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The First New Nation: Nationalism and Regionalism in American History (U04037)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : HCA-3-U04037

This course will explore the formation and contested evolution of American nationalism from its pre-revolutionary roots to the present day. In addition to examining struggles over the definition of American national identity, we will consider themes such as the importance of American wars in the development of nationalism; how criteria such as gender, race and ethnicity have been used to establish and challenge national boundaries; and the effects of regionalism in shaping, strengthening and/or undermining national unity. Throughout, we will use scholarship on other nationalisms to provide a comparative framework and fresh perspectives on the American experience.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : A pass in any first level historical course or equivalent and any second level historical course or equivalent. Before enrolling students on this course, Directors are asked to contact the History Honours Admissions Secretary to ensure that a place is available (tel. 503783).

Subject Areas

Home subject area

History, (School of History, Classics and Archaeology, Schedule E)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 3rd year

? Delivery Period : Not being delivered

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 11 weeks

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Tuesday	09:00	10:50	Central

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students should have demonstrated in presentations, seminar discussions, essays and exams:

• understanding of the diverse conceptions, meanings and consequences of nationalism and regionalisms for different groups and at different time periods of American history.

• awareness of the major historiographical debates involving American nationalism and awareness of the implications of U.S. historians’ uses of the categories of nation and region.

• reflection on the benefits of drawing on studies of other countries’ nationalisms in order to rethink the American experience.

• the ability to evaluate critically primary sources, secondary sources and the seminar contributions of their colleagues.

• the ability to use these critical skills to advance clear, well-reasoned and independent arguments in both written and oral forms.

Assessment Information

One essay of about 3000 words (one third of overall assessment); one two-hour examination paper (two thirds of overall assessment). Students will receive written feedback and individual consultation on their work.