American Stories: Themes in American History to 1877

This course provides a survey of American History while identifying and focusing upon particular themes which characterized the founding of the United States through the period of Reconstruction after the Civil War. Themes covered might include the evolution of American identity, politics and citizenship, Americans and the land, warfare and conflict in the shaping of America, inequality and dissent or liberty and slavery. Students will explore the negotiation of values, beliefs, and cultural practices which was worked through during the early period of American history with a view to better understanding the foundations of modern, multicultural America.