history research project pdf

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• The Princeton Guide to Historical Research

In this Book

• Zachary M. Schrag
• Published by: Princeton University Press
• Series: Skills for Scholars
• View Citation

The essential handbook for doing historical research in the twenty-first century The Princeton Guide to Historical Research provides students, scholars, and professionals with the skills they need to practice the historian's craft in the digital age, while never losing sight of the fundamental values and techniques that have defined historical scholarship for centuries. Zachary Schrag begins by explaining how to ask good questions and then guides readers step-by-step through all phases of historical research, from narrowing a topic and locating sources to taking notes, crafting a narrative, and connecting one's work to existing scholarship. He shows how researchers extract knowledge from the widest range of sources, such as government documents, newspapers, unpublished manuscripts, images, interviews, and datasets. He demonstrates how to use archives and libraries, read sources critically, present claims supported by evidence, tell compelling stories, and much more. Featuring a wealth of examples that illustrate the methods used by seasoned experts, The Princeton Guide to Historical Research reveals that, however varied the subject matter and sources, historians share basic tools in the quest to understand people and the choices they made.

• Offers practical step-by-step guidance on how to do historical research, taking readers from initial questions to final publication
• Connects new digital technologies to the traditional skills of the historian
• Draws on hundreds of examples from a broad range of historical topics and approaches
• Shares tips for researchers at every skill level

Table of Contents

• Title Page, Copyright, Dedication
• Introduction: History Is for Everyone
• Part I. Definitions
• Chapter 1. Defining History
• Chapter 2. Historians' Ethics
• Part II. Questions
• Chapter 3. Asking Questions
• Chapter 4. Research Design
• Part III. Sources
• Chapter 5. Sources: An Introduction
• pp. 103-119
• Chapter 6. Texts as Sources
• pp. 120-153
• Chapter 7. Sources beyond Traditional Texts
• pp. 154-171
• Chapter 8. Finding Sources
• pp. 172-185
• Chapter 9. Archival Research
• pp. 186-207
• Chapter 10. Interpreting Sources
• pp. 208-224
• Part IV. Projects
• Chapter 11. Project Management
• pp. 227-245
• Chapter 12. Taking Notes
• pp. 246-275
• Chapter 13. Organization
• pp. 276-308
• Part V. Stories
• Chapter 14. Storytelling
• pp. 311-340
• Chapter 15. Style
• pp. 341-376
• Chapter 16. Publication
• pp. 377-400
• Acknowledgments
• pp. 401-402
• pp. 403-414

Additional Information

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Best History Research Paper Topics

Dive into the world of historical scholarship with our comprehensive guide to the best history research paper topics . Primarily designed for students tasked with writing history research papers, this guide presents a curated list of 100 exceptional topics, divided into 10 distinct categories, each with a unique historical focus. The guide offers clear and practical advice on how to choose the most compelling history research paper topics, and provides 10 handy tips on crafting an outstanding research paper. In addition to academic guidance, the guide introduces the superior writing services of iResearchNet, a reliable option for students needing customized history research papers.

Comprehensive List of Best History Research Paper Topics

The following comprehensive list of the best history research paper topics is crafted to stimulate your curiosity and ignite your passion for historical study. These topics cover a range of historical periods and geographical locations to cater to the diverse interests of history students.

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Ancient History Topics

• The Causes and Effects of the Fall of the Roman Empire
• Daily Life in Ancient Egypt
• The Influence of Alexander the Great’s Conquests on the Hellenistic World
• The Role of Women in Spartan Society
• The Construction and Significance of the Great Wall of China
• The Impact of Confucianism on Ancient Chinese Society
• Trade Routes and their Role in the Expansion of Ancient Civilizations
• The Cultural and Political Influence of the Phoenician Civilization
• Comparing Democracy in Ancient Greece to Modern Democracy
• The Religious Practices and Beliefs of the Mayans

Medieval History Topics

• The Role of the Catholic Church in Medieval Europe
• The Impact of the Black Death on Medieval Society
• The Cultural Significance of the Knights Templar
• Gender Roles and Family Structure in Medieval Japan
• The Causes and Consequences of the Hundred Years War
• The Political Structure of the Byzantine Empire
• The Influence of the Carolingian Renaissance on Europe
• The Role of Vikings in European Trade and Exploration
• The Crusades: Causes, Events, and Consequences
• The Architecture and Symbolism of Gothic Cathedrals

Early Modern History Topics

• The Causes and Effects of the Protestant Reformation
• The Role of the Enlightenment in the French Revolution
• The Impact of the Scientific Revolution on European Society
• The Socioeconomic Consequences of the Industrial Revolution
• The Influence of the Ottoman Empire on Southeast Europe
• The Role of Slavery in the Colonial Economies
• The Politics and Culture of the Renaissance in Italy
• European Imperialism in Africa and Asia
• The Cultural and Political Impacts of the Mughal Empire
• The American Revolution: Causes, Events, and Legacy

