History

Department of History and Political Science

Our department explores the present and past through two distinct disciplines: History and Political Science. History is the study of the human past as it is constructed and interpreted with human artifacts, written evidence, and oral traditions. It requires empathy for people, respect for intelligent debate, and the skillful use of an evolving set of practices and tools. Political Science addresses questions about the organization and function of governments, public policies and political processes, systems, and political behavior. Political scientists use both humanistic and scientific perspectives and tools and a variety of methodological approaches to examine the processes, systems, and political dynamics of all countries and regions of the world. All History and Political Science courses emphasize critical reading, rigorous research, and strong oral and written communication skills. The History program encompasses a minor and a major, with a special track for future educators at the K-12 level, and minors in Public History and Middle East Studies. The department also offers a major and minor in Political Science, and minors in Pre-Law and Civic Engagement. History majors complete a capstone project through a seminar course, an independent senior thesis, or by being accepted into the fall American Antiquarian Society Seminar. The department supports the Upsilon Rho chapter of Phi Alpha Theta (the National History Honor Society) and is a member of the American Historical Association and the American Political Science Association. 

Faculty

Nathan Angelo, Associate Professor (2016), B.A., Hofstra University; M.A., New York University and City University of New York; Ph.D., New School for Social Research

Erika Briesacher, Professor (2012), B.A., Illinois Wesleyan University; M.A., Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville; Ph.D., Kent State University

Anthony Dell'Aera, Associate Professor (2016), B.A., Trinity College; M.A., Ph.D. Brown University

Martin Fromm, Associate Professor (2013), B.A., Brown University; M.A., Stanford University; Ph.D., Columbia University

Michael Gesin, Professor (2007), B.A., Worcester State College; M.A., Ph.D., Brandeis University

Charlotte Haller, Department Chair, Professor (2004), B.A., Brown University; M.A., Ph.D., University of Wisconsin

Tona J. Hangen, Professor (2008), B.S., Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Ph.D., Brandeis University

Joshua D. Koenig, Assistant Professor (2022), B.A., M.A., Southern Illinois University Edwardsville; Ph.D., Western Michigan University

Tanya Mears, Associate Professor (2010), B.S., Tuskegee University; M.A., Ph.D. University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Alison K. Okuda, Associate Professor (2017), B.A., University of California; M.Phil., Ph.D., New York University

Noa Shaindlinger, Assistant Professor (2022), B.A., Tel Aviv University, Israel; M.A., Ph.D., University of Toronto, Canada

Robert W. Smith, Professor (2007), B.A., Syracuse University; M.A., Ph.D., College of William and Mary

Catriona Standfield, Assistant Professor (2020), B.A.,University of Adelaide; M.A., Ph.D., Syracuse University

 

Courses

HI-103 Connecting Ancient Worlds: World History to 1500

LASC Categories: GP, TLC

Surveys economic, social, political and intellectual developments of global societies and their inter-relationship from ancient times to 1500. Counts for Global/Thematic in the History major.

Fall and Spring and every year. 3 Credits

HI-104 Age of Empires: World History 1500 to the Present

LASC Categories: GP, TLC

Surveys economic, social, political, and intellectual development of global societies world civilizations and their inter relationship from 1500 to the present. Counts for Global/Thematic in the History major.

Fall and Spring and every year. 3 Credits

HI-105 Modern World History

LASC Categories: GP, TLC

Surveys economic, social, political, and intellectual development of global societies and their inter-relationship from 1914 to the present. Counts for Global/Thematic in the History major.

Fall and Spring and every year. 3 Credits

HI-111 US History to 1877

LASC Categories: CON, USW

From colonization through the Civil War era. A study of politics, society, economy, diplomacy, and culture in that period. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Fall and Spring and every year. 3 Credits

HI-112 US History 1865 to the Present

LASC Categories: CON, USW

From the Civil War era to the present. Topics include politics, society, economy, diplomacy, and culture in modern America. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Fall and Spring and every year. 3 Credits

HI-140 We the People

LASC Categories: CON

This course provides historical perspectives on current issues, focusing upon the state and federal constitutions as living documents. Students will develop tools to understand the ways that laws reflect, limit, and shape society. Counts for Europe/US within History major.

Spring only and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-150 Special Topics

Special topics at the introductory level; especially appropriate for first- and second-year students. Geographic region or historical approach varies by course and instructor.

