HIST 448-01, Seminar on Law and Justice in the American South, Fall 2007

Abstract

This course focuses on law and lawlessness in the American South from the early nineteenth century to the late twentieth century. Students will explore the development of substantive law, constitutional thought, and legal institutions in the southern states, as well as white and black southerners’ attitudes and ideas about law and justice. Specific topics will include honor and violence in the Old South, the law of slavery, communal justice and lynching, and the effect of religious values on substantive law and constitutional ideals. This course is a seminar. That means that each student must complete the assigned readings and come to class prepared to discuss them; it also means that there will be a major research paper required of all students. After finishing this course, students should have a broad understanding of the historical development of law and justice in the American South, an appreciation for the competing interpretation of historians on the topic, as well as improved written, oral, critical thinking, and research skills.