First Essay Exam

February 9, 2008
First Essay Exam for History B. Choose one topic.

What topic should I pick? Any suggestions?

1) Develop a critical essay examining the positive and negative effects of the Reconstruction period. What kind of impact did these effects have on the African American community and the working class and the Women's movement? (Be sure to make reference to the 13, 14 and 15 amendments, the compromise of 1877, the AWSA, NWSA and Plessy V. Ferguson in your analysis). Conclude with an evaluation of the similarities and impact that Hurricane Katrina had on the African American Community, poor Whites, and other minorities and/or the effects of Reconstruction on the people of Iraq and Afghanistan.

2) Examine and critically analyze the historical events, concepts, and laws that crushed the American Indians, concluding with the Battle of Wounded Knee. In your discussion, make sure you critically analyze the political, social, and economic differences between the American Indian and the "New" American. Conclude with an analysis of their difference.

3)With the development of American West came changes in American society. Develop an essay summarizing the political, social, and economic changes that occured after the Civil War and into the late 1800's in the American West. In your discussion, discuss how the Chinise and Mexican Americans were affected by these changes and analyze how each of these groups pushed against the prevailing attitudes of the government in order to buitl strong communities. Conclude with the evaluation of their effectiveness.