Introduction to American History

History Terminology Historiography – the study of how history is written and researched Political history – history told as the story of a developing nation Cultural/social history – history told through the experiences of women and other minority groups Economic history – history told as the story of buying and selling goods

Types of Historical Study Global/transnational history – history of a specific nation within the context of broader world events and themes Feminist/gender theory – a framework for exploring the experiences of women throughout history; applies across geographic boundaries with cultural interpretations Cross-cultural – the exchange of goods, ideas, and diseases when differing cultures interact

Why Study History? History is the story of human beings; shows patterns and concepts that are “universal” History explains the way one culture interacts with another culture, and the consequences and benefits of that exchange History demonstrates how every day work, family, life, and customs have changed over time

What is Different About U.S. History? America is considered an “experiment” in history Development of a strong world power within a short time period (200+ years) Nation built on the history and traditions of other cultures from around the world America’s story is one of conflict and struggle; society built on violence and revolution

Recommended Readings A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn Don’t Know Much About History: Everything You Need to Know About American History but Never Learned by Kenneth C. Davis Lies My Teacher Told Me: Everything Your American History Textbook Got Wrong by James W. Loewen