Introduction to Mr. Wilson's 8th Grade U S History Course

Welcome to 8th grade U.S. History! I hope that you will find this class interesting,

informative—and fun! You will be working very hard to develop new skills and

understand new concepts this year. I strongly believe in challenging students through a

variety of activities that will make history “come alive”. This class is an exploration into the birth and development of America with special focus on the geography, economy, government, military, foreign affairs and the people who helped to shape the new nation. The class will begin with a look at Colonial America and

the events that lead to revolution and independence from England. Students will examine

the United States Constitution and the major debates that helped to shape the young

Republic. Students will study Westward Expansion and the affects it had on Native

Americans, the land and other nations. We will look at the causes and main events that

lead to the American Civil War. Students will study the complex issues connected to

American Reconstruction. Students will comprehend the economic and social factors that

contribute to American Industrialization.