U.S. History Writing Assignment
Analyzing a Historical Debate
For this assignment, you will analyze the following historical issue from the first half of U.S. History (pre-1877). You will need to compare at least two opposing sides on that issue.
Since the inception of our country, one of the most divisive issues Americans have argued about is the size and scope of the government. This question is constantly debated through issues like taxation, states rights, and now, a global pandemic. Since 1787, we have been arguing about how much power the federal government should have, and now it is your turn to argue for both sides. The objective of this paper is to argue FOR and AGAINST a large, powerful, federal government using historical evidence to defend your claims.
Paper Breakdown
Part I. Introduction
1. Describe in general the issue that is debated:
For example, you may analyze the importance of this issue important to the culture, economics, political system, or social structure at the time.
Part II. Historical Debate
2. What is the main argument in each perspective? On what points do they agree or disagree?
3. Analyze the evidence that is provided to support each thesis: What types of evidence are used? Does the evidence support the thesis?
Part III. Conclusion
4. How did the readings from the Academic Articles/books you have researched change the way in which you understood the subject?
5. How are the issues presented in the reading(s) from the articles/books you researched still relevant to you today? Please explain how your personal background and life experiences might influence your perspective on this topic.
6. Imagine that you have been asked to tackle a current national or global issue. How would you use the readings from the Academic Articles/books you researched to help you do so?
Requirements:
-Length: 500 words
-Citation Format: MLA, Chicago/Turabian
-Minimum 3 Sources (Academic Articles or Books)