Course Description
Explores the American West from 1850-present. Topics include the building of the trans-continental railroad, the American plains, Indian policy and wars, mining and agriculture, the purchase of Alaska, tourism in the 20th century, and the effects of World War II and the Cold War on the West.
Athena Title
AMER WEST SNC 1850
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1) Study the history of the American West through a variety of sources examining both settlers and Native Americans. 2) Examine perspectives on the modern West, from the myths of novels and films to more recent work on cultural exchange, frontiers and boundaries, and the role of the environment. 3) Develop research and writing skills through assignments focusing on primary and secondary sources.
Topical Outline
-- Cowboy mythology and the American dream -- Manifest Destiny: trans-Mississippi West expansion -- The trans-continental railroad -- "The Great Round Up" and the creation of Indian reservations -- Ranching and mining -- Agriculture and the environment -- Tourism in the West -- World War II, the Cold War, and the American West
Syllabus