Print This PageCOURSE DESCRIPTIONS
An interdisciplinary introduction to the history, literature, art, and religion of Native Americans designed for students seeking a basic understanding of American Indians. Emphasis will be given to the contemporary scene.
Unreq: AMERIND 102.
This variable-topics course will introduce students to selected historical themes depicted by popular film. Students will watch and deconstruct popular historical films within the larger context of scholarly analysis of a particular historic period or event. Evaluation will be based on a variety of essay and objective exams. As well, in-class discussion will form a significant basis for evaluation.
An introduction to the study of American history with emphasis on the evolution of economic, political, social and cultural values and institutions from colonization through the Civil War era.
A study of the United States from 1877 to the present, analyzing the socio-economic, political and intellectual forces that have shaped contemporary values, problems and institutions. This course taken in conjunction with HISTRY 124 provides a complete American history survey.
An introduction to the intellectual, social, and political traditions of China and Japan up to about 1800. The course will analyze the Confucian tradition, Chinese administrative systems, and the dynastic cycle. Japanese cultural and political development will also be discussed.
A survey of China and Japan in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries centering on the process of modernization in both of these countries.
This course examines the emergence and evolution of Islamic Civilizations from the seventh century though the modern era. It covers the birth and spread of Islam, the rise and fall of Muslim Empires, religious and political institutions, scientific and cultural achievements, and the position of women and religious minorities.
Unreq: RELIGST 135.
A critical examination and analysis of the status and role of Black Americans in the United States since 1865.
Unreq: AFRIAMR 141.
This course explores the historic Atlantic community from the Columbian era to 1870. It examines the process which drew together the history of four continents, Europe, Africa, North and South America as a result of the commerce, migrations, and imperial rivalries initiated by the Columbian encounter.
Unreq: RACEETH 150.
An examination of the social, cultural, political and economic forces that have shaped Western civilization from early ancient Mediterranean cultures to the eighteenth century.
A study of European civilizations from the eighteenth century to the present, analyzing the social, economic, political and intellectual forces that have shaped contemporary values, problems and institutions. This course taken in conjunction with HISTRY 154 provides a complete survey of Western civilization.
An exploration of the history of modern science in the Western world, with emphasis on the Scientific Revolution; evolutionary theory and its impact on religion and society; links between science and technology; the emergence of “big” science and the professional scientist; gender, race, and science.
This course will examine human interaction with the natural environment in North American between roughly 1400 and the present. Special attention will be paid to the twentieth century. It will also explore the ways in which people have historically defined, used, and modified nature to suit their needs and interests.
HISTRY 200 HISTORICAL METHODS
This course provides an introduction to the methods and theories historians use to study the past. Through projects and papers, students will develop their skills in critically reading, analyzing, researching and writing about history. They will also be introduced to major trends in historical theory and interpretation.
Prereq: History major, completion of six units in history (may include GENED 120) or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 202 INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC HISTORY
History 202 introduces students to the ideas, methodologies, and practices of public historians through readings, lectures, and class discussions. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to meet historians practicing in the public arena and to produce a collaborative public history project.
Prereq: Completion of six units in history (may include GENED 120) or consent of instructor.
This course examines new historical themes each semester with an expert in the field. In a small seminar setting, classes will focus on discussion of a variety of different kinds of historical sources and provide the opportunity for students to carry out their research project on the topic.
A study of the political, economic, religious, social and cultural developments of the American colonies with emphasis on the seventeenth century.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 301 REVOLUTION AND CONFEDERATION 1763-1789
A study of the revolutionary generation and of the political, economic and social developments of the new nation to 1789.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
A study of the United States between the Compromises of 1850 and 1877, analyzing the issues leading to war, the internal and military problems of the Union and Confederacy and the myths and realities of Reconstruction.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 305 FROM THE GILDED AGE TO THE WORLD STAGE, 1875-1920
This course explores the emergence of modern America, a period of unprecedented economic growth, consumerism, class conflict and political transformation. It examines the dramatic struggles through which the United States became the world’s industrial leader, set a new course toward global leadership, redefined government, and absorbed an increasingly diverse population.
