Modern American History

Modern U.S. History - Imperialism & World War I

Welcome to American History! We will start at the beginning of the 20th Century and journey all the way to the present. Our primary objective is to examine and analyze the events and literature that American experience. We will not just study the facts, we will evaluate the pro’s and con’s of the decisions made in our past and how they affect our present world. History is not just a study of the past, it is a study of our lives.

To fully be able to explore history; we must be active participants in that exploration. Which means, participation in class are a major part of this course. YOU WILL be giving presentations, both in groups and as individuals. History is not for the casual bystander. To be blunt, you get what you put into it. If you do not put much effort into it, you’ll most likely not enjoy this course. However, if you come to class with an open mind and put forth that effort this may be a class that will enrich your life (in the things you learn and the fun you’ll have). Possessing a knowledge of one’s history can be very influential on what we choose to do with our lives. My suggestion is that we all keep an open mind, and we can work together to make this a fun, yet challenging learning experience.

COURSE EXPECTATIONS:

~ Students will bring a writing utensil (a pencil or a pen), and notebook every day.

~ All papers assigned will be typed (NO EXCEPTIONS) and turned in ON TIME in order to receive full credit. Typically 2 points for each day its late on short assignments, and one letter grade for each day its late for projects and the research paper.

~ All students WILL RESPECT the rights and thoughts of other people in the classroom.

~ Students will deposit their phones in the phone hotel at the start of class where it will remain until class ends.

We will cover the following topics:

~ The 2000's

~ Immigration

~ Business & Labor

~ World War One

~ Roaring 20’s & Prohibition

~ The Great Depression

~ World War II

~ Cold War

~ Civil Rights Movement