HIST 343-01, Slavery in the United States, Fall 2009

Abstract

The purpose of this course is to attain a fundamental knowledge of one of the most complex and controversial experiences in United States history. This course will examine various social, economic, and political factors in an attempt to explain why slavery developed as it did. Also, because slavery remained in the United States over such a long period (approximately 240 years), we will discuss how it changed over time. Students will consider the role historians play in shaping popular conceptions of historical events. Using primary and secondary sources and film, students will come to a greater understanding of the central issues presented in the course, and respond to these issues in a series of critical essays and one longer writing project.