10 History Passion Project Ideas for High School Students
6 minute read
History, as a field of research, is about identifying and connecting important events and figures from the past. Although the French word histoire means both history and story (i.e., both studying the past and writing about it), good history seldom fits neatly into our definition of a compelling story. History has no clear beginning, nor middle, nor end. There isn’t always a clear protagonist or singular moment of climax. In truth, the best history research usually demonstrates that the past was much more complex and nuanced than we previously believed. Fittingly, within the field of history, there is also a sub-field called historiography: the study of how history has been told (in other words, the history of history).
If past events fascinate you or if you truly feel as if you were born in the wrong century, you should consider becoming a historian! Knowing when, why, and how decisions have been made over time is a great skill to have. Those who possess a good understanding of the outcomes of past events have the upper hand in helping create a better future.
If you are passionate about history but not sure where to begin when it comes to conducting history research, we’re here to help. Ignite your passion for history research by joining our Polygence Pods program! It is specifically designed to help high school students develop history research projects while working with an experienced mentor and a small cohort of budding historians. To get you started, here’s a list of 10 history passion project ideas for high school students.
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Interesting History Project Ideas to Research and Explore
1) History Research Paper About Your Favorite Event
Jump in and get your hands dirty by exploring your favorite historical event! Once you choose your theme, identify your primary questions, find primary sources, and study up on your topic. Next, it’s time to draft your findings into an original history research paper.
Idea by previous history research mentor Charles
2) Research Your Family History
Gain a better understanding of your family’s past and the historical events surrounding your ancestors. Start by interviewing your relatives and listening to their stories to collect as much information as possible. Ask questions about your ancestors, and places where they’ve lived, collect documents, record oral histories, etc. Using this information, you can conduct a deep dive into your family's past and discover how to situate it within the broader landscape of contemporary events. Write your own family’s history or create a podcast!
Idea by history research mentor Luther
3) Explore Comparative (Ancient) History Topics
Conduct a research paper focused on an ancient historical event of your choosing. Once your topic is chosen, determine a research gap within your event that you would like to explore further. From there, identify five research questions revolving around your event gap that can help you fill in the blanks. Do your research to find the answers to your questions!
Idea by previous history research mentor Supratik
4) History vs. Hollywood
Choose a few different movies that revolve around real historical events. After watching the movies and taking detailed notes, do your research by reading up on each of these topics. How realistic are the movies? What information was added, left out, or exaggerated?
Idea by previous history research mentor Holly
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5) Propaganda in World War II
If the Second World War fascinates you, this is your project! Pull together as many pieces of propaganda from that period as you can find. This could range from anything relating to a poster, milk carton, comic book, etc. Analyzing your findings will provide you with an understanding of the different reactions portrayed through society at this time. How does this compare to today?
Idea by history research mentor Jonathan
6) Create a Video or Podcast About History
Choose a recent event that revolves around race and capitalism within the U.S. Pull together articles, news stories, and social media posts to view the different reactions to this event that occurred. Compare this current event to a similar past event and create a podcast or video of your findings.
Idea by previous history research mentor Samantha
7) The Interwar Herald: News of the World
Are you intrigued by the roaring 20s? If so, create your newspaper revolving around historical events from the 1920s! Choose multiple different news stories from that time and get creative. Get creative and design your paper using pictures, articles, ads, interviews, and letters all from that time period.
Idea by previous history research mentor Erin
8) Finding Global History in China
Learn more about the history of China! Choose a specific time period and topic revolving around Chinese history that you would like to further explore. Conduct a research paper summarizing your findings.
Idea by previous history research mentor John
9) Henry VIII - The Misunderstood Tyrant
If you like to hear about the drama of other people's lives, studying up on Henry VIII might also entertain you! Henry is best remembered for establishing the Church of England and having six wives, but there has to be more to him than that. Dive into this project to uncover the secrets of this notorious British monarch!
Idea by previous history research mentor Rebecca
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10) Nature's Past: Let's Do Environmental History!
When you think of “history,” you might think of politics and battles but it is so much more than that! Instead of writing a paper on a specific event, try focusing on the environment and the material world. How much better was the environment when everyone rode horses instead of driving cars? What environmental problems did society face in the past and how do those compare or differ from today?
Idea by previous history research mentor Gustave
Independent High School Research Project About History
Interested in taking part in a dedicated history research program for high school students? Polygence's Pods offer an exciting opportunity to connect with an experienced historian-mentor and a small group of fellow young history enthusiasts. These dynamic Pods meet once per week for a fast-paced five- to six-week period, with sessions conducted via video call that you can join from the comfort of your home or any private study area.
Each Pod session combines engaging lectures, stimulating group discussions, and personalized guidance on your chosen historical research topic. With a maximum of six students per Pod, we create an intimate, fun, and supportive environment where everyone can thrive and succeed in their historical explorations.
Ready to embark on a journey through time? With Polygence, you'll learn how to apply historical methods to uncover the nuances and complexities of historical events and figures. Discover inspiring history research projects from our previous students, such as Sanaya's fascinating exploration of Serbian radio history in Croatia. Take the first step towards becoming a young historian – sign up for a Polygence Pod today!
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