HIST 206: 

Overview:
From the end of the Second World War to the present, the United States has experienced a period of general economic abundance and world power.  Utilizing primary and secondary sources, students will examine the major themes of this dynamic modern period in our nation’s history.  Topics include postwar politics and anti-communism, the emergence of the welfare state, consumerism, counterculture, social movements aimed at gaining equal rights for women and racial and sexual minorities, race, gender and class relations, domestic policy, war and the nature of democracy.  Throughout the course, student will be asked to think critically about the wide variety of historical experiences among ordinary Americans, as well as the often contradictory relationship between espoused democratic ideals and lived realities. 

Format:
This course  features a combination of lectures and group discussions.   In addition, students will be divided into two smaller discussion sections which will meet separately, as noted below, with the professor for in-depth conversation and analysis of the assigned reading. 
Class attendance is mandatory and roll will be taken daily.  You are here to engage with historical ideas, primary source materials, the professor and each other, so come prepared and enthused.