|
The research paper assigned in this class is intended as preparation for the seminar papers students are required to write in history department senior seminars. The department explicitly aims to graduate students who are able to complete, "independent research on historical questions and successfully mount an argument based on that research." As a result, the department requires that students write two senior seminar papers. These papers usually either (1) offer "an independent, original assessment of the existing literature, debates, and evidence on a particular historical issue (an 'historiographical' paper)," or (2) take the form of "an independent, original analysis of the primary data relevant to a particular historical issue (a 'research' paper)." Because of the limited number of sources easily available in English, for purposes of the class I want you to write a historiographical paper. I have set down particular steps that all students in the class must take as they work on their papers. I have also placed The Craft of Research on reserve in order to provide you guidance as you set about your task. |
| Stage 1: Choose a paper topic. I want you to write a historiographical paper about a specific topic of your own choosing in Colonial Latin American history. Try to find a topic that accords with your interests. Also consider what you will be asked to do in stages 2 through 6. Think about whether the library has much material on your topic, or whether you can get more information through inter-library loan. If you don't know where to start looking, come see me as soon as possible. In terms of concrete work for this stage, you only have to do one thing: write a paper that describes your topic and explains why you are interested in it. Due Monday, February 11. See the assignment sheet. |
| Stage 2: Book Report. Write a repor on the book that currently seems most central to your topic. Your paper should be 2-3 pages in length and should be accompanied by a title page. It is due February 25. See the assignment sheet for more details. |
| Stage 3: Historiography Summary. Due 15 March. See the assignment sheet for more details. |
| Stage 4: Argument. In a single page, summarize your argument. What is your main claim and how can you support your claim? It is due April 12. See the assignment sheet for more details. |
| Stage 5: Introduction. Write a clear introduction for your paper. See the assignment sheet for more details. Your introduction should be 1-2 pages in length and should be accompanied by a title page. It is due April 26. |
| Stage 6: Final Draft. This is almost self explanatory, but read the assignment sheet for details. Your final version is due on May 13. |