Credential Course Equivalency

This course deals with the history of early North America and the United States from the first European-Native American contacts in the fifteenth century through the end of Reconstruction in 1877. Major themes will include the simultaneous development of slavery and notions of individual liberty, the role of religion in shaping colonial and national society, and the environmental and epidemiological foundations of America’s history. Learning outcomes include: (1) Gain knowledge of some of the major developments in American history to 1877 (pre-Columbian societies, Europe’s invasion of the New World, colonization, the American Revolution, establishment of the Constitution, foreign affairs, westward expansion, gender relations, slavery, sectionalism, Civil War, and Reconstruction), including an understanding of key historical terms and arguments. Demonstrate this knowledge in exams, papers, and class discussions. (2) Hone the ability to analyze questions and issues in American history to 1877, assess historical information accurately, and distinguish between questionable and valid historical assertions in exams and papers. (3) Learn through example and practice in classroom activities, papers, and exams to evaluate primary and secondary sources skillfully and honestly. (4) Learn to skillfully integrate data into coherent arguments expressed through a clear, well-written style in exams, papers, class discussion, and other classroom learning activities.