american history research paper topics 20th century

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

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.

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

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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?

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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 .

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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.

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US History Research Paper Topics: Moments that Shaped a Nation

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.

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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. Writing a well-structured and thoroughly researched U.S. history paper can be challenging. For those needing expert assistance, professional research paper writing services can provide the necessary guidance to ensure your paper is of high quality. 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.

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Home » 300+ American History Research Paper Topics

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, 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.

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American History Research Paper Topics

This page presents an exhaustive guide for students exploring American history research paper topics . American history, rich in its complexity and breadth, spans across centuries of transformative events, influential figures, and groundbreaking policies. Our comprehensive list of 100 research paper topics is systematically divided into ten categories, each showcasing a distinctive era or theme in American history. Our expert advice on choosing appropriate American history research paper topics is also included, followed by invaluable tips on crafting an engaging and academically sound American history research paper. Furthermore, we introduce iResearchNet’s bespoke writing services.

100 American History Research Paper Topics

American history offers a rich and diverse landscape for research, with a multitude of captivating topics to explore. Whether you’re interested in the founding of the nation, major historical events, influential figures, social movements, or cultural transformations, there is a wide range of research paper topics available to delve into. In this section, we present a comprehensive list of American history research paper topics, divided into 10 categories, each containing 10 topics. Let’s embark on a journey through the fascinating tapestry of American history.

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Colonial America

• The impact of the Mayflower Compact on the development of self-governance in the colonies.
• The role of religion in shaping the colonies’ social and political structures.
• The economic motivations behind English colonization and their effects on Native American populations.
• The development and significance of the Jamestown settlement.
• The impact of the French and Indian War on the relationship between the colonies and Britain.
• The Salem Witch Trials: Causes, consequences, and the wider societal context.
• The role of slavery in the colonial economy and its influence on the American Revolution.
• The Great Awakening and its impact on colonial society.
• The significance of the Albany Plan of Union in fostering colonial unity.
• The effects of the Proclamation of 1763 on colonial expansion and Native American relations.

American Revolution

• The ideological roots of the American Revolution and the influence of Enlightenment thinkers.
• The impact of key battles, such as Lexington and Concord or Saratoga, on the outcome of the Revolution.
• The contributions of influential figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin.
• The role of women in the Revolutionary War and their fight for equal rights.
• The impact of the Declaration of Independence on American society and its lasting significance.
• The experiences and perspectives of African Americans during the Revolution.
• The role of Native American tribes in the conflict and their alliances with the British or Americans.
• The impact of foreign support, such as from France, on the American Revolution.
• The economic consequences of the Revolution and the challenges of nation-building.
• The legacy of the Revolutionary War and its influence on the formation of the American government.

Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny

• The motivations behind westward expansion and the concept of Manifest Destiny.
• The Oregon Trail: Challenges, opportunities, and its impact on migration.
• The experiences of Native American tribes during westward expansion.
• The California Gold Rush and its impact on the development of the West.
• The significance of the Louisiana Purchase in shaping the nation’s territorial expansion.
• The role of the transcontinental railroad in connecting the East and West.
• The Homestead Act of 1862 and its impact on land settlement.
• The conflicts between settlers and Native American tribes during westward expansion.
• The impact of the Mexican-American War on territorial acquisitions.
• The closing of the American frontier and its implications for American identity.

Civil War and Reconstruction

• The causes of the Civil War: Slavery, states’ rights, and sectionalism.
• The experiences of soldiers and civilians during the Civil War.
• The Emancipation Proclamation and its impact on the course of the war.
• The role of women in the Civil War, both on the home front and in military service.
• The leadership and strategies of key figures like Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee.
• The impact of the Gettysburg Address and its enduring significance.
• The Reconstruction era: Challenges, successes, and failures in rebuilding the nation.
• The experiences of African Americans during Reconstruction and the fight for civil rights.
• The impact of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments on the nation.
• The legacy of the Civil War and Reconstruction on American society and race relations.

Gilded Age and Progressive Era

• The rise of industrialization and its impact on American society and the economy.
• The influence of prominent industrialists like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller.
• The labor movement and the fight for workers’ rights during the Gilded Age.
• The impact of urbanization and immigration on American cities.
• The Progressive Era: Social reforms, political activism, and the push for government intervention.
• The women’s suffrage movement and the fight for women’s rights.
• The impact of muckraking journalism on public opinion and government action.
• The Progressive presidents: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, and Woodrow Wilson.
• The role of the Populist Party and its influence on political discourse.
• The conservation movement and the establishment of national parks.

World War I and Roaring Twenties

• The causes and consequences of U.S. involvement in World War I.
• The impact of the Treaty of Versailles on the United States and its foreign policy.
• The experiences of soldiers in the trenches during World War I.
• The women’s suffrage movement and its achievement of the 19th Amendment.
• The cultural transformations of the Roaring Twenties: Jazz, flappers, and the Harlem Renaissance.
• Prohibition and its effects on society, crime, and the rise of organized crime.
• The Red Scare and the fear of communism in the aftermath of World War I.
• The economic boom of the 1920s and the stock market crash of 1929.
• The Scopes Trial and the clash between science and religion.
• The impact of the Great Migration on African American communities and culture.

Great Depression and New Deal

• The causes and effects of the Great Depression on American society and the economy.
• The policies and programs of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal.
• The Dust Bowl and its impact on agricultural communities.
• The role of government intervention in addressing the economic crisis.
• The experiences of everyday Americans during the Great Depression.
• The cultural impact of the Depression on literature, art, and music.
• The impact of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) on employment and infrastructure.
• The Social Security Act and the establishment of a social safety net.
• The role of women in the workforce during the Great Depression.
• The legacy of the New Deal and its impact on American government and social programs.