Modern History Topics

• The Causes and Global Consequences of World War I
• The Great Depression: Causes and Effects
• The Role of Propaganda in World War II
• The Impact of the Cold War on International Relations
• The Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall and the End of the Cold War
• The Effects of Decolonization in the 20th Century
• The Role of Women in the World Wars
• The Formation and Impact of the European Union
• The Causes and Consequences of the Arab Spring

Asian History Topics

• The Cultural Impact of the Silk Road in Asia
• The Effects of Colonial Rule in India
• The Legacy of the Mongol Empire in Asia
• The Cultural and Political Changes in China’s Cultural Revolution
• The Korean War: Causes, Events, and Consequences
• The Role of Samurai in Feudal Japan
• The Impact of the Opium Wars on China
• The Influence of Buddhism on Asian Cultures
• The Cambodian Genocide under the Khmer Rouge
• The Role of Gandhi in India’s Independence

American History Topics

• The Impact of the New Deal on the American Economy
• The Vietnam War: Causes, Events, and Legacy
• The Influence of the Beat Generation on American Culture
• The Role of Manifest Destiny in Westward Expansion
• The Cuban Missile Crisis and Its Effects on the Cold War
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement in the United States
• The Native American Civil Rights Movement
• The Role of the Transcontinental Railroad in American Expansion
• The Civil War: Causes, Events, and Aftermath
• The Immigration Wave at Ellis Island: Causes and Effects

European History Topics

• The Impacts of the Russian Revolution
• The Influence of Martin Luther’s Theses on Europe
• The British Empire: Rise, Dominance, and Fall
• The Role of Art in the French Revolution
• The Impact of the Spanish Inquisition on Spain and its Colonies
• The Rise and Influence of Fascism in Europe
• The Role of the Catholic Church in the Middle Ages
• The Consequences of the Treaty of Versailles
• The Formation and Impact of NATO
• The Role of the Media in the Fall of the Berlin Wall

African History Topics

• The Effects of Apartheid in South Africa
• The Influence of the Trans-Saharan Trade on West African Societies
• The Role of Nelson Mandela in Ending Apartheid
• The Scramble for Africa and its Effects on the Continent
• The Impact of the Atlantic Slave Trade on West Africa
• The Rwandan Genocide: Causes and Consequences
• The Role of the African Union in Continental Politics
• The Impact of Islam on North Africa
• The Decolonization of Africa in the 20th Century
• The Role of Women in Pre-Colonial African Societies

Military History Topics

• The Influence of Technological Innovations on Warfare
• The Role of the French Foreign Legion in Global Conflicts
• The Impact of the Manhattan Project on World War II and Beyond
• The Role of the Spartans in Ancient Greek Warfare
• The Impact of Drones on Modern Warfare
• The Influence of the English Longbow on Medieval Warfare
• The Role of the Maginot Line in World War II
• The Impact of Naval Power on the British Empire
• The Influence of Nuclear Weapons on International Politics
• The Role of Propaganda in World War I

This expansive list of best history research paper topics offers a comprehensive exploration of the past, crossing different eras, regions, and themes. They form a rich tapestry of human experience and a foundation for understanding our present and future. Choose a topic that piques your interest, ignites your curiosity, and promises a journey of intellectual discovery. Remember that the exploration of history is a journey into the roots of our shared humanity and an exploration of the forces that shape our world.

History and What Range of Best Research Paper Topics it Offers

As a subject of study, history is more than a chronological list of events, dates, and prominent figures. History is the exploration of human experiences, societal changes, political upheavals, cultural transformations, economic shifts, and technological advancements across different periods and regions. This exploration allows us to understand how the past has shaped our present and how it can potentially shape our future. It teaches us to appreciate the complexities and nuances of human nature and society, making history a rich field for research paper topics.

History is an interdisciplinary field, interweaving elements from various areas of study, including politics, sociology, economics, anthropology, geography, and literature. This interdisciplinary nature provides a wide array of best history research paper topics. Moreover, the global scope of history further broadens the pool of topics, as it encompasses every region of the world and every period from the dawn of human civilization to the present day.

Exploring Different Periods

Historical research often focuses on specific periods, each offering unique topics for exploration. For instance, Ancient History provides topics related to ancient civilizations like Rome, Greece, Egypt, China, and India, and key events such as Alexander the Great’s conquests or the fall of the Roman Empire.

The Medieval Period offers topics related to the socio-political structure of societies, the influence of religion, the impact of plagues, and the role of significant historical figures. Researching the Renaissance can focus on cultural, artistic, and scientific revolutions that have shaped the modern world.

The Modern History category contains topics related to significant events and transformations, such as world wars, the Great Depression, the Cold War, decolonization, and various national and international movements.

Geographical Perspectives

Geographical focus is another common approach in historical research. Asian history encompasses topics ranging from the influence of Confucianism in China to the impact of colonial rule in India. European history explores events such as the Enlightenment, the French and Russian revolutions, and the formation of the European Union. American history topics can cover everything from Manifest Destiny to the Civil Rights Movement. African history can delve into the effects of the Atlantic Slave Trade, the apartheid era, and decolonization.

