This course studies the U.S. military as a central component of institutional history. It deliberately neglects the traditional emphasis on tactics and weapons technology. This class will also emphasis the difficult, awkward, and often contradictory relationship between perceived need for a professional military force and the insistence on individual freedom deemed crucial to a democracy. Exams may include identifications, short answers, and an essay.
Makeups require prior consultation with the instructor.
Students are solely responsible for initiating procedures to drop the class. I am committed to complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act and pledge to assure that disabled students are appropriately accommodated in my class. If you require an accommodation based on a disability, the law also requires you to inform your instructor at the beginning of the semester and provide documentation through the Office for Students with Disabilities. Although I prefer an atmosphere of informality and good humor, rudeness is unacceptable and common courtesies will be enforced. Students should attend all classes, although no records will be kept.