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History Essay Examples

Top History Essay Examples To Get Inspired By

Published on: May 4, 2023

Last updated on: Oct 28, 2024

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History essays are a crucial component of many academic programs, helping students to develop their critical thinking, research, and writing skills. 

However, writing a great history essay is not always easy, especially when you are struggling to find the right approach. This is where history essay examples come in handy. 

By reading and examining samples of successful history essays, you can gain inspiration, learn new ways to approach your topic. Moreover, you can develop a better understanding of what makes a great history essay.

In this blog, you will find a range of history essay examples that showcase the best practices in history essay writing. 

Read on to find useful examples.

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Sample History Essays

Explore our collection of excellent history paper examples about various history essay topics . Download the pdf examples for free and read to get inspiration for your own essay.

History Essay Samples for Middle School

The Impact of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Society

The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire

The Causes and Consequences of the American Revolution

History Writing Samples for High School Students

The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Society

Grade 10 History Essay Example: World War 1 Causes and Effects

Grade 12 History Essay Example: The Impact of Technology on World War II

Ancient History Essay Examples

The Societal and Political Structures of the Maya Civilization

The Role of Phoenicians in the Development of Ancient Mediterranean World

The Contributions of the Indus Civilization

Medieval History Essay Examples

The Crusades Motivations and Consequences

The Beginning of Islamic Golden Age

The Black Death

Modern History Essay Examples

The Suez Crisis and the End of British Dominance

The Rise of China as an Economic Powerhouse

World History Essay Examples

The Role of the Silk Road in Shaping Global Trade and Culture

The Rise and Fall of the Ottoman Empire

The Legacy of Ancient Greek Philosophy and Thought

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American History Essay Examples

The Civil Rights Movement and its Impact on American Society

The American Civil War and its Aftermath

The Role of Women in American Society Throughout History

African History Essay Examples

The Impact of Colonialism on African Societies

The Rise and Fall of the Mali Empire

European History Essay Examples

The Protestant Reformation and the Rise of Protestantism in Europe

The French Revolution and its Impact on European Politics and Society

The Cold War and the Division of Europe

Argumentative History Essay Examples

Was the US Civil War Primarily About Slavery or States

The Effects of British Colonization on Colonies

Art History Essay Examples 

The Influence of Greek and Roman Art on Neoclassicism

The Depiction of Women in Art Throughout History

The Role of Art in the Propaganda of Fascist Regimes

How to Use History Essay Examples

History essay examples are a valuable tool for students looking for inspiration and guidance on how to approach their own essays. 

By analyzing successful essays, you can learn effective writing techniques that can be expected in a high-quality history essay. 

Here are some tips that will help you take full advantage of the samples above.

Tips for Effectively Using History Essay Examples

• Analyze the Structure:

Pay close attention to how the essay is organized, including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Look for how the author transitions between paragraphs and the use of evidence to support their argument.

• Study the Thesis Statement:

The thesis statement is the backbone of any successful history essay. Analyze how the author crafted their thesis statement, and consider how you can apply this to your own writing.

• Take Note of the Evidence: 

Effective history essays rely on using strong evidence to support their arguments. Take note of the sources and types of evidence used in the essay. Consider how you can apply similar evidence to support your own arguments.

• Pay Attention to the Formatting and Other Academic Formalities:

The sample essays also demonstrate how you can incorporate academic formalities and standards while keeping the essay engaging. See how these essays fulfill academic standards and try to follow them in your own writing.

• Practice Writing:

While analyzing history essay examples can be helpful, it is important to also practice writing your own essays. Use the examples as inspiration, but try to craft your own unique approach to your topic. 

History essays are an essential aspect of learning and understanding the past. By using history essay examples, students can gain inspiration on how to develop their history essays effectively. 

Furthermore, following the tips outlined in this blog, students can effectively analyze these essay samples and learn from them. 

However, writing a history essay can still be challenging. 

Looking for an online essay writing service that specializes in history essays? Look no further!

Our history essay writing service is your go-to source for well-researched and expertly crafted papers.

