US History – Analytical Essay

Description

Prep the questions listed below. Use a word doc to do so. Your grade will be based on how well you
answer the question and use the unit sources to do so. Your answer should be analytical and not just
descriptive in nature. This means that it should include a thesis and supporting evidence from the
videos, readings and lectures. Be sure to proofread your answer. Sloppy answers that haven’t been
proofread will be marked down. Use single-space, 12-inch font. Your answer should be no longer than 3
pages in length. I will select 2 of the questions below for the exam and you will be required to answer
ONE of them. Prepare your essay in advance in a word document so you will only need to copy and
paste it into the exam box on the day of the exam.
1. In recent years revisionist historians have produced histories that challenge traditional
interpretations of historical figures and events. Use the following to assess how their views of
Columbus, the Founding Fathers, & the Constitution differ from more traditional ones. Then,
based on your understanding of historical revisionism, assess how modern historians might
interpret the actions and presidencies of Lincoln, FDR, and Trump in contrast with more
traditional approaches.
2. It could be argued that the founding fathers fear of possible tyranny is why so few expressed
powers are given to U.S. presidents in Article II of the Constitution. What are these expressed
powers and how and why have presidents been able to increase their power and position since
the era of George Washington? Do Executive Orders give modern presidents too much power?
Explain and provide examples for your argument.
3. Since the Civil War, it is common for U.S. Presidents to issue executive orders. According to
Article II, what gives a president the power to issue executive orders? Under what circumstances
have they done so? Select 4 executive order covered in the videos and lectures to assess their
impact on Americans, the balance of power of federal branches of government and on the
presidency.