HIST 4640 - New Nations, 1815-1850

Credit Hours: (3)

Description: This course covers US History, 1815 through 1850, and introduces students to the political, economic, and social processes involved in state formation in North America. Students will examine the relationship between nation-states and citizenship, with an emphasis on often-competing American identities. This course will cover important historical themes that include revolutions in market, transportation, and technology; the growth of the institution of slavery; shifting political factions and popular dissent; and contests for power and resources, notably Indian Removal.

Throughout this course, students will engage with relevant primary and secondary sources and think about what these sources tell us about life in the first half of 19th century, a time that was rapidly changing and conflict-ridden. In this course, students will write critical evaluations of the material presented, and discuss your assumptions, conclusions, and concerns of study as you develop an awareness of the wide range of experiences and the diversity of viewpoints represented.