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Paper instructions:

This short paper is at least three double-spaced pages of text (Times New Roman, font size 12, 1” margins) and you must consult a minimum of two academically credible sources (no encyclopedias (tertiary sources)). You must cite your sources throughout and include a bibliography (please select one citation style: APA, MLA, or Chicago). Everything that is not general knowledge or your own analysis must be cited.


The short paper must include a cover page with your name, course number and course title, instructor's name, and date. You must also include a bibliography at the end of your paper. While composing your paper, use proper English. Do not use abbreviations, contractions, passive voice, or first/ second person (I, you, we, our, etc). Before submitting your paper, check your grammar and use spell check.  Please label your paper as follows: lastnamefirstnameHIST102ShortPaper.

TOPICS:    Select one (1) United States President from the list below.  By analyzing his times, his initiatives as President and his record of accomplishments, argue that he either was or was not an effective President and discuss why.



Grover Cleveland

William Howard Taft

Calvin Coolidge

Herbert Hoover

William  S. McKinley

Your paper must include a clear and argumentative thesis that you will defend throughout the paper.  You must also include a strong  conclusion that restates your argument and explains how you have proven your case. 



You must use at least two scholarly  secondary sources from the AMU Library (see the attached Research Guide) as well as one Primary Document.  ALL material that you use in composing your essay must be cited, not just direct quotations.