HISTRY 306/506 AMERICA IN PROSPERITY,DEPRESSION AND WORLD WAR II, 1919-1945
An analysis of the political, economic and social trends in the United States during the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and American participation in World War II.
A study of American society, diplomacy, economics, and politics from the end of World War II to the present.
CHICANO 310 HISTORY OF CHICANOS IN THE U.S.: 19TH CENTURY ROOTS AND 20TH CENTURY DEVELOPMENT
(See Chicano Studies)
HISTRY 311 WISCONSIN HISTORY
A study of Wisconsin from its first settlement to the present day with emphasis upon the late nineteenth century and the twentieth century.
A study of women and gender in American history, 1600- 1875. The course focuses on topics of work, family and political activism. Particular attention is given to the diverse and inter-related experiences of women of different race and ethnic groups.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
A study of women and gender in American history, 1875 to the present. The course focuses on topics of work, family and political activism. Particular attention is given to the diverse and inter-related experiences of women of different race and ethnic groups.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of the instructor.
A study of the transformation of the United States from an agrarian and producer-based society to an industrial and consumer-based society. The course examines the ways in which class, race, ethnicity, gender and region have shaped American society and contributed to diversity in the American experience.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 321 A HISTORY OF BLACK MIGRATION IN THE U.S.
This course will examine and analyze the impact of Black migration from rural south to the northern urban centers since the turn of the century.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
Unreq: AFRIMAR 321.
HISTRY 322 UNITED STATES FOREIGN POLICY AND EMPIRE, 1790 TO THE RECENT PAST
This course analyzes the history of the United States’ territorial growth and increasing global influence from the 1790s down to the recent past. In addition to covering the main U.S. diplomatic and military engagements, the course will explore the themes and ideas that underpinned this process of expansion.
A study of the role of the Native American in United States History with special emphasis on Indian policies of the colonizing nations, United States government policies, Indian cultures and contemporary problems and issues.
Prereq: GENED 120 or 3 units of history or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 326 GLOBAL WOMEN'S HISTORY, SINCE 1800
A comparative historical study examining women’s experiences in representative societies in the modern world (Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and the North Atlantic World). The course focuses on themes of work, family and politics. Emphasis is placed on the ways in which women have shaped and been affected by economic modernization, colonialism, political change, traditional views of gender and feminism.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 336 EMPIRES & INVASIONS IN THE PRE-MODERN MIDDLE EAST: 500-1500
“Empires & Invasions in the Pre-Modern Middle East” examines the growth and development Middle Eastern civilization from the eve of Islam through the early modern period. It looks at how the peoples of the Middle East built and sustained one of the richest multi-ethnic empires in the pre-modern world. This course is designed to give students all the tools they need to succeed and assumes no prior exposure to non-Western history.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
This course is an undergraduate survey of modernization in the Ottoman Empire and its Afro-Asian successor states from the Islamic reform movements of the late 18th century until present. It will emphasize the broad sweep of modernization throughout the region, focusing thematically on its geo-political, economic, social, and ideological aspects.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of the instructor.
HISTRY 338 ARAB-ISRAELI CONFLICT, 1900-PRESENT
This course is an undergraduate survey of the Arab-Israeli conflict from the birth of Zionism during the turn of the 20th century until the present. This course will also focus on the political, socio-economic, and cultural repercussions of this conflict.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of the instructor.
A survey of major ideas, concepts, movements, institutions and events that have influenced and shaped African civilization and history.
An introduction to the history of Latin America from pre-Columbian times to 1860. Traces the development of colonial rule and the formation of new nations after 1810. Topics include the nature of pre-Columbian societies, the resistance and accommodations of indigenous peoples to European conquest, the institutions and culture of African slavery, the role of the Catholic church, the evolution of race, gender, and class hierarchies, and fragility of the new nation-states after Independence.
Prereq:Sophomore standing.
