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for a past academic year. Please see the current academic year for up to date information.
| Unit name |
History of the USA Before 1865 |
| Unit code |
MODL23009 |
| Credit points |
20 |
| Level of study |
I/5
|
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
|
| Unit director |
Dr. Brian Miller |
| Open unit status |
Open |
| Pre-requisites |
None
|
| Co-requisites |
None
|
| School/department |
School of Modern Languages |
| Faculty |
Faculty of Arts |
Description including Unit Aims
An introduction to the recent history of the United States, for non-specialist students.
Aims:
- To introduce students to a significant body of knowledge of a complexity appropriate to second year level. The content matter will normally include one or more of the following: literature; social, cultural or political history; linguistics; cultural studies; film, television or other media.
- To facilitate students’ engagement with a body of literature, including secondary literature, texts, including in non-print media, primary sources and ideas as a basis for their own analysis and development. Normally many or most of these sources will be in a language other than English and will enhance the development of their linguistic skills.
- To develop further skills of synthesis, analysis and independent research, building on the skills acquired in units at level C.
- Some options may prepare students for the experience of the Year Abroad.
Intended Learning Outcomes
This 10-week weekly unit covers American history from Native American and early colonial times c. 17th century to the end of the American Civil War 1861-65. The range of lectures is as follows:
- History and destiny of the Indians of North America
- Colonial British America and origins of the Revolution
- American Revolution or War of Independence 1775-1783
- Foundation of the American republic: US Constitution past & present
- Three Founding Fathers: Jefferson, Hamilton and Madison
- The Age of Andrew Jackson and Jacksonian democracy 1828-48
- Foreign relations of the young republic: 1775-1865
- Nature of slavery and the coming of the American Civil War 1850-60
- Lincoln and the American Civil War 1861-65 (two lectures)
Teaching Information
Normally one lecture hour and one seminar hour per week across one teaching block (22 contact hours), often with student presentations. In units with a smaller number of students the lecture hour may be replaced by a second seminar or a workshop. Units involving film may require students to view films outside the timetabled contact hours.
Assessment Information
4000 word essay 85%, class test 15%
Reading and References
Preliminary reading:
Bailyn, Bernard: The GreatRepublic
Boyer, Paul: The Enduring Vision
Brogan, Hugh: Penguin History of the United States of America
Deloria, Philip: This Land vol. I
