Chemistry in World Wars I and II

Catalog description

The study and assessment of chemical developments during the First and Second World Wars will form the backbone of this course. As the course is historically focused on the period from 1914 to 1945, the students will develop a basic understanding of the significant historical events that led to the development of chemical innovations in materials, medicine, and weapons. To understand the scientific context of these developments, the students will also learn about the basics of chemistry, including recognizing the nature of the scientific process and discovery. In addition, the students will read, evaluate, and discuss primary and secondary sources to provide them with further insight into significant figures, events, and developments. These lectures, readings, and discussions (along with other assignments) will allow students to explore the ethical dimensions, the economic effects, the social consequences, and the public health impact that these scientific discoveries had on scientists, soldiers, and civilians. The students will also ascertain how many of the scientific discoveries made between 1914 and 1945 have had both beneficial applications and detrimental effects since 1945.