The Weimar Republic & Comparative Authoritarianism
Topic: Analyze the Weimar Republic's collapse and compare it to one authoritarian government of your choice (1920–present)
Length: 6–8 pages (1,500–2,000 words)
Components:
Citation Style: Chicago/Turabian or MLA
Step-by-Step Check-In Assignments
Identify and annotate your sources for both case studies: at least 2 scholarly sources each for Weimar and your chosen government, plus at least 2 primary sources (at least 1 from the Weimar period). Write a 3–5 sentence summary for each source explaining its argument, how you'll use it, and any perspective or bias to note.
Best for: Getting started — gathering high-quality sources before you begin writing
Open Check-In #1 →Draft a 1–2 sentence thesis arguing why the Weimar Republic collapsed and what your comparative case reveals. Add a 1-paragraph explanation of your argument and develop a guiding research question that frames your paper.
Best for: Sharpening your central argument and comparative focus before drafting
Open Check-In #2 →Build a structured outline covering your introduction, Weimar section, chosen government section, comparative analysis, and conclusion. For each section, identify specific primary sources and key evidence you'll use. Pinpoint where your argument is strong and where you need more research.
Best for: Structuring your argument logically and mapping your evidence before writing
Open Check-In #3 →Draft your opening paragraph with a compelling hook rooted in the Weimar period or your chosen government, brief context for both case studies, a clear thesis statement, and a roadmap previewing your major points.
Best for: Starting strong — your intro sets the analytical tone for the whole paper
Open Check-In #4 →Final Submission
Ready to submit your completed research paper? Type your essay directly into the submission form, monitor your word count, download a PDF draft for your records, and submit your final paper to the course database.
Requirements: 1,500–2,000 words (6–8 pages), minimum 5 scholarly sources + 2 primary sources + Pelz, Chicago/Turabian or MLA citations
Open Paper Submission →Required Book:
Primary Sources on the Course Website:
Research Guides & Assignment Materials: