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CS92PROD
The 20th Century United States

HIST 240
Fall 2010
Section: 01   02  
Crosslisting: AMST 230
Certificates: Civic Engagement

This course addresses the changing shape of American political culture over the course of the 20th century. Central to our discussions will be the values and convictions-social, political, religious-that have moved citizens, political parties, and policy agendas over time. Under what conditions can citizens and politicians alter history? Under what conditions does history itself seem to have a profound influence over political decision making? How do different political groups attempt to harness the state-or eliminate government participation in their lives-to solve pressing social problems?

Though this class will cover the entire scope of American history since 1912, we'll focus our attention on three vitally important periods of change: the Great Depression of the 1930s, when the economic liberalism of the New Deal fundamentally transformed the nation; the social upheavals of the 1960s, when Americans became increasingly polarized over issues such as the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, and social changes; and the modern resurgence of conservatism since the 1970s in a broad range of American life.

Essential Capabilities: Effective Citizenship, Interpretation
Effective Citizenship: Readings and assignments will emphasize political participation, the creation and articulation of a political vision, and how ideas about citizenship develop and change over time.

Interpretation: Students will use analytical tools to explore a variety of historical interpretations. They will also deconstruct the assumption underlying seemingly absolute categories, while learning how to engage individuals with different views.
Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS HIST
Course Format: Lecture / DiscussionGrading Mode: Graded
Level: UGRD Prerequisites: None
Fulfills a Requirement for: (AMST)(CIVI-MN)(EDST)(HIST-MN)(HIST)(STS)
Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available

Last Updated on DEC-21-2024
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