An Overview of American History

Description

Dr. Steven Mintz narrates a general overview of U.S. history, beginning with colonialism and the American Revolution. The presentation focuses on the themes of freedom and equality and the struggle by minorities for both.

To watch this video, scroll to "Flash Movies." From there, select "An Overview of American History."

Harry S. Truman and the American People, Part Two: Foreign Policy and Politics

Description

Professor Alonzo Hamby analyzes the life and presidency of Harry Truman, looking at the popular image of him held today and contemporary public reaction to his presidency. Hamby focuses on Truman's foreign policies and decisions, including his decision to use the atomic bomb at the end of World War II and to initiate the Korean War. This lecture continues from the lecture "Harry S. Truman and the American People, Part One: Domestic Issues and Policies."

The Emancipation Moment: Abraham Lincoln and the First of January, 1863, Part Two

Description

Professor Allen C. Guelzo traces Abraham Lincoln's views and political decisions regarding slavery, leading finally up to the Emancipation Proclamation. He questions and explores the text and Lincoln's possible intentions in writing it, looking at the context within which it was written. Guelzo also focuses on changing perceptions of the Proclamation, from admiration to criticism, and looks at why this change occurred. This lecture continues from the lecture "The Emancipation Moment: Abraham Lincoln and the First of January, 1863, Part One."

Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison, Part Two

Description

Professor Richard S. Ruderman explores slavery as a political issue prior to the Civil War, focusing on how it divided both politicians and the public and helped lead to the war. He uses the viewpoint of James Buchanan as a frame, while also looking at the lives, views, and writings of abolitionists William Lloyd Garrison and Frederick Douglass. This lecture continues from the lecture "Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison, Part One."