History

American Studies Seminar

HIST100

Students explore American society and culture through readings, discussion, and field work. Methods and concepts from the social sciences, arts, and humanities are synthesized to create a better understanding and deeper appreciation of the nation’s past and present.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

History of Bucks County

HIST101

A history of the County from colonial times to the present.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

History of Western Civilization I

HIST111

This course is a survey of Western human history and explores the social, political, religious, intellectual, and artistic achievements from the earliest human civilizations to the Age of Reason.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

History of Western Civilization II

HIST112

This course is a survey of Western human history and explores the social, political, religious, intellectual, and artistic achievements from the around the year 1500 to the present.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The Ancient World (to c.500 A.D.)

HIST121

This course is a survey of the early societies and the development of the civilizations of the ancient world to the fall of Rome in the West.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The Medieval Western World, (c.500 A.D. - c.1600)

HIST126

This course is a survey and analysis of achievements and institutions of Western Europe from the disintegration of the Roman Empire through the Renaissance and Protestant Reformation. Major topics include the rise of Christianity and Islam, Feudalism, Renaissance and Protestant Reformation.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The Early Modern Western World (c.1600 - c.1870)

HIST131

A survey and analysis of changes and developments in the Western World from c.1600 to c.1870.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Modern Europe

HIST136

A survey and analysis of the achievements and challenges of the Western World from c. 1870 to the present.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

World War II

HIST139

This course is a survey of the Second World War. Major topics include the roots and causes of the war, diplomacy, the major campaigns and battles, and the home-fronts of the major participants.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Peoples of South Asia

HIST140

A study of the cultures of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and neighboring countries from an interdisciplinary perspective. Social, historical, and geographic factors are examined. Topics include village life, folk arts, urbanization, modernization, and population. Extensive use of guest speakers and audio-visual materials.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The Middle East

HIST141

An interdisciplinary study of currently significant aspects of the Middle East. Special attention will be paid to the effects of modernization and great power conflicts and to the increased economic and strategic significance of this area to the Western World.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Africa South of the Sahara

HIST143

A interdisciplinary study of currently significant aspects of cultures of Africa south of the Sahara. Special attention will be paid to the economic, social, and political impact of the West and the nature of the African response.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Latin America

HIST144

An interdisciplinary study of Latin America from its colonial origins to the present with an emphasis on contemporary conditions.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

East Asia

HIST146

An interdisciplinary study of the cultures of China, Japan, Korea and neighboring countries. Social, historical, economic, factors will be examined with special attention paid to philosophy, traditional cultures, national unification, modernization and East/West relations.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

America: The Cold War Years (1945-1990)

HIST149

An examination of the post-World War II era featuring diplomatic conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. When diplomacy broke down military conflict ensued in such diverse places as Korea, Vietnam, Hungary, and Afghanistan. The course examines the background, causes, and course of this sustained conflict.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

U.S. History: Young America

HIST151

This course is a survey of the United States from the background of independence until the end of the Reconstruction Era. Students explore the social, cultural, economic, and political dynamics of America’s agrarian age.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

U.S. History: Modern America

HIST152

This course is a survey of the Industrial Age until the end of the Vietnam War and beyond. Students explore the social, cultural, economic, and political dynamics of America’s industrial development and position as a world power.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Great American Speeches of the 20th Century

HIST153
EXPERIMENTAL

Students will read, hear and/or watch fifteen notable political speeches of the 20th century and analyze them from historical, political, and rhetorical perspectives. After formulating their own analysis of a speech, students will research its immediate and long-term effects in American history.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Photographic Image in American History

HIST154
EXPERIMENTAL

An integral part of American culture for nearly 170 years, photographs teach us to remember, experience and understand our world. Students will critically analyze, evaluate, and interpret photographs as historical tools. More importantly, we will examine how the photographic image shaped our understanding of American History.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The Peoples of Russia and Eastern Europe

