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History Debate Topics — page 11

914 debate topics, all ages. Debatable motions with arguments for and against. Open the arguments below, pick one at random, or present them full-screen.

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  1. 501.

    Abraham Lincoln was a better president than Jefferson Davis

    For

    • I will rebutle his contentions in the ordered list he gave: 1. Jefferson's political background has no relevance to whether he was a good president or not. Since he was president during the Civil War, he had to come up with brand new ideas on how to run his "country" and to…
    • Abraham Lincoln was a better president than Jefferson Davis. Lincoln was able to re-unite the Union and he defeated Jefferson Davis. Davis did not organize the Confederacy very well and lost his "country" to Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln was intelligent, calm, resourceful, and…

    Against

    • I would like to voting issue to be justified based upon our arguments. Please leave any bias and other known information outside of the debate content. Reason: it will not result in giving a side more advantage before this debate is read. Thank you. Summary: My opponent only…
    • I will go to his rebuttals 1. Basic idea for this refutal: Political background doesn't have any use. I would like to point out: Confederates formed a government and chose Jefferson because he had more experience than the other candidates. My opponent also states "He had to…
  2. 502.

    History does not repeat itself

    For

    • Regrettably my opponent has forfeited the last round for reasons unknown. I maintain my position that history does not repeat itself.
    • Now that we have agreed upon the meaning of the phrase in question, specifically that the phrase "history repeats itself" is used to remind people that the past contains knowledge applicable in future crisis and events, and that knowledge of past events will help a person, and…

    Against

    • I accept Pro's interpretation of the phrase, namely that it is "used to remind people that the past contains knowledge applicable in future crisis and events, and that knowledge of past events will help a person, and or nation, to overcome potential and current problems. " I…
    • My thanks to my opponent for his quick response. My apologies for assuming that an underhanded victory predicated on a literal misinterpretation of this phrase was your goal, but you have to admit it is understandable given the phrasing of your opening statement in round one.…
  3. 503.

    The US $20 bill should stop featuring Andrew Jackson

    For

    • "That point was "Andrew Jackson did not approve of fiat money", to quote my opponent, "this is unwarranted revisionism". Andrew Jackson may have favored commodity backed currency during his presidency, but that is only because he feared for the country's economic welfare. He…
    • "But this makes no sense however for you did say that, "Fiat money represents the force of a tyrant, not an exchange of values between good common men" since this statement has no source cited to it, it must be an opinion." And? What of it? Are you going to dispute that paper…

    Against

    • Before I start my construct, I would like to point out that my opponent has brought up only one real point for why Andrew Jackson should not be on the $20 bill. That point was "Andrew Jackson did not approve of fiat money", to quote my opponent, "this is unwarranted…
    • Hello, and again, It is I, Keenan Harris. Before I start, I would first like to thank my opponent for accepting my challenge and posting his first construct so punctually. You have my gratitude. I would like to start my argument by simply stating. We have no more commonly used…
  4. 504.

    Joseph Stalin had a greater impact on society than Oprah

    For

    • In College, We were assigned to debate whether or not a public figure has made more of an impact on society than another public figure. I was assigned the pro side of Joseph Stalin making more of an impact on society as a whole than Oprah. I went up against an annoying girl who…

    Against

    • Good debate!
    • 'And shegorao, I'm not sure anyone could REALLY debate con on this and still have a valid argument. My personal opinion though.' -I'm not quite sure why my argument is invalid since you forfeited your round? Thanks :)
  5. 505.

    Hades was the most powerful Greek god

    For

    • Hades as control of the world largest population." False. The world's largest population is the soul of the humans. Who has control of the souls Hades. And If the Titans where unleashed from Tarturus. Would they turn on, Hades or Zeus, the God who cut their leader to bits., And…
    • Zeus may be maybe more popular but I state that Hades would win in a war. A) Hades has control over Tarturus. a pit that holds all of of Olympus most powerful enemies. The Titans, The Giant (sons of Gaea), and Typhoon. B) While Zeus has a lighting bolt, Hades as a helm that…

    Against

    • Great debate, pro! Define powerful: physically strong, as a person http://dictionary.reference.com... Who cares about the world's largest population. Hades does not control the souls. The Fates control the fates of mortals. Hades,and all the other gods, will know what the…
    • Greetings Pro, Although Hades has control over Tarturus, that doesn't mean that he is the most powerful Olympian. The enemies of the Olympians are most likely to destroy Hades, even if he controls Tarturus. Zeus can still zap Hades, even if he is invisible. Zeus can also grant…
  6. 506.