This course surveys the history of Latin America from the 1860 to the present, centering discussion on the examples of Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Mexico and Cuba. Topics include the legacy of colonialism, the consolidation of nation-states, Latin America’s participation in the world economy, reformist and revolutionary political movements, military dictatorships, foreign intervention and the emergence of social movements.
Prereq:Sophomore standing.
A survey of the social, economic, political, and cultural history of Mexico from the pre-Columbian period to the present. Emphasis on the twentieth century.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
Examines the revolutionary tradition in Latin America focusing on nations where revolutionary movements came to power: Cuba, Chile and Nicaragua. Why do some revolutionary groups triumph while most have failed? What challenges do revolutionary regimes face once in power? How successful have they been in realizing their goals?
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
A survey of the major social and political developments in English history from the Norman Conquest to the Glorious Revolution. Particular attention is paid to the repeated crises of the English monarchy and the social impact of war, rebellion and revolution during these years.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
A survey of the social, political, and economic history of England in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Special emphasis is placed on British industrial development, the rise of the Labour Party, and the social effects of the two world wars.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 353 ANCIENT HISTORY
A study of the civilization of the Ancient Near East, of Greece and of Rome.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 354/554 MEDIEVAL EUROPE
A survey of basic political, socio-economic, cultural and religious trends in European history from A.D. 300 to 1500.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 355 EARLY MODERN EUROPE, 1300-1600
European history from 1300 to 1600 with emphasis on the Renaissance in Italy and northern Europe and the period of the Reformation.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 361 HISTORY OF SEXUALITY
This course is a survey focused on the comparative examination of particular themes in the history of sexuality worldwide from the society of ancient Greece to the modern world. Students will be introduced to the historical study of such themes as same-sex behavior, pornography, prostitution, birth control and disease, among others.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
A history of American business from colonial times to the present era with emphasis on how business people have attempted to deal with their recurrent problems as an integral part of American society.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 363 FROM GODDESSES TO WITCHES: WOMEN IN PREMODERN EUROPEAN HISTORY
This course is a history of women in ancient, medieval and early modern European history, roughly the period from 4000 BCE to around 1750 CE. It focuses on the role, status and agency of women in different premodern European contexts, with particular focus on politics, culture and religion.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 364 MODERN EUROPEAN WOMEN’S HISTORY
A survey of women’s roles and gender relations in modern Europe from 1750 to the present. Topics include women’s participation in political revolutions and social change; the gender dynamics of imperial conquest and competition; changing discourses on female sexuality; women and the world wars; and the diversity of European feminisms.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 365 WOMEN, SCIENCE AND SOCIETY
Historical survey of women’s contributions to science; case studies of modern women scientists; feminism and scientific knowledge.
Prereq:Junior standing or WOMENST 100.
Unreq: WOMENST 365.
HISTRY 367 HISTORY OF CAPITALISM IN THE WEST
A survey and analysis of the origins and historical development of capitalism in Europe and the West. Particular attention is paid to the social history of capitalism, the role of the state, and the effect of technology on the economy and society.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 371 HISTORY OF RUSSIA TO 1815
A survey of Russian history to 1815, emphasizing its relationship to major problems in European history.
HISTRY 372 HISTORY OF RUSSIA SINCE 1815
A survey of Russian history in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, emphasizing relationships to major European and world problems.
HISTRY 375 THE AGE OF EUROPEAN REVOLUTIONS, 1789-1848
A survey and analysis of the political and economic changes in Europe between 1789 and 1848. Particular attention will be paid to the changing forms of protest, the social impact of revolution, the evolution of political ideologies, and the impact of industrialization on everyday life.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 376 RISE AND FALL OF THE FRENCH OVERSEAS EMPIRE
This survey course introduces students to major themes in the history of French imperialism and colonialism, from first encounters with “New World” inhabitants during the age of exploration to the bloodstained process of decolonization in the second half of the twentieth century.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of the instructor.
HISTRY 377 HISTORY OF TWENTIETH CENTURY EUROPE
A survey of the political, economic, social, and cultural history of Europe since about 1914.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 385 MODERN CHINA
An examination of violent socio-political upheavals in China beginning with the White Lotus Rebellion and culminating with the Communist Revolution.
