Time Schedule:
Peter L Nye
B CUSP 131
Bothell Campus
Various topics designed to respond to curricular interests and needs for first-year students.
Class description
American Biography: The Cold War (1946-1974)
We will study the biographies of six Americans who made important contributions during the early Cold War era (1946 – 1974). These biographies will provide a platform for examining important social, political and economic developments. We will also explore how those developments shaped American institutions and attitudes of the current day. We will examine the following topics: Cold War domestic politics, the rise of the modern consumer society, origins of the civil rights movement, the evolution of civil liberties, the early environmental movement, and the enduring role of social protest in shaping American institutions.
Student learning goals
Critically reading and discussing non-fiction, particularly historical biography.
Writing short compelling essays with lucid paragraph structure and focused topic sentences.
Explaining important social issues that Americans confronted in the 1950’s and 1960’s.
Explaining how individual Americans have stimulated economic progress and promoted social justice- or have attempted to do so.
Understanding important political and social developments of the Cold War era. Explaining how those developments shaped American institutions of today.
General method of instruction
Students will read three biographies and several biographical essays. In addition, we will view and discuss films that capture the lives and times of our six subjects. Short lectures will provide an historical context. Because this seminar will emphasize class discussion, students must complete weekly reading assignments in advance of class. The reading assignments will be fascinating.
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
The Biographies 1. John Kennedy: Politician and Cold Warrior 2. Senator Joseph McCarthy: Demagogue and Cold Warrior 3. Rachel Carson: Environmentalist and Writer 4. Pete Seeger: Folk Singer and Social Activist 5. Clarence Earl Gideon: Indigent Convict and Civil Libertarian 6. Rosa Parks: “Everywoman” and Civil Rights Leader
Required Reading: Douglas Brinkley (2005). Rosa Parks: A Life. Anthony Lewis (1964). Gideon’s Trumpet. Michael O’Brien (2010). Rethinking Kennedy: An Interpretive Biography.