    Old buildings should be preserved rather than demolished

    For

    • But if all old buildings were damaged and replaced by new, modern skyscrapers, the cities would lose their individuality. Moreover, the historic buildings are the symbol of the city. Without them, a city will become meaningless as if it has no history. The culture of the city…
    • Every culture has its special features. Buildings, as symbol of architectural heritage, are an important part of the history of any country or city. Moreover, they could help us find the answers of many questions about the historical development of our society. Therefore, I…

    Against

    • I believe that individuality can be maintained through modern architecture. Since we have advanced planning and building technology, we can easily make unique buildings. Your argument could also work against you. For example, what about the buildings torn down or the ground…
    • I do not see why preserving the history of an area through old buildings is necessary. You can preserve that history through record-keeping and videos. Also, I believe that a building such as the Burj Khalifa are more impressive than, say, an old flat.
  7. 507.

    The Mongol Empire was the strongest state in history

    For

    • I argue that the strongest state in the world history was Mongolian Empire which was called "Mongol Ulus".

    Against

    • Due to the fact that my adversary has not yet made an argument, I suspect that the votes will be in my favor.
    • My argument is extended once again, because my opponent has not yet posted.
  8. 508.

    Spain's conquest of America was overall positive

    For

    • The conquest and evangelization of the American continent by Spain in the 16th century is a much maligned aspect of the history of my country. I maintain, however, that the Spanish conquest was extraordinarily benign, particularly in comparison to contemporary colonization…
    • I extend my arguments

    Against

    • I would ask that Pro define better what he means by 'overall positive' - are we talking in the short-term and long-term, or just in the long-term? Also, I would like to offer the definition of benign to make sure I know exactly what Pro is trying to say. Benign: [1] 1: of a…
    • Apologies for the forfeit, something came up with my family which took me away from the internet for a while. I only now just logged in here with an hour to go until the deadline, so this may be a bit rushed but it is what it is. I don't think much will be required to show that…
  9. 509.

    The partition of India and Pakistan was inevitable

    For

    • I have recently joined Debate. org so I might not have all those points and statistics but I assure you I have read history very well. This debate will be on the topic whether or not Partition of India and Pakistan was inevitable or not. I highly support this topic and will…
    • But, the facts he proposed as the basis of his opinion were rotten from the roots and perhaps actually gave evidence instead for my opinion. To my opponent's point that there were actually communal violence between the Hindus and Muslims for a long time, it wasn't a new thing,…

    Against

    • Before summarizing and underlinining my arguments, I'd like to make one thing clear- the debate is not about whether or not India and Pakistan *should* have partitioned. Its about whether the partition was unavoidable. So his first point, for example, stating that if Sikh riots…
    • First, I apologize for unintentionally hurting any sentiments (if I did), I can assure you I didn't mean to be rude. I was merely pointing out that Muhammad Ali Jinnah was about to die of tuberculosis, and had Mountbatten known that, he would have postponed the Indian…
  10. 510.

    Rewriting historical narratives can be ethically justified

    For

    • Thank you, Con.Affirmative CaseA1: History can be rewritten History. History. See? I have rewritten history. I have rewritten "history", therefore I have affirmed the resolution. A2: History can be rewritten History can be defined as: a continuous, systematic narrative of past…
    • Thank you defnebasbakkal for instigating this debate.Since no definitions are provided in the opening round, they will be up for debate.Since Con is starting, it seems fair that the burden of proof be shared.To make rounds even, I will await Con's initial argument.

    Against

    • History shouldn't be rewritten because it will effects nations culture and their values. As an example America changed the information's which is written on their history books an example of history re-written, let's go with The War of 1812 in which is often cited as a US fight…
    • This house supports that history can be rewritten but we as against team don't believe this motion is right. Because we need to know our past to be better at the future
  11. 511.

