Name _____________________________________________
Date Due ______________
MWH UNIT 4 WRITING PROMPTS: THE AGE OF IMPERIALISM
Background Information
I am expecting significantly more out of you in this essay. Go back and look at your first essay
and the comments I wrote for you before you begin writing. Also, think carefully about what we have
discussed in class. Take all of that in to consideration as you work.
At this point you are an experienced historical analyst. I expect nothing but greatness.
Remember that the focus of your essay should be analysis. It is important that you provide me with
specific information to support your argument, but do not simply provide factual information. You must
show me that you understand and are analyzing the content. It may be necessary to discuss, or at least
mention, material we studied in other units.
Be sure you use MLA format and include a works cited. Your essay should be between two and
three pages in length and must be both turned in as a paper copy and uploaded to turnitin.com by the due
date.
Specifics
Each essay will be worth 60 points and will be graded as follows:
- 10 points for a well developed thesis that fully addresses the prompt
- 10 points for writing style (MLA format, grammar, and proof reading)
- 10 points for your works cited and in text citations (your essay must include at least
three sources, one of which must be primary; you must have a works cited that you will
reference using in-text parenthetical citations as discussed on the MLA Guide)
- 30 points for content (accurate, thorough, and effective use of evidence to prove thesis)
Writing Prompts
1. Explain the connection between the Industrial Revolution and the Age of Imperialism. Would
imperialism have happened without the Industrial Revolution?
2. You have studied five motives for imperialism. What do you believe was the primary motive for
European imperialism? Explain. Be sure you explain why the other motives were less important. If you
find European imperialism to be too broad of a subject you may focus on the colonial efforts of one
European nation or the colonization of one nation.
3. Many people believe that the nations which were imperial colonizers during the 1700s and 1800s owe
reparations (payment or other compensation) to the people and countries they colonized. Is this
justifiable?