About this class

We live in an urban age. Half the world’s population now lives in cities; by 2030, many more will have joined them. HSTAA 208, "The City," provides a foundational understanding of the economic, political, and social forces shaping North American cities’ evolution since the colonial period and the central role cities have played in modern U.S. history. It also introduces students to the tools and skills of original historical research, primary source analysis, and public history. Each enrolled student contributes to a digital exhibition on the evolution of American cities, built around a close historical study of one part of Seattle. In 2018, HSTAA 208 projects explored Seattle's Yesler Way, from Elliott Bay to Lake Washington.

For the full syllabus and detailed digital exhibition assignment (2018 edition), see below.