    Mother Teresa was not as saintly as believed

    For

    • In response to your points: 1) How can you say that it doesn't matter where the money came from as long as it went to the charity? Charles Keating was directly related to the American saving and loan scandal. He had done wrong.(http://en.wikipedia.org...) Despite the lack of…
    • However I would like to clear one thing up first. Remember this debate is not on whether or not mother Teresa was anointed a saint or not because we all know that she was. It's about whether she was a saint-like person or not. My opponent gives the definition of saint as " A…

    Against

    • You did not answer my last round's question. This is because you do not have the answer to it. You can do nothing but to criticize the noble persons. 1)- First and foremost thing I would like to tell you that stop giving the links of the articles which are yet to be verified.…
    • "My opponent cannot attempt to win this by just showing that she was acknowledged as holy". I wholeheartedly accept that no one can win by debating on the same point. And also, no one can win in the first round of the debate. So be calm and do not get excited so much.My counter…
  12. 512.

    Australia Day should be moved from January 26

    For

    • Even though the first fleet brought the first wave of immigration over to Australia and shaped Australia to what is it today, for some Australians, particularly among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, January 26 is not a day of celebration, but is seen as a day…
    • Australia Day should be changed from January 26th to another date because of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people find Australia Day so offensive and they need to be recognised. Australians to this current day do not recognise the background history that Australia Day…

    Against

    • Although Australia Day marks a day of trauma for Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders, it is also a day when we can all come together and celebrate what our country has become. He have apologised to the Indigenous peoples about the terrible actions of the British when they…
    • The date of Australia should not be changed. The first fleet began a long line of immigrants arriving in Australia which led Australia to becoming such a multicultural nation. Although the arrival of the first fleet which was a traumatic time for the Indigenous people, we now…
  13. 513.

    History will judge the 2000s harshly

    For

    • Here ends our debate.
    • This debate will end sooner if I reply

    Against

    • Before we begin, I would like to pose a clarifying question. Will this debate focus on American history in the 21st century, or on a more international level (as per your excellent examples)? Until hearing back from you, I will assume that we are concentrating on the United…
  14. 514.

    Western museums should repatriate cultural artifacts on request

    For

    • I read well about Fluer's argument. I think even if a country studied a lot about eastern country, it is not better than its own country. For example, in my country, Korea, learn more about Korean history than world history. We just learn little bit about each countries and…
    • I thank Fluer for this debate. Rebuttals: I think western museums should agree to requests to repatriate cultural artefacts First of all, we have more cultural values when we have ours than others. Even if western museums show that they are proud of the diversities within their…

    Against

    • We tend to collaborate with experts (sometimes indigenous to the culture of the artefact) because we want to display the most accurate information. This point also falls due to the fact that these artefacts are historical, usually from over a century ago, and cultures evolve.…
    • Museums are here so we can learn about cultures other than our own and how these cultures have engaged. To send fabulous collections to the country they were made in might seem like a nice thing to do but for reasons of education, source competition and international relations…
  15. 515.

    The US should have done more for Darfur

    For

    • The Behaviour of the Sudanese government was tantamount to Genocide
    • The Chaos in Darfur is a threat to regional security

    Against

    • The Conflict is an internal inter-tribal conflict – arming the Darfur tribes would be better
    • Intervention might destabilize the peace deal in the South
  16. 516.

    The Western Wall is not part of Herod's Temple

    For

    • It is now too late for us to have a meaningful DEBATE since you have wasted rounds 1 & 2. I will not waste words when there is no need to.
    • That question does not address the Proposition so I will pass on the answer. I will wait for your response of round 2.

    Against

    • Were you there?
    • Were you there?
  17. 517.

    Moses was a composite character

    For

    • I'm quite sad you forfeited, I thought this would be a good debate.
    • We can skip this round.

    Against

    • On the onset, pro is making some underlying assumptions by stating "Moses was a composite character. " He is saying: 1) Moses was not a historical person (for if he was he could not be composite). 2) The story of Moses from Exodus is not completely original and all or parts of…
    • I will be arguing that Moses was not a composite character. This is my first time participating in a debate on this website, and I hope it is fruitful. I am looking forward to this! Good luck!
  18. 518.

    The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were justified

    For

    • "You never actually did come back to this. Considering that it was my foundation in refuting your initial assertion, I will consider this a concession. Your primary argument was based on the inner workings of the Japanese military and political decision makers, and I will…
    • "However, I'd like to point out that that angle of argument is wholly irrelevant to the resolution: " It was a reasonable decision to drop the atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki at that time in world history."The decision to drop the bomb was made by…

    Against

    • The Japanese had, in fact, already sued for peace. The atomic bomb played no decisive part, from a purely military point of view, in the defeat of Japan." Fleet Admiral Chester W. The Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz quote. Well, that was public statement quoted in The New York…
    • You never actually did come back to this. Considering that it was my foundation in refuting your initial assertion, I will consider this a concession. Your primary argument was based on the inner workings of the Japanese military and political decision makers, and I will…
  19. 519.

