Syllabus

History 232: Contemporary History of Civilization

Summer 2009

Professor Edward Hanlon

Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday; Period 2

Office 4321N; Phone 237-8851

Office Hours: Tuesdays, 11:00-12:00 & by appointment.

Course Description: History 232 is an introductory course in the history of civilization from the eighteenth century to the twentieth century. During the semester we will discover the roots of modern society in Europe, the Americas, and in Asia. We will see the periods of revolution worldwide, the rise of industrialization, imperialism, and colonialism. The class will also trace the roots of modern warfare; from the small, professional armies of the 18th century, to the mass armies of the 20th. We will attempt to discover whether war is natural or learned, why nations resort to it, and what can be done about it in the future.

Procedure:

• Lectures on major themes.
• Class discussion on the day's topic.
• Group work on selected subjects.
• Films on the central themes of the course.

Course Objectives:

• To provide an understanding of the roots and development of the modern world's values and morals.
• To increase knowledge and understanding of Modern History in general, and key historical events in particular.
• To increase student's ability to evaluate ideas and arguments critically, to weigh historical evidence, and to draw conclusions.
• To improve student's ability to communicate ideas and arguments concisely, accurately, and informatively orally and in writing.

Grading:

There will be a mid-term exam and a final. Additionally, quizzes will be given on a weekly basis.

There will be no make-up tests or quizzes given.

Midterm Examination. The midterm covers first portion of the course. I will provide you with more details later. In order to complete the midterm, you must have a good grasp of World geography. A firm grasp of geography is essential to understanding history. Be sure you are able to identify from a map all of the countries in Europe at any time during the 20th century. You can use any reputable atlas to learn this. Here are some web sites:

http://www.lib.utexas.edu/Libs/PCL/Map_collection

http://www.eduplace.com/ss/maps/index.html

Final Examination. The Final will be cumulative covering the entire course. I expect you to integrate information into cohesive arguments, and demonstrate that you have achieved the course objectives stated above. You must be familiar with geography in order to take the final exam.

Class Participation. You must contribute to the class discussions and remain engaged in lectures, films, and presentations. Do not simply sit in class and take notes. Those who sleep in class will receive a poor participation grade. In addition, I will use this portion to evaluate your contribution to the class at other times, your attendance, cooperation, and your dedication to excellence.

Attendance:

Attendance is Mandatory!  Because of the short Summer Session only 2 absences will be permitted.

Text:

Craig, Graham, et al. The Heritage of World Civilizations. Volume II, 8th Edition. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 2006.

Readings:

You must complete these! I cannot stress enough the importance of accomplishing the readings before class meets. In many instances, we will spend a   portion of the period discussing readings; you cannot participate effectively if you are not prepared. I will not permit those students who choose not to prepare for class to participate with those who do prepare (to benefit, so to speak, from work they have not done).