Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
ELIZABETH M. NAVA
OFFICE: C-109  PHONE: 274-7900 x 6630
OFFICE HOURS:
Mon. /Wed 2:00 –3:00 p.m.
Tues/ Thurs. 12:30 –1:30
Email: emnava@aol.com
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EVERGREEN VALLEY COLLEGE
FALL 2013 (17B) C/L
Tuesday & Thursday
9:15 – 10:35
Web site: emnavahistory.com
UNITED STATES HISTORY 17B
From 1865 to the Present
COURSE DESCRIPTION
In this course we will identify, examine and explore economic, social and political events
and issues that have shaped the development of the United States since the Civil War. We
will reevaluate, discuss and debate Reconstruction, Industrialization, life during the
Progressive Era, World War I, the 20’s, The Great Depression, World War II, the Cold
War, the rise of McCarthyism, Vietnam and the Civil Rights Movement.
We will give special attention to the social aspect of how this country developed in order to
understand the current events, issues and problems we face as a nation. We will explore the
lives of different immigrant groups in our discussions and throughout the readings. This
will give us a more realistic view of why America is called the “melting pot” and the “land
of opportunity”. Thus we will begin to develop a historical perspective that will guide our
critical analysis of contemporary economic, social and political problems. We will include
multi-cultural, multi-racial and multi-class perspectives with an emphasis on particular
moments in history.
COURSE OBJECTIVES & LEARNING OUTCOMES
One of the objectives of this class is to connect the development of the nation to the present
situation affecting our lives. By studying the diversity of the country’s population and how
different cultural groups adjusted, accommodated and assimilated, we begin to understand
the factors that have shaped our political, economic and social institutions, as well as our
responsibilities as citizens of the most powerful country in the world. We will begin to
understand why people have immigrated to the U.S. and continue to do so. The second
objective is to re-define and develop an understanding of Community and Democracy. We
will also examine American policies, laws, concepts and how they have evolved through
time. In doing so we can begin to bring meaning to unsettling democratic values, such as,
the real meaning of freedom, poverty and social inequalities that have affected different
ethnic groups throughout history. We will examine the idea of collective sacrifice and
develop a strong sense of what it means to Americans. We will develop our own theories
and concepts and begin to draw conclusions concerning social and economic injustices.
The working class will be our focus so that we may develop a sense of cultural sensitivity
among all of us. In the end, we will have a better understanding of class, social
consciousness, oppression, sexism, racism, resistance, accommodation, war, pacifism and
how all these concepts have influenced our interpretation of history.
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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WRITING OBJECTIVES & OUTCOMES
Students will be writing an average of 3000 words this semester. The exams are designed
to help the student understand and critically analyze eras in American History. The student
is expected to identify and understand the political, social, and economic issues, concepts
and theories that influenced the various periods in history.
The objective is for the student to develop writing skills and to make historical connections
through the readings, documentaries and lectures. The student will have an opportunity to
write a college level essay by critically analyzing different historical concepts, issues and
theories. The student will also read a historical novel and write a book review. This will
enable the student to have a better understanding of the time period in which the novel
takes place. The oral presentations help the student to develop research skills, critical
thinking, problem solving and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
After completing the assignments, the students should:
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Critical evaluate the influence various ethnic groups played throughout history
Differentiate past eras in history and how they relate to the present
Assess the different waves of immigration to the United States
Critically evaluate the meaning of collective sacrifice, the real meaning of Democracy
and the American Dream
Critically evaluate institutionalized racism and classism
Interpret the significance and contributions of working class Americans
Critically evaluate a historical era, a policy, a concept or law in essay form
Write a college level essay
EXAMINATIONS AND GRADING: A SMALL BLUE BOOK (8.5x7) IS REQUIRED
FOR ALL EXAMINATIONS. No one is allowed to come in late for an exam.
