Themes in American History

This course is designed to introduce students to the historical development of fundamental American political and social institutions through the close examination of a major theme in American history. Themes might include but are not restricted to the issue of divided political sovereignty in a federal system, the national experience of war, the changing demography of Americans, the frontier, rural-urban tensions, or reform movements in America. The course will also introduce students to the principles of historical inquiry through small-group projects, written exercises in evaluation of historical sources, and discussion of historical debates over interpretation and evidence. It is recommended that students who have a strong background in American history take HIS 2050 or 2053, or HIS 1001 or 1003.