    The charkha remains relevant in the twenty-first century

    For

    • k
    • Okay. http://www.youtube.com...

    Against

    • I feel the charkha has lost its relevance as there are new machinery to reduce human effort. human effort is not a piece of cake as it can be put to much better use.
  20. 520.

    Secret societies like the Illuminati are not real

    For

    • I forfeit this round.
    • I should've mentioned before I started my debate that I'm deaf and therefore cannot understand videos unless they have english subtitles. I did however watch the videos by clicking on the closed caption buttons and translating the audio. I think the captions are somewhat…

    Against

    • I'm sorry I did not know. The video titled "Freemasonry today" is a promotional video created by Freemasons, and talks about their history and benefits. The video titled "scottish Rite Freemasonry: There Comes A Time" is a doctor explaining how freemasonry helped him become a…
    • http://www.youtube.com... http://www.youtube.com... The origin of Freemasonry is disputed. The most widely agreed upon theory by historians is that they originated from Mason Guilds. Some other theories is that they came from Templar knights who escaped persecution. The Masonic…
  21. 521.

    China would have been better off under the Nationalists led by Chiang Kai-shek

    For

    • Rules: 1. I will argue that a Nationalist China would be better for the people. 2. My opponent shall argue otherwise.3. For the purpose of the debate, it will be led by Chang Kai Shek.4. Sun-yat-sens transitional government plan applies.5. Evidence on Taiwans aftermath is…
    • Extend all Arguments. If you honestly think I'm going to debate someone that says "his sources are going to be unrealiable" than you are wrong. You are not the person to judge if my sources are reliable or not. That is the voters decision, I was expecting a good debate but I…

    Against

    • If you honestly think I'm going to debate someone that says "his sources are going to be unrealiable" than you are wrong. You are not the person to judge if my sources are reliable or not. That is the voters decision, I was expecting a good debate but I was wrong.
    • 1.) I will be debating that China under Chairman Mao Tse-Tung was the better path for the Chinese people by using evidence of China's rapid modernization and its jump to a world power2.) I will debate that Chiang Kai Shek would have turned China into a Nazi style nation by…
  22. 522.

    Ancient Greeks were better than Romans

    For

    • It is no use saying that the Romans probably would have done those same things first if they appeared first. The fact of the matter is, the Greeks came first and so the romans used their ideas. We can argue hypothetical scenarios for years and not get anywhere. In making that…
    • Although the Romans had a better land military, this was the only thing that they excelled at. As I said before, the Greeks had a better navy and created many of the foundations for modern math, science, engineering, medicine, philosophy, and Government as well as in other…

    Against

    • Many of the things Greeks did probably would the Romans have done first if they had appeared first. The Romans did simply what they needed to do to thrive, and thriving is a key factor to being better than something else. Also, philosophy, science, and even a hint of religion…
    • I noticed how you brought up the Romans had a better military, but their tactics aren't used today. The world was different in the time of Romans than modern day, their military tactics did outdo the other countries, and that is what the Romans wanted. Next, according to the…
  23. 523.

    The September 11 attacks benefited the Bush administration

    For

    • My claim points with all the rumors and evidences very plausible clues that Bush made this crisis for his personal benefits, made me think that the decisive evidence of 9/11 was plotted by the U.S is Bush administration's succession of dominion. Also, the U.S got the…
    • By present, the result of 9/11 was beneficial to Bush administration. It's my claim and I'm definitely sure. First round is for acceptance "The result" means Bush"s administration got rapid increase of advocacy rate. Also, the U.S could show off their power and used lots of…

    Against

    • My opponent has forfeited.
    • I extend my argument.
  24. 524.

    Britain should formally apologize for its colonial-era atrocities

    For

    • Malthusian Theories.
    • Empire in 'a fit of absentmindedness'

    Against

    • What is Genocide?
    • Repetitive history
  25. 525.

