History Analytical essay

Developing a Thesis (adapted from Mary Lynn Rampolla, A Pocket Guide to Writing in History)

A history paper takes the form of an argument in support of a thesis. A thesis is a statement that reflects the conclusion you have reached about your topic after careful analysis of the sources.

• A thesis is not a description of your paper topic. This is a common mistake. While the essay’s introductory paragraph should make clear its topic. The thesis is not meant to restate the prompt or define the topic.

• A thesis is not a question. The thesis should be answering a question (whether it be the prompt provided or a question you have developed - dependent on the assignment).

• A thesis is not a statement of fact. Facts are used to support a thesis. A thesis is a summary of the essay’s argument.

• A thesis is not a statement of opinion. The argument must be grounded in research and fact.

Simply stating how you feel about a topic is not a thesis.

A thesis is a statement that reflects what you have concluded about the topic of your paper based on critical analysis and interpretation of the source materials examined. A thesis statement should respond to the prompt provided (or your research question). It offers a falsifiable (or at least contestable) claim that is supported by evidence and analysis.

It is the writer’s job (your job!), in the body of the paper, to provide an argument based on evidence that shows his/her reasons for reaching that particular conclusion and to convince the reader that the thesis is a valid one.

The thesis is the most important part of your essay! It gives it direction and purpose. Without it, analysis is difficult (if not impossible) and your facts will lack meaning.

Test your thesis:

• If your thesis only repeats the prompt/topic, then it is not a thesis. • If your thesis poses a question without an answer, then it is not a thesis. • If your thesis states a fact or series of facts, then it is not a thesis. • If your thesis reflects your feeling or opinion, then it is not a thesis. • If you thesis suggests an answer to a question basked on your reading, is specific, is falsifiable,

and can be supported by evidence and analysis, then it is a thesis!