I am writing an APUSH DBQ and I have what I think is a pretty winning thesis but I am having problems coming up with a good, interesting opening sentence. I figure once I have the first paragraph figured out the rest will flow rather easily. I also need to figure out a sentence for after my thesis, something my teacher calls a "Plan of Attack" where you basically list what your paragraphs will be about.
Here is the DBQ: To what extent had the colonists developed a sense of their identity and unity as Americans by the eve of the Revolution?
The thesis I wrote it this: By the time the American Revolution began, colonists of North America had developed such a sense of unity and identity that they were prepared to separate themselves from Britain and create a new, free nation even if that meant giving up everything they had.
I wrote it this way to a)include a time frame b)incorporate both Unity and Identity, the two main themes and c)to set myself up with a basic theme to base the rest of the essay on. I want to have my essay layout have the body paragraphs be 1. How the British had caused them to become united, 2. How becoming united had led to them forming an identity and what that identity was, 3. How these two things were to such an extent that the colonists were prepared to begin the revolution.
I just need help finishing my introduction paragraph and I would also like to know if this structure creates a good DBQ essay?
Writing a strong and engaging introduction paragraph is essential to grab the reader's attention and set the stage for your DBQ essay. Here's a suggestion for an opening sentence:
"Imagine a group of diverse colonists, scattered across North America, bound not only by their shared struggles under British rule but also by an increasingly defiant spirit and an emerging sense of identity as Americans."
This sentence captures the reader's attention with an imaginative scenario and hints at the main themes of your essay - unity, identity, and resistance against British rule.
As for the "Plan of Attack" sentence after your thesis, you can provide a preview of your three body paragraphs. Here's an example:
"In order to understand the extent of the colonists' unity and identity as Americans by the eve of the Revolution, it is vital to examine the factors that led to their unity under British rule, explore how this unity shaped their evolving identity, and ultimately assess the significance of these sentiments in fueling the colonists' resolve to begin the revolution."
This sentence outlines the main points that will be discussed in your body paragraphs, effectively guiding your reader through your essay's structure.
Regarding your essay structure, it sounds like you have a logical and coherent plan for your DBQ essay. By exploring how the British contributed to the colonists' unity, how that unity formed their identity, and the subsequent impact on their willingness to separate from Britain, you're addressing the key aspects required to answer the question. Be sure to support your points with evidence from the provided documents and contextual knowledge.
Remember to integrate the documents effectively into your essay and provide analysis to support your claims. Additionally, make sure your conclusion restates your thesis and summarizes your main points while leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
Good luck with your APUSH DBQ essay!