Thematic Approaches

In addition to period- and region-based topics, history offers an extensive range of thematic topics. These themes often intersect with other disciplines, leading to exciting interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Social and cultural history, for instance, covers diverse topics such as the influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African American culture, the counterculture movement of the 1960s, the role of film and television in shaping societies, or the impacts of the Internet on global culture.

Military history provides a wide range of topics related to warfare, strategy, technological developments, and the influence of military conflicts on societies and politics. From the use of the English longbow in medieval warfare to the impact of drones on modern warfare, this field offers a variety of fascinating topics.

Making the Right Choice

The choice of a research paper topic in history should ideally be guided by your interest, the available resources, and the requirements of your assignment. With such a wide range of topics, it can be challenging to make a choice. But remember, a good history research paper topic is not just about the past; it should also engage with the present and potentially shed light on the future. The best research paper topics are those that not only delve deep into the annals of history but also resonate with current issues and debates.

The study of history is a gateway into the vast narrative of human civilization. With an extensive range of periods, regions, and themes to choose from, history offers a rich reservoir of research paper topics. As we delve into the past, we discover the forces that have shaped our world, gain insights into the human experience, and glean lessons for our future. This journey of exploration makes history an incredibly exciting field for research papers.

How to Choose Best History Research Paper Topics

Choosing the best history research paper topic can be the first step towards a rewarding intellectual journey. It’s not just about meeting academic requirements; it’s about uncovering facets of the past that intrigue you and may potentially contribute to the broader understanding of history. Here are twenty in-depth tips that will guide you through the process and help you select the best topic for your history research paper.

• Understand the Assignment: Understanding your assignment’s requirements is the primary and most critical step in selecting a topic. Take time to carefully read the guidelines given by your instructor. Are there any specific historical periods, geographical regions, or themes you are required to focus on? Do the instructions indicate the scope or complexity level of the topic? Comprehending the parameters set by your instructor will significantly narrow down your options.
• Choose a Time Period: One way to approach the topic selection is by focusing on a particular time period that sparks your interest. It could be anything from the Bronze Age, to the Renaissance, to World War II. The more interested you are in the chosen time period, the more engaged you will be in the research process.
• Pick a Region: Similar to choosing a time period, selecting a particular region or country can also help narrow down potential topics. Are you fascinated by the history of East Asia, intrigued by ancient Egypt, or drawn to the socio-political history of Europe? Starting with a geographic focus can provide a strong foundation for your research.
• Identify a Theme: In addition to or instead of a time period or region, you might want to choose a theme that you wish to explore. Themes can range from political history, cultural history, history of science and technology, to gender history, among others. A thematic approach can offer a unique perspective and can even allow you to cross over different time periods or regions.
• Conduct Preliminary Research: Even before you have a firm topic in hand, engage in some preliminary research. This could involve reviewing textbooks, scholarly articles, or reputable online resources related to your chosen period, region, or theme. Preliminary research can give you a general sense of the historical context and inspire potential topics.
• Seek Inspiration from Existing Works: As part of your preliminary research, look at other research papers, theses, or dissertations in your area of interest. This can give you a good idea of what has been done, what gaps exist in the research, and where your research could potentially fit in.
• Scope Your Topic: The scope of your topic should be proportionate to the length and depth of your paper. If your paper is relatively short, a narrow, focused topic would be more suitable. For a longer and more complex paper, a broader topic that explores multiple facets or perspectives would be more appropriate.
• Consider the Relevance: Another aspect to consider when selecting a topic is its relevance. Does the topic have any relation to the course you are undertaking? Does it reflect on current historical or social debates? A topic that connects your historical research to broader academic or social issues can make your paper more impactful and engaging.
• Look for Unique Angles: While not every research paper can revolutionize the field, striving for some degree of originality in your work is always a good practice. Look for unique angles, underexplored areas, or new perspectives on a well-trodden topic. Presenting a fresh approach can make your paper more interesting for both you and your readers.
• Assess the Availability of Sources: Your research paper is only as good as your sources. Before finalizing your topic, make sure there are enough primary and secondary sources available to you. This could be in the form of books, academic articles, documentary films, archives, databases, or digital resources.
• Evaluate the Feasibility: Beyond the availability of sources, consider other practical aspects of your chosen topic. Is it feasible to conduct the research within the given time frame? Is the topic too complex or too simplistic for your current academic level? A realistic evaluation of these factors at an early stage can save you a lot of time and effort down the line.
• Reflect on Your Interests: Above all, select a topic that genuinely piques your curiosity. A research paper is a significant undertaking, and your interest in the topic will sustain you through potential challenges. If you are passionate about the topic, it will reflect in your writing and make your paper more compelling.
• Solicit Feedback: Seek advice from your instructor, classmates, or any other knowledgeable individuals. They may be able to provide valuable feedback, point out potential pitfalls, or suggest different perspectives that can enrich your research.
• Be Flexible: Be prepared to tweak, adjust, or even overhaul your topic as you delve deeper into the research process. New information or insights may emerge that shift your focus or challenge your initial assumptions.
• Bridge the Past and Present: Try to find topics that allow you to connect historical events or phenomena with contemporary issues. This can provide additional depth to your paper and may also appeal to a broader audience.
• Consult Specialized Encyclopedias and Guides: These can provide overviews of various topics and can often suggest areas for research. They also offer bibliographies which can serve as a starting point for your research.
• Draft a Preliminary Thesis Statement: Once you have a potential topic, try drafting a preliminary thesis statement. This can help you focus your ideas and give you a clear direction for your research.
• Ensure Your Topic Meets the Assignment Goals: Check back with your assignment guidelines to make sure your chosen topic meets all the requirements. It’s a good idea to do this before you start your in-depth research.
• Be Ready to Invest Time and Effort: Choose a topic that you are ready to spend time on. Remember, you will be working on this topic for an extended period, so choose something that you find interesting and engaging.
• Enjoy the Process: Finally, remember that the process of researching and writing a history paper can be a source of enjoyment and intellectual satisfaction. Choose a topic that not only meets academic requirements but also gives you a sense of accomplishment and discovery.