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History - Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

History is the study of past events, particularly how they relate to humans. An essay on history could examine significant historical periods, explore the impact of historical events on contemporary society, or discuss the methodologies and challenges of historical inquiry and interpretation. We’ve gathered an extensive assortment of free essay samples on the topic of History you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Rhetorical Traditions from Antiquity to Contemporary Public Discourse

Public speaking, a vital instrument of communication, has profoundly shaped societies from ancient civilizations to the present day. Rooted deeply in Western traditions and the practices of Ancient Greece, public speaking remains a cornerstone of societal interaction. It enables individuals to connect, influence decisions, and inspire societal change. This essay explores the historical evolution of public speaking, its critical role in history, and its enduring impact on contemporary society. Historical Foundations of Public Speaking The origins of public speaking trace […]

History of the Battle for Civil Rights

It is impossible to discuss the history of the battle for civil rights for Hispanics without including Black Americans. Minorites of all backgrounds had to band together in order to fight back against the white man’s system of oppression. The battle for civil rights in the south, particularly in the state of Texas, is often associated with Texas's two largest ethnic minorities: African Americans and Hispanic people, particularly Mexican Americans. Mexican Americans have made efforts to bring about better social […]

Music and Activism: Tools for Black Empowerment

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Reconstruction Era Analysis in Aftershock: Beyond the Civil War

The documentary "Aftershock: Beyond the Civil War," directed by David Padrusch and aired on the History Channel in 2006, delves into the tumultuous period following the American Civil War. This film is segmented into various series that depict the complex social and political dynamics of the Reconstruction era. During this time, America grappled with a deadly conflict between races, driven by deep-seated discrimination and the aftermath of war. The documentary's primary focus is to illuminate the far-reaching consequences that ensued […]

History Civlization i

Athenian Democracy Democracy is a governing system in which supremacy and power is vested in the hands of the people. It is exercised through voting to determine the will of the majority. Athens was an example of a democratic city as described by Pericles who once said that it respected the will of the majority (Thucydides 58). Pericles argued that Athens City was democratic simply by the fact that power was based on majority but not social stratification, favoritism or […]

The Rise and Legacy of Ancient Greece

Dramatic mountain peaks and azure seas cradled the birth of ancient Greek civilization, where geography shaped destiny. This geographic setting, with its limited arable land, compelled the Greeks to become adept seafarers, fostering a civilization that was both isolated and interconnected through maritime trade. Unlike their contemporaries, the Greeks did not develop as a unified empire but rather as a collection of independent city-states, or poleis, each with its own distinct identity and governance. This essay explores the intricate tapestry […]

The Role of Yellow Journalism in the Spanish-American War

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Modern Chinese Social Change

The rise of China to become one of the most influential nations on Earth is not merely a result of recent developments but a culmination of centuries of historical evolution, marked by struggle, reform, and strategic adaptation. Today, China is recognized for its diverse economy, substantial population, technological advancements, and formidable military capabilities, particularly in Asia. This essay explores the historical journey of China from the mid-20th century to the present, highlighting the significant reforms and challenges that have shaped […]

The Vietnam War in U.S History

The Vietnam War, often referred to as the longest and most controversial conflict in U.S. history, was a watershed moment that highlighted the nation's struggle against the spread of communism and exposed deep divisions within American society. Initially, the United States entered Vietnam with the intent to prevent the fall of the country to a communist regime, a policy rooted in the broader strategy of containment during the Cold War. However, this involvement led to numerous fateful battles that claimed […]

Mummification in Ancient Egypt: a Journey into Immortality

Ancient Egypt's eternal sleepers still captivate modern minds. Emerging over 4,500 years ago, this intricate practice was not merely a method of preserving bodies but a profound reflection of the ancient Egyptians' beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. This essay delves into the history and process of mummification, exploring who was deemed worthy of such an honor and why this practice was central to Egyptian civilization. Origins and Evolution Mummification began around 3500 B.C., driven by the Egyptian belief […]

The Trail of Tears: a Tragic Chapter in American History

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Impact of Martin Luther King Jr.’s Death on the Civil Rights Movement

Freedom's flame burned bright across the South as African Americans rose up to claim their rights in the 1950s and 60s. At the forefront of this movement was Martin Luther King Jr., a leader whose philosophy of non-violence was central to his strategy for combating segregation and advocating for civil and political rights. Born out of a profound desire for equality, the Civil Rights Movement sought to dismantle the systemic barriers that disenfranchised African Americans. However, the assassination of Dr. […]

An Iconic Female Ruler in History – Cleopatra

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Julius Caesar in History

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The Legacy of Sacrifice

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Costa Rica’s Rich Cultural and Historical Tapestry

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World War II: a Transformative Epoch in Human History

Like a global earthquake, World War II's aftershocks continue to shape our modern world. The war involved 16 Allied nations fighting against seven Axis powers, and it resulted in the tragic loss of 40 to 50 million lives, marking it as the deadliest conflict in recorded history. This essay explores the profound impact of World War II, examining the roles of key nations and the pivotal events that shaped its outcome. Nazi Germany's Role Nazi Germany, under the leadership of […]

