This course examines the history of the United States from the end of Reconstruction to the end of the Vietnam War. As we move into the 20th century, the course shifts to the impact of the corporations, bureaucracy, consumerism, government activism, rights-based reform, and globalism on American society and culture. Lectures take a panoramic view of events, while readings explore the effect of events on individuals. Readings include contemporary novels and memoirs, which are treated as primary documents.
Lectures alternate with discussions of readings.
Three papers based on class readings form the substance of written assignments. As such, this course fulfills the writing requirement.