Course Title: “Shaping America: A Journey through American History”

Course Description:

The course “Shaping America” offers a comprehensive survey of American history from pre-colonial times to the present day. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, readings, and multimedia presentations, students will explore the key people, places, and events that have shaped the nation’s identity and its place in the global context. The course aims to provide students with a deep understanding of the forces that have influenced American society, politics, culture, and economy over time.

Key People, Places, and Events:

1. Founding Fathers: Highlighting figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin to understand the ideals and principles upon which the nation was built.

2. Civil Rights Movement: Emphasizing the struggles led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X to achieve equality and justice for all citizens.

3. Industrial Revolution: Exploring the impact of inventions like the steam engine and the rise of industrial capitalism on American society and economy.

4. World War II: Analyzing the US involvement in the war, the homefront experience, and the emergence of America as a global superpower.

5. Civil War: Examining the causes, key battles, and consequences of this defining conflict in American history.

Books and Readings:

1. “A People’s History of the United States” by Howard Zinn: Offers an alternative perspective on American history, focusing on the experiences of marginalized groups.

2. “Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln” by Doris Kearns Goodwin: Provides insights into Lincoln’s leadership during a tumultuous period in American history.

3. “The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration” by Isabel Wilkerson: Explores the movement of African Americans from the South to Northern cities in search of a better life.

Justification:

– Diversity of Perspectives: Including readings like “A People’s History of the United States” ensures that students are exposed to diverse viewpoints and understand the complexities of American history.

– In-depth Analysis: Books like “Team of Rivals” and “The Warmth of Other Suns” offer nuanced analyses of key historical events and figures, encouraging students to think critically.

– Relevance: By studying events like the Civil Rights Movement and World War II, students can draw connections between past struggles and contemporary issues, fostering a deeper appreciation for the relevance of history in today’s world.

Overall, “Shaping America” seeks to engage students in a thought-provoking exploration of American history that goes beyond memorizing facts to understanding the complexities and nuances of the nation’s past.