#### Policies

Content note: note: This course deals with war, slavery, and violence—including sexual violence. Violence is a central part of the American past and cannot be ignored. But we must also recognize that, in some circumstances, reading about violence can be challenging or even traumatic. As a class, we must treat this material with care and sensitivity, recognizing that some among us may have faced traumatic experiences in the past. If you find yourself uncomfortable with some of the material, please speak with me and we will work together to find a solution.

Religious holidays: holidays: This course respects students’ observance of religious holidays. Please speak with me ahead of time if you need to be absent for a religious holiday.

#### Late work:

Late assignments are penalized by 20% for every class day that they are late.

Identity: This class respects any student’s rights to determine their own name(s), pronouns, and identities. If you feel that these rights are not being respected, please speak with me.

Respect: The success of this class depends on an open exchange of ideas. This is only possible in an environment of tolerance and mutual respect. We may disagree, but we will not attack one another. Students are expected to be respectful to others at all times in the classroom. This means that any kind of distracting or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. If you have any questions about this policy or its implementation, please speak with me.

Privacy: I consider most written work turned in for the class to be fair game for class discussion unless it clearly discusses sensitive personal matters. If you would prefer that I refrain from referring to a part, or all, of your written work in class discussion, please indicate that when you turn it in.

Electronic devices: devices: You will often use your laptop in this class to explore primary sources, so try to bring it as much as possible. I will remind you to bring your laptop on days when it is especially necessary. ISU requires that you have a functioning laptop, but if you do not have one, please get in touch with me ASAP.

During some phases of the class, such as lecture and discussion, laptops are less necessary. You are welcome to use them for note taking, but I may revoke this privilege for students who abuse it (it is very easy to tell when you are using your laptop for other reasons). Please refrain from using your phones during class unless it is for a sanctioned purpose.

Email communication: communication: I expect all students to regularly check email. I am usually available over email. For simple queries (such as “When is the assignment due?”), please consult the syllabus before emailing me. However, I am more than happy to respond to emails seeking clarifications, advice, or suggestions. I expect you to communicate professionally and clearly over email. But you don’t have to have a question or need help to email me—feel free to get in touch with a comment or to pass along something you think I might find interesting!

Office hours: hours: You do not need an appointment to meet with me during office hours. Please do come and speak with me about any questions you may have—about the course, the readings, history, my expectations, or anything else. If my office hours are inconvenient for you (or if you’d like to meet somewhere else), please send me an email and we will figure something out.