HIST155

This course is a survey of the historical development of the Slavic peoples and nations of Eastern Europe, emphasizing their roots, national consciousness, and cultural outlook. Topics include the modernization of Russia and Eastern Europe through the various phases of revolution, industrialization, East/West relations, and human rights.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Interpreting History Through Cinema

HIST156
EXPERIMENTAL

Cinema has become one of the most provocative and effective modes of mass communication. This course recognizes the uniqueness of film as an alternate method for exploring, dissecting and comprehending history. Students will view, analyze and evaluate films which depict pivotal circumstances and cataclysmic events in history.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None

The American Civil War

HIST159

This course examines the American Civil War, the conflict that defined the United States. Students study the time period stretching from the Compromise of 1850 to the Presidential election of 1876 as well as the various reasons for the war, the combat, the eventual outcome, and the Reconstruction Period.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

History of American Labor

HIST160

A study of the development of American Labor, the forces shaping that development, and the role of labor in American society.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Colonial American History

HIST170

This course is a survey of the American experience from the age of discovery to the revolutionary convulsions of the late 18th century. Major topics include European antecedents and the dynamics of America's social, cultural, economic, and political life during these early years.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

20th Century America

HIST172

This course is a survey of the American experience from pre-World War I to the present. Students explore the dynamics of America’s social, cultural, economic, and political life as the United States reaches maturity as a world power.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The American Presidents

HIST173
EXPERIMENTAL

The course is an examination of the character and personality of the forty-one men who have served as Chief Executive of the United States.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

America Between the Wars

HIST174
EXPERIMENTAL

A study of the significant cultural and political themes of American development since WWII. Issues of race, class, gender, foreign policy, and economic and social reform are examined, as well as global implications for America as a super power.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The Vietnam War

HIST175

A study of the American involvement in the Second Indochina War. The roots, causes, and consequences of the war will be considered. Historical events, France’s First Indochina War, the anti-war movement, and the Vietnam veterans community today will be included in the content.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

United States Since World War II

HIST176
EXPERIMENTAL

A study of the significant cultural and political themes of American development since World War II. Issues of race, class, gender, foreign policy, and economic and social reform are examined, as well as global implications for America as a super power.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Historical Field Studies

HIST177
EXPERIMENTAL

Students who participate in this course will be combining multiple facets of historical inquiry as part of a study abroad program that will provide the student with the opportunity to explore the places, monuments and museum artifacts they would otherwise only learn about in a traditional classroom setting.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The American Indian

HIST178

A study of the North American Indian, including daily life, social relationships, myths, legends, and their fate at the hands of European settlers in the New World.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

History of American Business

HIST180

An historical survey of American business from its Colonial beginnings to the present. The main topics are the development of the business firm and the development of government-business relations. Of interest to business and history students who want to better understand the American business system.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Afro-American History

HIST190

This course is a study of the history of African-Americans from their origins in Africa to the present. Students examine the social, political, legal and economic history of the African-American community. Major topics include the impact of slavery, military service, and the Civil Rights Movement and Black Power Movement.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Historic Preservation Planning and Sustainability

HIST194

Historic Preservation Planning and Sustainability introduces students to the principles, practices, and procedures of land-use planning and public policy associated with historic preservation planning. Sustainable communities and the historic preservation connection are discussed within the context of case studies. Issues include combating sprawl, preserving rural landscapes, and managing growth.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Introduction to Historical Archaeology I

HIST195

An introduction to the methodology of historical research, excavation, classification, description, and analysis of historical sites. Field experience and laboratory practice are a major part of the course.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Introduction to Historical Archaeology II

HIST196

A continuation of the methods and techniques surveyed in Historical Archaeology I. Emphasis will be given to excavation, research, and laboratory experience.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The History and Theory of Historic Preservation

HIST197

This course will survey the historical antecedents of the historic preservation movement in America and introduce students to its theoretical foundations.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

History of American Architecture

HIST198

A survey of American architectural styles with emphasis on Bucks County�s role in this development.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Methodology and Documentation in Historic Preservation

HIST199

The methodology of documenting historic sites will be studied and applied to local buildings and structures.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Material Culture in Historic Preservation

