Top 15 Topic Ideas for Your IB History Extended Essay

Choosing the right topic for your IB History Extended Essay (EE) is the first, and arguably most crucial, step towards achieving a high grade. This blog post provides 15 carefully selected topic ideas designed to spark your interest and align with the IB History assessment criteria. We'll explore each idea, offering guidance on formulating a strong research question and highlighting potential avenues for investigation. By the end of this guide, you'll have a clearer understanding of what makes a successful History EE topic and be well-equipped to start your research journey.

Introduction (Answer the Query Immediately)

The IB History Extended Essay is a challenging but rewarding undertaking, requiring you to conduct independent research and present a well-structured, analytical argument. One of the biggest hurdles is selecting a suitable topic. This post is designed to help you overcome that hurdle. We'll provide 15 topic ideas that are engaging, researchable, and aligned with the IB History curriculum. For each topic, we'll suggest potential research questions and explore avenues for investigation. Remember, a strong topic is the foundation for a successful essay, and we're here to help you build that foundation.

Core Content Sections

Understanding the IB History Extended Essay Requirements

Before diving into topic ideas, it's crucial to understand what the IB expects from your History EE. The Extended Essay is an independent research project culminating in a 4,000-word paper. It's assessed against five criteria: Focus and Method, Knowledge and Understanding, Critical Thinking, Presentation, and Engagement.

• Focus and Method (Criterion A): This assesses the clarity of your research question, the relevance of your topic to the human past, and the appropriateness of your methodology. A strong research question is focused, specific, and allows for in-depth analysis.
• Knowledge and Understanding (Criterion B): This assesses your grasp of the historical context and your ability to use historical terminology accurately. You need to demonstrate a solid understanding of the historical period and events you're analyzing.
• Critical Thinking (Criterion C): This assesses your ability to analyze sources, construct a well-supported argument, and evaluate different perspectives. Your essay should be more than just a narrative; it should offer a critical analysis of the historical evidence.
• Presentation (Criterion D): This assesses the structure, organization, and formatting of your essay. Your essay should be well-organized, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Proper referencing is essential.
• Engagement (Criterion E): This assesses your reflection on the research process, as documented in the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF). You need to demonstrate that you have actively engaged with the research process and reflected on your learning.

Top 15 Topic Ideas for Your IB History Extended Essay

Here are 15 topic ideas to get you started, along with potential research questions and avenues for investigation:

1. The Impact of the Printing Press on the Reformation:
   • Research Question: To what extent did the printing press contribute to the spread of Protestant ideas during the Reformation?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the role of pamphlets and books in disseminating Reformation propaganda, examine the impact on literacy rates, and compare the spread of ideas in regions with and without access to printing presses.
2. The Causes of the French Revolution:
   • Research Question: To what extent were economic factors the primary cause of the French Revolution?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the economic policies of the French monarchy, examine the impact of famine and inflation on the population, and compare the economic grievances of different social classes.
3. The Role of Women in the Russian Revolution:
   • Research Question: How did the role of women change during and after the Russian Revolution, and to what extent did these changes represent genuine progress?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Examine the participation of women in revolutionary movements, analyze the impact of Bolshevik policies on women's rights, and compare the experiences of women from different social classes.
4. The Treaty of Versailles and its Impact on Germany:
   • Research Question: To what extent did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to the rise of Nazism in Germany?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the economic and political consequences of the treaty, examine the role of resentment and nationalism in German society, and compare the treaty to other post-war settlements.
5. The Causes of the Cold War:
   • Research Question: To what extent was ideological conflict the primary cause of the Cold War?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the ideological differences between the US and the Soviet Union, examine the role of geopolitical competition, and compare different interpretations of the Cold War's origins.
6. The Cuban Missile Crisis:
   • Research Question: To what extent was the Cuban Missile Crisis a victory for the United States?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the diplomatic negotiations between the US and the Soviet Union, examine the role of nuclear deterrence, and evaluate the long-term consequences of the crisis.
7. The Civil Rights Movement in the United States:
   • Research Question: To what extent was Martin Luther King Jr.'s strategy of nonviolent resistance effective in achieving civil rights for African Americans?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the impact of nonviolent protests, examine the role of legislation and court decisions, and compare the effectiveness of different civil rights strategies.
8. The Rwandan Genocide:
   • Research Question: To what extent was the Rwandan Genocide a result of pre-existing ethnic tensions, and to what extent was it a result of political manipulation?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the historical relationship between Hutu and Tutsi populations, examine the role of political leaders and the media, and compare the Rwandan Genocide to other instances of genocide.
9. The Arab Spring:
   • Research Question: To what extent did social media contribute to the outbreak and spread of the Arab Spring uprisings?
   • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the use of social media platforms by protesters, examine the role of censorship and government control, and compare the impact of social media in different countries.
10. The Legacy of Colonialism in Africa:
    • Research Question: To what extent do the borders established during the colonial era continue to contribute to conflict and instability in Africa today?
    • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the historical context of colonial border creation, examine the impact on ethnic and tribal divisions, and compare the experiences of different African countries.
11. The Development of Democracy in Ancient Athens:
    • Research Question: To what extent was Athenian democracy truly democratic, considering the exclusion of women, slaves, and foreigners?
    • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the structure and function of Athenian political institutions, examine the role of citizenship, and compare Athenian democracy to modern democratic systems.
12. The Silk Road and its Impact on Cultural Exchange:
    • Research Question: To what extent did the Silk Road facilitate the exchange of not only goods but also ideas and technologies between East and West?
    • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the trade routes and commodities exchanged, examine the spread of religions and philosophical ideas, and compare the cultural impact on different regions.
13. The Black Death and its Social and Economic Consequences:
    • Research Question: How did the Black Death transform European society and economy in the 14th century?
    • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the demographic impact of the plague, examine the changes in labor relations and agricultural practices, and compare the responses to the plague in different regions.
14. The Meiji Restoration and the Modernization of Japan:
    • Research Question: To what extent was the Meiji Restoration a successful modernization project, and what were its limitations?
    • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the political, economic, and social reforms implemented during the Meiji period, examine the impact on Japanese culture and identity, and compare the modernization process to other countries.
15. The Partition of India:
    • Research Question: To what extent was the Partition of India avoidable, and what were the long-term consequences of this event?
    • Avenues for Investigation: Analyze the political negotiations leading up to partition, examine the role of religious and ethnic tensions, and compare the experiences of different communities affected by the partition.

