THIS IS A TWO-SEMESTER COURSE.

This course focuses on the American Revolution and the diverse people and places on the North American continent. Students will examine various economic, social, and political characteristics of each colonial region. They will investigate the early interactions of Native Americans with Europeans and the competitions that developed among the European powers. They will also learn about the Atlantic Slave Trade and its forced diffusion of culture to the New World.

Students will learn the events that led to the American Revolution by being introduced to the battles, people, and documents that moved the United States forward. They will examine the outcome of the Revolution and the significant construction of the new constitution, and they will discuss the creeds and ideals that were established during the early Republic. They will gain an understanding of the important compromises that created the U.S. government and the balance of powers centered around federalism. Finally, by studying the westward expansion of the United States, the students will understand how the new nation exerted power over the French, Spanish, English, and Native peoples already living in North America.

Class Meetings: Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time
Fall Semester: August 21 – December 18, 2025
Spring Semester: January 15 – May 14, 2026

Student Support: The instructor will be available via email and also via individual face-to-face online conferences.

Feedback/Assessment: Students will be assessed on their written work.

Materials: All reading materials will be available on the internet. Please have a working printer for special assignments.