Other or on demand and other or on demand. 3 Credits

HI-155 World History Through Film

LASC Categories: GP, DIV

This course introduces students to several important themes in world history through the medium of film. It will focus on issues of race, class, and gender in different countries during the 20th century up to the present. In addition, it will examine related issues such as colonialism, migration, diaspora, urbanization, family, food culture, music and dance, religion, resistance, genocide, and others. Students will learn how to use film as a historical source, as a product of the place and period in which it was created. It counts for the 100-level Global/Thematic category in the History major.

Alternating and every year. 3 Credits

HI-181 History Explorations Cohort I

This is a one-credit course that is designed to support integrative learning and development of metacognitive skills for students considering teaching history and social studies at the K12 level in Massachusetts. It is the first of a three course sequence that is required for students in the Educators' Track in the History Major, but is open to all History majors interested in exploring social studies education as a career and deepening their history studies.

Other or on demand and every year. 1 Credit

HI-193 First Year Seminar History

LASC Categories: FYS

Introductory level course covering topics of special interest to first year students. Offered only as a First Year Seminar.

Fall only and every year. 3 Credits

HI-200 The Historian's Craft

Prerequisites: one 100-level history course.

A methods course providing hands-on exploration of history as both a professional field and a scholarly discipline.

Fall and Spring and every year. 4 Credits

HI-203 The United States Since 1945

LASC Categories: USW, WAC, DIV, DAC

Explains the history and culture of the United States since 1945. Counts for Europe/US in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-204 History of Science and Technology

LASC Categories: GP, TLC, WAC

Progress of science since the Enlightenment, including applied science or technology from the 19th century. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-205 Native America

LASC Categories: TLC, USW, DIV, DAC

This survey covers the broad sweep of Native American history and focuses on the encounter between American and European civilizations and how Native culture has adapted through the centuries. Counts for Europe/US in the History Major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-206 A History of Warfare

An examination of the role of war in conflict resolution, great battles which changed history, and the impact of technology on war. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-207 American West: Myth and Reality

The historic development of the West, its impact on the American character, and a study of how myths became accepted "fact." Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-208 American Immigrant History

Survey of immigration. Topics such as old-world background, impact on the United States, nativism, cultural pluralism, religion, mobility, family and politics. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-211 History of US Foreign Policy I

LASC Categories: USW

Colonial origins to the era of the Spanish American War. The sources and developments of United States foreign policy in that period. [Cross-listed with PO-211.]. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-212 History of US Foreign Policy II

LASC Categories: USW

From 1900 to recent times: United States foreign policy traditions and the challenges of great power status. [Cross-listed with PO-212.]. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-213 Colonial Latin America

The People of Latin America from Pre-Columbian societies to the wars for independence, focusing on race, sex and power. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-214 Modern Latin America

LASC Categories: TLC, GP, DAC

The people of Latin America from independence to the present, focusing on race, sex and power. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-215 History of American Thought

LASC Categories: TLC, USW, DAC, WAC

Explores the history of ideas in the United States, including major intellectual movements, thinkers, and texts. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-216 Economic History of the United States

An introduction to United States economic development; particular attention will be paid to industrialization and the labor force. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-217 US Social History

LASC Categories: TLC, USW, WAC, DIV, DAC

Considers topics and approaches in the field of social history in the United States. Counts for Europe/US in History major. [Applicable to Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Minor.]

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-218 US Constitutional History I

LASC Categories: CON, HBS, USW

The development of constitutional history to 1865.[Cross listed with PO-218.] Counts for Europe/United States in the History major,

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-219 US Constitutional History II

LASC Categories: CON, USW, HBS

The development of the United States constitution since 1865.[Cross listed with PO-219.] Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-220 American Military History

An overview of American military history from colonial times to the present. Students will develop a conceptual and methodological framework for studying the American military system and how it has changed over time and how it has shaped, and been shaped by, both U.S. and global history. Counts for Europe/United States in the History Major.

