History

A topical survey of American history from the colonial beginnings to the present with special emphasis on major themes, turning points and historical interpretations. Introduction to historical method through the study of primary sources also is emphasized.

A survey of the cultural, social, political, and economic history of Asia from the 15th century to the present.

An introduction to historical research, writing, and criticism through concentrated study of a selected topic or period. Recent topics include: Shamanism; Women & Gender in Latin America.

A study of the role that organized recreation and amateur and professional sports have played in American life and society, from colonial times to the present.

A study of a particular period of development for which there is no specific, regular course. (Offerings in Fall 07 include a Carthage Symposium examining modern European and American ideas about aristocracy and democracy, cross-listed with political science; a seminar on European integration after the Second World War, cross-listed with political science; and an examination of the classical world in late antiquity, cross-listed with classics.)

A comprehensive history of two major Midwestern cities from earliest European settlements to the present. Students will prepare three papers for class presentation and discussion: one on the history of Chicago, one on the history of Milwaukee, and one comparing the two cities. Field trips to Chicago and Milwaukee are a required part of the course.

An in-depth study of Chinese history from the early nineteenth century to the present with special emphasis on the role of Mao Tse-tung in shaping the People's Republic of China.

A study of Japanese history from the early nineteenth century to the present with emphasis on native Japanese culture, Western influences, modernization, imperialism, militaristic and democratic forces, World War II, and the recent emergence of the nation as a world economic leader.

American legal history is best understood as an examination of the ways in which society influences and shapes the law and is in turn impacted by the legal system. The course provides a selective examination of some of the major developments in the history of 19th and 20th century American law that underscore this symbiotic relationship. Cases drawn from civil, criminal, and constitutional law will be examined as well as appropriate statutes and legal commentary. Some consideration will also be given to famous American trials.

The capstone of the history major:  each seminar member produces a research paper on a topic of his or her own choosing, in consultation with the seminar leader, and based in part on primary material.