A good historical essay argues a point. The author asserts a position (thesis), offers evidence in support,
accounts for opposing facts and opinions, and ends with a conclusion that restates the thesis.
Use verbs in simple past tense in active mode (he went, she thought, etc.). Passive voice fulfills a
need sometimes. Yet, as a rule, writers should use active verbs for greater clarity and precision. To write,
“Napoleon was surprised at the Battle of Waterloo” is factually correct. However, an active verb
expresses a more complete thought: “The arrival of the Prussian army surprised Napoleon.”
need sometimes. Yet, as a rule, writers should use active verbs for greater clarity and precision. To write,
“Napoleon was surprised at the Battle of Waterloo” is factually correct. However, an active verb
expresses a more complete thought: “The arrival of the Prussian army surprised Napoleon.”