History 177 - Revolutionary America

What did the American Revolution mean for the people who lived through it? This introductory course explores the revolutionary era of American history from 1750 to 1800, a time of upheaval, possibility, and contradiction. From the Seven Years’ War to the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, students will examine why the Revolution occurred, how radical it truly was, and who benefited from independence. While revolutionary leaders proclaimed liberty and equality, the creation of a unified nation was far from certain, and the new republic emerged marked by deep inequalities, including slavery. Emphasizing social history, the course focuses on everyday life as well as political leadership, tracing the emergence of an American identity and the changing relationship between the people and their government. Through lectures, discussion, and primary sources such as letters, newspapers, memoirs, and pamphlets, students will explore how a diverse and divided society struggled to turn revolutionary ideals into reality. Includes class meetings in the Amherst College Archives and Special Collections and the Mead Art Museum. Two class meetings per week. Limited to 30 students.

Fall semester. Professor Manion.

How to handle overenrollment: Priority to history majors

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Students will work both independently and in groups while engaging in research, writing, and public speaking.