History 360 - Revolutionary America

[US/p] This course examines the revolutionary period through the lives of ordinary, poor, and marginalized children, women, and men including Native Americans, people of African descent who were enslaved, bound, and free, and indentured servants, laborers, and skilled artisans who emigrated from Europe. We will ask the following questions: What were the everyday conditions of workers? How were ideals of "liberty" and "freedom" conceptualized? How did enslaved African Americans experience this era? What were the prospects for women's educational and political advancement, both before and after the war? Was there in fact anything revolutionary about the American Revolution? The main course texts are social and cultural histories of the period as well as primary sources such as newspapers, novels, memoirs, broadsides, and political manifestos. Central topics covered include maritime culture, urban poverty, women's work, colonialism, immigration, slavery, education, and politics. The course includes two field trips to regional historic sites. Students will conduct original research in local archives. One class meeting per week.Limited to 25 students.  Spring semester. Professor Manion.