The Black Death: a Historical Catastrophe

The Black Death, one of the most monumental epidemics in human history, obliterated millions of lives and spread its devastation across Europe and Afro-Eurasian countries. Commencing in the 1330s and persisting until the mid-1350s, this catastrophic event reshaped societies, cultures, and economies. The infectious disease, which raged through Afro-Eurasia in the mid-fourteenth century, left indelible marks on the world, altering the general way of life in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The population collapse was unprecedented in affected regions, including England, […]

Fascinating History of the Industrial Revolution

The fascinating history of the Industrial Revolution begins with a brief understanding of what Pre-Industrial Revolution life was like in the early 1700s. Most of the people during this time period lived in rural areas and worked on their family's farm. Their success in farming was very weather dependent and they made everything themselves from the plots of land around them. Not only was the pace of manufacturing slow, but it was done by hand using very basic tools. Products […]

The Greek Genocide: a Forgotten Chapter

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World War One Social and Cultural Ramifications

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The Role of Geography in the Rise of Ancient Greek Civilization

Democracy's first breaths mingled with philosophical discourse and athletic glory in the cradle of Western civilization. However, the geographical setting of this remarkable civilization is often overlooked as a crucial factor in its development. The unique geographical features of ancient Greece played a pivotal role in shaping its political, social, and economic structures, thereby facilitating the emergence of a great civilization. This essay will explore how Greece's geography significantly contributed to its development, focusing on its islands, mountains, seas, and […]

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Brother fought brother as Civil War carved new nation from old wounds. It was a conflict that divided the nation into two factions: the Union, known as "the North," and the Confederate States of America, or "the South." This war not only shaped the trajectory of the nation but also laid the foundation for the modern United States. Had the North not secured victory, the country might look drastically different today. To understand the Civil War, it's crucial to examine […]

Reconstruction after the Civil War

Following the Union's triumph in the American Civil War, the country faced some of the most pressing concerns shaping its future course; this period is known as the Reconstruction Period. One of these critical problems was how to restore America and the nation after the horrors of the Civil War. Approximately six million men died throughout the war due to sickness, starvation, accidents, and actual battle. During the war's shock and fear, the United States also faced significant challenges in […]

The Struggle for Equality: a Journey through African American History

In U.S. history, debates about equality for African Americans have deeply influenced the nation's social and political evolution. This quest for equality has been approached from myriad angles, with numerous individuals dedicating their lives to this cause. African Americans were forcibly brought to the New World in chains, considered only 3/5ths of a person according to the original Constitution, and the United States fought a tragic civil war to triumphantly end the institution of slavery. However, even after the Civil […]

The Role of Slavery in America’s Development

Revolution and transformation swept through pre-Civil War America, forging new identities beyond British colonial shadows. Among the many factors influencing this growth, slavery played a pivotal role in molding the nation's economy, concept of liberty, and cultural landscape. As Lonnie Bunch III, the director of the Smithsonian Institution, aptly stated, African Americans were instrumental in compelling America to live up to its stated ideals. This essay explores how slavery contributed to America's development by enhancing economic growth, reshaping notions of […]

Colonial Tensions: Unrest and Inequality in 17th Century America

Introduction The late seventeenth century was a period of considerable growth as well as heightened tensions within the European colonies in America. This era was marked by a transition in governance due to the imposition of salutary neglect, which compelled colonists to create their forms of local government. While some colonial governments thrived, others found themselves mired in instability and conflict. The large indigenous populations, who perceived the colonists as usurpers of their ancestral lands, further exacerbated these tensions. Economic […]

The Legacy of Change: Women’s Roles in Post-Revolutionary America

Introduction The American Revolutionary War was a pivotal moment in history, not only for the nation's quest for independence but also for the evolving roles of women in society. Although the conflict provided a new lens through which women's roles in politics and the household were viewed, the anticipated lasting changes were largely unrealized after the war concluded. The entrenched practice of coverture, which regarded women as the property of their husbands and subject to their authority, remained a significant […]

Artistic Innovation in Ancient Egyptian Society

Millennia later, the artistic legacy of ancient Egyptian craftsmen continues to captivate global audiences with its mysterious beauty and symbolic depth. From its monumental pyramids to its intricate hieroglyphs, this art form is instantly recognizable and deeply influential. Understanding the characteristics and evolution of Egyptian art requires exploring its historical context, religious significance, and unique stylistic conventions. This essay will argue that the distinctive features of ancient Egyptian art—such as its adherence to religious themes, symbolic representation, and innovative techniques—form […]

The Indian Removal Act and its Complex Legacy

The contentious debate surrounding President Andrew Jackson's Native American policies of the 1830s, particularly the Indian Removal Act and its tragic aftermath known as the Trail of Tears, continues to challenge historians' interpretations of this pivotal period in American history. While contemporary scholarship overwhelmingly condemns the human cost of these policies, a thorough analysis reveals a complex historical reality: despite the immediate and severe suffering inflicted upon Native American tribes, the forced relocation may have inadvertently shielded them from even […]

Related topic

How to write an essay about history, understanding the scope and context of historical events.