One well-researched group presentation, three short answer essay exams and a book review
will be required of all students. The group presentations and exams will cover all materials
from lectures and reading assignments given up to the test presentation dates. Essay exams
must incorporate information from lecture notes, reading assignments, the reader, films and
documentaries. Students are expected to take examinations on the scheduled dates. A make
up exam date is scheduled on November 14 for those students who missed an exam
because of illness and/ or a death in the family. You must inform the instructor concerning
your absence by email or phone. If you fail to inform the instructor you will not be allowed
to make-up the exam. You will only be allowed to make-up one exam. There are no
exceptions to this rule. If you miss taking an exam you will receive an “F” and the “F” will
not be dropped. Extra Credit will not be added to an “F” received for a missed exam, a
retake or a rewritten exam.
For your group presentations, you will be graded individually and how well you have
answered your section of the question your group has been assigned. Students are expected
to be present during all group presentations. No exceptions! If you are not present for the
entire days when students are presenting, points will be deducted from your grade and you
will earn an incomplete and/or an “F” for your final grade. You will also be required to
read one novel from the required reading list and write a book review in class. The book
review, the group presentations and the short answer essays are worth 100 points each.
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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You will be assigned to a group during the 8th week of the semester. You will remain in
this group for the final presentations. The success of your group depends on how well you
work together during and outside class time. The questions for the group presentations will
be handed out in class three weeks prior to the presentation exam dates. You will be
required to present to the class a well-researched presentation regarding different themes on
the Civil Rights Movement to the present. You must be present during all the presentations.
No exceptions. If you are absent the day of your presentation you will have to take an F for
your grade and/or an incomplete for the semester. The final will cover the 40’s, 50’s, and
60’s through the present. The dates for the presentations are on the class schedule.
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You will be graded by the standard letter scale, A - F. The short essays, group presentation
and the book critique are all worth 100 points each. Points are deducted for excessive
absences. You can earn extra points for extra credit assigned during the semester. Extra
credit writing assignments are to be typewritten and due the next time the class meets. All
extra credit points earned are added to the 1st and/or 2nd exam, which ever is the highest
score. The lowest score will be dropped. Extra credit points are not added to the third exam,
book review, the final, a rewritten or retake exam. Scores on the exams, attendance,
participation in class and extra credit assignments determine your final grade. Students are
required to take all exams on the scheduled dates. No one is allowed to leave the
classroom during exams. Students are not allowed to come in late for an exam. If you
miss an exam without an excuse you will receive an “F” and the “F” will not be dropped.
Unexcused absences will affect your overall grade and you will be dropped from my
personal roster. Students are not allowed to plea a case on exam dates. Please see me in
my office concerning all exams.
If you have questions concerning your grade please see me during my office hours. Please
make an appointment if you cannot see me during my office hours.
Cheating will not be tolerated. Students caught cheating will be automatically terminated
from the class. You will be reported to school officials.
Dates of examinations, presentations and the book review are as follows:
Short essays
1st Exam
September 19
Short essays
2nd Exam
October 10
3rd Exam
Make – up Exam Day
Blue Book Short essay
You may only make –
up one exam
Book Review Exam November 26
Two & ½ pages
due. Optional
typewritten
Final Exam
December 10, Your final exam will
Presentations
12 & 17
cover post WW II,
60’s to the present
October 31
November 14
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION
Class attendance is mandatory. Participation in-group discussions are expected of every
student. Students who have not attended class will not be allowed to take the scheduled
exam. Students who make a habit of taking exams without attending class are not active
members of the class and need to drop the class. Students who do not attend class and do
not drop the class officially will receive an “ F” for the semester.
ABSENCES/ TARDINESS AND DROPS
Students who are absent more than three times without an excuse will be dropped
from my personal roster. This does not mean that you will be dropped from
the official roster. It is your responsibility to drop the class officially. If you
do not drop the class officially you will receive an "F" for the class. If I indicate to you
or the class that I have dropped you from my personal roster this does not mean that
you have been dropped officially. It is your responsibility to drop this class with
Admissions and Records otherwise you will receive an “F” for the semester.
Lateness to class during the semester and on exams days will not be tolerated.
Students who are late disrupt the flow of the class and will be counted as an unexcused
absence. No one is allowed to come in late on exam days.
GROUP PRESENTATIONS & ATTENDANCE
You are required to be present for all group presentations. If you are absent points
will be deducted from your final exam grade and you risk earning an incomplete
for the semester. You must have a doctor's excuse for your absence. Work
schedule responsibilities are not, under any circumstances, an excuse for your absence.
