131-079 Slavery & Freedom: US History 1790-1900

Formerly available as 131-256/356. Students who have completed 131-256 or 131-356 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 12.5 points of first year history.

The subject will examine the history of the United States during the 19th century, focusing on the consequences of the existence of slavery in a free society. The subject moves from the institution of slavery itself and the distinctiveness of southern society, to the Civil War and Reconstruction, and the plight of the freed slaves after 1865. Students should develop a knowledge of the consequences of slavery for the north and of the American understanding of freedom; the relationship of slavery to the democratic and republican ideals of the early republic; the institution of slavery; the emergence of the abolitionist movement; and the ways in which other subordinated groups in American society - such as women, or organised labour - also thought of themselves as struggling to make a transition from slavery to freedom. We will examine the relationship of late 19th century understandings of market freedoms to earlier republicanism, the fate of indigenous Americans during the decades of westward expansion, and the expansion overseas into the Philippines and Cuba at the end of the century.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion.

A research essay of 2500 words 60% (due mid-semester) and a review essay of 1500 words 40% (due during the examination period).