American History from 1600-1865
Write a 2-3 page essay (at least 500 words) about what you think were the three most important issues, events, people, or ideas that shaped the early United States from the colonial period to the Civil War (1600s-1865).
Use your textbook (The American Yawp) and other credible, reliable sources for ideas and information.
Introduction
Give the background or an overview of your topic. The last sentence of the introduction should be the main idea/argument (thesis statement) of your essay.
Your argument should specifically argue what you think the overall impact was of these issues/events/people/ideas on America during this time period.
Three Main Paragraphs
Each main paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that gives the main idea of the paragraph. The rest of the paragraph should explain and elaborate on the topic sentence. Be specific and give examples and details.
Conclusion
Begin by restating your main idea/argument. Do not just repeat the main points of the essay. Instead, connect your topic to the present. Why is it important for us to understand history?
In what ways does learning about this topic help us understand the present-day world? In what ways are issues/events/people/ideas today connected to the past? What other comments or observations do you have?
