How to Pick a Research Question for a History Research Paper: Steps and Suggestions

Choosing a research question for a history research paper can be a rewarding process that allows you to explore a topic of interest in depth. This guide will walk you through the steps of selecting a research question, along with providing some topic suggestions.

Steps to Choose a Research Question

Identify Your Interests

The first step is to think about historical periods, events, or themes that fascinate you. This could range from ancient civilizations to modern social movements, or anything in between. Identifying what captures your interest will help focus your research and make the process more enjoyable.

Conduct Preliminary Research

Once you have identified your interests, it is crucial to conduct some preliminary research. Read general overviews or summaries related to your areas of interest. This will help you identify gaps in existing research or specific aspects that intrigue you. By doing so, you can narrow down your focus and refine your ideas.

Narrow Down Your Focus

A broad topic can be overwhelming. Try to narrow it down to a specific event, figure, or theme. For example, instead of discussing the entire history of a specific country, you could focus on a particular event or a pivotal moment in that country's history. This will help you address your topic in detail and allow for a deeper analysis.

Consider the Scope

Ensure your question is manageable within the constraints of your assignment. It should be specific enough to allow for detailed exploration but broad enough to find sufficient sources. A well-defined scope will help you write a more focused and coherent research paper.

Formulate a Research Question

Transform your narrowed topic into a research question. Good research questions often begin with why, how, or what if. For example, "How did the suffrage movement impact modern feminist movements?" or "What were the economic and cultural impacts of colonialism in India?" These questions are specific and can guide your research effectively.

Evaluate Sources

Before finalizing your research question, check the availability of primary and secondary sources. A good research question should have enough material to support your investigation. If you find that there is a lack of sufficient sources, it might be necessary to reconsider or refine your question.

General Topic Suggestions

Women's History

The impact of the suffrage movement on modern feminist movements. Women's roles during specific wars, such as World War I and World War II.

Civil Rights Movements

The influence of grassroots activism on the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. Comparing the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. with anti-apartheid efforts in South Africa.

Colonialism and Its Effects

The economic and cultural impacts of colonialism in a specific region, such as India or Africa. How colonial narratives shaped modern national identities.

Technology and Society

The effects of the printing press on the Reformation and the spread of ideas. The impact of the internet on political movements in the 21st century.

Environmental History

The historical relationship between industrialization and environmental degradation. Indigenous practices and their contributions to sustainable land management.

Global Conflicts

The causes and consequences of a specific conflict, such as the Vietnam War or the Cold War. The role of international organizations in conflict resolution.

Cultural History

The evolution of a specific art form, such as jazz or cinema, and its reflection of societal changes. The impact of immigration on cultural identity in a particular city or region.

Final Thoughts

Once you have formulated your research question, it is helpful to discuss it with a teacher or advisor for feedback. They can provide insights on its feasibility and relevance. Good luck with your research paper!