History 381KT - Recent American History: 'Kitchen Table History'

This seminar focuses students on researching and writing the history of their own families, going back at least two generations. Along with digging into the specifics of family history, students will explore the key historical contexts for the decisions and choices made in the past, e.g. immigration (both voluntary and forced), war, economic conditions, political movements, professional and entrepreneurial opportunities. Kitchen Table History asks that we interrogate critically the stories and lessons learned from family members, using the widest array of historical sources. These include the digital databases that have opened up new paths for inquiry, e.g. Ancestry.com, Ellisisland.org, Jewish.gen, and others.

Prereq: 8 credits in history, preference to American history.