World War II and Post-War Era

• The causes and consequences of U.S. involvement in World War II.
• The impact of the attack on Pearl Harbor on American society and entry into the war.
• The experiences of soldiers on the battlefront and the home front during World War II.
• The Holocaust and the American response to Nazi persecution.
• The role of women in the workforce and the military during World War II.
• The impact of Japanese internment on Japanese Americans.
• The emergence of the United States as a superpower in the post-war world.
• The Marshall Plan and American efforts to rebuild Europe after World War II.
• The beginning of the Cold War and the tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union.
• The civil rights movement and its connection to the experiences of African American veterans.

Civil Rights Movement and Social Change

• The Montgomery Bus Boycott and the rise of Martin Luther King Jr. as a civil rights leader.
• The sit-ins, freedom rides, and other forms of nonviolent protest during the civil rights movement.
• The role of grassroots activism in the fight for equal rights.
• The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and its impact on desegregation and equal opportunity.
• The Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the fight for African American suffrage.
• The Black Power movement and its influence on the broader civil rights movement.
• The impact of the women’s rights movement and the push for gender equality.
• The Stonewall Riots and the beginnings of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
• The Chicano Movement and the fight for Mexican American civil rights.
• The American Indian Movement and the struggle for indigenous rights and sovereignty.

Contemporary Issues and Movements

• The impact of the Vietnam War on American society and political activism.
• The Watergate scandal and its consequences for American politics and trust in government.
• The feminist movement and its ongoing fight for gender equality.
• The environmental movement and the challenges of climate change.
• The LGBTQ+ rights movement and the fight for marriage equality and nondiscrimination laws.
• The Black Lives Matter movement and the struggle against systemic racism.
• The immigration debate and the quest for comprehensive immigration reform.
• The rise of social media and its impact on political discourse and activism.
• The challenges of income inequality and the fight for economic justice.
• The ongoing debates over gun control and Second Amendment rights.

This comprehensive list of American history research paper topics showcases the vast array of subjects available for exploration. From the early days of colonial America to contemporary social movements, American history is filled with significant events, influential figures, and thought-provoking themes. As students of history, you have the opportunity to delve into these topics, analyze primary sources, and contribute to the understanding of the American experience. By selecting a research paper topic that resonates with your interests and curiosity, you can embark on a rewarding journey of discovery and contribute to the ongoing scholarship in American history.

American History: Exploring the Range of Research Paper Topics

American history is a rich and diverse field that encompasses a wide range of topics, events, and individuals that have shaped the nation’s past. From the colonial era to the present day, the United States has experienced significant political, social, economic, and cultural transformations. Researching and writing about American history offers an opportunity to delve into the complexities and nuances of the nation’s past, uncovering lesser-known stories, analyzing key moments, and gaining a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped the United States. This section will explore the diverse range of research paper topics in American history and provide inspiration for students studying this fascinating subject.

• Colonial America : The period of colonial America is characterized by the arrival of European settlers, the establishment of the thirteen colonies, and the interactions between colonizers and Native American tribes. Research paper topics within this category can explore themes such as early encounters, the development of colonial society, the impact of colonialism on Native American populations, religious beliefs and practices, and the roots of American identity.
• Revolutionary Era : The Revolutionary Era marks a pivotal moment in American history, encompassing the struggle for independence from British rule and the birth of a new nation. Research paper topics within this category can explore the causes and consequences of the American Revolution, key figures such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration of Independence, the formation of the United States Constitution, and the challenges of establishing a new government.
• Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny : The 19th century witnessed a period of rapid territorial expansion as the United States extended its borders from coast to coast. Research paper topics within this category can delve into themes such as the Louisiana Purchase, the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Oregon Trail, the Mexican-American War, the California Gold Rush, the impact on Native American tribes, and the concept of Manifest Destiny.
• Civil War and Reconstruction : The American Civil War was a defining moment in the nation’s history, testing the unity of the United States and leading to significant social and political changes. Research paper topics within this category can explore the causes and consequences of the Civil War, key battles and military strategies, the Emancipation Proclamation, the experiences of soldiers and civilians, the Reconstruction era, and the challenges of rebuilding a divided nation.
• Gilded Age and Progressive Era : The Gilded Age and Progressive Era marked a period of rapid industrialization, urbanization, and social reform in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Research paper topics within this category can examine themes such as the rise of big business, labor movements and workers’ rights, immigration and urbanization, women’s suffrage, the Progressive movement, and the impact of technological advancements on society.
• World Wars and the Interwar Period : The United States played a significant role in both World War I and World War II, shaping its trajectory on the global stage. Research paper topics within this category can explore the causes and consequences of each war, the experiences of American soldiers and civilians, the impact of war on American society, the role of women and minorities, technological advancements in warfare, and the United States’ emergence as a global superpower. Additionally, examining the interwar period provides insights into the challenges and changes that occurred between the two world wars.
• Civil Rights Movement : The Civil Rights Movement was a transformative period in American history, marked by significant social and political changes. Research paper topics within this category can explore key figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X, significant events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, the impact of the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. Examining the Civil Rights Movement allows for an exploration of the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing quest for equality in American society.
• Cold War and the Space Race : The Cold War era was defined by the geopolitical tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. Research paper topics within this category can delve into the origins and ideologies of the Cold War, major events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Berlin Wall, the arms race and nuclear proliferation, the space race and the Apollo program, and the cultural impact of the Cold War on American society. Exploring this era provides insights into the complexities of international relations and the influence of the Cold War on American policies and culture.
• Post-9/11 America : The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, marked a significant turning point in American history, leading to major shifts in foreign and domestic policies. Research paper topics within this category can explore the impact of 9/11 on national security measures, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the rise of terrorism and its implications, the changing dynamics of international relations, and the debates surrounding civil liberties and surveillance. Understanding the post-9/11 era allows for an examination of the challenges and transformations in American society and the ongoing effects of these events.
• Contemporary America : The study of contemporary America offers an opportunity to analyze current social, political, and cultural issues and their historical context. Research paper topics within this category can include themes such as immigration, race relations, environmental concerns, healthcare, technology, and the evolving role of the United States in the global arena. Exploring contemporary American history allows for a deeper understanding of the nation’s ongoing development and the challenges it faces.

