This course is designed to introduce students to the growing
field of Atlantic World studies. Combining traditional 
approaches in history with new perspectives that transcend 
previous divisions between European, American, and Latin 
American history, this course examines conflict and exchange in 
the period 1750-1900. 

A principal objective of the course is to teach students to 
think critically for themselves about the relationships between 
the past and the present, to learn to ask questions of the past 
that enable them to understand the present and mold the future, 
and to become attuned to both the limitations and possibilities 
of change.  The course seeks to acquaint students with the ways 
in which past societies and peoples have defined the 
relationships between community and individual needs and goals, 
and between ethical norms and decision-making.

In general students will be expected to: 

1. read a wide range of primary and secondary sources 
critically.

2. polish skills in critical thinking, including the ability 
to recognize the difference between opinion and evidence, and 
the ability to evaluate--and support or refute--arguments 
effectively.

3. write stylistically appropriate and mature papers and 
essays using processes that include discovering ideas and 
evidence, organizing that material, and revising, editing, and 
polishing the finished papers.

This course is divided into three sections:

Section One examines Africa and the Atlantic slave trade,
including the experiences of Africans in the Middle Passage 
and the rise of abolitionism. Readings include Olaudah Equiano,
Interesting Narrative.

Section Two turns to the African Diaspora, focusing on the 
role of African culture in the Americas, the Industrial 
Revolution, and forced servitude in North and South America. 
Readings include Tomich and Zeuske, “The Second Slavery.”

Section Three addresses rebellion and emancipation in the
Atlantic World, from the Haitian Revolution to independence
movements in Latin America. Readings include Richard Graham, 
ed., The Idea of Race in Latin America.