U.S. History to 1877

U.S. History to 1877

HIS 111 (Section 2) • MWF 9:45-10:50 a.m. • RW 336 • Fall 2009
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J. Mark Souther, Associate Professor of History, Cleveland State University
B.A. Furman University, M.A. University of Richmond, Ph.D. Tulane University

Office: RT 1934 • Tele: (216) 687-3970 • Email: m.souther@csuohio.edu
Office Hours: MF 1:35-2:45 p.m., or by appointment on MWF only
Course website:  http://souther111.clevelandhistory.org

This course explores the early contacts between Europeans and indigenous peoples in the Americas, European colonizing projects in North America, the origins of American slavery as a labor institution, the American Revolution, the formative years of the early Republic, the development of a national economy and distinctive American culture, the growing sectional rift between slaveholding and non-slaveholding states, the outbreak of the Civil War, and the tumultuous era of Reconstruction.  In this course you will learn how specific historical events and eras fit within the broader context of American history as well as the broader Atlantic world.  You will not only gain a deeper understanding of the origins and early development of the United States but also have an opportunity to sharpen your critical thinking skills through consideration of diverse historical interpretations and analysis of primary and secondary sources.  The course also offers opportunities for you to demonstrate your ability to articulate historical arguments through in-class discussion and written assignments, as well as to apply basic historical concepts, methodologies, and approaches.

This blog is hosted by your instructor, Professor J. Mark Souther.  For your complete syllabus in PDF format, click here.  For more information about Professor Souther, see the Cleveland State University Department of History website.