A historical essay is basically a summary of historical facts or events recorded by people at the time it occurred. The recordings are detailed information about what actually took place. The essay you undertake to write should therefore be based on solid evidence accumulated from several sources. The text book and notes from class should form the basis around which you can get further information from the internet or public library. When it comes down to writing the essay, there is not much room for you to play around with the facts. Here are some broad guidelines you could keep in mind while getting content to include in your essay.
1. Since there is very limited scope for you to elaborate on facts, write a strong and compelling thesis statement. This is very important if you want to attract readers towards the essay. For example, if you were to write a hero essay on a valiant warrior from history, you would try to highlight the most important and endearing quality in the hero, which readers of our times could identify with. When the thesis statement establishes a connection with readers, you would find many readers interested in the information you have to offer in the historical essay.
2. There are instances in history that are close to the hearts of many people of a particular era. You could write a historical essay about the incident. For example, a Berlin wall essay would connect with many people who were affected by World War II and the atrocities that occurred during the period. Attempt to write about less-known facts about a particular event, and you may even get feedback from people you never knew existed.
3. A criticism essay could debate on the loose facts from history. It is often recorded that certain events were first-hand information received orally from people. There could be discrepancies in the way the information was recorded as fact. This could be debated upon in your essay. If you have a relevant counter argument which can dispute historical data and is built around modern times, you have a winner topic in your hand. People would love to know your point of view, if they can identify with it.
4. You need to write a descriptive essay and include all the details. Do not attempt to present short and incomplete facts leaving the reader confused and irritated. Decide on the length of the essay and work on providing complete information to the reader. To do this right, choose a sub topic within a broad-based topic and elaborate without deviating from it. The factual historical data would provide you all the content you need for the essay. For example, if you write a university essay describing its history, include only a brief description of the place where it is located. You then have enough scope to include specific and little-known facts about the university.
These inputs should get you started. To write a historical essay that includes other details, you can research a bit and come up with content that is unique. Write in your own fluid style, and readers would consider you an expert on the subject or sub topic.