The study of American history is a rewarding and important endeavor, allowing us to explore the rich tapestry of events, individuals, and ideas that have shaped the nation. This section has provided a comprehensive list of research paper topics in American history, spanning a wide range of categories and periods. Whether delving into the colonial era, the Civil Rights Movement, or contemporary America, students have the opportunity to delve into fascinating topics, conduct in-depth research, and contribute to our understanding of the nation’s past. By exploring these research paper topics, students can uncover new perspectives, challenge existing narratives, and develop a deeper appreciation for the complexities of American history.

Choosing American History Research Paper Topics

Choosing a research paper topic in American history can be an exciting but challenging task. With such a vast and diverse field of study, it’s important to select a topic that aligns with your interests, fits within the scope of your assignment, and offers opportunities for in-depth research. In this section, we will provide expert advice on choosing American history research paper topics that will help you navigate the process and select a compelling and relevant subject for your project.

• Understand Your Assignment Requirements : Before selecting a topic, carefully review the assignment guidelines provided by your instructor. Pay attention to any specific themes, time periods, or events that you are required to focus on. This will help you narrow down your options and ensure that your chosen topic meets the requirements of your assignment.
• Follow Your Interests : Select a topic that genuinely interests you. American history offers a vast array of subjects to explore, ranging from political events and social movements to cultural phenomena and biographical studies. By choosing a topic that aligns with your interests, you will be more motivated to delve into the research and produce a well-crafted paper.
• Conduct Preliminary Research : Once you have a general idea of the direction you want to take, conduct preliminary research to familiarize yourself with the existing literature and scholarly discussions surrounding your potential topic. This will help you refine your focus, identify any gaps in the research, and gain a better understanding of the available sources and perspectives.
• Consider Different Perspectives : American history is a complex and multifaceted subject, and it’s important to consider different perspectives when selecting a research paper topic. Think beyond the traditional narratives and explore topics that shed light on marginalized voices, lesser-known events, or alternative interpretations of familiar themes. This will not only make your research paper more interesting but also contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of American history.
• Narrow Down Your Topic : Once you have conducted preliminary research, narrow down your topic to a specific research question or thesis statement. Avoid broad and overly general topics, as they can make it difficult to delve deeply into the subject matter. Instead, focus on a specific aspect or aspect of American history that allows for a more focused and nuanced analysis.
• Utilize Primary and Secondary Sources : To develop a strong research paper, it’s crucial to utilize a combination of primary and secondary sources. Primary sources provide firsthand accounts, documents, or artifacts from the time period you are studying, while secondary sources offer interpretations and analyses of those primary sources. A combination of both will give your research paper depth and credibility.
• Explore Untapped Archives and Collections : Consider exploring untapped archives and collections related to your chosen topic. Many libraries, museums, and historical societies hold unique and lesser-known materials that can provide fresh insights and contribute to original research. Don’t hesitate to reach out to librarians and archivists for assistance in locating relevant sources.
• Consult with Your Instructor or Advisor : If you’re struggling to choose a research paper topic or need guidance, don’t hesitate to consult with your instructor or academic advisor. They can provide valuable insights, suggest potential topics, and offer advice based on their expertise in the field of American history. Their feedback can help you refine your ideas and ensure that your chosen topic aligns with your academic goals.
• Consider the Significance and Relevance : When selecting an American history research paper topic, consider its significance and relevance. How does your chosen topic contribute to our understanding of American history? Does it address important historical debates or shed light on underrepresented aspects of the past? Choosing a topic with significance and relevance will make your research paper more impactful and engaging.
• Stay Organized and Manage Your Time : Researching and writing a history research paper requires careful organization and time management. Create a research plan, establish a timeline, and break down the tasks into manageable steps. Stay organized by keeping track of your sources, notes, and citations. By managing your time effectively, you’ll be able to conduct thorough research and produce a well-structured and polished research paper.

Choosing an American history research paper topic requires careful consideration and a balance between personal interest and academic requirements. By following these expert tips, you can navigate the process with confidence, select a compelling and relevant topic, and embark on a research journey that contributes to our understanding of American history. Remember to choose a topic that aligns with your interests, conduct thorough research, consider different perspectives, and stay organized throughout the process. With these strategies in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your American history research paper and produce a thought-provoking and well-crafted piece of academic work.

How to Write an American History Research Paper

Writing an American history research paper requires careful planning, thorough research, and effective writing strategies. In this section, we will guide you through the process of writing an American history research paper, from formulating a strong thesis statement to organizing your research and crafting a compelling argument. Whether you’re a seasoned historian or a student new to the field, these tips will help you produce a well-structured and insightful research paper on American history.

