American History I

Catalog description

This course is a survey of the United States from the pre–Colombian period to 1877. The course will introduce students to the major political, social, eco- nomic, religious, cultural, intellectual, and technological developments in American history through reconstruc- tion and the post–Civil War era. Topics will include, but are not limited to: pre–Colombian civilization, European exploration and conquest of the New World, development of European colonies, the colonial era, the American Revolution, the Constitution, economic changes, early industrialization and the formation of political parties. The institution of slavery will be closely examined, as will the concept of Manifest Des- tiny and the demise of Native American tribal life. The significant causes and events leading to the American Civil War will be discussed as will the military history of the war and reconstruction. The administrations of Jefferson, Jackson, Polk, and Lincoln will also be examined in detail.