Name: ________________________________________________ Period: ________

Date:___________

Honors Project 4: A 20th Century Life

(Due June 5)

The 20th century was a time of great transformation in human

civilization. Many great women and men significantly challenged and
changed life on Earth. They unlocked some of the deepest secrets of
the universe and the mysteries of life. Humankind was united by new
transportation and communication technologies but divided by terrible
world wars. While developing the means to destroy all life on our
planet, we first escaped the confines of its delicate cradle.

For this project, you will choose a 20th century historical figure to research. Your
analysis will include a paper examining this person’s impact in history. To complete
the assignments follow these steps:

1. Choose a 20th century historical figure to research. You may choose any significant
person from any field of human endeavor: politics, religion, art, literature, science,
etc. You must obtain teacher approval for your choice. Every student will research
a different important person. DO NOT TELL ANY OTHER STUDENT WHO YOU
ARE RESEARCHING OR EVEN THINKING ABOUT RESEARCHING!

2. As you research your person answer the following questions:

a. What is the history of this historical figure’s life?
b. Why is this person famous? What type of impact did this person make?
c. What was this person’s philosophy, motto, or mission in life?
d. What character traits (honesty, respect, responsibility, etc.) did the person
reflect?
e. How are these characteristics evident in his or her work and /or life?
f. How is this person viewed now? Are they a hero or a villain? Do they defy
such simple classification?
3. Your research must include at least one source from each of the following
medias:
• Magazine • Book
• Encyclopedia • Internet
You may also gather information from other appropriate sources. If you are
uncertain if a source is appropriate, please consult your teacher. Most websites,
unless they are from an accredited source, such as a university, research institute,
government agency, or corporate entity, are unreliable and not to be trusted or
used as a source.
4. Using information from your notes, write a paper in which you answer the following
statement: This person had a positive OR negative impact on the 20th
century. Are they a hero or a villain? Do they defy such simple classification?
Excellent papers will examine both positive and negative aspects but ultimately
decide on one or the other while stating the reasons for the final judgment.

5. Your paper should be between 3 and 5 pages and follow manuscript policy.
When due, you will submit: the final copy of your analysis, your research notes, a
bibliography (written in MLA format – see handout), and this sheet.

6. The final project will culminate in a History Mystery costume party participated in
by each honors student from the World History classes. You’ll come dressed as
your person and bring a snack or a drink. Don’t tell anyone who you’re doing –
keep it a secret. It’ll be fun. More on that later.