Spring only and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-221 African-American History I

The people of African descent from the emergence of the slave trade to the Civil War, focusing on race, gender, and power. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-222 African-American History II

The people of African descent from the end of the Civil War through the twentieth century, focusing on race, class, gender, and power. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-223 History of France I

Domestic and foreign problems of nineteenth and twentieth century France. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-224 English History I

LASC Categories: TLC, WAC

English history from earliest settlement to the reign of Elizabeth I. Origins of the Common Law, Parliament, and English liberty. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-225 English History II

LASC Categories: TLC, WAC

English history through the English Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, the British Empire, the World Wars, and decline. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-226 Latin American History Through Film

This course will explore how filmmakers have portrayed Latin American History in their movies. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-227 American Popular Art and Architectural History

LASC Categories: CA, ICW, TLC

An introduction to and survey of popular architectural and artistic expression in American life from the point of initial European contact with Native American groups through the present. Focus on a variety of material and classifications of art and architecture, including high-style, vernacular, folk, popular, commercial, ethnic, and regionally-oriented materials. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Fall and Spring and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-228 Currency, Commodities, and Crashes: Global Economic History, 1500-2000

LASC Categories: GP, HBS

This course explores economic ideas, events, and institutions in world history, from approximately the rise of modern banking through the Industrial Revolution and into the integration of the early 2000s. This course situates concepts such as labor, long-run/short-run, panics and depressions, capital, trade, political economy, colonialism, currency, and markets in global social and cultural contexts, considering not only economic reasons for the behavior of historical actors but also the importance of economic history (broadly understood) as part of an interdisciplinary approach to research. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Other or on demand and other or on demand. 3 Credits

HI-230 Nicaragua, the US and the World

LASC Categories: DAC, TLC, USW

The course will examine the impact of globalization and imperialism on the lives of Nicaraguans at home and in their diasporic communities. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Spring only and every year. 3 Credits

HI-234 Russian History I

A study of major political, economic, social, intellectual and diplomatic currents in Russia, from the Kievan era to Stalin. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-235 Russian History II

A study of major political, economic, social, intellectual, and diplomatic currents in Russia, from the Kievan era to Stalin. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-236 Modern Far East History I

The cultural, political, and economic roots of modern East Asia, focusing on China, Japan, Korea and Vietnam. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History Major.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-237 Modern Far East History II

LASC Categories: GP

The transformation and re-invention of East Asian societies since World War II. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History major.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-241 English Constitutional History

LASC Categories: GP, HBS

The development of English Constitution from the Magna Carta through revolution, supremacy of Parliament, reform acts, entry into European Union, and devolution. [Cross-listed with PO-241.] Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-243 Introduction to Public History

Introduction to the field, theory, and practice of Public History and associated institutions such as museums, archives, and historical sites. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-245 History of Modern Germany I

The origins and growth of Brandenburg-Prussia; their impact on the rest of Germany from the foundation of the Holy Roman Empire to the emergence of the Second Reich in 1871. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-246 History of Modern Germany II

German economic and political crises from 1870 to the present. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-247 Central America and the Caribbean

This survey examines the political, cultural and social history of Central America and the Caribbean from pre-Columbian times to the present with an emphasis on the 20th century. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-248 Seminar on Globalization & Human Rights

LASC Categories: USW, GP, DAC

A.I.D. program participants in their sophomore year will explore globalization and human rights and issues of personal growth and academic development. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-250 Special Topics in History

Special topics at the introductory or intermediate level; especially appropriate for first and second-year students.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-251 Roots of China's Rise: Reform, Revolution and Reinvention

LASC Categories: TLC, GP

Examines the modern historical roots of China's rise as an international power, from the decline of its last imperial dynasty through the tumults of 20th century social movements to its recent emergence as a global economic power. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-255 Faculty-Led Study Abroad: China Cultural Immersion

LASC Categories: TLC, GP

Experientially based immersion in the culture and society of China, consisting of language study, visits to historical and cultural sites, cultural immersion activities in local life, and the opportunity to engage with Chinese students. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-257 Political Terrorism in Historical Perspective

A comparative approach to the terrorist movements of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, concentrating on the European groups. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-258 Russia Since the Stalin Era

An analysis of the major political, economic and diplomatic developments in the (former) Soviet Union since the death of Stalin; the formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-261 Middle East History I

LASC Categories: TLC, GP

The rise and expansion of Islam; the Caliphate; Muslim religion, civilization and its impact on the West, decline of medieval Islam. Counts for Middle East/Asia in History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-262 Middle East History Ii: the Ottoman Empire, 1289-1920

LASC Categories: GP, TLC, WAC

The Ottoman Empire: expansion, institutions, impact on Europe, decline of the Empire. Counts for Middle East/Asia in History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-263 The Modern Middle East, 1900-present

