History (HIST) < Virginia Commonwealth University

This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2024-2025 VCU Bulletin. We may add courses that expose our students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning. We may also add content to the general education program that focuses on racial literacy and a racial literacy graduation requirement, and may receive notification of additional program approvals after the launch. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.

HIST 101. Survey of European History. 3 Hours.

Semester courses; 3 lecture hours. 3, 3 credits. A survey of European civilization from the ancient world to the present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined Europe's place in the world. First semester: to 16th century. Second semester: 16th century to the present.

HIST 102. Survey of European History. 3 Hours.

HIST 103. Survey of American History I. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A survey of American civilization from prehistory to Reconstruction, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined America's place in the world.

HIST 104. Survey of American History II. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A survey of American civilization from Reconstruction to present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined America's place in the world.

HIST 105. Survey of African History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of African civilizations from prehistory to the present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined Africa's place in the world. First semester: to 1800. Second semester: 1800 to the present. Crosslisted as: AFAM 105.

HIST 106. Survey of African History. 3 Hours.

HIST 107. Survey of East Asian Civilizations. 3 Hours.

Semester courses; 3 lecture hours. 3, 3 credits. A survey of East Asian civilizations (China and Japan) from prehistory to the present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that shaped, influenced and defined East Asia's place in the world. First semester: to the 14th century. Second semester: from the 14th century to the present.

HIST 108. Survey of East Asian Civilizations. 3 Hours.

HIST 109. Survey of Latin American History. 3 Hours.

Semester courses; 3 lecture hours. 3, 3 credits. A survey of Latin American civilization from its early civilizations to the present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined Latin America's place in the world. First semester: to 1824. Second semester: 1824 to the present.

HIST 110. Survey of Latin American History. 3 Hours.

HIST 111. Survey of the Middle East I. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of the Middle East from the 600s to the 1600s (from the Late Antiquity and the emergence of Islam to the early modern period) examining cultural, socio-economic and political developments that have dynamically shaped the regions of the Middle East and their place in the world.

HIST 112. Survey of the Middle East II. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of the Middle East from 16th century to the present emphasizing the events, historical agents, ideas and institutions that have dynamically shaped the Middle East and its place in the world.

HIST 191. Topics in History. 1-3 Hours.

Semester course; variable hours. 1-3 credits per semester. Maximum total of 6 credits. The study of a selected topic or topics in history. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 201. The Art of Historical Detection: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Introduces non-history majors to the methods of the discipline by undertaking a series of case studies in historical inquiry. Each case study will consist of a close examination of a single historical question, covering the general background to that question and exploring relevant primary and secondary sources. Students will then use this evidence to propose well-reasoned solutions to the question at hand.

HIST 202. History Without Borders: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Introduces non-history majors to the analytical modes of transnational history, which explores networks of connection that link individuals and communities across established political or cultural boundaries. Students will consider the historical influence of networks such as systems of economic exchange, the movements of people or the spread of technologies and ideas. See the Schedule of Classes for topics offered each semester.

HIST 205. Survey of Virginia History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines the history of Virginia from the colonial era to the present. Provides foundational knowledge of Virginia government, geography and economics. Discusses not only local history, but also the commonwealth’s relationship with the United States and the world.

HIST 300. Introduction to Historical Study. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Enrollment is restricted to history majors. This introduction to the historical discipline is required of all history majors, who must earn a minimum grade of C to complete the major requirements. The course emphasizes historical research, writing and study skills in order to increase student appreciation of, and performance in, advanced courses within the history major.

HIST 301. The Ancient Near East. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the ancient Near Eastern civilizations from the preliterary period to the end of Kassite rule in Babylonia (c. 1160 B.C.). Crosslisted as: RELS 315.

HIST 302. Ancient Egypt. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A general survey of the history and culture of ancient Egypt from the Predynastic Period through the age of the New Kingdom. In addition to the historical reconstruction, emphasis is placed on the art, literature and religion of each of the major periods.

HIST 303. Greek Civilization. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the unique cultural heritage of Greece and the historical patterns that rose from it, from the Heroic Age to the urban worlds after Alexander, 1400 B.C.-146 B.C.

HIST 304. Roman Civilization. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of Roman history as it derived from Roman cultural institutions, from the Etruscan period through the conflict of the pagan and Christian worlds and advent of the barbarians, 753 B.C.-A.D. 454.

