HIST 615: Problems in American History

HIST 615-013: The Personal Presidency
(Spring 2012)

07:20 PM to 10:00 PM W

Section Information for Spring 2012

This course examines the evolution of the American presidency, with special emphasis on presidential decision making -- from Washington's Neutrality Proclamation through George W. Bush's invasion of Iraq. As befitting a course taught by a leading presidential biographer, the personal element of leadership will be stressed. Why does a Taft or Hoover succeed in every position but the presidency? Does character count? How should character be defined? At the same time, institutional factors will not be neglected -- for example, how modern media have transformed the nation's highest office; likewise, how the bully pulpit made famous by Theodore Roosevelt has evolved in the world of YouTube and Twitter. Less historiographical than most graduate courses, this seminar will feature biographical and historical literature wherein statistical analysis takes a backseat to narrative storytelling. Stressing group discussion, course requirements include 1) assigned readings; 2) class attendance and appropriate contributions to discussions; 3) one 5 page paper; 4) a mid-term examination; 5) a three hour final examination or 15-20 page research paper. A student's grade in the course will be based on these elements: 1) 30% on class participation; 2) 15% on five-page paper; 3) 20% on mid-term examination; 4) 35% on final examination or research paper. This course fulfills the “Origins to 1861” or the “1861-1914” or the 1914-Present” distribution requirement in U.S. history, but not more than one.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 1-6

Readings and discussion of bibliographies, interpretations, and research trends in topics selected by instructor. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. May be repeated within the term.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lec/Sem #1, Lec/Sem #2, Lec/Sem #3, Lec/Sem #4, Lec/Sem #5, Lec/Sem #6, Lec/Sem #7, Lec/Sem #8, Lec/Sem #9, Lecture, Sem/Lec #10, Sem/Lec #11, Sem/Lec #12, Sem/Lec #13, Sem/Lec #14, Sem/Lec #15, Sem/Lec #16, Sem/Lec #17, Sem/Lec #18
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.