2012 Annual Theme

Hey everyone! First of all, thanks for an absolutely great History Day! Even with a broken arm, (studying history can be dangerous!) I had an amazing time getting to meet students, see projects and even interview some of you for a video that will be up on the NYSHD YouTube channel soon. I always have the best time just walking around the state competition, checking out the exhibits and websites, reading through a paper or two, and popping in to see a documentary or performance. For me, I always end the day wanting to know more about a million different topics. Does that happen to you? I’m always so impressed by the unique and interesting topics researched for History Day! I can’t wait for next year, especially since the 2012 theme will be… drumroll… Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History.

It’s best to start broadly when thinking about a possible topic – maybe you’re interested in the role of New York in the American Revolution. This year’s annual theme sheet recommends:

“Rather than attempting to analyze and document an entire political revolution, you should look for more manageable topics such as ideas emerging from a particular revolution, specific events or factions within a revolution, or individuals who affected or were affected by a revolution.”

You can narrow down your topic to the Capture of Fort Ticonderoga, or Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys. Another definition of revolution is “a sudden or momentous change in a situation.” You could look at any of the riots that have occurred in New York, like the Stonewall riots in 1969, or the New York City draft riots in 1863. What specific events led to these outbursts, and how has history changed as a result?

Next year’s competition may seem far away, but it’s never too early to be thinking about your next topic! Be sure to check back on the NYSHD website for more topic ideas later this summer. Click here for the NHD Theme Sheet on Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History. Congrats to all the state winners and thanks to everyone who participated, the teachers who provided support and families too!