This course is a part of:
Associate's Degree Program
Bachelor's Degree Program

This course is an introductory survey of American history from the colonial period through the Civil War and Reconstruction. Students will learn about migration from Europe and Africa and the formation of colonies, the impact of settlement on Native Americans, and the development of new social and political ideas as the country was created. It took the voices and actions of many different people to produce the singular structure of the United States, and because of this, the country’s political history is intimately tied with its social, economic, and cultural development. Therefore, students will learn that efforts of individuals – both famous and obscure – shaped the nation into what it is today. As we learn about our country’s rich past, we become better and more informed citizens, ready to impact its future.

Course Objectives

At the completion of this course, the student will have acquired knowledge and understanding of:

• European exploration and colonies
• The impact and legacy of slavery
• The Revolution: its causes and consequences
• Creation of the Constitution
• How American policies impacted the Native Americans
• Westward expansion
• Building the U.S. economy and the Industrial Revolution
• The Civil War and how tit shaped the nation
• Reconstruction and post-slavery