• Understand Your Assignment Guidelines : Before you begin writing, thoroughly review the assignment guidelines provided by your instructor. Pay attention to the formatting requirements, citation style, and any specific instructions related to the content and structure of your research paper. Understanding the expectations will help you tailor your approach and meet the requirements of the assignment.
• Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : A strong thesis statement is the foundation of your research paper. It should clearly state the main argument or central idea of your paper and guide the direction of your research. Take the time to formulate a well-crafted thesis statement that is specific, arguable, and supported by evidence. This will provide focus and coherence to your paper.
• Conduct In-Depth Research : Conducting thorough research is essential for writing a comprehensive and authoritative American history research paper. Utilize a variety of sources, including books, scholarly articles, primary documents, and reputable online resources. Take detailed notes and organize your sources for easy reference. Remember to critically evaluate the reliability and credibility of your sources.
• Organize Your Research : Organizing your research is key to maintaining clarity and coherence in your research paper. Create an outline that outlines the main sections and subtopics of your paper. Group related information together and ensure a logical flow of ideas. This will make the writing process smoother and help you stay focused on your main argument.
• Craft a Compelling Introduction : The introduction of your research paper should grab the reader’s attention and provide necessary background information. Start with a hook or an engaging anecdote to draw the reader in. Provide context for your research topic and present your thesis statement clearly. Outline the scope and objectives of your research paper to set the stage for the subsequent sections.
• Support Your Arguments with Evidence : Throughout your research paper, support your arguments and claims with credible evidence. Use a combination of primary and secondary sources to provide a well-rounded analysis. Quote and paraphrase your sources, and always provide proper citations. Remember to critically analyze and interpret the evidence to strengthen your arguments.
• Analyze Multiple Perspectives : American history is complex and multifaceted, and it’s important to consider multiple perspectives when crafting your research paper. Engage with different scholarly interpretations, historical debates, and contrasting viewpoints. This will demonstrate your understanding of the subject matter and contribute to a more nuanced analysis.
• Structure Your Paper Effectively : Organize your research paper into clear sections, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should focus on a specific point and contribute to the overall argument. Use topic sentences and transitions to ensure a smooth flow of ideas. Consider using subheadings within the body of your paper to further organize your content.
• Write Clear and Concise Sentences : Use clear and concise language to communicate your ideas effectively. Avoid excessive jargon and complex sentence structures that may confuse your readers. Break down complex concepts into simpler terms and ensure that your writing is accessible to a wide audience.
• Revise and Edit : Once you have completed the initial draft of your research paper, take the time to revise and edit it thoroughly. Check for clarity, coherence, and logical progression of ideas. Review your citations and ensure they are accurate and properly formatted. Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Consider seeking feedback from peers or professors to gain valuable insights for improvement.

Writing an American history research paper requires a combination of in-depth research, critical analysis, and effective writing strategies. By understanding the assignment guidelines, developing a strong thesis statement, conducting thorough research, and organizing your paper effectively, you can produce a compelling and well-structured research paper on American history. Remember to support your arguments with credible evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and write in a clear and concise manner. With careful planning and attention to detail, you’ll be able to craft an insightful and impactful research paper that contributes to our understanding of American history.

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25 Moments That Changed America

O n the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, TIME proclaimed that his death was “the moment that changed America.” “There is little doubt that his death and its circumstances set loose the darker instincts of the American psyche,” TIME’s editor Nancy Gibbs wrote then.

And, looking back on the 20th century—the epoch that TIME founder Henry Luce dubbed “the American century”—it’s clear that there were many such moments of change, instances big and small that cleared the way for something greater to come after. Many of those moments are easy to name: the assassinations, the invasions, the elections. Many are more subtle, their impact visible only in hindsight.

With that in mind, TIME invited experts to nominate 20th-century moments that changed the United States. Taken together, those moments create a chronology of an evolving country—and a century in which any moment might be the next big one.

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Catches Fire (Mar. 25, 1911)

By Michele Anderson

The Triangle Shirtwaist Company’s fire resulted in the tragic loss of nearly 150 young women and girls on March 25, 1911, in New York City. The garment workers at the company had been attempting to unionize to gain better wages and improved working conditions. The factory’s management responded by locking the workers into the building. Fabric scraps, oil and hot machines crammed into rooms on the upper floors of the ten-story building quickly unleashed an inferno within the building. With the exits blocked, girls attempted to use the rusted fire escape or jump from windows into the fire department’s dry-rotted nets, only to plunge onto the pavement in front of bystanders below. The tragedy was exasperated by the failure of the U.S. government to protect its citizens who were working in deplorable conditions, but it was difficult for anyone who saw the corpses lined up on sidewalks waiting for identification to deny the need for labor reform and improved fire safety equipment. The deaths unified female labor reformers of the Progressive era.

Michele Anderson, a teacher at John Glenn High School near Detroit, was named 2014 National History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History and HISTORY.

Read more about the Triangle Shirtwaist factory fire here in the TIME Vault

The Great Migration Begins (1915)

By Isabel Wilkerson

In today’s world African Americans are viewed as urban people, but that’s a very new phenomenon: The vast majority of time that African Americans have been on this continent, they’ve been primarily Southern and rural. That changed with the Great Migration, a mass relocation of 6 million African Americans from the Jim Crow South to the North and West, starting in 1915.

This leaderless revolution, a response to oppression in the South, was set in motion by the labor shortage in the North during World War I. And once the door opened, a flood of people came. Those who migrated became the advance guard of the Civil Rights movement; they shaped our culture, from music to sports. On the other hand, one of the responses to their presence was fear and hostility. In these big cities that they had hoped would be refuges, they were still blocked from the American dream. The Great Migration was a watershed demographic change in our country’s history—and we’re still living with its effects today. (As told to Lily Rothman)

Isabel Wilkerson is the Pulitzer-Prize-winning writer of The Warmth of Other Suns, which won the National Book Critics Circle Award, the Lynton History Prize from Harvard and Columbia universities and the Stephen Ambrose Oral History Prize, among other honors. The book is currently being developed into a TV adaption to be executive produced by Shonda Rhimes.

Read more about the Great Migration here in the TIME Vault

The Prophet Is Published (Sept. 23, 1923)

By Jennifer Ratner-Rosenhagen

In the aftermath of World War I, the Lebanese-born, Boston-based poet-philosopher Kahlil Gibran wrote what would become one of the world’s most translated works of philosophy: The Prophet . This collection of inspirational sermons delivered by a fictional prophet—on love, marriage, work, reason, self-knowledge and ethics—challenged tired orthodoxies and oppressive ideologies. Though Gibran’s exaltation of human individuality, creativity and difference was not entirely original, the book’s success lay in his ability to make his insights feel like revelations. Ever since its publication in 1923, The Prophet has been a salve for readers who tried—in good American fashion—to break from conformity. Gibran readers include Woodrow Wilson and American soldiers during World War II (thanks to its selection for the American Services Editions in 1943); Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash; members of the 1960s counterculture and now Salma Hayek . The Prophet taught self-trust amid the buzzing, blooming confusion of modern America. Sometimes it takes a foreigner to speak the voice of Americans’ inner conscience.

