HIST 257 - The Atlantic Experience to 1877

Credits: (3)
Our understanding of early American history is essential to how we situate ourselves in today’s society. The complex origins of American life are based in the experience of travel across the Atlantic Ocean and demonstrate an amazing diversity of ideas and beliefs. This class is a survey of American history from the colonial period through the Civil War, and will cover topics such as the slave trade, ethnic relations, political struggles, and the arguments over the formation of an American identity apart from the global stage. Through in-class lectures, multimedia, the textbook, and document based readings, this class will equip you to understand the historical themes that shape our lives today, in addition to teaching you how to form your own opinions based on the facts. This course is especially useful for education majors and those entering public service.