HIST 305. Introduction to the Hebrew Bible. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the Hebrew Bible from its beginning through the post-Exile period. Emphasis given to the literary and historical development of the text. Crosslisted as: RELS 301.

HIST 306. Introduction to the New Testament. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the New Testament with particular emphasis given to the historical development of the Canon. Crosslisted as: RELS 302.

HIST 307. Greek and Roman Religion. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the range of practices, beliefs, philosophies, rituals and narratives that made up the religious life of ancient inhabitants of the greater Mediterranean world, from the Homeric and archaic periods, through the rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire. Crosslisted as: RELS 309.

HIST 309. Professional Development for History Majors I. 1 Hour.

Semester course; 1 lecture hour (delivered online). 1 credit. Pre- or corequisite: HIST 300. Explores the goals of the history major and the skills the major instills in combination with an exploration of the professional goals and values of each student. Students will identify possible career paths and craft plans for the use of their time both inside and outside of the classroom that will address any gaps in their preparation for those career paths. Graded as pass/fail.

HIST 310. The Early Middle Ages. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A topical, thematic, integrative and problems approach to the emergence of a distinctive European community during the period frequently alluded to as the "Dark Ages." Crosslisted as: RELS 329.

HIST 311. High and Later Middle Ages. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A detailed historical overview of developments in Western Europe from the end of the first millennium through the end of the 15th century. Crosslisted as: RELS 308.

HIST 312. Europe in the Early Modern Period, 1350-1650. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Describes the political, intellectual, religious and social developments in Europe from the Black Death through the wars of religion, including the Renaissance, the Reformation and the Voyages of Exploration.

HIST 313. Europe in Absolutism and Enlightenment, 1648-1815. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines the political, social and economic orders of Old Regime Europe in the context of their increasing contradictions; introduces the cultural and intellectual forces that helped challenge that regime; culminates in the French Revolution and Napoleon.

HIST 314. The Zenith of European Power, 1815-1914. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the period in which the nations of Europe reached their height of world power between the reconstruction of Europe after the Napoleonic Wars and the eve of World War I. Topics include the rise of nationalism, liberalism and socialism; the spread of capitalism and industrial society; the beginnings of mass politics; the new imperialism; the diplomatic revolution in the European state system before World War I.

HIST 315. The Age of Total War in Europe, 1914-1945. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the transformation of European society precipitated by World War I and World War II. Emphasis is placed on the origin, nature and repercussions of total war; the crisis of democracy and the rise of modern dictatorships; changes in political, economic and social institutions; and the decline of European power.

HIST 316. Postwar Europe, 1945 to the Present. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of Europe's social, economic and political recovery after World War II and of the transformation of Europe from the center toward the periphery of world power.

HIST 317. France to 1815. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A history of France from Gallo-Roman times through the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era.

HIST 318. France Since 1815. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A history of France from 1815 to the present.

HIST 319. Germany to 1871. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Covers major developments in Germany from the 30 Years War and rise of Prussia through the unification of the German nation-state in 1871.

HIST 320. Modern Germany. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Covers major developments in Germany from 1871 through World War I, Weimar, Third Reich, World War II and reunification in 1990.

HIST 321. The Holocaust. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A multidisciplinary examination of the events leading to and culminating in the Nazi extermination of six million Jews; the historical settings of European Jewry and of German fascism; the role of traditional anti-Semitism; the psychology of aggressor and victim; the Holocaust in art and literature and the moral implications for today.

HIST 322. Nazi Germany. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. The origin and nature of Hitler's Third Reich. A study of the failure of the Weimar Republic; genesis of the Nazi racial ideology and party structure; the Nazi political, social and cultural order after the seizure of power; Nazi foreign policy leading to war and genocide; and an analysis of the personality of Hitler.

HIST 323. Introduction to Public History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of the instructor. An overview of the methodology, theory and practical uses of history that is produced for, by and/or with the public, outside of the classroom context. Explores the relationships between historians, historical sites and organizations, communities, and cultural memory. Possible topics of inquiry include historical monuments, historic preservation, museum studies and oral history.

HIST 324. Early Modern Britain. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the development of British politics, society and culture from the Tudor Revolution in government and through the Reformation, English civil wars and Restoration.

HIST 325. Modern Britain. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the development of British politics and society from the Restoration to the mid-20th century, including such topics as the Whig oligarchy, the Industrial Revolution, Victorianism, the impact of the world wars and the problems of Empire.