LASC Categories: GP, DIV

This course is an invitation to reconsider our preconceived notions about the modern Middle East, by way of introduction to the rich history of the region since 1900. Students will learn about the legacies of the Pan-Arabism in the era of decolonization, the politics of oil in the Gulf, and the rise of authoritarian states (Syria, Iraq). We will focus on histories of violence and the struggles of stateless peoples (Palestinians, Kurds, Armenians) and consider the dynamics of popular uprisings, revolutions and rebellions, both failed and successful ones. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-267 US-Latin American Relations

LASC Categories: USW, WAC, DAC

This course will analyze the political, economic, social, and cultural impact of the interactions between and among the governments and people of the US and Latin America. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-270 History of Modern Italy

Study of modern Italy from 1789 to the present.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-274 The History of Gender and Sexuality in America

LASC Categories: TLC, USW, DIV, DAC

The history of sexuality and gender in America. Includes investigations of lesbian and gay histories; transgender histories; attempts to regulate and define sexuality; practices of birth control; the intersections of race, class, and gender; the social construction of gender; and the challenges of doing hidden histories. Counts for Europe/US in the History major. [Applicable to the Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Minor.]

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-276 Jewish History I

This course constitutes a systematic introduction to the Biblical history of the Jewish people down to the 12th century. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-277 Jewish History II

History of the Jewish people from Medieval period to early Modernity. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-278 African History Before 1800

LASC Categories: GP, TLC, DAC, DIV

An introduction to the history of societies and cultures of Africa up to 1800. We will consider such topics as Nubian queens in Egypt, the diffusion of Bantu languages, transcontinental trade networks, the spread of Islam and Christianity, the rise of West African empires, and the transatlantic slave trade. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Alternating and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-279 African History Since 1800

LASC Categories: GP, TLC, DAC, DIV

An introduction to the history of groups and countries within Africa from 1800 to the early 21st century. Like the rest of the world, Africa was also changing rapidly during these centuries. Topics include the extraction of wealth, European colonial rule, pan-Africanism, independence and development during the Cold War, and Africa today. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Alternating and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-280 Introduction to African Diaspora History

LASC Categories: TLC, GP, DAC

Students will learn about the development of the African diaspora and how it has shaped the world since antiquity. We will consider the movements, experiences, and exploits of ordinary people and celebrated figures of African descent through such topics as imperial expansion; slavery, resistance, and freedom; nationalism and the civil rights movement; and current global issues. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Alternating and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-281 History of France II

Social, cultural, and diplomatic developments in France from 1750 to the present. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-282 History Educators Cohort II

Prerequisites: HI-181.

This is a one-credit course that is designed to support integrative learning and development of metacognitive skills for students considering teaching history and social studies at the K12 level in Massachusetts. Students will work with a cohort of future History educators to develop their own pedagogical or educational practice in history, and to support each other. It is the second of a three course sequence that is required for students in the Educators' Track in the History Major, but is open to all History majors interested in exploring social studies as a career and deepening their history studies.

Other or on demand and every year. 1 Credit

HI-285 History of Baseball

LASC Categories: USW, TLC, DAC

History of baseball from the first bat-and-ball games to the present. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-290 Health and Healing in America

LASC Categories: ICW, TLC, WAC

Explores topics in the history of medicine, health, disease, and healing in US history. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-300 The Early National Period of the US: 1783-1829

LASC Categories: USW, TLC

Prerequisites: HI-111

The Confederation, Constitution, the emergence of political parties, and the rise of American nationality. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-301 Research and Writing of History

Prerequisites: HI-200 Historian's Craft

The history of history. A study of historiography, theory of history, and practice of historical research and writing. Continues from Historian's Craft, and lays the foundation for capstone-level work.

Other or on demand and every year. 4 Credits

HI-302 Medieval History

Prerequisites: HI-103

Cultural, social and diplomatic European history of the Middle Ages from fall of the Roman Empire until the rise of the Renaissance. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-303 Colonial History I

Prerequisites: HI-111 and HI-112

European background and reasons for American colonization, intercolonial rivalries, formation of the 17th century English colonies. British colonial policy to 1689. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-304 Colonial History II

Establishment of Georgia, French and Indian Wars, 18th century colonial civilization, causes of the American Revolution, the Revolution to 1783. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-305 Ancient History

Prerequisites: HI-103

The history, culture and politics of ancient Greece and Rome. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-306 Renaissance and Reformation

