One of the main jobs of historians is to interpret the past by reviewing primary documents, scholarly secondary sources, and then creating an analysis of this research. After reading your text and reviewing the assigned materials, submit an analysis of the people that shaped the American West
You might want to consider the following questions, but you are not limited to them: It has been said by historians that the West shaped America. How has the West shaped culture? What surprises you most about the change in population in California? Which group’s contribution to the West most connected with you? Were there any groups that you feel have been underrepresented in your past studies? How can each group be acknowledged for their contributions?
This assignment should be at least 300 words and contain your reactions or questions about some specific issue within the historical narrative that you find compelling. For full credit, your paper must not simply sum up the reading or repeat points made there. Rather, I’m looking for you to create your own interpretation, explain the emotional content of the piece, or discuss some original insight. Include citations as needed.
Rubric
Interpreting the Past (3)
Interpreting the Past (3)
Criteria Ratings Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeInterpretation
15 to >10.0 pts
Good job creating your own interpretation, explaining the emotional content of the piece, or discussing some original insight.
10 to >0.0 pts
Your work addressed the prompt but did not provide a detailed interpretation, explanation or discussion.
0 pts
Your work did not address the prompt or provide our own interpretation.
15 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWord count & logistics
5 pts
Your work met the appropriate word count of 300 words & provided citations for outside sources as needed.
2.5 pts
Your work had between 100-300 words or did not provide appropriate citations for outside sources as needed.
0 pts
Your work did not provide citations for outside sources or was under 100 words.
5 pts
Total Points: 20