Choosing the best history research paper topic is not merely about fulfilling an academic requirement. It’s about setting the stage for a journey into the past, an exploration of humanity’s collective memory. The right topic will not only make this journey enjoyable but also deeply enlightening. By considering these tips, you can select a topic that resonates with you and holds the potential for a meaningful scholarly contribution.

How to Write a Best History Research Paper

Writing a history research paper can be a rewarding experience, providing an opportunity to delve into the past and explore the events, ideas, and personalities that have shaped our world. However, crafting a high-quality paper requires more than just an interest in the subject matter. It involves thorough research, analytical thinking, and clear, persuasive writing. Here are twenty comprehensive tips on how to write a best history research paper.

• Understand the Assignment: Begin by thoroughly understanding the assignment. Ensure you grasp the requirements, the scope of the paper, the format, and the deadline. Clear any doubts with your professor or peers before you start.
• Select a Suitable Topic: As discussed earlier, choosing an appropriate topic is crucial. It should be engaging, manageable, and meet the assignment’s requirements. Consider your interests, the available resources, and the paper’s scope when choosing the topic.
• Conduct In-Depth Research: Once the topic is decided, embark on thorough research. Use a variety of sources, such as books, academic journals, credible online sources, primary sources, and documentaries. Remember to take notes and record the sources for citation purposes.
• Formulate a Thesis Statement: The thesis statement is the central argument or point of your paper. It should be clear, concise, and debatable, providing a roadmap for your entire paper. The thesis statement should guide your research and each main point you make in your paper should support this central idea.
• Create an Outline: An outline helps organize your thoughts and arguments. Typically, it should include an introduction (with the thesis statement), body paragraphs (with topic sentences), and a conclusion. Each point in your outline should be a reflection of your thesis statement.
• Start with a Strong Introduction: The introduction should be engaging, provide some background on the topic, and include the thesis statement. It sets the tone for the rest of your paper, so make it compelling and informative.
• Develop Body Paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea that supports your thesis. Begin with a topic sentence, provide evidence or arguments, and then conclude the paragraph by linking it back to your thesis. Be clear and concise in your arguments.
• Use Evidence Effectively: Support your arguments with evidence from your research. This could include quotations, statistics, or primary source materials. Remember to interpret the evidence and explain its relevance to your argument.
• Maintain a Logical Flow: The ideas in your paper should flow logically from one point to the next. Use transitional words and phrases to maintain continuity and help guide your reader through your paper.
• Write a Compelling Conclusion: Your conclusion should sum up your main points, restate the thesis in light of the evidence provided, and possibly offer areas for further research or a concluding insight. It should leave the reader with something to think about.
• Cite Your Sources: Always cite your sources properly. This not only gives credit where it’s due but also strengthens your argument by indicating the breadth of your research. Ensure you follow the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
• Revise for Clarity and Coherence: After finishing your initial draft, revise your work. Check for clarity, coherence, and consistency of argument. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus, and that the paragraphs flow smoothly from one idea to the next.
• Proofread: Proofread your paper for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Such errors can distract from the content and undermine your credibility as a writer. Reading your paper aloud or having someone else read it can help catch errors you might have missed.
• Seek Feedback: Before finalizing your paper, consider seeking feedback from your professor, peers, or a writing center tutor. They can provide valuable perspectives and suggestions for improvement that you might not have considered.
• Write in a Formal Academic Style: Your paper should be written in a formal academic style. Avoid slang, colloquialisms, and overly complex language. Be clear, concise, and precise in your expression.
• Avoid Plagiarism: Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. Ensure that all ideas and words that are not your own are properly cited. When in doubt, it’s better to over-cite than to under-cite.
• Stay Objective: A good history paper is objective and does not include personal opinions or biases. It relies on facts and evidence, and presents balanced arguments. Stick to the evidence and avoid emotional language.
• Be Original: Strive for originality in your argument and interpretation. While your topic might not be entirely new, your perspective on it can be. Don’t be afraid to challenge established interpretations if you have evidence to support your argument.
• Use Primary Sources Wisely: Primary sources are invaluable in historical research. However, remember that they should be used to support your argument, not to construct it. Your analysis and interpretation of the sources are what matters.
• Enjoy the Process: Finally, remember to enjoy the process. Writing a research paper is not just an academic exercise, but a journey into the past. It’s a chance to learn, explore, and contribute to our understanding of history.

