence politics during Ancient Egypt’s empire?
- Who were the earliest known humans, what was their role in society, and how did they affect civilization as we know it today?
- Which civilizations have been deemed the most important in world history and why?
- What scientific advancements did Mesopotamia achieve, and what role did they play in the development of modern technology?
- What were contributions to society made by Ancient Egypt’s rulers, such as Cheops and Tutankhamun?
- How does studying world history factor into your understanding of events today?
- Did women have a greater role in society during the height of Ancient Greece than they did in Ancient Rome?
- How have empires benefited and impacted society throughout history?
- Why was the land between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers so important to Mesopotamian societies?
- What were some major causes of conflict in Ancient Greece, such as the Peloponnesian War?
- Who is considered to be “the father of history,” and what was his impact on the study of history?
- What role did the environment play in the development of Ancient Egypt’s civilization?
- How has geography influenced society throughout history?
- Compare and contrast the origins, rise to power, developments, and decline of two ancient civilizations.
- How did druidic culture influence the Celtic people?
- What differences existed between Greek and Roman societies?
- How did different religious practices impact society in either Ancient Greece or Rome?
- What was the defining moment in the decline of the Maya civilization?
- What factors led to the collapse of the Inca Empire?
- What was unique about Ancient Egyptian culture that allowed it to thrive for many years?
- What can we learn from ancient history that is still relevant today?
- Compare and contrast the development of ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, China, and the Indus Valley.
- How did Greek mythology shape Ancient Greek society?
- Who were some famous women in Ancient Greece, and what were their accomplishments?
- How did Viking culture influence the development of Scandinavian societies?
- Which ancient civilization would you most like to have been a part of and why?
- What contributions did women make to Ancient Egyptian society?
- What was life like for ordinary people in Ancient Greece as opposed to those who lived during Roman times?
- How did the advancement of sailing technologies allow ancient civilizations to trade with other parts of the world?
- What was the cause for the fall of some of the most powerful empires in history?
- Which ancient civilizations still have descendants that exist in modern times?
- Can we learn anything from ancient societies that would benefit the problems we currently face in modern times?
History Essay Topics About Europe
- How did feudalism in Europe shape society in the Middle Ages?
- What role did religion play in shaping European society in Medieval times?
- What caused Europe to go into the Dark Ages, and how long did this period last?
- During the High Middle Ages, what was life like for people living in cities, towns, and rural areas?
- How did the Crusades affect society in Europe during the Middle Ages?
- What were some differences between how men and women lived their lives in Medieval times?
- What was the culture like during the Late Middle Ages as opposed to earlier or later time periods?
- How did advances in technology impact European society in the Middle Ages?
- How did the Black Death change society in Europe during this time period?
- What caused feudalism to collapse, and what were some of the long-term effects on European societies?
- What benefits did Europeans gain from exploration during the Age of Discovery?
- How did art change as a result of Renaissance ideas and advances in technology?
- How did the fall of Constantinople impact Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians?
- How did Joan of Arc rally French troops to drive out the English from France during the Hundred Years War? What were some of her contributions to European society at this time?
- What advancements in science and technology made life better for people living in Europe during the Age of Enlightenment?
- How did the French Revolution shape European society and politics at this time?
- What were some of the causes and effects of World War I on European society?
- What were some of the causes and effects of World War II on European society?
- What is the impact of the EU on modern-day European societies?
- How has globalization affected European societies in recent decades?
- Compare and contrast a European country pre and post-WW1.
- Describe how WW2 changed the landscape of European power structures.
- Detail the specific events that led to the fall of the Soviet Union.
History Essay Topics About the United States
- What caused the USA to become an independent country?
- What were some of the key events in American history during the 18th century?
- What were some of the key events in American history during the 19th century?
- What were some of the key events in American history during the 20th century?
- How did America’s involvement in World War II change the country’s role in the world?
- What were some of the causes and effects of the Civil Rights Movement on American society?
- What were some of the causes and effects of the Vietnam War on American society?
- What are some of the most significant events in American history since 1980?
- How has America’s economy changed over the years?
- What are some of the biggest challenges that America currently faces?
- How does the American Constitution create a unique form of government?
- What is exceptional about American society compared to other countries in the world?
- What impact did the expansion of American territories out west have on native populations?
- What impact did the Oregon Trail have on American society?
- What caused the American Civil War, and how did it shape the country’s future?
- Compare and contrast the lifestyles of Americans living in the North and South before, during, and after the Civil War.
- How did America’s involvement in World War I change how the rest of the world viewed the country?
- What were the main causes and effects of the Great Depression on American society?
- What were some of the most important moments in America’s history during the Cold War?
- How has America’s role in the world changed since the end of the Cold War?