Jennifer Ratner-Rosenhagen is the Merle Curti Associate Professor of History and the founder of the Intellectual History Group at University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her book, American Nietzsche: A History of an Icon and His Ideas , won the John H. Dunning Prize, an award for an outstanding monograph in a subject in U.S. history, from the American Historical Association.

Read more about the ongoing influence of The Prophet, here in the TIME Vault

The KKK Marches in Washington (Aug. 8, 1925)

By James Loewen

When the KKK paraded down Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., the headline in the New York Times declared “Sight Astonishes Capital: Robed, but Unmasked Hosts in White Move Along Avenue.” The marchers, the article noted, received “a warm reception.” The parade took place in broad daylight, in the nation’s capital, and most of the participants were from the north. This event symbolizes the Nadir of Race Relations, a terrible era from 1890 to about 1940, when race relations grew worse and worse. During this period white Americans became more racist than at any other point in our history, even during slavery. Also during the Nadir, the phenomenon of sundown towns swept the North. These are towns that were for decades—and in some cases still are—all-white on purpose.

Among the other terrible legacies of that period are its inaccurate white supremacist histories of everything from Christopher Columbus and U.S. Grant to Woodrow Wilson, and the astounding gap between black and white media family wealth— problems that we are still trying to transcend.

James Loewen is professor emeritus at the University of Vermont and the best-selling author of Lies My Teacher Told Me. He has received the Spirit of America Award from the National Council for the Social Studies and was the first white recipient of the American Sociological Association’s Cox-Johnson-Frazier Award for scholarship in service to social justice.

Read original 1925 coverage of the parade, here in the TIME Vault

Thomas Dorsey Invents the Gospel Blues (1932)

By Jon Butler

In Chicago in 1932, an African American composer named Thomas A. Dorsey, who had been a nightclub jazz pianist, wrote a song inspired by his wife’s death in childbirth. The song, “Take My Hand, Precious Lord,” unexpectedly became the foundation for the modern African American gospel music tradition. Its success stimulated an entirely new music industry—the gospel blues. It became a touchstone for the dramatic role that music played in sustaining and forwarding America’s Civil Rights movement; Martin Luther King Jr. often asked supporters to sing it before they marched, including the night before his assassination. The gospel blues also brought singers such as Mahalia Jackson, Sister Rosetta Tharp, and the Golden Gate Quartet to prominence and was later foundational for Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, among many others. That tiny, inauspicious moment in 1932 created a subtle yet profound change in American life, ultimately producing musical anthems of powerful personal, moral, and political transformation.

Jon Butler is Howard R. Lamar Emeritus Professor of American Studies, History & Religious Studies at Yale University, and the current president of the Organization of American Historians.

Read TIME’s 1968 coverage of Aretha Franklin singing “Take My Hand, Precious Lord,” here in the TIME Vault

Harry Hopkins Starts Work (May 22, 1933)

By Linda Gordon

About two months after he took office, Franklin Roosevelt appointed a former social worker to head an emergency program of aid to the unemployed. The moment Harry Hopkins started work, on May 22, 1933 —before he even had an office—he dragged a desk into the hall of the building where he was located and immediately began sending out money. Some critics disapproved of his haste and wanted longer consideration of this federal expenditure. Hopkins responded, famously, “People don’t eat in the long run; they eat every day.” In two hours he spent $5 million dollars, the equivalent of about $70 million today. In addition to putting money into the hands of consumers, it was also a tremendous confidence-raising gesture that said, ‘This administration is not going to allow our economy to go completely under.’ Emergency relief was the most popular of the New Deal programs and has been called a major step in saving capitalism. It inaugurated a pattern of government action in crises that would otherwise spin out of control. ( As told to Lily Rothman )

Linda Gordon is a professor of history at New York University and a two-time winner of the Bancroft prize for the best book in U.S. history.

Read a 1934 cover story about Harry Hopkins and his work, here in the TIME Vault

FDR Accepts the 1936 Democratic Presidential Nomination (June 27, 1936)

By Jefferson Cowie

The “political equality we once had won,” FDR boomed as he accepted the Democratic nomination for a second presidential term in 1936, had been rendered “meaningless in the face of economic inequality.” The government no longer belonged to the people but had been taken hostage by “privileged princes of these new economic dynasties, thirsty for power.” Deep in the Great Depression , Roosevelt promised that his New Deal would recalibrate the balance of power between the people and the “economic royalists.” It was some of the most extraordinary—and fleeting—rhetoric in American presidential history. Yet as a result, working people flocked to the Democratic Party, fostering not only an electoral landslide but also a political coalition that governed the nation for decades to come.

Jefferson Cowie teaches at Cornell University. His book Stayin’ Alive: The 1970’s and the Last Days of the Working Class received the Parkman Prize for the Best Book in American History. His forthcoming book is The Great Exception: The New Deal and the Limits of American Politics.

Read original 1936 coverage of Roosevelt’s decision, here in the TIME Vault

Hugo Black Is Appointed to the Supreme Court (Aug. 19, 1937)

By Akhil Reed Amar

Hugo L. Black of Alabama, FDR’s first appointment to the Supreme Court, defined the American judicial scene for three and a half decades. Black first defined and then implemented a reformist agenda that would revolutionize modern American constitutional law. For his first 15 years, Black set the table with new ideas—often presented in dissent, at first. In his last two decades on the Court, Black would watch his reformist agenda become the supreme law of the land, moving from dissenting opinions to majority opinions on issues of voting rights, speech rights, religious rights, criminal procedure rights and the Bill of Rights more generally.

