Introduction to American History

his course provides an introduction to American history, specifically looking at the events that led up to the creation of America as a new nation and important persons and events that helped shape her past. This course does not merely focus on the foundation of the nation in a political sense, but the particular cultures, people, places, events, and ideas that are identified with America.

Students will be challenged to step out of themselves to interact with persons of the past in the context of their time and place. The goal is not simply to memorize facts and dates, but to understand how to apply those facts, dates, and other background information to a more comprehensive understanding of our great inheritance as citizens and peoples of America. 

The course includes regular short quizzes, one paper, a student presentation, and two exams.