Over the next two years I will be writing a 4000 word essay on a narrowly focused topic of my choice.
I would prefer to do something in history, although there are plenty of other catagories in which my research question may be submitted.
I would greatly appreciate any ideas for an essay topic but, like I mentioned above, it must be narrowly focused and I would like to do something interesting that is not widely known about.
I am mostly interested in subjects concerning the 20th century.
Thank you!
Since you have two years, you have plenty of time to read a lot about the 20th century and find a history topic of interest to you.
You might research what President Roosevelt and U.S. military leaders knew or surmised about the attack on Pearl Harbor in the weeks before December 7, 1941.
Or -- how about what happened to European Roma (gypsies) during the Holocaust?
How about the Civilian Conservation Corps? What did it accomplish?
Choosing a specific and interesting topic for your essay can indeed be challenging. When narrowing down your options, it's important to consider your own interests and the availability of research materials. Here's a step-by-step process to help you find a unique and intriguing topic for your essay:
1. Brainstorm: Start by brainstorming different themes or subjects within 20th-century history that appeal to you. Make a list of any ideas that come to mind, regardless of how vague or specific they may be.
2. Research: Once you have a general list, start researching each potential topic. Look for books, articles, and academic resources that discuss the subject matter. As you delve deeper into the research, you can determine whether each topic is narrow enough for a 4000-word essay and if it offers enough unique and lesser-known information.
3. Narrow down: From your initial list, begin narrowing down your options based on the research you've conducted. Consider factors such as the abundance of research material, the potential for new discoveries or perspectives, and the level of personal interest.
4. Unique angle: Once you've narrowed down your options to a few potential topics, try to find a unique angle or perspective that sets your essay apart. Look for overlooked events, lesser-known figures, or untold stories within the broader subject. This will not only make your essay more interesting to read but also showcase your ability to bring new insights to the field.
5. Preliminary thesis statement: Formulate a preliminary thesis statement for each potential topic. This will help you clarify your research question and determine whether there is enough material available to support it.
6. Consult with professors or experts: If you're having trouble deciding on a topic or finding a unique angle, consult with your history professors or experts in the field. They may offer valuable insights, suggest additional resources, or help you refine your research question.
By following these steps, you will be able to identify a narrowly focused, interesting, and unique topic for your 4000-word essay. Remember to choose a subject that you are passionate about and willing to invest time and effort into exploring. Good luck!