Akhil Reed Amar is Sterling Professor of Law and Political Science at Yale University, and the author of several books about the Constitution and its history. His latest book, The Law of the Land, was released in April.

Read 1937 coverage of Black’s confirmation, here in the TIME Vault

Truman Replaces Wallace (July 21, 1944)

By William Chafe

The Cold War seems inevitable, but few things are. Rather, that road diverged in July of 1944, when Harry S. Truman took the place of incumbent vice-president Henry Wallace on the Democratic ticket.

After World War II, President Roosevelt had a secret plan for how he would work things out with Stalin, but he died before sharing it. Truman entered the White House with almost no experience in foreign policy. The State Department told him that action must be taken on the Russian threat. The result was the Truman Doctrine: good against evil, communism against democracy, the Cold War.

Meanwhile, Wallace — named Secretary of Commerce by FDR after the election — became the leading voice of progressive politics in the Cabinet. He thought there was a way of working out an agreement with the USSR. When he made a speech to that effect, Truman dismissed him from the Cabinet. What a different world there might have been if Wallace, not Truman, occupied the position of Vice-President when Franklin Roosevelt died.

William Chafe is professor emeritus of history at Duke University, author of The Unfinished Journey: America Since 1945 (8th edition ), and a past president of the Organization of American Historians.

Read 1944 coverage of Truman’s nomination, here in the TIME Vault

The North Atlantic Treaty Is Signed (April 4, 1949)

By Richard Stewart

The signing of the North Atlantic Treaty meant that, after intervening twice in the previous 32 years to restore peace in Europe, the U.S. was finally committed to an international alliance in peacetime, focused on preventing war in the first place. That act shaped our foreign policy, politics, military spending, military structure, doctrine, equipment and military ethos for the years to come. It had a remarkable and salutary effect on helping to bring a shattered Europe together as a group of free and democratic states. Today it is our continuing commitment to NATO that prevents any further spillover of conflict as the Russian bear sharpens his claws, again, this time on Ukraine. NATO was created because of the wars of the 20th century, but it has kept the peace in Europe for longer than any time in the previous several centuries.

Richard W. Stewart is acting director at the Center of Military History in Washington, D.C., and chief historian of the U.S. Army. He is also president of the U.S. Commission on Military History, the U.S. arm of the International Commission on Military History. (These remarks are his own opinion, not the views of the U.S. Army, Department of Defense or the United States Government.)

Read 1949 coverage of the signing of the treaty, here in the TIME Vault

Barbara Johns Walks Out (April 23, 1951)

By Clayborne Carson

On April 23, 1951, sixteen-year-old Barbara Johns led a walkout by four hundred black students to protest inadequate facilities at segregated Robert R. Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia. Vowing to boycott classes until the local all-white School Board addressed their complaints, Johns and another student wrote to an NAACP attorney, who agreed to file a lawsuit seeking desegregation instead of just improved facilities. This suit was eventually consolidated with four similar cases including Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka , Kansas. Johns never became famous, but her protest prompted the Supreme Court’s historic 1954 decision outlawing public school segregation.

Clayborne Carson is Martin Luther King, Jr., Centennial Professor and founding director of the Martin Luther King, Jr., Research and Education Institute at Stanford University.

Read more about school desegregation and the Brown case, here in the TIME Vault

Emmett Till Is Murdered (Aug. 28, 1955)

By Jacqueline Jones

In September of 1955, Mose Wright took the witness stand in a Mississippi courtroom. Rising from his chair, he pointed a finger at one of the two men who had murdered his niece’s son, Emmett Till. “There he is,” said Wright, in an extraordinary act of personal courage. Till’s killers were not convicted in 1955, but Till—a teenager who his killers thought had flirted with a white woman—still changed the country. In Chicago, Till’s mother, Mamie Bradley Till, insisted on an open casket at her son’s funeral: She said she “wanted the world to see” her son’s mutilated corpse, battered beyond recognition. Magazines and newspapers ran the photo, signaling the power of shocking images as a new weapon in the generations-long struggle for black rights.

Jacqueline Jones is chair of the History department at the University of Texas at Austin and a two-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in history.

Read 1955 coverage of the trial, here in the TIME Vault

The Birth Control Pill Is Approved (May 9, 1960)

By Annette Gordon-Reed

The birth control pill was one of the most significant achievements of the 20th century. Contraception wasn’t new: From ancient times, women have used methods of varying degrees of reliability to prevent getting pregnant. But the Pill, which was much more effective, transformed society. Americans began to think differently about sex, contraception and about women’s capacity to control their own bodies and participate as truly equal members of society. Sex uncoupled from procreation, the freedom to choose when and if to become a mother, the ability for a woman to plan her life without fear of an unwanted pregnancy getting in the way—these opened the door for the liberation of women.

Annette Gordon-Reed is Charles Warren Professor of American Legal History at Harvard Law School, a Professor of History at Harvard University, Carol K. Pforzheimer Professor at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study and a winner of the Pulitzer Prize in history.

Read TIME’s 1967 cover story about the Pill, here in the TIME Vault

The Children March in Birmingham (May 2, 1963)

By Taylor Branch

The civil rights breakthrough in the 1960s required galvanizing the whole country, not just through rational arguments but by really breaking down people’s emotional resistance and making citizens across the country see they needed to do something. The children’s march really was the single event most responsible for inducing faraway people in Montana and Maine to say, “I need to do something about this.” Demonstrations spread like wildfire all across the country. It led to the March on Washington and it really pushed President Kennedy to propose what became the Civil Rights Act basically a month after those demonstrations.

