A Short Paper

 

The time has come for you to show me that you know how to do research in recent history, and how to present your findings in a well-written, well-organized paper. Think of this project as a preview for the major seminar paper.

 

I would like you to write a history of one day--perhaps the day on which you were born, or the birthday of one of your parents. I do not want you to select a day on which important events occurred. If you pick December 7, 1941, for example, there is no way you can write a short history of that day's happenings.

 

After you have done some preliminary reading on your day (newspapers, news magazines, even the Congressional Record can help you here), you should find a central theme around which to build your essay. I do not want a simple listing of what happened on that one day. I do want an essay which reflects upon the events of that time. You could decide that you want to discuss the motion pictures that were playing on that particular day, or sporting events, or a happening of particular interest--the possibilities are endless. Once you have decided on your theme, you should then complete your research, even going to secondary sources if your topic calls for historical background.

 

Your paper should be no more than five pages, and it should follow all the rules set forth in the Turabian guide. It must have footnotes or endnotes, and a bibliography.

 

Your grade will be based on the extent of your research, your ability to find a theme and to build and essay around it, the proper use of mechanics, and the quality of your writing.