The proposal should fill 2-3 pages, double-spaced (with a page or less of endnotes). It briefly describes the topic of research, then focuses on a line of inquiry (that can be completed!). It provides a (provisional?) thesis with explanations of how the thesis relates to the topic and line of inquiry.

            The initial proposal usually does not contain the conclusion of the project (since the research has not yet been done) and often contains an overly-wide thesis, all of which is fine and expected for Proposal#1. The final proposal will provide a focused, “do-able” thesis and the conclusion(s).

            Proposal#1 should provide concise descriptions of the area ( topos) of research, a few of the main historical figures and issues involved in one or more primary sources (and secondary sources), a sketch of the historiographical milieu and/or controversies into which this line of inquiry fits, and the direction the inquiry will set out upon. (Consider the first and final proposals handed out.)

           Please use the usual FORM do cite any main primary and secondary source(s) which have come before you so far in good history/Turabian style on a separate page. Include the usual information (Project-Title, Proposal #1, your name, course name, date and numbered pages).

           On the day that Proposal#1 is due to turn in, we will each discuss our proposals in turn, and provide feedback to others in the class on their work as part of the grade for the course. Read your proposal often and edit it just as often for accuracy, and for keeping to the point. Be merciless in editing.