Prerequisites: HI-103

Intellectual and cultural history of Europe from the middle of the thirteenth to the middle of the sixteenth century. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-308 Europe in the Age of Revolution and Nationalism: 1789-1870

Prerequisites: HI-103 or HI-104

The French Revolution, Napoleon, Congress of Vienna; nationalism, liberalism, socialism; Second French Empire; German and Italian unifications. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-309 Diplomatic History of Modern Europe

The foreign policies of the major European nations from 1870 to the present. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-310 Massachusetts History

Prerequisites: HI-111 or HI-112

A survey of Massachusetts history from its colonial origins to the present era, including the social, economic, political, constitutional development of state history and culture. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every year. 3 Credits

HI-312 20th Century Europe I

Prerequisites: HI-103 or HI-104

The politics and economics of World War I; the pattern of restlessness between the wars in the rise of dictatorship in Germany, Italy, and Spain; the regimentation of economic control. Counts for Europe/United States in History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-313 20th Century Europe II

Prerequisites: HI-103 or HI-104

Politics and diplomacy of World War II; the dynamics of the rebirth of Europe since VE Day. The effects of total war upon Europe. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-314 20th Century Middle East History

LASC Categories: GP, TLC, DAC

Prerequisites: HI-103 or HI-104 or HI-105 or HI-111 or HI-112 or HI-261

The Young Turk Revolution, division of Ottoman Empire in World War I; rise of new states; the Arab-Israeli conflict. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-318 Ethnic Identities in China

LASC Categories: TLC, GP, DAC, WAC

Prerequisites: EN-102 or EN-202

This course examines the modern history of ethnic identity formation in China and its frontiers and borderlands. It explores how China's own history of territorial expansion and political subjugation driven by ethnic minority rule shaped Chinese concepts of ethnic unity and diversity. The intersecting trajectories of European imperialism and Chinese ethnic nationalism will also be discussed, with the goal of situating the construction of ethnic categorization in China to global processes of colonialism and nationalism. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History major.

Alternating and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-319 Material Culture

Focuses on the way scholars use and analyze objects in historical, social and cultural content. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-320 Citizen Nation

LASC Categories: CON, USW, WAC, DIV, DAC

Prerequisites: EN-102 or EN-202.

Explores the history and meaning of citizenship in the United States, including discrimination, rights struggles and changing citizenship criteria. Counts for Europe/US in History major. [Cross-listed with PO-320.]

Fall only and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-321 Museums and Society

Course on the history of museums and their development as a major space for public history and memory. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological for the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-322 Nationalism

LASC Categories: GP, HBS, DAC

Examines the theories of nationalism, the development of the modern nation-state, and its effect on global politics. [Cross-listed with PO-322.] Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-323 Empire

Prerequisites: HI-103 and HI-104

Theories and models of colonization, the reaction of colonized peoples, and the way historians analyze imperialism from 1400 to 1920's. [Cross-listed with PO-323.] Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-332 American Environmental History

LASC Categories: ICW, NSP

Prerequisites: EN-102.

This course explores the impact of environmental conditions on American historical and cultural development and examines changing attitudes toward environmental issues. Environmental history is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the physical, material, cultural, intellectual, governmental, and economic processes, which helped transform and shape our environment and society in different places and times. This course explores American history through an environmental lens. It examines America's interaction with nature the environment, and environmental science since the arrival of Europeans in the fifteenth century. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Fall and Spring and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-333 Women in Latin America

Prerequisites: HI-213 HI-214 HI-226 or HI-247

Examines the roles of women in diverse societies including Mexico, Brazil and Caribbean nations. Emphasis on the modern period. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-334 Environmental Crisis and Management in China

LASC Categories: HBS, NSP

This course will examine the history of the relationship between Chinese society and culture, economic development, state power, scientific theories, and the environment. Recent media reports have highlighted a worsening environmental crisis in China while at the same time reporting on China as a new leader in the development of alternative energy sources. Government, domestic and international non- governmental organizations, urban and rural activists, scientific studies and discourses, and evolving political ideologies will be addressed. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-335 Imperial Crossroads of Modern East Asia

LASC Categories: TLC, GP

Examines East Asian history at the crossroads of Chinese, Japanese, Russian and Korean colonial and nationalist movements in a region called Manchuria, presently China's northeast border with Russia, Korea, and Mongolia. Counts for Middle East/Asia within the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-336 Race, Sex, and Power in the American South

LASC Categories: DIV

Prerequisites: EN-102.

