Power and Violence in America: An Historical Approach to Politics

In this course we will explore the complex relationship between industrialization, the labor movement, race relations, and the organization of violence in America. It will focus on the transformative year of 1877, which saw the end of Reconstruction, as well as the first nation-wide strike in American history. In studying this 'Great Upheaval,' students will encounter fundamental questions concerning the distribution of income and the use of force in American society. We will examine the historical processes that preceded the events of 1877, as well as the indelible mark that these events left on American political development in the 20th century. This course is being taught simultaneously at Amherst College and will include a virtual classroom component as well as opportunities for inter-collegiate collaboration. 3 hrs. sem. (American Politics)/