During the course of this class we have looked at different historical figures and how they impacted the evolution of America from its beginnings through to the late 19th century. These individuals came from diverse backgrounds and did many different things to leave their mark on the progression of our nation. Some wrote enduring works that shaped our government, others spearheaded movements, led the nation, invented new technologies, wrote great literature, won wards, cured diseases and so on. That said, in your opinion, what would they think of their field of expertise today? Do you feel they would be pleased at how that field or issue has evolved; that their efforts succeeded, or do you think they?d be angry or depressed at how it turned out?

For this essay project you will choose a famous historical figure that impacted the evolution of this nation and will learn about his life and his contribution. After analuzing this, you will give your opinion as to how you believe that historical figure would react to how his contribution impacted America in the present, as if he or she were brought back to the present day. Would they be satisfied at how things have moved along in their area of expertise? Would they be angry at how it turned out? What are your thoughts?

Write your findings in an essay that will be 750-1000 words long (3-4 pages double spaced, Arial 12pt. font). When citing any historical documents or written works that are not your own, be sure and follow proper citation guidelines (either MLA or APA style ? one great website to assist with proper citation is citationmachine.net)

So to recap:

1. Choose a famous historical figure.

2. Learn about and describe his life and backgroun (in doing that, try to understand his mindset and motivation behind what they would go on to do.)

3. Learn about and describe his contribution to America (why are they known, what did they accomplish) ?

4. Describe how you believe that historical figure would react to how his contribution and efforts has evolved in the present day in this nation (understanding his background, motivation, and mindset above, will allow you to do this more easily.)

The historical figure must have made his or her contribution during the period of our class, which for sake of American history is 1607-1877.

Some examples of historical figures you can use (you may use others but they must be famous for having accomplished something that impacted American history within the time frame)

GEORGE WASHINGTON

THOMAS JEFFERSON

ABIGAIL ADAMS

ABRAHAM LINCOLN

FREDERICK DOUGLASS

BEN FRANKLIN

EDGAR ALLEN POE

THOMAS PAINE

JAMES MADISON

JOHN ADAMS

SUSAN B ANTHONY

ANDREW JACKSON

CLARA BARTON

ULYSSES S GRANT

JOHN SMITH

DAVID FARRAGUT