HIST 326. The British Empire. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines the origin, development and decline of British overseas expansion from the late 16th century through the mid-20th century, including colonial settlements in Ireland, North America, the Caribbean, Australia and South Africa; dependencies and protectorates in Africa and the Middle East; and the empire of India. Focuses on the political and legal structures that enabled the administration and subordination of such a large and fragmented area and assesses the extent to which empire shaped and complicated gender, class and racial relations both at home and throughout the British imperial world.

HIST 327. Russia to 1855. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Russian history to 1855, emphasizing the development of political and social institutions and Russia's unique position between Europe and Asia.

HIST 328. Russia Since 1855. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Russian history from 1855 to the present, emphasizing the development of political and social institutions and Russia's unique position between Europe and Asia.

HIST 330. Gender and Sexuality in Europe to 1700. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Analyzes historical changes in gender and sexuality from c. 500 BCE through industrialization. Explores the notions of femininity and masculinity as they were expressed in the economics, family structures and intellectual and religious discourse within and amid Greek, Hellenistic, Roman, Germanic and Norse, and medieval Latin Christian cultures, and traces the changes brought to the medieval cultural synthesis by European colonial expansion, the reformations and the Industrial Revolution. Crosslisted as: GSWS 339.

HIST 331. Gender and Sexuality in Europe Since 1700. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of gender and sexuality in Europe since industrialization. The course offers a particular focus on the lives of European women, as well as sexual and gender minorities who by the end of the 20th century would identify as LGBTQ+. Topics will include the development of European feminisms, treatment of gender and sexuality under fascism, and the sexual revolution. Crosslisted as: GSWS 340.

HIST 333. History of the Jewish People I. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the Jewish people from the biblical period to the early modern period, including the Israelite conquest of Canaan, Judea in Hellenistic and Roman times, the Diaspora in Islam and in Europe, social and cultural trends, and Jewish settlement in the Ottoman Empire. Crosslisted as: RELS 318.

HIST 334. History of the Jewish People II. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the Jewish people from the early modern to the present, including the impact of the Emancipation, the rise of the American Jewish community, the impact of modernism and growth of Reform, the beginnings and growth of Zionism, restoration in Palestine, the Holocaust, the creation of Israel, and the relations of Israel and world Jewry. Crosslisted as: RELS 319.

HIST 335. History of Christianity I. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A historical and theological examination of Christianity from its origin to the early modern period, or the age of the Reformations. Emphasis is placed upon an understanding of leading events, ideas, movements and persons in their historical settings. Crosslisted as: RELS 327.

HIST 336. History of Christianity II. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A historical and theological examination of Christianity from ca. 1500 to the present. Emphasis is placed upon an understanding of leading events, ideas, movements and persons in their historical settings. Crosslisted as: RELS 328.

HIST 338. World War I in the Middle East. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores WWI and its aftermath from the perspective of the Ottoman Empire and its diverse populations. The topics to be considered are the socioeconomic and cultural effects of total mobilization on the populations of the Middle East; famines, genocides and population exchanges; international politics; the mandate system and anti-colonialist movements; and the creation of nation-states in the post-WWI Middle East.

HIST 340. The Middle East, 600-1600. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores two transformative historical events that took place in the Middle East between the sixth and 16th centuries: 1) the emergence of Islam and the development of the Islamic Empire and its social, cultural and political legacy in the Middle East (seventh to 10th centuries) and 2) the influx of outsiders to the region, such as the Turkish-speaking tribes, the crusaders and the Mongols, and the role these newcomers played in shaping the Middle East starting in the 10th century.

HIST 341. Modern Middle East. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Analysis of the history, problems and prospects of the nations and peoples of the Middle East with emphasis on developments since the Balfour Declaration of 1917.

HIST 342. The Ottoman Empire I (1300-1750). 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the history of the Ottoman Empire from the 14th century until roughly the mid-18th century. Examines the Ottoman Empire as a Euro-Mediterranean polity, exploring its social, cultural, economic and political history from a global perspective.

HIST 343. The Ottoman Empire II (1750-1923). 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the transformations of the late-Ottoman state and society by organizing the material around several historical processes and frameworks, such as the phenomenon of the gunpowder empires, integration of the empire to the global market, the decline paradigm, impact of colonialism and imperialism, Tanzimat reforms, the shift from subjecthood to citizenship, modernity, transformation of religious identities, state and nation formation, nationalism, secularism, gender and war mobilization.