This course covers the history of the American South from its colonial beginnings through the Civil Rights era. We will dissect the tangled history of race and sex in the region from multiple perspectives. Throughout, we will highlight the ways that viewing history from the margins creates an expansive perspective for revealing the structures of power and the functioning of the law in the South. We will question stereotypes of regional distinctiveness and backwardness and critically assess the relationship of the South to the nation. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Alternating and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-337 Travels in Asia

LASC Categories: TLC, GP

Travels in Asia examines modern East Asian history through the lens of Chinese, Japanese, European, and American travel narratives from the seventeenth through the twentieth centuries. Counts for Middle East/Asia in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-342 History of Early Modern Europe

Prerequisites: EN-102.

This course analyzes political, economic, social, intellectual, and cultural developments in Europe in global context from approximately 1450 to the beginning of the revolutionary period (approximately 1780). This course includes major events and phenomena such as the impact of the Reformation, the Thirty Years' War, the Enlightenment, colonization, and the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. This course counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Other or on demand and other or on demand. 3 Credits

HI-345 Religions in America

LASC Categories: TLC, USW, WAC, DIV, DAC

Prerequisites: HI-200 and EN-102 or EN-202.

Considers topics in American religious history and explores religious diversity in the past and in contemporary United States. Counts for Europe/US in History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-349 America on Film

Prerequisites: HI-111 or HI-112

This course examines the origins and nature of the US film industry and how it uses and abuses history from 1893 to the present. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-351 Age of Jackson

LASC Categories: USW, TLC

Prerequisites: HI-111 or HI-112

Political, social, economic, and intellectual developments in the second quarter of the nineteenth century. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-352 Civil War and Reconstruction

Prerequisites: one History course.

The causes, consequences, and meaning of the Civil War and Reconstruction, as viewed from multiple perspectives. Social, political, military and cultural history will all be explored to develop a rich and multi-layered understanding of questions of violence and division, emancipation, voting rights, military service, terrorism, gendered violence, and the draft, among others. Counts for Europe/US in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-353 The Age of Reform: US History,1877-1920

Prerequisites: one History course.

An analysis of the transformation of America, including reform response to the Gilded Age's industrialization, urbanization and immigration patterns. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-356 The History of the Cold War

LASC Categories: USW

Prerequisites: HI-104 or HI-105 or HI-112

The origins of the Cold War, American, Soviet and Chinese foreign policies, arms control negotiations and future prospects. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-366 American Revolutionary Period

Prerequisites: one History course.

The causes, consequences, and meaning of the American Revolution, as viewed from multiple perspectives. Social, political, military, and cultural history will all be explored to develop a rich and multi-layered understanding of questions of representation, taxation, slavery and freedom, Indigenous experiences, military strategy, popular mobilization, and political ideology, among others. Counts for Europe/US in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-373 African Immigration in the 20th Century

LASC Categories: GP, TLC, DAC

Prerequisites: Writing II

Why do we commonly hear about a "brain drain" in African countries or human rights violations of refugees entering Europe? This course examines how these current global issues developed through the history of immigration from the African continent to North America and Europe during the 20th century. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Other or on demand and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-375 Popular Music and Performance in Modern Africa

LASC Categories: CA, TLC, DAC

Prerequisites: Writing II

This course looks at changes in popular music in Africa since the late 19th century. Instead of studying the practice of traditional or art music in Africa, students will gain a stronger understanding of the significance of global connections between Africa and other parts of the world by examining the performance of popular music in a variety of spaces, including streets, nightclubs, and ceremonies. Counts for Africa/Latin America in the History major.

Other or on demand and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-381 The First World War

The origins, course, and consequences of the First World War. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-383 History Educators Cohort III

Prerequisites: HI-282.

This is a one-credit course designed to support integrative learning and development of metacognitive skills for students considering teaching history and social studies at the K12 level in Massachusetts. Students will work with a cohort of future History educators to practice professional development, to analyze historiography for teaching, to understand and apply state standards for educators to the study of history, to evaluate their own pedagogical or educational practice, and to support each other. This is the third and final course of a three course sequence that is required for students in the Educators' Track in the History Major.