I myself distinctly and vividly remember seeing those pictures and how deeply it affected me. I was thinking, ‘Gosh, when I get old and responsible maybe I’d do something about civil rights,’—and the next thing I know I see these little kids marching right through fire hoses. It’s a big emotional turning point that’s still not widely analyzed, in part because it’s embarrassing to adults to say that it took these pictures to make us finally do something. (As told to Lily Rothman)

Taylor Branch is the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of the America in the King Years books.

Read 1963 coverage of the march, here in the TIME Vault

Thich Quang Duc’s Self-Immolation Is Broadcast (June 11, 1963)

By Mary Frances Berry

The international newspaper and TV coverage of Buddhist monk Thích Quảng Đức burning himself to death during a demonstration in Saigon changed the course of the Vietnam War and of American life. In the immediate aftermath, it caused horror and a reassessment of policy, which eventually led to more American troops on the ground and in the air but also to more media coverage in which Americans could actually see the war. It encouraged draft dodging and antiwar protests, some of which led to violence. Its effects have been residual as well. It sparked a so-far-permanent distrust of our government, which said we were winning the war when the media showed we were actually not. It caused polarization in our society between those who thought we should support the war and those who didn’t. In addition, the War on Poverty was interrupted because funds went to supporting the war, and it has never been restarted.

Mary Frances Berry is Geraldine R. Segal Professor of American Social Thought and Professor of History at the University of Pennsylvania. She has also served as a member and as chair of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, and as the United States’ Assistant Secretary for Education. She is a past president of the Organization of American Historians and a fellow of the Society of American Historians.

Read 1963 coverage of the self-immolation, here in the TIME Vault

Howard Smith Amends the Civil Rights Act (Feb. 8, 1964)

By Stephanie Coontz

By 1964, little headway had been made in the women’s movement since winning the vote in 1920. So women’s rights supporters were delighted that year when Representative Howard Smith of Virginia offered a one-word amendment to Civil Rights Act, adding sex to the list of forms of discrimination prohibited by the act. Smith, a segregationist, opposed the bill—but he argued that if it passed, white women should get the same protections being extended to black men and women.

Many legislators hoped, and others feared, that adding gender equality would kill the entire bill. Even after its passage, the director of the newly-formed Equal Employment Opportunity Commission refused to enforce the sex clause, calling it “a fluke…conceived out of wedlock.”

Women’s fury at that refusal jump-started a wave of legal and political activism that forever changed the roles of women (and men) at work and at home.

Stephanie Coontz teaches at The Evergreen State College in Olympia Washington and is Director of Research at the Council on Contemporary Families . Recent books include Marriage, a History: How Love Conquered Marriage and A Strange Stirring: The Feminine Mystique and American Women at the Dawn of the 1960s.

Read more about the inclusion of sex in the Civil Rights Bill, from 1964, here in the TIME Vault

Ronald Reagan Speaks to Conservatives (Oct. 27, 1964)

By H.W. Brands

Barry Goldwater’s campaign was floundering a week before the 1964 election. The candidate inspired none but the truest of believers; the Republican regulars were dejectedly heading for the exits. In a desperate effort to energize donors, the campaign put a political unknown on television—and Ronald Reagan proceeded to electrify the country. His 30-minute address, labeled “A Time for Choosing,” transformed the washed-up actor into the darling of conservatives and launched a political career that would carry Reagan to White House, revive American conservatism and push Soviet communism to the brink of dissolution.

H.W. Brands holds the Jack S. Blanton Sr. Chair in History at the University of Texas at Austin, and is the author of two Pulitzer-finalist works of history. He is also currently writing, on Twitter , the history of the United States in haiku.

Read coverage of Reagan’s roll in the 1964 elections, here in the TIME Vault

The Immigration and Nationality Act Is Signed (Oct. 3, 1965)

By Vicki Ruiz

In a dramatic ceremony at the Statue of Liberty, President Lyndon Baines Johnson signed the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, catalyzing an increase in cultural diversity in the United States. In the wake of the civil rights movement, the old restrictive quotas from the 1920s, which favored northern Europeans over southern Europeans, struck many Americans as anachronistic. President John F. Kennedy called this quota system “intolerable.” The 1965 act was meant to promote family unification, level the field for lawful entry and ease the way for foreign-born professionals. Fifty years later, its impact can be seen at all levels of society. Today over 40 million foreign-born individuals live in the United States, about three-quarters of whom have legal status. They and their American-born children comprise nearly 25% of the U.S. population. “The lady with the light”—to quote one Cambodian refugee—continues to burn bright.

Vicki L. Ruiz is Distinguished Professor of History and Chicano/Latino Studies at the University of California, Irvine, and the author of Cannery Women, Cannery Lives and From Out of the Shadows: Mexican Women in Twentieth- Century America . A fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, she is currently president of the American Historical Association.

Read 1965 coverage of the lifting of the quotas, here in the TIME Vault

Alcatraz Is Occupied (Nov. 20, 1969)

By Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz

While organizing for self-determination within Native Americans communities and nations had proceeded throughout the 1960s, few in the general public were aware until the November 1969 seizure and 18-month occupation of Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay. The occupation grabbed world-wide media attention. An alliance known as Indians of All Tribes was initiated by Native American students and relocated Natives living in the Bay Area. They built a thriving village on the island, which drew Indigenous pilgrimages from all over the continent and radicalized thousands, especially the youth. Treaties, self-determination, and land restitution returned to the national agenda, as the occupiers demanded implementation of international law. Negotiations ended the occupation when the Nixon administration agreed to amnesty for those involved.

Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz is author of An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States.