    Facial hair significantly shaped the rise and fall of empires

    For

    • Beards are awesome!
    • My opponent said: "Well as the foolsh mortal that you are we made sure that the documentsthat you stole made it look like we had no facial hair. secondly the presence of facial hair shows that there is a high presence of testotorone in the body which is used by many men to…

    Against

    • well as the foolsh mortal that you are we made sure that the documentsthat you stole made it look like we had no facial hair. secondly the presence of facial hair shows that there is a high presence of testotorone in the body which is used by many men to fight in wars.
    • Even though every pharoh had an artificial beard it was often not made of real hair. Also many illuminatii members had facial hair so your argument that i am brainwashed is flawed. finally many gay men still identify as men and do no harm to society. and as my final point…
  26. 526.

    Amelia Earhart's plane crashed into the ocean

    For

    • I agree there was no way she was on a island she ran out of gas and is at the bottom of the ocean.
    • I agree that she landed in the ocean and she also had no lifeboat to be able to get to an island.

    Against

    • i think she is in the bottom of the ocean, dead.
    • Ya, luke that was so dumb, maybe if she brought it she may have survived, who knows?
  27. 527.

    Woodrow Wilson's election shaped modern political parties

    For

    • Con, I am a bit bummed regarding your forfeit. Well, going against the volition to forfeit this round in order to render the debate evenly, I have decided to post exactly why Wilson was the first modern Democratic president, using both inductive and deductive method. I hope you…
    • Firstly, welcome to debate. org sir, and I wish you the best. I feel as though there is some mild confusion indeed. You stated that I'm stating that "Woodrow Wilson was the first ever modern democrat" and the biggest problem here is I am stating that Wilson was the first ever…

    Against

    • This is my first ever debate so please be gentle. If I am understanding your point correctly you are stating that Woodrow Wilson was the first ever modern democrat and that is the subject that we will be debating. There are two main thrusts to my argument against. The first…
  28. 528.

    Gorbachev was responsible for the collapse of the USSR

    For

    • Perestroika put the final nails in the USSR's economy
    • Glasnost facilitated Opposition to Concentrate against the Regime

    Against

    • War with Afghanistan Drained USSR of Patriotic Morale
    • August 1991 Coup Counter Productive, Bringing About What It Sought To Prevent - The End of the Soviet Union
  29. 529.

    The ancient astronaut theory is correct

    For

    • Extend arguments. A shame my opponent has forfeited.
    • Extend arguments.

    Against

    • I'm sorry for my forfeits. Pro had a strong case.
    • I accept.
  30. 530.

    Ancient monuments were aligned for astronomical purposes

    For

    • My opponent posted a comment in a debate which I have previously done of this same topic, so I will gladly challenge him to the topic. I will be just copy-pasting my arguments from that debate (it was FF'ed) so R2 will go pretty quick. R1 for acceptance, we will just use the…
    • C1: THE NAZCA LINES Your question assumes the thing you're trying to prove. They are not runways, nor was that the intention of the Peruvians. This is not a sufficient rebuttal. The fact remains that it can only be seen from the sky. A more reasonable estimate is that these…

    Against

    • I accept. As con, I will be negating the resolution. Just incase anyone wants to know the specific rules/ definitions we are going by here, this is the link to the last debate >> http://debate.org...;
    • First, I would like to point out that my opponent has broken the rules of this debate. At the beginning of this debate, he stated that we would be using the exact same rules from the other debate he had on the same topic:"R1 for acceptance, we will just use the same definitions…
  31. 531.

    Movies about WW2 should be told from a German soldier's perspective

    For

    • not all german soldiers were Nazis some were forced to join such as young men. and a coomon mistake people make is the german army (the Wehrmacht) were not Nazis they part of the military the Nazi ss were Nazis they were part of the government. and they should make a video game…
    • It will tell the story of the axis and along with it add a twist to the video games. I will teach a different story. Every World War Two video game is based off of killing German soldiers.

    Against

    • Hello.I shall analyze your points and make some new ones in this round."Not all German Soldiers were Nazis" Although not all German Soldiers were Nazis, they still acted on behalf of Hitlers orders and as so still comitted the atrocities the SS commited."Why can't we have the…
    • Hello, I accept your challenge. First off I would like to question what you mean "Should they make a ww2 from a German soldiers point of view" Does this mean that society should be actively producing media and films that shows that how the Germans (not neccessarily the axis)…
  32. 532.