In conclusion, writing a best history research paper requires careful planning, thorough research, clear writing, and detailed revision. However, the process can be highly rewarding, leading to new insights and a deeper understanding of history. These tips provide a comprehensive guide to help you craft a top-notch history research paper. Remember, history is a continually evolving dialogue, and your paper is your chance to join the conversation.

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Research Resources

If you are looking for help picking a topic or locating resources

Library of Congress Bibliographies, Research Guides, and Finding Aids

Library of Congress History Research Guide

Library of Congress Research Guide (specifically for U.S. women)

National Archives and Records Administration Research Guides and Tools—Center for Legislative Archives

National Archives and Records Administration Research Topics for Frequent Topics

New York Public Library Digital Collections Guide

National Women’s History Museum Biographies of Women

If you have questions about historical research and/or writing:

American Historical Association “Writing History: An Introductory Guide to How History Is Produced”

Harvard College Writing Center—A Brief Guide to Writing the History Paper (PDF download)

Hamilton College Writing Resources—Writing a Good History Paper

If you are a teacher looking for classroom resources and lesson plans:

Library of Congress Teacher’s Guide and Resources

New-York Historical Society Curriculum Library

New York Public Library Remote Learning Resources

National History Day Women in History Guide

• Rutgers Lesson Module on U.S. Suffrage

National Park Service Women’s History (Teaching with Historic Places) Resource Guide

National Endowment for the Humanities Guide for American Women’s History

New-York Historical Society Woman and the American Story (WAMS)

Harvard Schlesinger Library #SuffrageSyllabus

National Women’s History Museum “Where are the Women? A Report on the Status of Women in the United States Social Studies Standards”

• National Women’s History Museum Learning Resources on Women's Political Participation

National Women’s History Museum Educator’s Resources

National Women’s History Museum National History Day Resources

If you are looking for general resources on primary vs. secondary sources:

Library of Congress Teacher’s Program on Getting Started with Primary Sources

Library of Congress Finding Primary Sources Guide for Frequent Topics

Library of Congress Primary Source Guide

If you are looking for resources to do genealogical research:

Library of Congress Step-by-Step Guide for Biographical Research

Newberry Library Genealogy Collection Guides and Research Tools

• New York Public Library How to Find Your Suffragist / Suffragette Ancestors

If you are looking for information on U.S. Women’s Suffrage:

National Women’s History Museum Suffrage Centennial Resources:  

• Suffrage Online Exhibit
• Suffragist Biographies
• Suffrage Timeline
• Additional Resources
• Suffrage Centennial in the News

Additional Suffrage Resources:

• New-York Historical Society Curriculum on Women’s Suffrage
• Library of Congress Research Guide for Women's Suffrage in the Moving Image and Recorded Sound Collections
• Library of Congress Research Guide for Women’s Suffrage: Pictures of Suffragists and their Activities
• Alexander Street Online Biographical Dictionary of the Woman Suffrage Movement in the United States

If you are a student looking to get started on your National History Day Project:

How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement (PDF)

15 History Project Ideas for High School Students

Indigo Research Team

If you have a deep interest in past events and feel a connection to different periods, pursuing history projects might be for you. 

Studying history allows you to understand the reasons behind decisions made over time and gives you valuable skills that can contribute to shaping a better future. Not to mention, passion projects for high school students have become increasingly important to make your college application better. 

So, if you are interested in history, here is the list of 15 creative ideas that you can start now:

Creative Ideas for History Projects

1. comparative research studies: history vs present times.

Comparing history and present times through research could be a great history research project idea for high school students. This study offers a valuable opportunity to delve into the complexities of historical events and societies. By examining two or more instances, you can develop critical thinking and analytical skills while uncovering patterns and trends that may not be apparent at first glance. These studies provide an avenue for exploring the similarities and differences between different periods and places, shedding light on the factors that shape societies and influence historical outcomes. 

When engaging in a history research project, it is crucial to start by selecting specific historical events or societies to compare. This allows you to focus on research efforts effectively. In addition to investigating political, economic, social, and cultural aspects, it is equally important to dive into the causes and consequences of these events. If you need help to do research, you can always find research mentors who can guide you through the process. 

2. Israel-Palestine conflict

The war between Israel and Palestine is one of the trending history project topics , so high school students can get a lot of information online. Learn about the root cause of the conflict by researching the historical background, key events, religion, and cultural values.

3. Ancient Civilizations scrapbook

A virtual Scrapbook is another creative idea for a history project for students. You can choose your favorite ancient civilization and start collecting old images and maps. Join maps and images and write short descriptions for the readers. Do extensive research and learn about their daily life activities to showcase their lifestyle. This project will spark your creativity.

