Three hours of history at 100 level. An intensive study of American life, customs, character, and social problems, from the colonial era through the mid-nineteenth century. Although the course would generally be classified as lecture, significant portions of class time are devoted to questions designed to stimulate critical thinking skills and the examination of primary documents which introduce students to the basic raw materials of historical study. In addition, regularly scheduled class periods are reserved for discussions on assigned readings and monographs.
Students prepare written critical analyses as preparation for thoughtful discussions.