Read original coverage of the occupation, here in the TIME Vault

Affirmative Action Goes Unchallenged (Oct. 12, 1971)

By Khalil Gibran Muhammad

For much of the 20th century, unions, private employers and government agencies affirmatively discriminated based on race—until, through workplace protests, public demonstrations and political negotiation, African Americans compelled Congress and President Richard Nixon to adopt affirmative action policies. In the late 1960s, the “Philadelphia Plan,” inspired by a set of local initiatives in that city, set federal hiring benchmarks for proportional representation of African Americans in many skilled and white-collar jobs generated by government contracts. Though the idea was challenged, in 1971 the Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal, thus allowing the policy to stand and encouraging the growth of affirmative action.

Every sphere of American life transformed as a result. From college classrooms to corporate boardrooms, African Americans entered the middle-class in record numbers. White women and immigrants of color from around the globe also moved from the margins to the center of U.S. corporate culture. And the immediate and lasting impact of affirmative action has fueled nearly 40 years of conservative opposition and cries of “reverse discrimination” which remain at the heart of American political culture today.

Khalil Gibran Muhammad is director of the Schomburg Center For Research in Black Culture at the New York Public Library. He previously taught history at Indiana University and was an associate editor at the Journal of American History.

Read 1970 coverage of the birth of the Philadelphia Plan, here in the TIME Vault

California Passes Proposition 13 (June 6, 1978)

By Lizabeth Cohen

In June of 1978 the voters of California overwhelmingly passed Proposition 13, limiting local property taxes and making it harder for communities to raise them in the future. This 20th-century tax revolt opened the floodgates to other anti-tax ballot measures at the state level and initiated a general shift in popular opinion. This anti-tax reorientation has decreased the amount and quality of public services; led to increases in alternative, regressive sources of taxation such as the sales tax; and encouraged new kinds of inequalities such as between old and new homeowners, between residents able to afford privatized services and those not, and between communities with other sources of revenue to support schools and services and those without. On a broader scale, Proposition 13 represented a new unwillingness to view government as a provider of positive benefits to all members of a community and an embrace of more consumerist and individualized ways of securing services.

Lizabeth Cohen is dean of the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study and Howard Mumford Jones Professor of American Studies at Harvard University.

Read 1978 coverage of Proposition 13, here in the TIME Vault

The Embassy in Tehran Is Occupied (Nov. 4, 1979)

By Tony Horwitz

The takeover of the U.S. embassy in Tehran set us down the track we’re still on in the Middle East. Iranian militants held Americans hostage for 444 days while decrying the U.S. and demanding the return of the Shah and his riches. The crisis cemented Iran, a former ally, as our greatest foe in the region. It bound us more closely to Saudi Arabia and other Sunni regimes. It led us to build up Saddam Hussein’s power as a bulwark against Iran—and we know how that turned out. Thirty-six years after the takeover, Americans still regard Iranians as treacherous and cast Shi’ites in general as extremists. U.S. impotence during the hostage crisis—including a disastrous rescue attempt—also helped sink Jimmy Carter in the 1980 election. There’s an intriguing what-if: had events played out differently in Iran, we might not have had Ronald Reagan as president.

Tony Horwitz is a winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the William Henry Seward Award for Excellence in Civil War Biography. He is currently the vice president of the Society of American Historians.

Read more about embassy takeover, as described in 1979, here in the TIME Vault

The Pneumocystis Pneumonia Report (June 5, 1981)

By Elizabeth Fenn

June 5, 1981. That’s the date that the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report ( MMWR ) published an article titled “ Pneumocystis Pneumonia–Los Angeles.” This succinct, two-page essay turned out to be the first published account of the AIDS epidemic. It described Pneumocystis carinii , a rare protozoan infection that exploits weak immune systems, as it had developed in five gay men. The years that followed brought untold suffering. But AIDS also ushered in a revolution in attitudes that has allowed us to talk about sexuality more frankly than ever before. In the end, ironically, this helped open the door to gay marriage.

Elizabeth Fenn is department chair and associate professor of history at the University of Colorado Boulder. Her book Encounters at the Heart of the World was awarded the 2015 Pulitzer Prize in History.

Read 1981 coverage of the mysterious disease, here in the TIME Vault

The Americans With Disabilities Act Is Signed (July 26, 1990)

By Akira Iriye

The Americans With Disabilities Act formally recognized the fact that people who are disabled, physically as well as mentally, are part of society. Toward the end of the 20th century, the United States came face to face with the fact these people cannot simply be ignored. This is a very personal observation, because we have a daughter who was born with some brain damage. Just as racial desegregation was important, it’s important that people with handicaps be recognized as full-fledged members of society. It’s a progression toward recognizing all people of all categories. The idea that some people are different, we are much more tolerant about that, and that’s one of the most major achievements of the 20th century. ( As told to Lily Rothman )

Akira Iriye, a historian with interest in global, transnational affairs, is Charles Warren Research Professor of American History at Harvard.

Read 1990 coverage of the ADA, here in the TIME Vault

The 1994 Midterm Elections Go to the Republicans (Nov. 8, 1994)

By Julian Zelizer

In the 1994 midterm elections, Republicans—led by Newt Gingrich—took control of Congress for the first time since 1954. Gingrich and his allies ran a masterful campaign that revolved around “The Contract with America,” ten promises that the GOP vowed to enact if they took power. Their victory opened up the Republican Party to more conservative elements, and shaped the generations of Republicans who have dominated Capitol Hill since that time, even during the period of Democratic control. But the outcome of that election was not just important in terms of who controlled the majority of Congress, but also because it launched an era when conservatism would make the legislative branch, rather than the White House, the base of their power. Through legislative control and partisan tactics that had once been considered impermissible, the post-1994 congressional Republicans made it much more difficult for liberal ideas to succeed in the United States.

Julian Zelizer, a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University, is the author and editor of numerous books on American political history. His most recent book is The Fierce Urgency of Now: Lyndon Johnson, Congress, and the Battle for the Great Society.

Read a 1994 cover story about the election results, here in the TIME Vault

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