4. Historical Fashion Show

If you have a passion for trends and fashion, the evolution of style is a perfect history project idea. Choose a specific period to take a stroll through the history. Your historical fashion show project will be more interesting if you consider a large period. Conduct research and present how ancient people used to cover their bodies. If you have enough time, you can create simple costumes from ancient civilizations to represent different eras. The video below can also be your reference in creating your historical fashion project.

5. History Box

High school students can create a history project by transforming historical events into three-dimensional masterpieces. You can choose your favorite history projects, such as a big discovery, a famous battle, or any other historical event that inspires you.

Take a shoe box, colored paper, and pens to transform your history project idea into a 3D scene. Incorporate small details like landscapes, buildings, and figures to tell the whole story. Write captions on each item to help other students understand the history.

6. Historical Cooking Show

Calling all foodie students! If you are passionate about cooking, you can try this European history project ideas. Choose your European cuisine and dig deep into how ancient people used to prepare food. Prepare old European dishes and record your adventurous video. Explain the whole recipe and how it reflects the culture of that time.

7. Inventions show

Create a visual show of inventors and inventions. Conduct thorough research, pick a few big inventors, learn about their contributions, and present your knowledge through digital presentation. You can also mention how their inventions changed the lifestyle of that era. This visual showcase will motivate you and your classmates to do something big and create a better future.

8. Historical Comic Show

Create a comic strip by using historical events. Choose a particular era and gather drawings and captions to narrate the key moments. This history project idea will polish your storytelling skills and make history more accessible and entertaining.

9. Podcasts from the Past

Creating a podcast series of historical figures can take your creativity to the next level. Interview "guests" from the past, portraying their achievements, struggles, and impact on society. Use your creativity to make it informative and entertaining for your audience.

10. Timeline Wall

High school students can use a blank wall to showcase significant events of a specific region. Suppose you want to showcase US history, then conduct research and list down important events of the past. Using different colors and markers, you can illustrate events on the wall.

11. Presidential Time Capsule

This is one of the best US history final project ideas. Students can represent different presidents by exploring their political achievements, personal aspects, and societal influences. You can create artifacts to showcase the life of a specific president. This US History project idea will enhance your artistic skills.

12. Oil Board Game

Are you looking for Texas history project ideas? This educational oil board game will allow you to explore the oil industry of Texas. You need extensive research to learn about the boomtown era, economic fluctuations, and the impact of oil discoveries. Players will take on the roles of independent oil entrepreneurs, navigating the economic landscape to strike it rich or face financial pitfalls.

13. ABC Past Book

Students can create an E-book just like a dictionary where each letter represents a historical event of a specific era or region. For example, A stands for Arts & Crafts Movement Worksheet and B stands for Berlin. You can add small captions and illustrations to enhance readability.

14. Black Man Museum

Black Man Museum is one of the outstanding black history project ideas because it allows you to honor the achievements and struggles of people of color. Conduct research and find a few historical black figures, gather all the information about their achievements. You can also share stories of black people in your community. This project will spark your public speaking abilities and deepen your understanding of the diverse contributions to society.

Following are a few more black history project ideas:

• The Montgomery bus boycott
• The civil rights movement
• Black women’s history
• The black panthers
• Contribution of black teachers in Society

15. Documentary on the Freedom Movement

If you’re passionate about India’s history and looking for Indian history project ideas, you can create a Documentary on the Freedom Movement. Find elders from your family or your community who witnessed the freedom of India and record their interviews. Ask about their experiences, sacrifices, and contributions to the freedom movement. This could be a good history research idea because the diverse perspectives can help you make your project more interesting.

How to Create a Successful History Project for a High School Student?

Before choosing your history project, ask yourself a few questions what do you like the most about history? How much time do you have to complete the project and what are your educational goals? These questions will help you choose the right project that will stand out from the crowd.

Here are some more tips that will make your history project rewarding.

1. Identify Your Interest 

The common rule to start anything is your interest, the more you enjoy doing something, the more it will motivate you to finish the project. Start thinking about the historical events, periods, and figures that capture your attention.

2. Consider your Class Curriculum

To obtain history project ideas, you could also browse on school's history book to explore topics that you find interesting. You can also consider themes that haven’t been covered in your class yet. Choosing a topic from your class content will help you to understand better and perform well in final exams.

3. Explore Current Events

Consider current issues that have relevance to history. Connecting the dots of the present to the past can make your project more engaging and memorable.

4. Create an Engaging Documentation

Creating visually appealing documentation is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a powerful tool for exploring historical events. Start with providing a visual representation of the chronological order of key events, timelines help learners connect the dots and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter. 

Visual cues capture people’s attention and spark their curiosity, encouraging them to dig deeper into the interconnectedness between historical events and notable figures. Ultimately, creating engaging documentation will always be beneficial for your college application or future careers.

5. Use Historical Books and Resources

When working on a history project, it is essential to utilize reliable historical books and resources. These sources provide accurate and credible information that can support your research and strengthen the credibility of your project.