    Margaret Thatcher's policies benefited Britain

    For

    • Yes it is in my rules, however it was fun debating you.
    • My opponent has lost this debate.

    Against

    • c
    • Apparently I lost.
  33. 533.

    Americans are worse off as taxpayers than before the Revolution

    For

    • So much for second chances. I reaffirm my resolution.
    • I will give con another chance, as I have forgotten to make a rebuttal in the past due to other more important life responsibilities.

    Against

    • The AFF clearly defines "We are far worse off now as tax payers" as the level of taxation determining the detriment of society. I disagree with the framing of his argument. The definition of "We are far worse off now as tax payers" must be measured economically. Before the…
  34. 534.

    Modern people are better than our forefathers

    For

    • Technology have improved us than our fore fathers.

    Against

    • Vote fo me doe
    • Old timers did the real work.
  35. 535.

    The Soviet Union contributed more than Western Allies to defeating Germany

    For

    • ! !
    • ! !

    Against

    • I would argue the opposite -- the role the Western allies put in actually was slightly greater then that of the USSR. Even though the USSR did serve as a very major role it in fact would not have had that opportunity without the western allies. The dissolve of the Nazi German…
  36. 536.

    The Soviet Union was genuinely communist

    For

    • Please excuse me I apologize for such an inconvenience. ;D The Soviet Union is DEAD it lasted from 1922-1991 just as I also have very little experience in debating as I just joined the site a few weeks ago. Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU), also called (1925"52)…
    • Hi I am James a 13 yr old ready for an invigorating debate! You are (correct me if wrong) saying that the Soviet union was(past tense) communist? The Soviet union is and will mostly be communist. Russia is still communist, heck a few major countries in Asia are communist. your…

    Against

    • You have failed to present an argument. I will assume the position of the victor, unless you make a sly comeback next round.
    • My definition of communism was not incorrect. Communism is literally the phase of society where there is no state (government), currency (money) or class system (social inequality) in place. Karl Marx, the original father of Communism who hailed from Germany built the Communist…
  37. 537.

    Marxism differs fundamentally from Stalinist communism

    For

    • No, Karl Marx despised capitalism, but he did not hate the men on top of its chain. He understood that they are the result of pressure from capitalism.
    • I agree with you highly, but there are more people who is confused, does not know and cannot distinguish the difference. Everyone I meet has said that they think that Stalin's ideology is based on Karl Marx's, hence his close relations to Lenin, a close friend of Marx.

    Against

    • I definitely wouldn't agree with your assertion that Marx despised capitalism. I would reiterate my previous point that Marx was only a theoretical socialist. Some might say a bourgeois socialist or some might even say a hypocrite. He was a well educated middle class scholar…
    • Karl Marx was a thinker, not a doer. In theory he was a proponent of socialism. But in reality he was very much accepting of capitalism and very much a part of the 19th century European class system. I'm sure Marx would have been dismayed by the social turmoil created in Russia…
  38. 538.

    The Soviet Union played a bigger role than Western Allies in defeating Germany

    For

    • If you accept then please state your arguments and I will respond in the next round.
    • Ye your twisting my sentences again. When you quote sometimes you only quote half of my idea and leave the other half out. Anyway, I am going to completely ignore what you said in round 4 and simply state/prove why the Soviet contribution was greater. These were my four main…

    Against

    • First, let's clear off these two subjects we are debating about: The Western Allies: Some of the allied powers during WW1 and WW2, these being: the British Empire, the United States, France and various other European and Latin American countries. The USSR (Union of Soviet…
    • "Ye your twisting my sentences again. When you quote sometimes you only quote half of my idea and leave the other half out" Every word you say is part of your argument in this debate. Thus, it is logical for me to counter those words. That's what debating is. I will format my…
  39. 539.

    Britain should refuse to reclaim its former colonies

    For

    • And the chief might suspiciously ask: "What could you possibly want with rocks and dirty water? " And the British representative would reply: "Well, the streets of England are paved with gold and they get very slippery when it rains so we crush the rocks and spread them on the…
    • The British Empire was the largest empire that ever existed covering, at its peak, around a third of the globe [1]. For hundreds of years, the British Government invested heavily in backward nations on every continent: building modern cities with electricity, sanitation,…

    Against

    • I thoroughly enjoyed reading your post, Brian - quite entertaining I think that it is necessary to point out that Great Britain need only take back those colonies that request re-entry into the maternal bond of Imperialism. Thence, they do not have to resume control over those…
    • Greetings, Brian! This debate should be most enjoyable! : ) Good luck, have fun. I do not deem it necessary to discuss the contention, as is is very clear, "What are the benefits or the negative elements of re-accepting rogue colonies under the matronly wing of Great Britain?…
  40. 540.

