HIST 233-02, The United States in the Twentieth Century, Spring 2009

Abstract

The twentieth century was a period of profound cultural, political, and economic change in the United States. What was once mainly a rural nation emerged as the world’s leading industrial and military superpower. Through analysis of secondary and primary sources, films, and group discussion, students will explore the transformation of the United States political economy and its impact on American culture. How do historians explain the transformation of American liberalism? How did the major social conflicts of the twentieth century change American perceptions of race, class, and gender in society? How did prosperity and consumerism influence American values and beliefs? By studying these questions and others this class intends to provide students with a greater awareness of the complexity of American history and culture and the experiences of “ordinary” Americans.History is the study of change over time. And, while this course will not focus on rote memorization, gaining factual knowledge about the major events, people, and ideas that shaped this period in history is essential to understanding how and why these changes occurred.Much of our understanding of history relies on our ability to interpret past events. Students will be required to learn the theories and explanations historians have used to explain the social, political, and economic changes taking place in the nineteenth century.By critically analyzing others points of view, theories, and challenging their ideas and conclusions students will be encouraged to develop their own vision of history by reading and discussing primary and secondary sources.Students will be graded on their ability to demonstrate their knowledge of the period, understanding of historical theories and theses, and ability to think critically in writing and orally.