Time Schedule:
David H. Kleit
HIST 388
Seattle Campus
Introduction to the discipline of history for new or prospective majors. Emphasizes the basic skills of reading, analysis, and communication (both verbal and written) that are central to the historian's craft. Each seminar discusses a different subject or problem.
Class description
THE CONTROVERSIAL LIFE OF ANDREW JACKSON
This seminar will explore the controversies that surrounded Andrew Jackson during his lifetime and have raged among historians since his death. As a politician, general, and president, Jackson was at the center of most of the great conflicts of his era, including Indian Removal, national expansion, nullification, the Bank War, and the development of the Second Party System. Jackson was both fiercely loved and intensely hated during his lifetime, and historians’ opinions of him have also been quite varied. Our goal will be not only to learn about Jackson and how historians have portrayed him, but also to develop the core skills of thinking, eading, and writing as historians.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
This is a discussion class.
Recommended preparation
The most important prerequisites are the desire to learn the craft of being a historian, curiosity about Andrew Jackson and Jacksonian America, and a commitment to careful preparation for class and active participation during class meetings. Some knowledge of Jackson and his times will be helpful but is not required.
Class assignments and grading
A 2 page paper comparing an abridged book chapter to the original, a 3 page primary document analysis paper, a 5 page book review, and a 6 page mini-research paper. One group and one brief individual oral report.
Writing 60% Discussion 30% Oral Reports 10%