HIST200

An introduction to the role of material culture in the examination of historic building interiors that have significant architectural, historic, and cultural value.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Building Conservation

HIST201

The course teaches students to see buildings in a new way: as ever decaying artifacts in need of vigilant care. All components of a building are covered along with an understanding of a building�s relationship to its environment.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Law, Taxes, and Zoning for Historic Preservation

HIST202

Federal, state, and local laws are studied as they relate to the preservation of historic structures. Special attention is given to the role of historic architecture review boards, as well as planning commissions in the decision making process.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Internship for Historic Preservation

HIST203

The Internship for Historic Preservation provides students with practical training in the field. Students apply historic preservation skills to a selected preservation project. Students work directly under the supervision of a Historic Preservation Professional to develop the project plan and execution.

3 credits
Prerequisite: 18 credits of completed coursework in Historic Preservation (C or better)
Corequisite: None

Oral History

HIST204

This course combines the theory and practice of oral history with extensive field work. Students examine the legal and practical issues of recording oral histories as they apply to a public project. Students interview, record, transcribe, formally present and assemble the material into an accepted archival format.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Restoration Workshop I

HIST205

The course is a hands-on approach to the conservation and preservation of buildings. Building techniques are stressed.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Restoration Workshop II

HIST206

The course is a hands-on approach to the conservation and preservation of buildings. Advanced building techniques are stressed.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

HABS Survey Workshop

HIST207

Students will study measured drawing procedures employed by the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) and apply them to local buildings. The course will include extensive field and drawing experience.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

History, Society and Architecture in the Delaware Valley

HIST208

This course will explore the history of Bucks County and neighboring areas, with special reference to settlement patterns of various ethnic groups and their influence on the landscape, building traditions, and material culture.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Historic Preservation Field Studies

HIST210

This course will offer a different emphasis each semester. Barns in Bucks County and Architectural Preservation in England have been studied in past years as important aspects of preservation history.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Preservation Site Project

HIST214

This course combines classroom study with hands-on field work under the guidance of a historic preservation professional at a chosen site. Real-world experience surveying and assessing a historic building project or other historical site supplements class sessions. Students apply skills of drafting, photography, and writing to complete a class project.

3 credits
Prerequisite: HIST201 (C or better)
Corequisite: None

Historic Garden Preservation

HIST216

This course provides an overview of garden preservation and/or restoration for historic sites. The student will be introduced to American landscape design, the science of horticulture, and landscape site preparation. Students will receive hands-on training in many facets of a formal garden restoration project on campus. Field trips are included.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Historic Gardens of Early 20th Century

HIST217

This modular course is designed to study development of formal gardens in the first half of the 20th Century. The Tyler gardens on campus provide a laboratory for this work and the restoration efforts underway. Off-campus trips are included in the course schedule.

1 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The Fundamentals of drawing for HABS Workshop

HIST218

This course is designed to introduce the student to standard drawing procedures employed in drafting official HABS drawings. Recommended for students with little or no drafting experience.

1 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Management of Historic Sites

HIST219

Using case studies, students study the principles, methods and disciplines required to manage a small museum or historic site, with special emphasis on personnel, financial and collections management, exhibit development and interpretation, fundraising, marketing, customer service, governance, ethics and professional standards.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

American Pop Culture: History of Rock

HIST239

This course will focus on American popular culture through the lens of rock-n-roll music, including rock’s roots, influences, and impact on popular culture. Students will experience the subtleties, power, and excitement of the music.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Ancient Egypt

HIST281
EXPERIMENTAL

This course is designed to introduce students to the powerful contribution of Ancient Egypt. This course will examine the pre-dynastic C.1000 B.C. period to the Ptolemaic period C. 30 B.C.E. This program is an examination of Art, Archeology, Literature, Religion, History, and Social order of Ancient Egypt.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

The Islamic World

HIST288

An overview of Islamic history, customs, and literature. Includes American media depiction of the many sects of Islam, the role of women within Islam, contemporary Islamic leaders in the Middle East, and the growth of Islam in the United States.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None