American History 1 - Discovery to Reconstruction

This course is a part of:

Associate of Paralegal Studies

Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

Bachelor of Business Administration

Bachelor of Science in Psychology

This course is an introductory survey of American history from the colonial period through the Civil War and Reconstruction. Students will learn about migration from Europe and Africa and the formation of colonies, the impact of settlement on Native Americans, and the development of new social and political ideas as the country was created. It took the voices and actions of many different people to produce the singular structure of the United States, and because of this, the country’s political history is intimately tied with its social, economic, and cultural development. Therefore, students will learn that efforts of individuals – both famous and obscure – shaped the nation into what it is today. As we learn about our country’s rich past, we become better and more informed citizens, ready to impact its future.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Detail the process, nature, and motivation behind European exploration and colonization of America

• Explain the impact and legacy of slavery

• Identify the context, root causes, and consequences of the American Revolution

• Describe the campaign for and prelude leading to the writing and passage of the Constitution

• Discuss the effects of American policies on Native Americans and the long-term implications thereof

• Trace the series of events that caused Westward expansion

• Explicate the speed, nature, costs, benefits, and public policy dilemmas of the building of the U.S. economy and the US Industrial Revolution

• Précis the reasons for the Civil War and how it scarred the nation

• Explain the prominent historical viewpoints regarding Reconstruction and explain its failure