Crafting a Strong Research Question

A strong research question is the cornerstone of a successful History EE. It should be:

• Focused: Narrow enough to allow for in-depth analysis within the word limit.
• Specific: Clearly defined and avoids vague or ambiguous terms.
• Debatable: Allows for different interpretations and arguments.
• Researchable: Based on available sources and evidence.

For example, instead of asking "What were the causes of World War I?", a more focused research question would be "To what extent was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand the primary catalyst for the outbreak of World War I?"

Selecting Relevant and Reliable Sources

The quality of your sources is crucial for demonstrating knowledge and understanding (Criterion B) and critical thinking (Criterion C). Use a variety of sources, including:

• Primary Sources: Documents or artifacts from the historical period you're studying (e.g., letters, diaries, government records, photographs).
• Secondary Sources: Books, articles, and other scholarly works that analyze and interpret primary sources.
• Academic Journals: Peer-reviewed articles that present original research and analysis.
• Reputable Websites: Websites from universities, museums, and historical societies.

Be critical of your sources and evaluate their reliability and bias. Consider the author's perspective, the purpose of the source, and the evidence presented.

Common Challenges/Mistakes Section

Many students struggle with the History EE due to common mistakes:

• Choosing a Topic That is Too Broad: This makes it difficult to conduct in-depth research and develop a focused argument.
• Failing to Formulate a Clear Research Question: A vague research question leads to a disorganized and unfocused essay.
• Relying Too Heavily on Narrative: The EE should be analytical, not just a retelling of historical events.
• Failing to Analyze Sources Critically: You need to evaluate the reliability and bias of your sources.
• Poor Referencing: Proper referencing is essential to avoid plagiarism and demonstrate academic integrity.

To avoid these mistakes, start by carefully selecting a focused topic and formulating a clear research question. Plan your research thoroughly, and be sure to analyze your sources critically. Use a consistent referencing style and proofread your essay carefully before submitting it.

Advanced Tips/Strategies Section

To take your History EE to the next level, consider these advanced tips:

• Develop a Strong Argument: Your essay should present a clear and well-supported argument in response to your research question.
• Use Historical Concepts: Demonstrate your understanding of historical concepts such as causation, consequence, change, and continuity.
• Engage with Historiography: Show awareness of different interpretations of the historical events you're studying.
• Provide Context: Set your research question within a broader historical context.
• Reflect on Your Research Process: Use the RPPF to reflect on your learning and the challenges you faced during the research process.

Technology and Modern Assessment Section

Technology is transforming the way we research, write, and assess academic work, including the IB History Extended Essay. Online databases, digital archives, and research tools have made it easier than ever to access a wide range of sources.

Furthermore, AI is playing an increasingly important role in assessment. AI-powered grading assistants, like Marksy, are helping teachers provide consistent, detailed feedback on student work based on official IB rubrics. Marksy analyzes student essays against each criterion, providing rubric-aligned scores, detailed criterion-by-criterion feedback, and suggestions for improvement. This helps students understand exactly how to improve their work and allows teachers to focus on providing personalized guidance.

Marksy uses official IB criteria to ensure accuracy and fairness in assessment. By automating the grading process, it saves teachers time and ensures that all students are assessed according to the same standards. This allows teachers to provide more individualized support to students and helps them achieve their full potential.

Conclusion with Clear Next Steps

Choosing the right topic for your IB History Extended Essay is a crucial first step towards success. By exploring the 15 topic ideas presented in this guide, formulating a strong research question, and selecting relevant sources, you'll be well-equipped to embark on your research journey. Remember to analyze your sources critically, develop a clear argument, and reflect on your research process.

Ready to take your IB History Extended Essay to the next level? Try Marksy for free today and experience the power of AI-powered grading assistance! Sign up for a free trial and see how Marksy can help you improve your IB scores or streamline your grading workflow.