I've got to compose a thesis for my modern history paper on Hitler or Stalin. We are looking at studies of power, in particular the abuse thereof.
I'm normally an A grade student but both thesis' I've proposed were either just a statement or too broad.
I would like to do Stalin. I'm interested in how he annexed the Balkans, his purges of the Kuluk and weakened the economy.
What kinds of thesis can I do that will target all of these?
Your thesis statement must include factual information plus your position/opinion/stance. Without your position on the topic, it isn't a true thesis statement. So think of this sentence as the angle you want to take on the topic and what you intend to prove by the end of your paper. (If your statement is simply factual, then there's nothing to prove!)
http://blog.eduify.com/index.php/2009/06/21/5-tips-on-how-to-write-a-strong-thesis-statement/
Read carefully and follow ALL directions.
http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/thesistatement.html
This is one of the very best places I've seen online to help students write good thesis statements. It shows you sentences that aren't thesis statements and how to turn each one into real thesis statements.
Okay! Thanks
You're welcome. If you wish, you may post your thesis statement draft when you get it written, and we'll give you feedback about it.
To compose a strong thesis statement for your modern history paper on Stalin, focusing on his abuse of power and its impact on the annexation of the Balkans, purges of the Kulaks, and economic weakening, you should strive for a clear and specific statement that outlines your main argument. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to formulate an effective thesis:
1. Understand the topic: Familiarize yourself with the historical context, events, and consequences of Stalin's regime in the areas you mentioned (annexation of the Balkans, purges of the Kulaks, and economic weakening). This will help you identify the central themes and connections among these elements.
2. Brainstorm your main points: Consider the key aspects of Stalin's abuse of power that you want to address in your thesis. Reflect on how these topics relate to each other and how they collectively contribute to your understanding of power abuse. This will help you identify the common thread that connects these ideas.
3. Look for patterns or relationships: Analyze the cause-and-effect relationships between these aspects. Consider how Stalin's actions in one area influenced or contributed to his actions in another. Look for patterns of power consolidation, control, and manipulation that can serve as the foundation of your thesis.
4. Craft a focused thesis statement: Based on your analysis, develop a clear, concise, and focused thesis statement that captures the main argument of your paper. Taking into account your interest in how Stalin annexed the Balkans, purged the Kulaks, and weakened the economy, here's an example of a possible thesis statement:
"Through the annexation of the Balkans, the purges of the Kulaks, and the manipulation of the economy, Stalin's abuse of power during his regime in the Soviet Union illustrates how unchecked authoritarian leaders can exploit various facets of society to consolidate control and suppress dissent."
Note that this thesis statement establishes the central theme of abuse of power, while also indicating the specific areas (annexation, purges, and economy) that will be explored to support that argument. It provides a focused framework for your paper, enabling you to delve deeper into each aspect while maintaining a clear overarching argument.
Remember, refining your thesis during the research and writing process is normal. Your thesis should evolve as you gather more information and develop a more nuanced understanding of your chosen topic.