history

Historical studies are vital to our understanding of the world around us. This applies whether we seek to explain the reemergence of Islam as a world force, the unique politics of India or South Africa, the effects of the Cold War on American life and institutions, or the Arab-Israeli conflict. History also offers critical perspectives on a number of deep and long-term transformations, ranging from modernization and imperialism to post-colonialism and globalization. Students in the major also develop skills that are vital to successful careers and responsible citizenship. They become resourceful at fact finding; they learn to evaluate data critically and to formulate theories about them; and they become lucid in oral and written presentations. Majors begin their studies with broad introductory courses and move toward greater focus and depth in either American or European and World history. They participate in a junior year research seminar with students in the History and Literature Major.

Requirements for the History Major