Start by identifying reputable books written by historians or experts in the field. Look for well-researched, peer-reviewed, and widely recognized books within the academic community. These books often provide comprehensive coverage of knowledge that you can rely on.

There are endless creative ideas for history projects. You should choose something that you’re passionate about. We assume that this article has given you a project idea and by choosing the above tips, you can bring life to your history project.

History is no doubt one of the most interesting topics to explore in a research project. If you want to start your research journey, the Indigo Research Program is here to transform your idea into reality. We will pair you with mentors from top universities and turn your project into publishable research.

How to get a H1 in your Leaving Certificate History RSR Project

Jamie has been teaching history and correcting state exams for over thirteen years. In this guide, he gives his tips on getting a H1 in the Leaving Cert History Research Study Report (RSR).

Introduction

In this guide, I will go through what a Research Study Report actually is and also some tips and tricks for answering one with top marks.

Common questions

Before we start looking at what is involved in the report, I'm going to go through some common questions you may come across:

What is the RSR?

The Research Study Report (or the 'RSR' if you’re cool) is a project in which you carry out a piece of research on a topic of your choice. It is completed in a special booklet which is usually submitted in March/April, prior to the actual Leaving Certificate History exam.

Why is the RSR important?

Your RSR is super important because it’s worth a massive 20% of your total history result. Here’s some good news though: the average score for the RSR project is 90% so this is the perfect opportunity to get your history exam off to a great start. When you also consider that the 'documents-based question' in the exam is also 20%, you could have the subject nearly passed before you tackle any of those tricky essay questions.

How do I come up with my topic?

If I could offer you one piece of advice in terms of choosing your research topic, it would be this: pick something you’re interested in. You’re into sports? Music? Great, go with it. The wonderful thing about the RSR is that you really do have loads of choices. You’re going to be spending a LOT of time researching, thinking and writing about your chosen topic, so make sure it’s something you’re actually passionate about.

Maybe there’s someone famous from your local community or a particular event from history that you want to know more about. Maybe your teacher or a family member mentioned something that grabbed your attention. The only restrictions are that you need to be able to argue for your topic’s historical importance (more of that in the outline plan later) and that it happened before 1993 in Ireland and 1992 in Europe and the rest of the world.

Be original and creative. Lots of students each year pick topics around Adolf Hitler and the Concentration Camps for example. If your examiner can read something new and different, they might be more generous with their marks.

Where do I get my information from?

Surprise, surprise, your first step will be to use the internet in order to familiarise yourself with your research topic. When looking up your topic on a search engine, try to be as detailed and specific as possible to ensure you get the right results. Using a website like Wikipedia is good for getting to know your topic but should not be relied on or mentioned in any part of your project. Instead, look for websites from third-level institutions, historical journals or reputable newspapers or magazines for your research.

What about my local library?

Your local library is a brilliant resource. I always advise my students to try and find a book from a historian on your topic and your library is the perfect place to look. Some libraries even have newspaper records and access to academic journals on their computer system which can be incredibly useful depending on your topic.

Don’t be afraid to approach the desk and tell the librarian what you are looking for. In my experience, librarians are really friendly and eager to help. It would be well worth the visit. You can check to see what books are available and can order them from any library in the country using: https://www.librariesireland.ie/  

What if my topic is on local or family history?

Well, your library is definitely the place to look. As well as this, most counties have a historical society with people who have excellent local knowledge and are easy to find online. A sit-down chat or email correspondence could provide you with loads of information on your topic or give you ideas for other sources or further research. Local bookshops often have books published by historians from the area. An elderly family member might also be of help here.

When looking for sources to use in your research, the more the better. When it comes to using them in your report, you will be focusing on three. My top tip here is to pick:

• one primary source (if you can). Did someone involved in the event write a biography? Can you interview someone who witnessed an event? 
• One book written by a historian on the topic.
• One reliable internet source.

Layout of your RSR booklet

Congratulations, you are now a historian! As you are reading through your material, make sure to take loads of notes and keep them in a folder or notebook. This will make things much easier when it comes to the hard part, putting your research down on the page. 

Let’s look at the breakdown of the RSR booklet. We can split it into 5 parts: 

Title of the study

The outline plan, evaluation of sources, the extended essay.

This relates to what you have researched and what you will be writing about. Your title should be specific, detailed and include some date parameters.

The outline plan is worth 15 marks. Think of it as the introduction to your research. It should be broken up into four different parts:

Definition and justification

This is worth 3 marks. This is where you explain what it is you are researching and why your topic is historically significant.

Intended approach

This is worth 3 marks. Write in the future tense and explain three ways that you will go about finding this information. For example, “I will interview a local historian, I will go to my local library, etc.”. You can also mention here how you will take and organise your notes and how you will draft and redraft your essay. It would also be a nice idea here to mention how you will ask your teacher for advice.

This is worth 6 marks. The last part of your outline plan is where you write out three of your sources in full detail (see my top tip above). It’s really important that you give every little detail regarding the source you used. For example, for a book, give the title, author, publisher and year published. If using a website, make sure to list the website’s address in full (with all the slashes, dashes and dots) as well as the date you accessed the site. Otherwise, I’m afraid easy marks will be lost (sad face).

