Time Schedule:
Stephanie E Smallwood
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
"History of the Atlantic Slave Trade"
In this seminar we will explore the history of the Atlantic slave trade that carried some 12 million people from Africa to the Americas. Through careful reading and analysis of primary and secondary sources, we will ask how and why Afro-European slave trading commenced in the 15th century, follow the system's rapid expansion in the 17th and 18th centuries, and examine the antislavery movement that brought the system to a close by the end of the 19th century.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
The course meets once per week for two hours. As this is a seminar, classroom time will be occupied with student analysis and discussion of questions/themes drawn from the assigned reading. Regular attendance and active participation is thus absolutely necessary. Students should expect to submit discussion questions prior to class meetings; readings will average 150-200 pages per week.
Recommended preparation
There are no specific prerequisites, but prior coursework in precolonial African history, early modern European history, or the colonial history of the Americas will be useful. Most importantly, students are expected to bring intellectual curiosity about the methods of historical research and interest in their application to the subject of the slave trade.
Class assignments and grading
Assignments will be outlined in detail in the course syllabus, available at the first class meeting.
There will be no midterm or final exam; students will be evaluated on the quality and depth of their participation and engagement in weekly discussions, weekly response papers, and completion of a 10 pp. paper w/mandatory revision. This is a "W" course.