HIST 344. American Military History to 1900. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Investigates the emergence and evolution of the American military from 1600 to 1900, with a focus on nation building and nationalism, the relationship between the civil and military spheres, professionalization, the experiences of the armed forces, strategic and tactical evolution, and the relationships among war, technology and nature.

HIST 345. American Colonies, 1450-1776. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of the development of the 13 original colonies; the establishment and growth of society, politics and the economy; and modification in the relationship between the provinces and Great Britain.

HIST 346. The American Revolutionary Era, 1763-1800. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of the late-18th-century revolutions which molded the American political system -- the revolution of colonial Englishmen against Great Britain and the revolution of the nationalists against the government established by the American Revolution, which produced and firmly established the United States Constitution.

HIST 347. Antebellum America, 1800-1860. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Federalist era to 1860. A study of the events, forces and personalities that shaped Antebellum America and led to Southern secession and Civil War.

HIST 348. The American Civil War and Reconstruction. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the major events, forces, personalities and significance of the Civil War and Reconstruction eras.

HIST 349. The Emergence of Modern America, 1877-1914. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines the distinct characteristics of American modernity as they emerge between the end of Reconstruction and WWI. Explores the opportunities and challenges of the shift from a rural agricultural economy to an urban industrial one brought on by Westward expansion, technological innovation and immigration. Themes include changes in American work and family life; encounters of class, ethnicity, race and gender; growth in consumer culture; and developments in government and grassroots activism culminating in the Progressive reform movement.

HIST 350. The United States, 1900-1945. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the political, social, economic and cultural history of the United States from 1900 to 1945, with emphasis on how the American people have responded to reform, war, prosperity, depression, international status and changing relationships within government and society.

HIST 351. Postwar America, 1945-Present. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the political, social, economic and cultural history of the United States in the 20th century, with emphasis on how the American people have responded to reform, war, prosperity, depression, international status and changing relationships within government and society.

HIST 352. The U.S. South to 1865. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A regional history of the Old South from the colonial period to 1861, placing particular emphasis upon the distinctive culture and problems of the South and its significance in the history of the United States.

HIST 353. The U.S. South Since 1865. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A regional history of the New South from 1865 to the present, placing particular emphasis upon the distinctive culture and problems of the South and its significance in the history of the United States.

HIST 354. Native Americans in the South. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines the history of Native Americans in the American South and how colonial encounters with Europeans impacted life in indigenous towns, villages and farmsteads.

HIST 355. Native Americans in Modern America. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines some of the key historical and cultural issues in American Indian history during the 20th century.

HIST 356. Virginia to 1865. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Focuses on the central themes, events and personalities of the state’s history from the pre-colonial period to 1865.

HIST 357. Virginia Since 1865. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Focuses on the central themes, events and personalities of the state's history from 1865 to the present.

HIST 358. History of the American Frontier. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the western movement in the United States from the time the first outposts were established to the end of the frontier in the 19th century. Particular attention to the influence of the frontier upon the American mind and ideals.

HIST 359. The History of Latin American Cities. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of Latin American cities from Buenos Aires to the U.S.-Mexico border that explores how cities have represented social, political, cultural and environmental change. The course also considers interactions between city, countryside and hinterlands in order to gather a more complete picture of the dynamics of Latin American history.

HIST 360. The Civil Rights Movement. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines race relations and changes to race relations, focusing on African Americans in the United States' South but including related struggles for civil rights and equality from the late-1800s to the present.

HIST 361. Americans from Africa. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the history and culture of blacks in the United States, designed to analyze some of the most important aspects of black life and the attitudes of the dominant society within which blacks lived. The second semester emphasizes the changing status, expectations and ideologies of black Americans in the 20th century. First semester: to 1877. Second semester: since 1877. Crosslisted as: AFAM 361.

HIST 362. Americans from Africa. 3 Hours.

HIST 363. American Religious History I. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of religious movements, events and ideas in North America from indigenous and colonial traditions to the U.S. Civil War, with attention to the diversity of religious expression and the relationship between church and state. Crosslisted as: RELS 366.

HIST 364. American Religious History II. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of religious movements, events and ideas in the United States from the Civil War to the present, with attention to the diversity of religious expression and the relationship between church and state. Crosslisted as: RELS 367.

HIST 365. Gender and Sexuality in America I. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Analyzes historical changes in gender and sexuality from the first colonial settlements through the Civil War. Explores the changing relation of femininity and masculinity to families, economics, politics, religions, race and culture for the wide variety of peoples who inhabited, immigrated to or were forced to migrate to America and the subsequent United States. Crosslisted as: GSWS 341.