When writing an essay about history, it's crucial to first understand the scope and context of the historical events you are discussing. History is not just a series of dates and events but a complex interplay of social, political, economic, and cultural factors. Begin by defining the time period or event you are focusing on and consider the broader context in which it occurred. Research the background, the key figures involved, and the prevailing societal norms and beliefs of the time. This foundational knowledge will help you create a comprehensive and insightful essay.

Developing a Thesis Statement

Your essay should be guided by a clear and concise thesis statement. This statement should present a specific argument or perspective on the historical topic you have chosen. Whether you are examining the causes of a war, the impact of a political movement, or the significance of a cultural shift, your thesis should offer a unique viewpoint supported by historical evidence. It should set the direction for your essay and provide a roadmap for your argument.

Gathering and Analyzing Historical Evidence

An effective history essay relies on a careful selection of historical evidence to support its arguments. This evidence can come from primary sources (like letters, speeches, or diaries) or secondary sources (like scholarly articles or history books). Gather a variety of sources to provide a well-rounded perspective on your topic. Analyze these sources critically, assessing their reliability and bias, and use them to support your thesis. The way you interpret and present this evidence is crucial to the strength of your argument.

Connecting Past Events to Larger Historical Themes

In your essay, strive to connect the specific events or periods you are discussing to larger historical themes or trends. This could involve exploring how a particular event fits into the broader narrative of history, its long-term consequences, or its relevance to present-day issues. Demonstrating these connections can provide a deeper understanding of the significance of historical events and highlight the continuity and change over time.

Concluding Your Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your analysis and restating your thesis in light of the evidence and discussion provided. Your conclusion should tie together the various strands of your argument and reinforce the overall point of your essay. It's also an opportunity to reflect on the broader implications of your findings or to suggest areas for further research or exploration.

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

After completing your essay, it's important to review and edit your work. Ensure that your arguments are clear and coherent, and that your essay is structured logically. Pay attention to the clarity of your writing, and make sure your essay is free from grammatical and spelling errors. Consider seeking feedback from peers, teachers, or tutors to further refine and strengthen your essay. A well-written history essay should not only convey information about the past but also demonstrate your ability to think critically about historical events and their impacts.

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How to Write a History Essay, According to a History Professor

• History classes almost always include an essay assignment.
• Focus your paper by asking a historical question and then answering it.
• Your introduction can make or break your essay.
• When in doubt, reach out to your history professor for guidance.

In nearly every history class, you’ll need to write an essay . But what if you’ve never written a history paper? Or what if you’re a history major who struggles with essay questions?

I’ve written over 100 history papers between my undergraduate education and grad school — and I’ve graded more than 1,500 history essays, supervised over 100 capstone research papers, and sat on more than 10 graduate thesis committees.

Here’s my best advice on how to write a history paper.

How to Write a History Essay in 6 Simple Steps

You have the prompt or assignment ready to go, but you’re stuck thinking, “How do I start a history essay?” Before you start typing, take a few steps to make the process easier.

Whether you’re writing a three-page source analysis or a 15-page research paper , understanding how to start a history essay can set you up for success.

Step 1: Understand the History Paper Format

You may be assigned one of several types of history papers. The most common are persuasive essays and research papers. History professors might also ask you to write an analytical paper focused on a particular source or an essay that reviews secondary sources.

Spend some time reading the assignment. If it’s unclear what type of history paper format your professor wants, ask.

Regardless of the type of paper you’re writing, it will need an argument. A strong argument can save a mediocre paper — and a weak argument can harm an otherwise solid paper.

Your paper will also need an introduction that sets up the topic and argument, body paragraphs that present your evidence, and a conclusion .

Step 2: Choose a History Paper Topic

If you’re lucky, the professor will give you a list of history paper topics for your essay. If not, you’ll need to come up with your own.

What’s the best way to choose a topic? Start by asking your professor for recommendations. They’ll have the best ideas, and doing this can save you a lot of time.

Alternatively, start with your sources. Most history papers require a solid group of primary sources. Decide which sources you want to use and craft a topic around the sources.

Finally, consider starting with a debate. Is there a pressing question your paper can address?

