Skip to content

15 Writing Prompts Inspired by Historical Events

Titanic Time Capsule: Imagine discovering a forgotten journal from a passenger aboard the Titanic. Write a story based on their experiences, exploring both the grandeur of the ship and the tragic events that unfolded.

Secrets of the Salem Witch Trials: Dive into the perspective of someone accused during the Salem Witch Trials. Explore the fear, paranoia, and social dynamics of the time.

Letters from the Trenches: Write a series of letters between soldiers during World War I, detailing the camaraderie, challenges, and the impact of war on their lives.

The Great Depression Diaries: Craft a fictional diary set during the Great Depression, capturing the struggles, resilience, and unexpected moments of hope.

Codebreakers of Bletchley Park: Explore the world of codebreakers during World War II at Bletchley Park. Develop a story around the challenges and successes of breaking enemy codes.

The Space Race from a Different Angle: Write from the perspective of a behind-the-scenes figure during the Space Race, such as a technician, janitor, or secretary, capturing their unique view of history.

The Plague Doctor’s Confession: Set your story in the midst of a historical plague, with a focus on a plague doctor and the moral dilemmas they face.

The Gold Rush Journal: Create a journal from the perspective of a prospector during the Gold Rush, chronicling the highs and lows of the quest for wealth.

The Salem Sea Voyage: Reimagine the Salem Witch Trials setting by placing the characters on a sea voyage, exploring how the confined space influences the unfolding drama.

The Hindenburg Experience: Write a story from the viewpoint of a passenger on the Hindenburg during its ill-fated flight, capturing the anticipation and tragedy of the event.

The Harlem Renaissance Salon: Imagine a conversation among influential figures of the Harlem Renaissance. Explore the discussions, debates, and creative collaborations in this vibrant intellectual community.

The Cuban Missile Crisis Letters: Craft a series of letters exchanged between people living through the tension of the Cuban Missile Crisis, conveying the fear and uncertainty of that era.

The Great Fire of London from the Flames: Explore the perspective of a fictional character caught in the chaos of the Great Fire of London, detailing their escape and reflections on the destruction.

The Suffragette’s Diary: Write a diary from the perspective of a suffragette during the fight for women’s rights, capturing the challenges and triumphs of the movement.

Poetry in Feudal Japan: Transport yourself to feudal Japan and write a series of haikus capturing the essence of a pivotal historical moment, from a battle to a quiet meditation in a garden.

 

 

 

 

 

 

For more content like this, subscribe to our newsletter: