HIST 615: Problems in American History

HIST 615-B02: Free Speech & Censorship
(Summer 2026)

07:20 PM to 10:00 PM MW

Online

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Section Information for Summer 2026

What do we have the right to say? Can censorship ever be justified? How has the meaning of the First Amendment changed over time? In this course we will explore the history of contestations over controversial speech, both to trace the evolution of free speech law and to understand the culture and politics of the past. Readings will range from the late nineteenth century to the present, exploring the censorship of political radicals, media companies, and pornographers, and studying the intersection of social movements and civil liberties law. The course is designed to provide students with both an overview of America’s free speech tradition, and with an introduction to the interdisciplinary methods scholars use to study the complex history of censorship in American politics and culture. 
 

HIST 615 B02 is an online live video section.

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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. Offered by History & Art History. 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: Lecture
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.