    The Acts of the Apostles was written before 100 AD

    For

    • Con: "Pro has completely dropped these (internal evidences) so far."Pro dropped a lot of stuff, and regrettably so, to correct blatant factual errors. Every point I made concerning internal evidences still stands, and Con's responses are mostly poor guesses.THE INTERNAL…
    • First of all, I hate to squander 3,000 characters correcting blatant errors, but lest someone be led down the wrong path, I shall do so. Factual errorsCon: "Con doesn't challenge that Luke 21 is an explicit reference to the Olivet Discourse, an event that with virtual…

    Against

    • Thanks Pro.PrefaceI will be defending my positive case in this round, however I will also address a few superficial points of Pro's.Positive CaseAddress to TheophilusNote the scale of the work that the Gospel of Luke, and Book of Acts would have required. It would make…
    • I thank Con for her opening arguments.RulesAnnanicole violated the rules of this debate by rebutting in the opening round "Round 2: Opening arguments (no rebuttals)", however… being a nice guy I will let this slide.CorrectionI did mix up Luke & Acts in 1:1-3, in any case Con…
  41. 541.

    The atomic bombings of Japan saved millions of American lives

    For

    • We lost rough 108,000 men in the Pacific Theatre, and about 250,000 were wounded or missing. Now imagine if we attacked the mainland with massive force, battling the relentless Japanese, crashing planes into us, and charging at us with thousands, upon thousands of men. Any…
    • Wow, I can't believe there was no one who could be a con for this. Unless of course your being sarcastic.

    Against

    • We lost rough 108,000 men in the Pacific Theatre, and about 250,000 were wounded or missing. Now imagine if we attacked the mainland with massive force, battling the relentless Japanese, crashing planes into us, and charging at us with thousands, upon thousands of men. Any…
    • Sorry for the delay. The atomic bombs did not save millions of lives. There was other options and i doubt that any attack would kill more then 1.5 million. I will post a stronger debate with Pro's rebuttal.
  42. 542.

    The Treaty of Versailles was the main cause of World War II

    For

    • Debate's over.Vote for me.
    • Arguments extended.

    Against

    • I accept the definitions Pro has so graciously provided.Right off the bat, I intend to make my position clear with two statements.1. The Treaty of Versaille contributed to WW22. The Treaty of Versaille was not the main cause of WW2Pro has done a brilliant job of showing you how…
    • To make the amount of argumentation even, GOP (Pro) will not rebut in round 5. To GOP: Let me know if you want to change any of the settings/the wording of the res. Accept this when you're ready. :)
  43. 543.

    Libya was better off under Qaddafi's rule

    For

    • I have started a new open debate on this same topic for serious candidates. Thank you.
    • That was disappointing. I outlined in the first place that forfeiture is an automatic loss. I will redo this debate.

    Against

    • I would glad to accept your challenge, and you can take Pro if you don't mind. Thank you.
  44. 544.

    It is hypocritical to praise Lincoln's violence against rebels but not Washington's

    For

    • As for your for allegations regarding the causes of war let me utterly refute you. Neither rebellion, American or Confederate, was based solely on one purpose. Although taxation without representation (taxation in itself was not perceived as unjust by the vast majority of…
    • Let us look at this logically, Both President Abraham Lincoln and King George III are known well in history books, but under different lights. Since most of their legacy rests on American shores, the popular history written about them as an American bias. This is the only…

    Against

    • "As for your for allegations regarding the causes of war let me utterly refute you. Neither rebellion, American or Confederate, was based solely on one purpose." I have no allegations concerning the causes of the war. Only concerning the consequences of war. "Although taxation…
    • " On the negative side both leaders spat into the face of democracy by refusing to allow separatist regions to go about their crafted polices (i.e. separate)." Democracy is not a good thing as such. Whether ignoring the will of the majority of a region is good or bad depends on…
  45. 545.

