History
From Republic to Democracy RCEGN 9098 C01
no class 11/11 6:00 - 8:00pm
The Founders of our government believed that a Republic was the best possible form of government, but by 1840 most Americans were proud to call the nation a democracy. What difference does it make? What did these terms mean in 1787 (in the Constitution) and
in 1841 (after the Log Cabin Election)? Is the nation today one or the other or something else entirely. This course will help students decide the answers to these questions by examining what the leaders wrote, what they did, and what they said.
Jacksonian America RCEGN 6333 C01
You will trace Andrew Jackson’s rise from an orphan, to war hero, to the seventh president of the United States. Andrew Jackson came to embody the “Era of the Common Man,” this era saw reform movements ranging from temperance, education, prison reform, the abolition of slavery, and women’s rights. This course will also examine the reforms of the period and movements some of which lasted to the 20th century.
World War 1 RCEGN 9034 C01
no class 11/3 6 - 8 pm
What made the First World War so important in European, American, and World History? How did the “War to End All Wars” become the war that ended peace? It was the first great long war that Europe had fought in a hundred years, and the violence and
destructiveness of modern industrialized warfare shocked the nations. So did the enthusiasm of the crowds who cheered their armies as they left for the front with cries of “On to Berlin,” or “On to Paris.” The slaughter that resulted seemed out of all proportion to the immediate causes of the war. We will discuss why the war started, why it became so destructive, why Europe’s leaders could not stop it, and some of the ways we continue to struggle with problems this war created.
Civics In Action RCEGN 9096 C01
Understanding Government and Policy in Practice is an engaging course designed to help students understand how government, public policy, and civic engagement shape everyday life. Through discussions, real-world case studies, and hands on activities, you will explore
the structure of local, state, and federal government, the policymaking process, elections, advocacy, and the role of community organizing in creating social change. The course emphasizes practical civic participation and equips you with the knowledge and tools to become informed, active participants in their communities and democracy.
The Constitution and How it Got That Way RCEGN 9097 CPV1
Explore the origins and design of the United States Constitution by examining the ideas and debates that shaped its creation. Learn why the Framers structured government as they did, the purpose of federalism, why a Bill of Rights was not initially included, and the historical context behind these decisions. Readings from John Locke, Madison’s Notes of Debates, and selections from the Federalist Papers will provide valuable insight. Ideal for anyone interested in the Constitution, American government, or the foundations of our republic.
Stone Tools & Technology Workshop RCEGN 9098 C01
What can archaeologists learn from studying stone tools? Through lecture, demonstrations and interactive activities, we will examine the archaeological history of stone tool making through the last 2.6 million years.
Matt Bielecki has an MA Anthropology & Archaeology