History

Courses

HIST120W: Contemporary World Issues

Contemporary World Issues explores the complex interactions between nations and peoples in today's world. This course provides historical background to broach a number of contemporary global issues. Given that these contemporary issues have political, ethical, economic, social, historic, and geographic ramifications, this course engages students in critical, thoughtful analysis. Topics may include energy, race, ethnicity, religion, economics, conflicts, terrorism, global trade, environmental issues, current political climates, civil and human rights, scientific and technological advances.

HIST211W: America in the 20th Century

America in the 20th Century offers a survey of U.S. history from 1900 to the turn of the century focusing on areas of social, economic, political, and diplomatic interest.

HIST213W: United States in the Great Depression

United States in the Great Depression offers an in-depth examination of the economic, political, cultural, and social impact and consequences of the events occurring between years 1929 and 1941. The course places special emphasis on the relationships between corporate and governmental institutions as these relationships emerged, developed, and affected the United States.

HIST214W: Ancient Western Civilization (Pre-history to 1500)

Ancient Western Civilization introduces students to the development of institutions, ideologies, and events that shaped the foundations of Western civilization. The course explores the origins and evolution of Western civilization up to the late Middle Ages, beginning with the Classical Greek and Roman periods. Methods of instruction include lectures, readings, class discussions, and video presentations. Using a cultural approach, the course analyzes these formative centuries up to the year 1500.

HIST215W: Modern Western Civilization (1500 to Present)

Modern Western Civilization examines the cultural, political, economic, and religious evolution of Western thought and the development of Western civilization from 1500 to the present. The course explores the decline of absolute monarchies, the rise of revolutionary ideologies, the Enlightenment, political revolutions in Western nations, industrialization, the birth of modern science, and the process of change in contemporary Western society.

HIST216W: United States History to 1877

United States History to 1877 is a survey of American history from earliest colonial settlements to the conclusion of the Civil War/Reconstruction Period. The course emphasizes the European discovery of the Americas; the development of cultural, economic, and political institutions in colonial times; the coming of the revolution and the consolidation of the republic; the expansion of democracy; the westward movement; and the Civil War.

HIST220W: Liberty and Tyranny

Liberty and Tyranny examines liberty and tyranny as opposing ideological principles in the governing of peoples and nations. Students study power centers and the abuses of power; the rule of law and foundational documents that secure freedom; the use of propaganda, education, and economic conditions, as well as other issues that relate to human rights and the role of government, especially the necessity of citizen participation. The course also covers the role of institutions and foreign influences. Throughout this study of liberty and tyranny, students make connections with events occurring in America. The course culminates in a research paper on a tyrant, past or present, of the student's choice.