Divided into three sections, the first section of the course covers the 1840s and 1850s to 1861. The social, economic, diplomatic, legal, constitutional, and military aspects of the period will be studied. This course meets the Historical Studies component of the General Education requirements and is approved for WR credit. Lectures on appropriate days with discussions of the readings highlight the major arguments and issues. Student questions are welcomed at all times and students are expected to participate in the discussions.
Students are responsible for all material covered in the lectures, discussions, and readings.
Graduate students are expected to read more widely and produce more written work than undergraduate students. No make-up examinations are given. The final exam is Comprehensive. Book reviews will be marked and returned to students for rewriting and correction. All term papers must contain both footnotes and bibliography.