American Studies 237 - COLQ:MTRL CLTR/CONSUMER/AMER

What were the objects of desire in the decades leading up to and following the American Revolution? What kind of material world did Americans create by the turn of the 20th century? This course examines American consumerism and cultural change using material and visual culture as evidence. Students will have the unique opportunity to experience firsthand access to the rich collections at Historic Northampton, including household furnishings and historic dress. We will learn how to ?read? objects as sources and develop skills for interpreting them. Through the study of local history, we will explore national and regional trends in material life while also recognizing global influence and exchange. Enrollment limit of 12 students.