What can be gained from examining historical wars, economies, and political movements as they intersect with the spread of pathogens?

It is common for historians to examine the past in terms of human interactions – from peaceful trade to violent warfare. This class, however, has introduced a new variable into the equation by positioning human activity alongside the movement of diseases. How has this new approach changed how you have viewed the historical events of this unit? What can be gained from examining historical wars, economies, and political movements as they intersect with the spread of pathogens? Are there any downsides to this approach?
This reflective essay should be 500 words in length (not including headings or citations). It is fine to use the first-person “I” in this paper, but it should still be written in a formal style that is free from grammatical errors. This essay should also contain at least three explicit references to distinct readings from the course for the relevant unit cited in a standard citation system (Chicago, APA, MLA, etc). You should not draw on outside research for this paper, as we want you to specifically engage with the content we have covered in the first unit of this class.

Thesis Statement: 5 points
The first paragraph of your paper should contain a thesis statement that directly addresses the prompt and concisely summarizes the main point(s) of your argument. Readers of this paper should be able to see the contents of your thesis statement reflected throughout the rest of the paper.
Excellent
Great
Satisfactory
Insufficient
Unsatisfactory
Argumentation: 10 points
The bulk of your paper should comprise a logically sound argument that addresses the prompt and shows engagement with the themes of the class. It should show your critical reflection on the content of course lectures, discussions, activities, and readings.
Excellent
Great
Satisfactory
Insufficient
Unsatisfactory
Use of Course Readings: 10 points
Your argument should include at least three explicit references to course readings that are cited using an accepted citation system like Chicago, APA, or MLA. At the same time, though, we do not want you to provide so many lengthy quotations from course readings that your own voice is drowned out. Your references and quotations from assigned readings should bolster, not detract, from the content of your personal reflection.
Excellent
Great
Satisfactory
Insufficient
Unsatisfactory
Grammar and Style: 5 points
This paper should not contain any grammatical errors and should show your ability to write English at the college level. It should also be at least 500 words in length.
Excellent
Great
Satisfactory
Insufficient
Unsatisfactory
You may use any 3 or more of the provided sources

Last Completed Projects

topic title academic level Writer delivered