Writing Assignment For Hist 2010 Instructions: The Purpose O

Writing Assignment For Hist 2010instructionsthe Purpose Of This Assig

Writing Assignment for HIST 2010 Instructions: The purpose of this assignment is to allow students the opportunity to explore a topic in early American history in greater depth. Students will choose a significant event in early American history. A significant event could be any of the following: War (Battle, Riot), Election of a new president, Supreme Court ruling, Act, law, or executive order, Publication of a document or story, Emergence of a political party or social movement, Development of a new idea or technology, Disease outbreak or epidemic, Economic recession, Treaty or formation of an alliance. Students will then write a research paper discussing and analyzing that event in terms of its impact on America’s history.

Analysis should include, at a minimum:

- Explanation of cause-effect relationships

- What factors contributed to the event? (social, political, economic, etc.)

- How did those factors contribute to the event?

- What changes occurred after the event? (social, political, economic, etc.)

- How did those changes take place?

- Explanation of long-term impact

- How is the current state of affairs connected to those changes?

Format: Papers must meet the following criteria:

- Words in length (specified by instructor)

- Reference at least five scholarly sources

- Acceptable sources include academic journal articles and books (no websites, textbooks, or encyclopedias)

- Sources must be listed in a bibliography and cited in footnotes

- Typed in twelve-point font and double-spaced with one-inch margins all around

If you have further questions about searching for appropriate academic sources, consult with the APSU Library. If you have further questions about proper style, formatting, or writing methods, consult with the APSU Writing Center. No late work will be accepted. Students will submit an electronic copy via the D2L Drop Box and a stapled paper copy.

Grading: This assignment is worth 100 points, divided into four categories:

- Thesis Statement (10 points): Clearly stated and specifically focused thesis about the event and its impact.

- Arguments/Discussion Points (40 points): At least three supporting arguments directly addressing the thesis, incorporating critical analysis.

- Evidence (40 points): Specific examples supporting the arguments, relevant scholarly sources, and complete citations.

- Organization (10 points): Clear introduction with thesis and main arguments, logically developed body paragraphs, a conclusion linking arguments to thesis, proper writing style, grammatical accuracy, and correct Chicago-Turabian bibliography formatting.

Header must include student’s full name, class title and section, and date.

Paper For Above instruction

Early American history is marked by pivotal moments that have shaped the trajectory of the nation, ranging from military conflicts and political upheavals to social transformations and technological advancements. For this research paper, I have chosen to explore the American Revolution, an event with profound and enduring impacts on the formation of the United States and its subsequent development as a nation. This event not only redefined political boundaries but also set fundamental principles that influence contemporary American society and governance.

Introduction

The American Revolution (1775-1783) was a foundational conflict that emerged from complex social, political, and economic causes. Central to this event was the colonies' desire for greater autonomy and resistance to British imperial policies, which culminated in an armed struggle for independence. The revolution's causes included economic grievances, such as taxation without representation, and ideological shifts emphasizing liberty and self-governance. This paper argues that the American Revolution was a transformative event whose causes, fierce combat, and subsequent political reconfigurations had long-lasting effects on American society and its global standing.

Causes and Contributing Factors

One primary cause of the revolution was economic control exerted by Britain through acts such as the Stamp Act and Townshend Acts, which taxed colonists without their representation in Parliament. These policies fostered resentment and a sense of injustice, fueling protests and boycotts. Politically, the colonies' desire for self-determination grew with the development of republican ideals influenced by Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke. Social factors, including the emergence of a distinct colonial identity separate from Britain, strengthened calls for independence. The dissatisfaction with mercantilist policies and the perceived threat to colonial rights galvanized widespread support for revolutionary activities.

Impact and Changes Post-Revolution

The immediate outcome of the revolution was the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which articulated the colonies' grievances and desire for sovereignty. Politically, the revolution led to the establishment of the Articles of Confederation and later the U.S. Constitution, which codified the federal system and checks and balances that are central to American governance. Socially, the revolution catalyzed debates on rights and equality, setting the stage for future social justice movements. Economically, the decline of colonial trade restrictions opened pathways for economic independence and expansion. These changes were driven by revolutionary ideals and the practical necessity to create a functioning nation-state.

Long-term Impact and Contemporary Connections

The revolution's long-term impacts include the promotion of republican ideals and democratic governance that continue to shape American political culture. Its emphasis on individual liberty and resistance to tyranny are embedded in the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. The revolutionary principles also influenced other independence movements globally, exemplified by the French Revolution and Latin American struggles for independence. In contemporary America, debates over government authority, individual rights, and economic policies can all trace ideological roots back to revolutionary debates. The revolution established a model of political activism and constitutionalism that still influences American political life.

Conclusion

In summary, the American Revolution was not merely a fight against external British control but a transformative process that redefined American identity and governance. Its causes included economic grievances, political ideologies, and social identity, all of which contributed to the conflict. The decisive changes that followed—political, social, and economic—set the foundation for modern America. The revolution's enduring legacy continues to influence American political culture and international ideals of liberty and democracy, making it a critical event in understanding America's historical trajectory and ongoing development. Future research could explore mechanisms by which revolutionary ideals were institutionalized and their influence on subsequent social movements.

References

  • Chernow, R. (2004). Alexander Hamilton. Penguin Press.
  • Foner, E. (2017). The Second Founding: How the Civil War and Reconstruction Remade the Constitution. W.W. Norton & Company.
  • Wood, G. S. (1992). The Radicalism of the American Revolution. Vintage Books.
  • Maier, P. (2010). American Scripture: Making History and Making Church. Beacon Press.
  • Middlekauff, R. (2005). The Glorious Cause: The American Revolution, 1763-1789. Oxford University Press.
  • Wood, G. S. (2012). The American Revolution: A History. Modern Library.
  • Bailey, T. A. (2010). Revolutionary Principles and American Politics. Cambridge University Press.
  • Rakove, J. N. (1996). Original Meanings: Politics and Ideas in the Making of the Constitution. Vintage.
  • Bailyn, B. (1992). The Ideological Origins of the American Revolution. Harvard University Press.
  • Lloyd, G. (2007). The American Revolution in America. Oxford University Press.