The research paper differs in form and content from a report. Research requires verifiable interpretation of sources. A report, like an encyclopedia article, simply imparts information, or worse, hides necessary debate through assertion. In the research paper, we analyze eyewitness-sources from the past to approach an answer to Leopold von Ranke's question: "What was it really like?" Historical inquiries into the complex human past can seldom impart information as Truth, but rather will sift various sources to argue for one case or another as the most likely scenario of "what it was really like." This method of evaluating primary sources introduces reader and researcher, as far as is possible, to those who literally lived and acted during the time in question. Secondary sources, on the other hand, bring out important ideas and issues related to the topic and to those primary sources.

     Your paper should fill about 7-8 typewritten, double-spaced pages. While you may use any standard method of citation, I suggest the Chicago Manual of Style. Include a title page with your name but no other covers/folders. Please number each page. Plagiarism will result in a grade of 'F' on the paper. Submit two copies and I will return one with comments; I keep one copy on file. The paper is due on the penultimate class day.

       If you feel you must depart from the guidelines given here, then consult with me, so that between us, we can keep the paper on track.  For example, if you do not make a Sherman-chapter the center of your research, let me know so that I can help to substitute sources for Sherman.

     Begin by skimming Sherman to find a chapter and/or theme that you find interesting. Then:
      1.) Center on your interest;
      2.) Get control of the context in a western civ textbook or area-encyclopedia, then consult a couple of monographs on your topic. (Library)
      3.) Master each source in Sherman, along with any commentary;
      4.) Think: What questions appear that you think are worth addressing?
      5.) Note down all, e.g., agreements and/or disagreements -- between and among secondary and primary sources.
      6.) Go to the library and find a couple more primary and/or secondary sources and repeat the above process.
     7.) This research will make plain if and how much more primary-source material you need to do this project well.  Secondary sources usually list their primary sources: Find these primary sources and incorporate this evidence as appropriate to your inquiry.

       Think through what each piece of evidence means in terms of your research. Constructing a paper takes time, effort, reading and thinking ('thinking' is a present-tense participle implying that the action is ongoing throughout). Then present your thinking and sources clearly in the paper. Your critical interpretation of the evidence and the conclusions that flow from it provide fascinating activity for our minds now, and will help to prepare our minds, I hope, for life's future questions in a rational, systematic way.