HIST 366. Gender and Sexuality in America II. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Analyzes historical changes in gender and sexuality from Reconstruction to the present. Examines the relationship between gender, race, ethnicity and class within American society and the struggles for suffrage, social reform, employment opportunities and sexual freedom in the modern United States. Crosslisted as: GSWS 342.

HIST 367. East Africa, 1895-Present. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Covers the history of East Africa from the declaration of European protectorates over the region in the closing decades of the 19th century to the present. Addresses the forces that influenced the European occupation of East Africa; the subjugation of the region; the evolution and development of both colonial rule and African responses; East Africa and the European wars (World War I and World War II); the emergence of African nationalism; and the road to independence. Discusses the recent issues shaping East African states, including democracy versus authoritarianism, economic integration and the international community, and ethnicity and violence. Principally concerned with Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, but touches on the broader region as well.

HIST 368. Colonialism in Africa. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines colonial land and labor policies using case studies from Kenya, the Belgian Congo and South Africa, and the struggles against the apartheid system in South Africa. Topics include colonial land policies, the diverse methods adopted by colonial authorities to incorporate Africans into the wage economy, local response and the broad impact of these policies on Africans and the movement toward independence in South Africa.

HIST 371. Making Modern Mexico. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of Mexican history, including topics such as the pre-Columbian civilizations, the Spanish conquest and the colonial order, as well as independence, the struggle for reform, revolution and the development of the modern state.

HIST 372. Becoming Brazil. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of Brazilian history including topics such as the pre-Columbian civilizations, Portuguese colonialism, the independent empire and the republic, and populism and the modern state.

HIST 373. Andean History to 1800. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A critical view of the historical process of the Andean region from the pre-Columbian period to independence from Spain. Focuses mainly on the core of the region, which currently comprises the territories of Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru. Special attention to the indigenous population of the Andes -- also known as "Indians," "Andeans" or "Amerindians" -- and their interactions with other ethnic groups (Europeans, Criollos and Mestizos, as well as Africans and their descendants) in the political, economic, social and cultural realms.

HIST 374. Andean History Since 1800. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A critical view of the historical process of the Andean region from independence from Spain to the present. Focuses mainly on the core of the region, which currently comprises the territories of Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru. Special attention to the indigenous population of the Andes -- also known as "Indians," "Andeans" or "Amerindians" -- and their interactions with other ethnic groups (Europeans, Criollos and Mestizos, as well as Africans and their descendants) in the political, economic, social and cultural realms.

HIST 375. Immigration to the United States. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Surveys patterns of migration to the United States from colonial times to the present. Considers migration to the United States as part of the evolving global labor market and colonial expansion; the relationship of immigration to nation-building, westward expansion, foreign policy and national identity; the legal regulation of immigration; the political debates surrounding immigration; and the experience of immigrants.

HIST 376. Caribbean History to 1838. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An exploration of changes in the structure of Caribbean society from the late 15th century to 1838, with emphasis on the development of plantation slavery, social stratification, race, slave resistance, the Haitian Revolution, African cultural patterns and abolition. Crosslisted as: AFAM 392.

HIST 377. Caribbean History Since 1838. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Covers major developments in the history of the Caribbean in the period after the British abolition of slavery in 1834, with a major focus on the social and economic aspects of change.

HIST 378. Atlantic Slavery. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines social and economic aspects of slavery in the Atlantic world, principally Africa, the Caribbean, the United States and Canada.

HIST 380. Forced and Coerced Labor in Africa and the Americas. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines a broad range of forced and coerced labor in Africa and selected parts of the Americas, including the United States, Canada and the Caribbean, from around the 17th century to the 20th century. The role that gender and race played in slavery and coerced labor will be given particular attention. Crosslisted as: AFAM 390/GSWS 390.

HIST 381. History of West Africa to 1800. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the transformation of West African societies from early times to 1800, with emphasis on the rise of states and empires, the introduction, spread and impact of Islam, the Atlantic slave trade and its effects, and colonialism. Crosslisted as: AFAM 387.

HIST 382. Latinos in the United States. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examination of the history of Latinos in American history. The course covers issues of migration, refugees, labor, family networks, religion, war, economics, state-building, politics, racialization, international disputes and globalization.

HIST 383. Southern Africa Since 1600. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the history and culture of the peoples of southern Africa. Deals with the areas that presently are the Republic of South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe. Emphasizes the interaction among the various communities and ethnolinguistic groups in southern Africa. Crosslisted as: AFAM 389.

HIST 384. Africa: Social, Cultural and Economic History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of economic, social and cultural developments in Africa from the beginning of the 19th century to the present, with emphasis on agricultural and industrial development, trade, Africa's involvement in the world economy, changes in labor systems, racial dominance, African initiatives and resistance, religion and social evolution, and Africa in world affairs. Crosslisted as: AFAM 388.

HIST 385. Modern Japan. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course will offer a detailed examination of Japan's modern history, from the rise of Tokugawa rule to the end of World War II. A general overview of Japan's traditional society will give way to a historical analysis of the major social, cultural, political and intellectual changes that occurred in Japan throughout this time period.

HIST 386. Early Modern China. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines the history of China from 900 to 1800 CE. A general overview of China's political economy is followed by a historical analysis of the major social, cultural, political, intellectual and economic changes that occurred in China between 900 and 1800 CE. In addition, students will be introduced to such concepts and issues as empire building, conquest dynasties, steppe and sedentary societies, sociocultural history and Western and Chinese historiography.

HIST 387. Modern China. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines China's modern history beginning at the height of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) in 1800. A general overview of China's traditional political economy is followed by a historical analysis of the major social, cultural, political, intellectual and economic changes that occurred in China from 1800 to the present. This course is divided into three sections: the first examines the factors leading to the collapse of China's last dynasty in 1912; the second focuses on the revolutionary changes taking place in China during the first half of the 20th century (from 1912 to 1949); and the final section looks at Communist China since 1949.

HIST 389. History in Film: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits with different topics. An examination of the uses and misuses of historical events and personalities in film. Lectures and readings are used to critically analyze films dealing with biographies, events and propaganda.

HIST 390. Historical Archaeology. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Prerequisites: ANTH 103 or ANTH 105/INTL 104; and any history course. A review of historical archaeology, recognizing its contemporary emphasis on the spread of European cultures across the globe beginning in the 15th century. Methods and findings of historical archaeological research from the United States and around the world will be covered with special emphasis on the study of documents and artifacts related to the emergence and present state of the modern world. Crosslisted as: ANTH 394.

HIST 391. Topics in History. 1-3 Hours.

Semester course; 1, 2 or 3 lecture hours. Variable credit. May be repeated with different topics for a maximum of 9 credits. An in-depth study of a selected topic in history. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 392. Revolutions in Science I. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of science from the ancient Greeks to 1800, focusing on the development of scientific ideas, practices and institutions in Western society. Crosslisted as: SCTS 392.

HIST 393. Revolutions in Science II. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of science from 1800 to the present, focusing on the development of scientific ideas, practices and institutions in Western society. Crosslisted as: SCTS 393.

HIST 394. Technology in Europe and America. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of the technological development of Europe and North America from antiquity through the end of the 20th century. Outlines major historical trends and turning points in the development and use of technology, and students will take up a small number of illustrative case studies.

HIST 397. Genetics and Society: 1865 to the Present. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An investigation of the science and technology of heredity in its historical, cultural and political contexts, emphasizing the ways in which genetic theories have been applied in attempting to solve social and biological problems. Crosslisted as: SCTS 397.

HIST 398. Medicine and Public Health: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated with different thematic content for a maximum of six credits. Studies in selected topics in the history of medicine, medical science or public health. Includes introduction to the interdisciplinary approaches practiced in the history of medicine as well as the historical content and relevant analytical skills needed to examine the specific course theme. Crosslisted as: SCTS 398.

HIST 399. Introduction to Science and Technology Studies. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An introduction to the study of science, technology and medicine from political, sociological and historical perspectives, focusing on case studies that illustrate the methods and theories used to examine the structure and behavior of the scientific community and the role of scientific knowledge in shaping public culture. Crosslisted as: GVPA 399/SCTS 300.

HIST 401. Studies in Ancient History: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated once, with a different topic, for credit. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of instructor. Courses taught under this heading provide advanced study and analysis of the theory and field of ancient history.

HIST 402. Studies in Medieval History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 403. Studies in Early Modern European History: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Repeatable once, with a different topic, for credit. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of instructor. Courses taught under this heading provide advanced study and analysis of the theory and field of early modern European history.