Other or on demand and every year. 1 Credit

HI-390 World History for Educators

LASC Categories: TLC, GP

Prerequisites: HI-200

This course examines history through global perspectives for future educators. It deals with pedagogical approaches to and frameworks for teaching on major themes running through global history from premodern to contemporary periods. The course investigates broad themes in global history ranging across technological and scientific discoveries, shifting forces of political power and imperial formation, and the evolution of ideas about culture and society. Counts for Global/Thematic/Methodological in the History major.

Fall and Spring and every year. 4 Credits

HI-391 U.S. History for Educators

LASC Categories: USW

Prerequisites: HI-200 Historian's Craft

This course examines United States history while providing in-depth training and practice in approaching this content area as future educators. It deals with major themes running through US history from its early origins to contemporary periods. The course investigates broad themes in US history ranging across the processes of colonization and imperialism, economic development, slavery, political development, cultural change, and social movements. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Alternating and every year. 4 Credits

HI-400 Independent Study in History

Special topics for advanced research and study under the guidance of a faculty member. Consent of instructor.

Fall and Spring and every year. 1-6 Credits

HI-408 Directed Study: History

Directed study offers students who because of unusual circumstances may be unable to register for a course when offered, the opportunity to complete an existing course with an established syllabus under the direction and with agreement from a faculty member.

3 Credits

HI-420 Seminar in Constitutional History

Prerequisites: one of the following: HI-218, PO-218, HI-219, PO-219, HI-241, PO-241.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of constitutional development. Possible topics may include (but are not limited to) Athenian democracy, the constitutional structure of the Roman Republic, the Magna Carta, the Glorious Revolution, the debate between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists, the ratification of the United States Constitution, and the constitutions of emergent democracies in the modern world. Each student will be required to produce an original paper of significant scholarship. Counts for Europe/United States in the History major.

Alternating and every 2-3 years. 3 Credits

HI-440 Internship in History

Internships in museums, archives, government agencies, etc. at beginning professional level in cooperating institutions, under joint supervision of agency and faculty.

Fall and Spring and every year. 6-12 Credits

HI-445 Public History Practicum

Prerequisites: HI 243 (Introduction to Public History) and 9 credits in the Public History minor

The Public History Practicum is designed to allow students to apply the concepts they have learned in courses progressing to a Public History minor. In this course, students will create, produce, or mount an exhibit, event, or project showcasing their understanding of Public History concepts, methods, and approaches. This project can then be incorporated into a portfolio of students' work in the Public History minor.

Other or on demand and other or on demand. 3 Credits

HI-450 Special Topics in History

Advanced special topics in history; course may be taught as an upper level seminar.

Other or on demand. 3 Credits

HI-460 Senior Research Seminar in History

LASC Categories: WAC, CAP

Prerequisites: any two 100-level History courses and HI-200

Capstone research, writing and portfolio seminar for seniors in the history major; students produce a substantive original research paper.

Fall and Spring and every year. 4 Credits

HI-465 American Antiquarian Society Seminar

LASC Categories: CAP

Prerequisites: HI-200 or Permission of Instructor

The American Antiquarian Society sponsors a prestigious annual seminar each fall for a select group of undergraduates from Worcester colleges and universities; participants produce a substantial original research paper. The topic and theme varies year to year, guided by a visiting scholar at the AAS. Suitable for upper-level undergraduates who can work independently and have strong analytical and writing skills. Usually 2 slots are reserved for WSU students through a competitive application process.

Fall only and every year. 4 Credits

HI-470 Senior Thesis in History

LASC Categories: CAP, WAC

Prerequisites: any two 100-level History courses and HI-200.

History major capstone option for students who intend to write a senior thesis in history.

Fall and Spring and every year. 4 Credits

Program Learning Outcomes

  • Students will recall and explain historical events and facts of significance to their coursework, being able to set them in chronological order.
  • Students will have a working sense of how history unfolded.
  • Students will set historical facts/events in broader context. They will have the “flavor of an era” and be able to connect facts together.
  • Students will experience history as a flow, not as separate discrete “bits” of information.
  • Students will identify primary and secondary sources, and understand the scholarly uses of each.
  • Students can analyze a given source using appropriate questions, methods and techniques.
  • Students will gain information literacy with respect to both printed and online sources of historical information.
  • Students will frame questions for historical research and conduct a program of research inquiry, demonstrating strong and independent research skills.
  • Students will create original works of historical scholarship.
  • Students will reflect on their own learning process and become self-reliant and independent learners.