Posting because I am desperate. I have a semester essay due in 8 days and haven't even come up with a topic yet. This is a college-level assignment, but any help is appreciated.

The essay needs to have a central argument relating to something in U. S. history between the end of Reconstruction and WWI (Gilded Age through the Progressive Era). I've never written a paper with a central argument before, just expository papers. I am at a loss. I have been trying to come up with a topic for WEEKS. I spoke to my professor about my concerns but didn't get much help.

Can anybody help me come up with a topic?