Before continuing, run your topic by your professor for feedback. Most students either choose a topic so broad it could be a doctoral dissertation or so narrow it won’t hit the page limit. Your professor can help you craft a focused, successful topic. This step can also save you a ton of time later on.

Step 3: Write Your History Essay Outline

It’s time to start writing, right? Not yet. You’ll want to create a history essay outline before you jump into the first draft.

You might have learned how to outline an essay back in high school. If that format works for you, use it. I found it easier to draft outlines based on the primary source quotations I planned to incorporate in my paper. As a result, my outlines looked more like a list of quotes, organized roughly into sections.

As you work on your outline, think about your argument. You don’t need your finished argument yet — that might wait until revisions. But consider your perspective on the sources and topic.

Jot down general thoughts about the topic, and formulate a central question your paper will answer. This planning step can also help to ensure you aren’t leaving out key material.

Step 4: Start Your Rough Draft

It’s finally time to start drafting! Some students prefer starting with the body paragraphs of their essay, while others like writing the introduction first. Find what works best for you.

Use your outline to incorporate quotes into the body paragraphs, and make sure you analyze the quotes as well.

When drafting, think of your history essay as a lawyer would a case: The introduction is your opening statement, the body paragraphs are your evidence, and the conclusion is your closing statement.

When writing a conclusion for a history essay, make sure to tie the evidence back to your central argument, or thesis statement .

Don’t stress too much about finding the perfect words for your first draft — you’ll have time later to polish it during revisions. Some people call this draft the “sloppy copy.”

Step 5: Revise, Revise, Revise

Once you have a first draft, begin working on the second draft. Revising your paper will make it much stronger and more engaging to read.

During revisions, look for any errors or incomplete sentences. Track down missing footnotes, and pay attention to your argument and evidence. This is the time to make sure all your body paragraphs have topic sentences and that your paper meets the requirements of the assignment.

If you have time, take a day off from the paper and come back to it with fresh eyes. Then, keep revising.

Step 6: Spend Extra Time on the Introduction

No matter the length of your paper, one paragraph will determine your final grade: the introduction.

The intro sets up the scope of your paper, the central question you’ll answer, your approach, and your argument.

In a short paper, the intro might only be a single paragraph. In a longer paper, it’s usually several paragraphs. The introduction for my doctoral dissertation, for example, was 28 pages!

Use your introduction wisely. Make a strong statement of your argument. Then, write and rewrite your argument until it’s as clear as possible.

If you’re struggling, consider this approach: Figure out the central question your paper addresses and write a one-sentence answer to the question. In a typical 3-to-5-page paper, my shortcut argument was to say “X happened because of A, B, and C.” Then, use body paragraphs to discuss and analyze A, B, and C.

Tips for Taking Your History Essay to the Next Level

You’ve gone through every step of how to write a history essay and, somehow, you still have time before the due date. How can you take your essay to the next level? Here are some tips.

• Talk to Your Professor: Each professor looks for something different in papers. Some prioritize the argument, while others want to see engagement with the sources. Ask your professor what elements they prioritize. Also, get feedback on your topic, your argument, or a draft. If your professor will read a draft, take them up on the offer.
• Write a Question — and Answer It: A strong history essay starts with a question. “Why did Rome fall?” “What caused the Protestant Reformation?” “What factors shaped the civil rights movement?” Your question can be broad, but work on narrowing it. Some examples: “What role did the Vandal invasions play in the fall of Rome?” “How did the Lollard movement influence the Reformation?” “How successful was the NAACP legal strategy?”
• Hone Your Argument: In a history paper, the argument is generally about why or how historical events (or historical changes) took place. Your argument should state your answer to a historical question. How do you know if you have a strong argument? A reasonable person should be able to disagree. Your goal is to persuade the reader that your interpretation has the strongest evidence.
• Address Counterarguments: Every argument has holes — and every history paper has counterarguments. Is there evidence that doesn’t fit your argument? Address it. Your professor knows the counterarguments, so it’s better to address them head-on. Take your typical five-paragraph essay and add a paragraph before the conclusion that addresses these counterarguments.
• Ask Someone to Read Your Essay: If you have time, asking a friend or peer to read your essay can help tremendously, especially when you can ask someone in the class. Ask your reader to point out anything that doesn’t make sense, and get feedback on your argument. See whether they notice any counterarguments you don’t address. You can later repay the favor by reading one of their papers.

Congratulations — you finished your history essay! When your professor hands back your paper, be sure to read their comments closely. Pay attention to the strengths and weaknesses in your paper. And use this experience to write an even stronger essay next time.