HIST 404. Studies in Modern European History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 406. Studies in Middle Eastern History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 407. Studies in Early American History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 408. Studies in Modern American History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 409. Studies in Latin American History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 410. Studies in African History: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours, 3 credits. May be repeated once, with a different topic, for credit. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of instructor. Courses taught under this heading provide advanced study and analysis of the theory and field of African history.

HIST 411. Studies in the African Diaspora: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 412. Studies in Asian History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 413. Studies in Atlantic History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 414. Studies in Indigenous History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 415. Studies in the History of Religion: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 416. Studies in the History of Women, Gender and Sexuality: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of instructor. Repeatable once, with a different topic, for credit. Courses taught under this heading provide advanced study and analysis of the theory and field of the history of women, gender and sexuality.

HIST 417. Studies in African American History: ____. 3 Hours.

HIST 420. Studies in Historical Method: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated once, with a different topic, for credit. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of instructor. Focuses on a particular methodology used by historians as they investigate the past.

HIST 421. Studies in Comparative History: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated once, with a different topic, for credit. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of instructor. Undertakes a topic that cuts across regions and cultures, making comparative judgments about human events.

HIST 422. Studies in Public History: ____. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated with different thematic content for a maximum of six credits. Prerequisites: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C; and HIST 323. Studies in a selected topic, method, approach or issue in history which is produced for, by and/or with the public, outside of the classroom context. Includes the historical content and relevant analytical skills needed to examine the specific course theme.

HIST 450. Professional Development for History Majors II. 1 Hour.

Semester course; 1 lecture hour (delivered online). 1 credit. Prerequisite: HIST 309. Supports students as they acquire skills in writing and creating multiple genres of professional self-representation. Students will translate their career goals -- and the skills the major instills -- into multiple forms, including a professional digital presence, resumes or CVs, and personal statements.

HIST 460. Professional Development for History Majors III. 1 Hour.

Semester course; 1 lecture hour. 1 credit. Prerequisite: HIST 450. Explores the process of seeking professional employment using the skills in research, analytic reading, persuasive writing and oral presentation which have been developed through the course of the history major.

HIST 485. Seminar in Historiography. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for maximum of 6 credits with different topics. Introduction to questions in historiography, meaning, methodology and interpretation in the teaching and writing of history.

HIST 490. Senior Seminar in History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C. Research and analysis of a selected historical topic in a seminar setting. See the Schedule of Classes for each semester's offerings.

HIST 492. Independent Study. 2-4 Hours.

Semester course; variable hours. 2-4 credits per semester. Maximum total of 6 credits. Open generally to students of only junior and senior standing who have acquired 12 credits in the departmental disciplines. Determination of the amount of credit and permission of instructor and department chair must be procured prior to registration of the course.

HIST 493. Internship. 2-4 Hours.

Semester course; 2-4 hours; 2-4 credits. May be repeated for a maximum total of 6 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C. Enrollment generally open to students with senior standing. Students receive credit for work on historical projects with approved agencies. Determination of the amount of credit and permission of departmental internship coordinator must be procured prior to registration for the course.

HIST 511. Studies in American History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Study of a selected topic in American history, primarily through lectures and readings. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 515. Studies in European History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Study of a selected topic in European history, primarily through lectures and readings. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 519. Studies in Ethnic and Social History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Study of a selected topic in ethnic or social history, primarily through lectures and readings. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 523. Studies in Virginia and Southern History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Study of a selected topic in Virginia or Southern history, primarily through lectures and readings. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 527. Studies in African-American History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Study of a selected topic in African-American history, primarily through lectures and readings. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 591. Special Topics in History. 1-3 Hours.

Semester course; 1-3 lecture hours. 1-3 credits. May be repeated with different topics for a maximum of 9 credits. An intensive study of a selected topic in history.

HIST 601. Historiography and Methodology. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the development of history as a discipline from ancient times to the present. The course examines the evolution of historical theory and philosophy, great historians, schools of interpretation, and problems of historical methodology. This course is a prerequisite for research seminars.