Prereq:Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 386 MODERN JAPAN
A discussion of Japan’s emergence into the modern world centering on the Japanese transformation from a secluded feudal nation to a powerful industrialized state.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
Unreq: ASIANSTD 386
HISTRY 390 AMERICAN MILITARY HISTORY
A survey of American military history from the colonial period to the present with emphasis on the development of military policy, involvement of the United States in major and minor wars, and civil-military relations.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 394 THE U.S. AT WAR IN VIETNAM
A survey of political, social and military events in two societies with different cultures. Presents a view of war in Vietnam from 1945 through 1975. Emphasis is on the war’s military events, on history, and on the changes wrought in both societies as a result of the war.
Prereq: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 399 RESEARCH METHODS
History 399 is part of the history methods block of courses. Taken in sequence after History 200 and in preparation for History 499, this course will give students experience in exploring diverse archival and secondary source collection in preparation for their writing capstone experience in History 499.
Prereq: HISTRY 200, at least 18 units of History, Junior standing, or consent of instructor
HISTRY 403 HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN WEST
A study of the exploration and settlement of the Trans-Mississippi West with special emphasis on the fur-trading era, Plains Indians culture, and the mythology of the West. Slides and video are used extensively to illustrate the lecture topics.
Prereq: GENED 120 or 3 units of history or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 415/615 HISTORY OF SOCIAL WELFARE IN THE UNITED STATES
Examines ideas and practices of social welfare provision in the United States from the colonial era to the present. The course explores recurring issues such as private vs. state-based provision, definitions of "the needy," and the impact of gender, class, race/ethnicity and economic change on social welfare practices. The course will be of particular interest to those seeking to understand U.S. history or the roots of current social welfare practice and debates.
Prereq:Junior status and 3 units of history (or GENED 120) or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 422/622 GREAT TRIALS IN HISTORY
This course explores major themes in the history of Western European and to a lesser extent the United States’ legal institutions and legal cultures from ancient Greece to modern times. It examines the social, political, legal, cultural and intellectual assumptions that shaped the great trials of the western historical tradition through intensive reading and discussion of both original historical evidence and modern interpretations.
Prereq:Junior standing or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 425 HISTORY OF AMERICAN INDIAN LAW AND POLICY
The purpose of this course is to explain the unique nature of the historic and contemporary federal-Indian relationship. Students completing the course will gain a clearer understanding of the legal process by which American Indians were first subjugated to federal law and policy, and later became active agents by using that same legal system to preserve, protect, and enhance identity and tribal sovereignty in recent years.
Prereq:Junior standing.
HISTRY 455/655 STUDIES IN SOCIAL AND CULTURAL HISTORY (VARIABLE TOPIC)
Intensive study of a major theme in social and cultural history emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to complex historical issues. The particular topic of the course will be published before registration. Repeatable only with change of topic.
Prereq:Junior standing or consent of instructor.
Prereq: Consent of instructor.
Studies designed to increase the student’s understanding of a segment of history by reading and travel under the direction of a member of the department. Area of concentration to be approved by the History Department.
Prereq: Junior standing, 6 units of history, or consent of instructorn
HISTRY 493 PUBLIC HISTORY INTERNSHIP
Study and work with a historical agency under the direction of a faculty supervisor. May include a related research project. Students will have the opportunity to combine academic learning with practical experience in the operation of a historical agency. Repeatable for a maximum of 6 units in the history major.
Prereq: HISTRY 200 and HISTRY 202 or consent of instructor.
HISTRY 496/696 SPECIAL STUDIES IN HISTORY
Repeatable two times for a maximum of 6 units in major/degree.
HISTRY 498 INDEPENDENT STUDY
Repeatable two times for a maximum of 3 units in major/degree.
Prereq:Consent of instructor.
HISTRY 499 SENIOR THESIS
A capstone writing seminar. Senior level History majors employ their previously completed research and analytical skills to complete a perceptive monograph.
Prereq: HISTRY 200 and 399 or consent of instructor.