The course focuses on central themes and issues in the development of American society and institutions by raising questions about human values, economic growth, institutional change, cultural development, and political democracy as Americans have faced them since 1877. Course requirements include short position papers, a longer paper, an essay midterm and final exams, and active participation in class discussions. This course is a survey course covering major themes, issues and topics in American history from 1877 to the 1980's. We will focus on selected social, political, diplomatic, economic and cultural developments which have shaped the nation, all its regions and all its people. This course will consist of lecture, class discussion and numerous reading and writing assignments.
Attendance is absolutely essential.
This course will emphasize critical thinking and analysis rather than strict memorization. Students will grapple with problems of historical perspective and interpretation, and are expected to participate in discussion, raise questions and form opinions based on the material presented in lecture and in reading assignments. Students will be evaluated on their participation in class discussions and projects and on their completion of all written assignments. The African American Historical Experience is a study of the contributions and experiences of African derived people in America from Reconstruction to the present. Course will include use of standard text, collateral readings and is African and African American centered.