- How has the US’s two-party system changed beliefs and policies over time to create the parties seen today?
- In what ways have Republican principles changed since the Civil War?
- Would the current political climate of the US be recognizable to early colonists?
- Does the US Constitution still hold the same relevance it did when it was first ratified?
- What are some of the unique features of American society that make it distinct from other countries?
- How do American citizens participate in their government?
- What is the most important value that Americans share?
History Essay Topics About Latin & South America
- Who were the Incas?
- What was the Aztec Empire?
- What were some of the major accomplishments of the Inca and Aztec Empires?
- What caused the downfall of the Inca and Aztec Empires?
- How did the Spanish colonization of Latin America affect the native populations?
- What were some of the most significant events in Latin American history in the 1800s?
- What were some of the most significant events in Latin American history during the 1900s?
- How has globalization affected South and Latin American societies?
- What are some of the biggest challenges that modern-day South & Latin America currently face?
- How did La Reforma change Mexico’s political landscape?
- What caused the Cuban Revolution, and what were its consequences?
- What is unique about South & Latin America’s history compared to other parts of the world?
- How do contemporary Latin American societies compare and contrast with those in North America?
- Has there ever been a unified Latin American identity?
- What are some of the biggest challenges facing efforts at unification in South & Latin America?
- What influences did industrialization have on the economy of South & Latin America?
- What causes illegal immigration from South & Latin America to the US and from the US to South & Latin America?
- In what ways do people throughout Latin America participate in government?
- How does the role of the Catholic Church influence politics in Latin American societies?
- What are some of the biggest challenges that South & Latin America face?
- What impact has climate change had on the economies of South & Latin America?
- How did the environment influence modern-day civilizations in South & Latin America?
- How does North American influence affect society and politics in South & Latin America today?
- How do contemporary societies in South & Latin America compare and contrast with those in Europe?
- Has South & Latin America always been as distinct from the rest of the world as it is today?
- What are some of the most important aspects of Latin American history that are often overlooked?
- When was the last time in history that Latin American cultures were united?
- Based on its previous history, does Latin America have a chance at becoming a united country?
- What is the future of South & Latin America based on its past?
- What are some major challenges that societies in South & Latin America face in terms of economic development and environmental concerns?
History Essay Topics About Asia
- What is the significance of the Great Wall of China?
- How did China’s Great Famine affect the country?
- What are some of the biggest challenges that modern-day China currently faces?
- How has China impacted American society and culture?
- What are some of the most significant events in Asian history during the 1800s?
- In what ways have American policies toward Asia changed since WWII?
- What are some of the most significant events in Asian history during the 1900s?
- How has globalization impacted the economies of Asia?
- What is unique about the history of Asia when compared to other parts of the world?
- How do contemporary Asian societies compare and contrast with those in North America?
- Has there ever been a unified Asian identity?
- What are some of the biggest challenges facing efforts at unification in Asia?
- How did the environment influence modern-day civilizations in Asia?
- What caused the Sino-Japanese War, and what were its consequences?
- What is the current relationship between China and Japan?
- In what ways do people throughout Asia participate in government?
- How does the role of Confucianism influence politics in Asian societies?
- What are some of the biggest challenges that contemporary societies in Asia face?
- What is life like for women throughout Asia today?
- How do modern-day Asian cultures differ from those in Europe?
- In what ways does European influence affect society and politics in Asia today?
- How would you differentiate between the Mongol Empire and the Qing Dynasty?
- What are some of the biggest challenges societies in Asia face in terms of economic development and environmental concerns?
- What is unique about Asian history compared to other parts of the world?
- Who influenced Japan’s modernization process the most?
- What is the significance of World War II in Asia?
- What are some major challenges that societies in Asia face in terms of social development?
- How has Asian history been different from the rest of the world?
- Has Asia always been as distinct from the rest of the world as it is today?
- What are some of the most important aspects of Asian history that are often overlooked?
- What is the future of Asia based on its past?
- How would you compare and contrast the histories of India and China?
- What caused India’s partition, and what were its consequences?
- What impact has British colonialism had on India?
- How did Gandhi’s non-violent protests lead to India’s independence?
- What is the current relationship between India and Pakistan?
- How does Hinduism influence Indian society and politics?
History Essay Topics About Oceania
- How did Western imperialism affect Oceania and its people?
- What is the current relationship between Australia and New Zealand?
- What are some challenges that contemporary societies in Oceania face today?
- What led to the formation of Australia as a country?
- In what ways has European influence affected the development of modern-day Oceania?
- What is unique about the history of Oceania when compared to other parts of the world?
- How have indigenous cultures in Oceania responded to Western imperialism?