    Lee Harvey Oswald did not act alone in killing JFK

    For

    • Fifty years ago Friday, Lee Harvey Oswald fatally shot President John F. Kennedy " or so concluded the Warren Commission, the group convened by President Lyndon B. Johnson to investigate the assassination. Officially, it was accepted that Oswald fired three shots from the…
    • I will be debating that Lee Harvey Oswald either didn't do, or didn't act alone in John F. Kenndey's assassination

    Against

    • I claim plagiarism on you because while searching for supporting evidence I found http://www.usnews.com... and it's word for word the same and no quotes or even you citing the source, that is illegal and has consequences you know. Anyway... Back on topic According to paragraph…
    • I will be debating that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone.
  46. 546.

    The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were justified

    For

    • "The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were justified. They were both military targets." Respectfully, Con strays from the entire point of the debate in round 2. The previously sourced fact is 40,000 military personnel were in Hiroshima and 20,000 military personnel in…
    • org, and also for your arguments. "Then my opponent gives a very big exaggeration. The fact is, is that Japan had already been defeated. " Con makes the statement Japan had been defeated three times in her opening argument. That is an opinion not a fact. Cite your source if im…

    Against

    • My opponent has this misconception that the whole point of the atomic bombing was because the two cities were military targets and suddenly that justifies the act. The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were justified. They were both military targets. My opponent is for…
    • My opponent states numerous times that Japan had not surrendered, Japan was not defeated. My opponent seems to think that defeat and surrender are two of the same things which is a very large misunderstanding that many people make. Surrender by definition is "Stop resisting to…
  47. 547.

    Roosevelt's New Deal was a success

    For

    • For one single president, roosevelt did a lot. With the help of the three R's, which were relief, reform, and recovery, he managed to get the nation out of depression.
    • Roosevelt started the Civilian Conservation Corps which gave much of the nation's unemployed population job opportunities also, he was smart and heavily taxed the sale of beers and wine...Something very smart of him to do..

    Against

    • Roosevelt really didn't know what he was doing but it mattered little to the public as long as they thought they were getting out of the depression and many agree that it got the country moving toward the buildup of World War II. There was taxes on everything which made it hard…
    • social security taxes on payrolls made it more expensive for emloyers to hire people, which discouraged hiring and the National Labor Relations Act (1935) gave unions monopoly bargaining power in workplaces and led to violent strikes and compulsory unionization of mass…
  48. 548.

    The story of Noah's Ark is historically accurate

    For

    • I will prove that multiple small floods happened. Thus therefore Noah's ark is a historical event. I will not use verses from the Bible.
    • I apologize for my forfeit.

    Against

    • No archaeological evidence exist of a simultaneous and catastrophic flood event. Also the event cannot be proven plausible with current understanding of meteorology, zoology/biology, or the shipping material and technology of the era. if you feel otherwise please accept the…
    • My opponent has apparently forfeited please vote for me.
  49. 549.

    Nationalism was beneficial to Europeans in the 19th and 20th centuries

    For

    • For readers purposes and so our definition is clear, I posted the definition. na�tion�al�ism /ˈn�ʃənlˌɪzəm, ˈn�ʃnəˌlɪz-/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[nash-uh-nl-iz-uhm, nash-nuh-liz-] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation –noun 1. national…

    Against

    • My opponent is yet to respond, so I shall give him (I am assuming) the last word in this debate. Good debate!
    • From dictionary.com nation - a large number of people who share the same history, ancestors, culture etc (whether or not they all live in the same country) This is the historic meaning of a "nation" which I am using for the purpose of this debate. I will first address your…
  50. 550.

    The Soviet Union mattered more than the Western Allies in defeating Germany

    For

    • I agree, I did make several mistakes in me earlier writing. I probably was just not thinking enough. However you also made several errors in your history and in your thinking. -One of the reasons Hitler invaded Russia because he believed that the British hoped that Russia would…
    • Operation Barbarossa was the largest invasion in history. It consisted of over 4 million German, Romanian, Hungarian, Italian, and Finnish soldiers. Hitler believed that with the defeat of the Soviet Union, Britain would become demoralized and surrender. As the Germany advanced…

    Against

    • Very good opening arguments. However, Pro makes some historical mistakes. PART ONE Pro's Historical mistakes 1) Hitler invaded Russia in hopes to demoralize the British Isles. This is a point that is simply not true. The Battle of Britain was the battle meant to demoralize the…
    • But seriously, I love world war two and this will be fun.

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