History 381RD - American Radicalism

This research seminar will explore a variety of Left radical traditions in the United States from the late nineteenth century through the end of the twentieth. What does it mean to be "a radical," and how have definitions changed over time? What impact have American radicals had on electoral politics and the larger society? We will pay special attention to the connections between political and cultural radicalism, as well as to government and private campaigns aimed at suppressing radical movements. Topics: Gilded Age labor movements; Eugene Debs and American socialism; bohemian radicalism; African American radical movements; the American Communist Party; peace activism; radical feminism.

Course limited to sophomores, juniors and seniors; Prereq: 4 credits in U.S. history.