- What historical challenges do societies in Oceania face in terms of social development?
- What are the key differences between colonialism in Australia vs. New Zealand?
- How have Aboriginals lost much of their culture in modern times?
- What is the defining moment of Australian history?
- What is the significance of World War II in Oceania?
- What is the significance of the Battle of Gallipoli?
- What caused the Pacific War, and what were its consequences?
- What is the current relationship between Japan and Australia?
- How does Australian society compare and contrast with those in North America?
- Has there ever been a unified Oceanian identity?
- What are some of the biggest challenges facing efforts at unification in Oceania?
- How does Australian society compare and contrast with those in Europe?
- In what ways do people throughout Oceania participate in government?
- To what extent are indigenous cultures still facing the same historical atrocities as their ancestors?
- What is the history of Polynesia?
- What is the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi in New Zealand?
- How did Western imperialism affect Polynesia and its people?
- What challenges do Hawaiians face today in terms of sovereignty and identity?
- Is it possible for Aboriginals to reclaim their land and identity within Australia based on history?
- What historical factors contributed to the formation of the Maori New Zealand?
- What is unique about indigenous societies in Oceania compared to other parts of the world?
- How do Aboriginals participate in Australian society today vs. in the past?
History Essay Topics About Human & Civil Rights
- What atrocities in US history led to the advancement of civil rights?
- What was the worst human rights violation in Asia, and how has it been rectified?
- What historical significance did Martin Luther King Jr. have on modern-day civil rights?
- Who were the key figures behind the women’s suffrage movement?
- How did the suffragettes achieve what they did?
- What are some of the benefits for society by allowing women to vote?
- What are the key differences between human rights in North America vs. Europe?
- How has the civil rights movement affected modern-day politics in the US today?
- To what extent have minorities achieved equality today in Western societies?
- What challenges still face the human rights movement in the 21st century?
- How has the UN promoted human rights throughout the world?
- What is Amnesty International, and what is its purpose?
- What are some obstacles that activists face when fighting for human rights?
- How does the Internet help or hinder efforts to promote human rights?
- Has globalization done more to harm or assist human rights?
- How has civil disobedience advanced the human rights movement in the US?
- What were some key events during the Arab Spring?
- How did social media play a role in promoting civil unrest throughout the Arab world?
- Was the Arab Spring successful, and why or why not?
- What are some of the key points of contention between the Israelis and Palestinians today?
- What were some initial causes for the Israeli-Palestinian conflicts?
- How have human rights been a point of debate throughout the Israel-Palestinian conflict?
- What historical obstacles have activists faced when fighting for human rights?
- To what extent have women achieved true equality in modern-day societies?
- How do human rights differ from country to country throughout Asia today?
History Essay Topics About Religion
- What significance did Catholicism have on the Spanish Inquisition?
- How did Protestantism contribute to religious wars throughout history?
- In what ways have various religions contributed to violence in society today?
- How has religion been used as a means of control throughout world history?
- What are some key events that led to the formation of Islam as we know it today?
- How did the Crusades lead to increased hostilities between Christians and Muslims?
- Has religion been more of a force for good or bad throughout history?
- Are there any benefits to religious diversity in society?
- How has globalization affected religious practices around the world?
- What historical inaccuracies plague modern-day Christianity?
- How have various religions shaped the course of history?
- What are some of the key points of tension between Shia and Sunni Muslims today?
- What was the main reason for increased violence in Northern Ireland during The Troubles?
- Why did Irish Catholics fight for an independent Northern Ireland?
- Why did Protestants continue to resist a united Ireland, and what were some of their key grievances?
- What was the most practical solution to the conflict in Northern Ireland, and why was it implemented?
- How has religious conflict impacted world history?
- What significant changes has globalization brought about in religions around the world today?
- How did religion play a role in the Cold War?
- What are some religions that have been lost to time?
- What religions are practiced today that weren’t practiced in the past?
- Who was the founder of Jehovah’s Witnesses?
- How has the advent of spirituality been inspired by religious atrocities in the past?
- How have Christian missionaries shaped societies throughout history?
- To what extent have women become equal to men in modern-day religions today?
- How did organized religion contribute to the beginning of the French Revolution?
- What significance did religion play in World War II?
- How did religion influence the Spanish conquistadors’ quest for gold and other riches in South America?
- What are past religious traditions still practiced today in modern society?
- How did festivals of Ancient Rome and Greece become the basis of which many Judeo-Christian holidays are now celebrated?
- What are some of the key points of contention between different branches of Christianity?
- Historically, has a country defining an official religion been helpful or hurtful in their development as a nation?
By using any of these 240 history essay topics as the basis of your paper, you’ll be sure to get the grade you need to pass your class and earn your degree!