This part is worth 25 marks and is arguably the toughest part of the whole RSR. This is where you take the three sources you mentioned in the outline plan and discuss their value in detail (eVALUate? Get it?). Outline the relevance of the source to your chosen topic as well as its strengths and weaknesses as a historical source. In other words, explain what was useful and maybe not so useful about each of the three sources. Consider things like:

• whether your source is a primary or secondary one;
• who wrote/created your source? Are they trustworthy, or is there any evidence of bias?
• Did it cover exactly what you were looking for, or did it cover only a small aspect of your whole topic?
• How was your source structured? Was it easy to find information thanks to a contents page or index list?
• Did your sources contain any maps, photographs, images or statistics that were particularly useful?
• Did one of your sources contradict or give a different version of events from another source?

Details are key. Give specific details such as quotes or references to particular images to prove to the examiner that you actually studied the source and didn’t just flick through it.

The extended essay is worth 50 marks. You’ll probably spend more time drafting and redrafting your extended essay than any other part of the booklet (but remember, all the other bits and pieces are worth the same amount of marks). This is essentially where you lay out your research. In terms of word count, higher-level students should aim to write between 1,200 to 1,500 words with ordinary-level students aiming for 600 to 800 words. Don’t worry, there is plenty of space in the booklet and you don’t have to fill it. Here are some things to bear in mind when putting your essay together:

A brief opening

A brief opening is certainly important, it gives the background and context to your topic. Do try to make it attention-grabbing. Your examiner will have lots of RSRs to read each day so yours needs to stand out.

Quote and reference

Make sure to quote from and make reference to your sources throughout. You can use more than the three named at the start. This will show the examiner you have developed your historical research skills. Reference any source that you’ve used either at the bottom of each page or at the end of your essay.

It is super important that you achieve the three aims that you set out in your outline plan. Whatever it was that you said you wanted to find out, ensure you have covered them in the essay.

Strong conclusion

Make sure your essay has a strong conclusion in which you emphasise the historical significance or consequences of your topic. A memorable quote from a named historian would be great here too.

The marks for the extended essay are broken down like this:

Give your essays lots of detail to make sure you get high marks here.

Use your sources throughout the whole essay and quote from them. There’s no problem if your sources contradict each other, just explain that in your essay and try to draw your own conclusions.

Make sure your spelling and grammar are spot on here (your teacher can help you with this) and that your essay has a clear beginning, middle and end. Follow the timeline of your topic to make this easier.

Well done, you’re nearly there. The review is worth 10 marks and this is the last step of your RSR. Here, you will write a page in which you reflect on the process of completing the research. Here are some things you could consider writing about:

• How did you decide on your chosen topic? Was it an easy decision or did you change your mind a lot? Why was that?
• Did you find it difficult to locate sources for your topic? How did you overcome this difficulty?
• Was there anything you learned about your topic that shocked or surprised you?
• Is there anything you would do differently if you could start again?
• Is there anything you came across while researching your topic that you would like to learn more about?
• What historical skills did you develop throughout your work completing the RSR project?

As mentioned earlier, your examiner will read many reviews and they can often be generic and 'samey'. Make yours stand out by giving lots of specific details and this will help you get full marks in this section.

I hope this guide is helpful and that you find completing the research study report an enjoyable and rewarding experience. When you’re finished, use the checklist below to give yourself the best chance possible of getting the maximum marks in this section.

Jamie has multiple degrees and qualifications under his belt, including a bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with English and History, and master's degrees in Modern English Literature, and also Leadership & Management in Education. Jamie has corrected at both Junior and Leaving Certificate levels since 2010. When not shaping young minds, he surfs and plays golf (badly and without grace!)

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Title: genesis: towards the automation of systems biology research.

Abstract: The cutting edge of applying AI to science is the closed-loop automation of scientific research: robot scientists. We have previously developed two robot scientists: `Adam' (for yeast functional biology), and `Eve' (for early-stage drug design)). We are now developing a next generation robot scientist Genesis. With Genesis we aim to demonstrate that an area of science can be investigated using robot scientists unambiguously faster, and at lower cost, than with human scientists. Here we report progress on the Genesis project. Genesis is designed to automatically improve system biology models with thousands of interacting causal components. When complete Genesis will be able to initiate and execute in parallel one thousand hypothesis-led closed-loop cycles of experiment per-day. Here we describe the core Genesis hardware: the one thousand computer-controlled $\mu$-bioreactors. For the integrated Mass Spectrometry platform we have developed AutonoMS, a system to automatically run, process, and analyse high-throughput experiments. We have also developed Genesis-DB, a database system designed to enable software agents access to large quantities of structured domain information. We have developed RIMBO (Revisions for Improvements of Models in Biology Ontology) to describe the planned hundreds of thousands of changes to the models. We have demonstrated the utility of this infrastructure by developed two relational learning bioinformatic projects. Finally, we describe LGEM+ a relational learning system for the automated abductive improvement of genome-scale metabolic models.

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