HIST 611. Readings in American History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of major studies and interpretative trends in a particular area of American history through readings and class discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 615. Readings in European History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of major studies and interpretative trends in a particular area of European history through readings and class discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 618. Readings in Transatlantic History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of major studies and interpretative trends in a particular area of transatlantic history through reading and class discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 619. Readings in Ethnic and Social History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of major studies and interpretative trends in a particular area of ethnic or social history through readings and class discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 623. Readings in Virginia and Southern History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of major studies and interpretative trends in a particular area of Virginia or Southern history through readings and class discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 627. Readings in African-American History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of major studies and interpretative trends in a particular area of African-American history through readings and class discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 631. Research in American History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of significant problems in a particular field of American history through research, writing, in-class presentations and discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 635. Research in European History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of significant problems in a particular field of European history through research, writing, in-class presentations and discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 638. Research in Transatlantic History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of significant problems in a particular field of transatlantic history through research, writing, in-class presentations and discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 639. Research in Ethnic and Social History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of significant problems in a particular field of ethnic or social history through research, writing, in-class presentations and discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 643. Research in Virginia and Southern History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of significant problems in a particular field of Virginia or Southern history through research, writing, in-class presentations and discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 647. Research in African-American History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Analysis of significant problems in a particular field of African-American history through research, writing, in-class presentations and discussions. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester.

HIST 651. Public History: Theory and Practice. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An overview of the field of public history, intended to introduce students to the range of professional historical activities practiced outside the classroom. Explores methods and skills including archival work, documentary editing, historic preservation, museum studies and oral history. The course also involves a sustained consideration of the theoretical issues that arise from public history work, defined as history of, for, by and/or with the public.

HIST 652. Documentary Editing and Scholarly Publishing. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An overview of the processes by which historical scholarship is disseminated by publication. Students will practice editing scholarly editions of historic documents and reviewing manuscripts for publication in academic media. Special consideration will be given to the digital humanities and new technology's relation to the traditional publishing trade.

HIST 653. American Material Culture. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Material culture is a term encompassing all things created or modified by people -- such as clothing, tools, furniture, works of art, buildings and even landscapes. This course introduces students to the field of material culture studies and challenges them to study the American past through examination of its artifacts and architecture. Students will explore a range of disciplinary approaches and time periods, as well as the role of politics in the preservation and exhibition of material culture.

HIST 654. Oral History: Theory and Practice. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An introduction to the practice and theories of oral history, a method employing interviews or sound recordings of people with personal knowledge of past events. Students will consider the benefits and limitations of the method as well as learn the general legal issues involved. Students will conduct their own interviews and practice the transcription of oral testimony.

HIST 655. Digital History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course explores the ways technology can change the way historians research, analyze, write, discuss and produce history. Beginning with the foundations of digital history, the course will consider a variety of media, platforms and projects, and will pay particular attention to the digital initiatives in the region. Students will experience hands-on training in web literacies and other skills, including sound editing, map editing and text mining, building toward presentations of final digital projects that employ at least one new skill. By the end of the course, students should gain a basic understanding of the field’s advantages and challenges along with enough technical expertise to begin participating in it, given their own interests and needs. Above all, the course should enhance students’ engagement with the past, not distract from it.

HIST 656. Museums, Cultures and Communities: Historical Perspectives. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Focuses on the changing theory and practice of museum and public display work within cultures and communities (primarily in the U.S. but some internationally) from the late 1800s forward. Provides a methodological understanding of historical and current issues in museum studies and how they relate to museum practice, as well as opportunities to gain practical experience in exhibit, grant and community engagement project proposals.

HIST 657. Controversy in Public History. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. It is essential for practitioners of public history to feel comfortable addressing controversial or difficult topics, whether in teaching, writing or developing public history products. To offer such preparation, this course will focus on ways that history has been contested and the role of historians in mitigating these clashes in the broader political culture. Just as these battles may play out at the national level, they similarly unfold in communities, institutions and workplaces. Students will learn — through readings and class discussions, practical exercises, and meetings with professionals from the field — strategies for understanding and accommodating various perspectives and for interpreting controversial historical material. This course encourages disagreement and respectful dialogue.

HIST 691. Special Topics in History. 1-3 Hours.

Semester course; 1-3 lecture hours. 1-3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits. An intensive study of a selected topic in history.

HIST 692. Independent Study. 1-3 Hours.

Semester course; 1-3 credits. Maximum of 6 credits. Prerequisite: permission of department chair. Requires an analysis of a historical problem or topic in depth under faculty supervision.

HIST 693. Internship in History. 2-4 Hours.

Semester course; variable hours. 2-4 credits per semester. Maximum of 6 credits. Determination of the amount of credit and permission of departmental internship coordinator must be procured prior to registration for this course. Students receive credit for work on historical projects with approved agencies.

HIST 698. M.A. Thesis. 1-6 Hours.

1-6 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits.