Fall 2003

HIS 315L • United States since 1865

Course Description

This course serves as an introduction to the history of the United States since the Civil War. Specifically, we will consider struggles by diverse groups for equal citizenship, consequences of industrial and technological expansion, the nation's emergence as a global power, and debates over the government's expanding role. We will pay special attention to the role popular culture plays in reflecting and shaping American values. This course will also provide students with a basic understanding of historical methods. This course partially fulfills the legislative requirement for American history.

Grading Policy

TENTATIVE GRADING POLICY 2 Tests, each worth 30% of the course grade, include a reading comprehension section and an essay section based on lectures and readings covering a portion of the course. 1 Paper, worth 30% of the course grade, based on use of primary and secondary sources provided in the Supplemental Reading Packet and one of the assigned books. 2 In-Class Assignments, each worth 5% of the course grade, identifying items and providing their historical significance by linking them to larger themes presented in class.

Texts

James W. Davidson, et al., NATION OF NATIONS, Concise, Vol. II. Supplemental Reading Packet of primary source documents John F. Kasson, AMUSING THE MILLION: CONEY ISLAND AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY Nancy A. Walker, ed., WOMEN'S MAGAZINES: GENDER ROLES AND THE POPULAR PRESS, 1940-1960 Anne Moody, THE COMING OF AGE IN MISSISSIPPI

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