The Declaration of Independence
Professor Robin Einhorn examines the text and context of the Declaration of Independence, including the contradictions within the text and the structure of the text.
Professor Robin Einhorn examines the text and context of the Declaration of Independence, including the contradictions within the text and the structure of the text.
Professor Alex Saragoza discusses the Mexican-American War following the annexation of Texas, focusing on historical interpretations and coverage of the war. He looks at issues that are both covered to excess and rarely covered.
Professor Lawrence Levine looks at the popular culture of the 1930s, during the Great Depression, and what it reveals about culture and society as a whole at the time. He looks at Superman, comics, and superheroes; private detectives in fiction; and gangsters in fiction.
Professor Karen Sawislak reviews the history of women in the workplace and women's work during the 19th century in the U.S. She looks at changes over this period and how this history is perceived and taught today.
Professor David Henkin reviews the life and beliefs of Andrew Jackson, contemporary Jacksonians' views of democracy, and modern-day views of his character and presidency.
Professor Clarence Walker looks at the possible relationship between Thomas Jefferson and his slave Sally Hemmings and how it can be interpreted and used to suggest an alternative racial origin of the United States—that is, an origin that was multiracial instead of mono-racial.
Professor Jon Gjerde looks at how the concepts of democracy and citizenship have changed over the course of U.S. history. He focuses particularly on how these concepts have affected and reacted to immigrants and immigration throughout that history.
Professor Jack Rakove looks at the creation of the Bill of Rights by the Founding Fathers, focusing particularly on James Madison's work and beliefs related to the Bill of Rights. He uses writings by Madison as a framework.
Professor Caroline Cox looks at the U.S. Constitution, its perception today, and the cultural and social context within which it was written. She argues that the Constitution represents a language and vocabulary within which society of the day was immersed.
Professor Kevin Adams reviews the life of Abraham Lincoln, considering the contradictions of his decisions and views on race and in politics. Adams looks at how these contradictions reflected and fit into the context of Lincoln's times.