HIS 2902 - HISTORY OF RECENT AMERICA

credits: 3.0
Will explore the major domestic and foreign policy developments in United States history from the early 1960s to present times. Will discuss the development and end of the Cold War and its role in creating a vast national security state at home and major commitments abroad. Will also discuss how the challenges of globalization have shaped both the American economy and foreign policy during the last three decades. In discussing these topics will examine the United States’ current battle against different groups of Islamic extremists, the so-called “war on terror.” Other topics that will warrant attention include: the struggles for racial justice and gender equality; the increasing diversity of American society; and the growing ecological crisis. While examining the last topic will explore how this nation’s dependency on oil shapes its foreign policy, especially in the Middle East. Objectives: A) To explore major themes and topics in twentieth century American history with particular emphasis on the period since the early 1960s. B) To develop students’ analytical skills, especially through class discussion and written assignments. Method of Evaluation: Two papers based on assigned readings, class discussion of readings and occasional documentaries, midterm, and final exams. Meets *WEP Distribution Requirement.