You are also expected to have read the week’s reading assignment before coming to class.
Be prepared and come ready to critically analyze the readings and lectures. We will break
into groups to discuss and reevaluate the theme at hand.
This class requires active college students willing to contribute their ideas and critical
evaluations concerning American History. In order to develop a strong understanding of the
material, it is imperative that you read your assigned material and attend class. It is your
responsibility to officially drop this class if you are not able to meet the class requirements.
If you do not drop by the deadline, I am required to give you an “F” at the end of the
semester
Note to students: Please refer to the Evergreen College Catalog for Student
Disciplinary Procedure and Complaint/ Grievance Policy.
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER:
SEPTEMBER 15: Last day to add via MYWEB using add codes
SEPTEMBER 16: Last day to drop and apply for a refund of all eligible fees.
SEPTEMBER 16: Last day to drop a class without receiving a “W” on your record
NOVEMBER 22: Last day to drop a class and receive a “W” on your permanent
record card.
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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REQUIRED TEXTS
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Textbook: Give Me Liberty! An American History, Volume II, by Eric Foner.
Reader: A People’s History of The U.S. Volume Two: The Civil War To The
Present, by Howard Zinn
BOOK REVIEW EXAM DUE ON NOVEMBER 26: THIS TAKE HOME EXAM IS
OPTIONAL.
You will be required to read one of the following novels for this take home exam. The
novels will be available at the Evergreen College bookstore. This book review is
considered an exam and is worth 100 points. Plagiarism will not be tolerated. This exam
must be turned in at the beginning of class. Please see me for further details regarding this
exam.
NOVEL LIST FOR BOOK REVIEW
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Coming of Age in Mississippi: An Autobiography, by Anne Moody
George Washington Gomez, by Americo Paredes
America is in the Heart, by Carlos Bulosan
Desert Exile: The Uprooting of a Japanese-American Family, by Yoshiko Uchida
Ishi in Two Worlds, by Theodora Kroeber**
Goodbird the Indian, His Story, by Edward Goodbird**
Hiroshima, by John Hersey
Thousand Pieces of Gold, by Ruthanne Lum McCunn
The Great Divide, Second Thoughts On The American Dream, by Studs Terkel
Triangle, The Fire That Changed America, by David Von Drehle
The Plaque of Doves, by Louise Erdrich
The Killing of Crazy Horse, by Thomas Powers
** Ishi in Two Worlds and Good bird the Indian, His story, must be read together.
COURSE PLAN
SEPTEMBER 3: INTRODUCTION TO COURSE:
 Reevaluating the Importance of History in Our Lives. What is Social History? A short
overview of Colonialism to the Post Civil War Era.
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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SEPTEMBER 5 & 10: RECONSTRUCTION
Read: Give Me Liberty (Chapter 15)
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapter 1)
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African American Community Emerges: Their Hopes and Dreams
The 13th, 14th, and 15th Constitutional Amendments
The Compromise of 1877
SEPTEMBER 12 & 17:
THE SETTLING OF THE WEST DURING THE NEW INDUSTRIAL ORDER
Read: Give Me Liberty (Chapter 16)
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapter 2)
Film: Indians, Outlaws and Angie Debo (if time permits).
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The American Indian and Wounded Knee
The Emergence of the Chicano Working Class
Chinese Immigration and Early Discrimination
SEPTEMBER 19: FIRST EXAM: COVERING RECONSTRUCTION & THE
SETTLING OF THE WEST
Short essay exam: Exam will cover Chapters 15 and 16 in Give Me Liberty and Chapters 1
& 2 in A People’s History of the U.S.
SEPTEMBER 24, 26 & OCTOBER 1: THE NEW INDUSTRIAL ORDER.
Read: Give Me Liberty (Review Chapter 16 and read Chapter 17)
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapter 3 & 4)
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Introduction to the Gilded Age/ The New Industrial Order
The Knights of Labor
The Haymarket Riot: Albert Parsons and Lucy Gonzales Parsons
Samuel Gompers and The AFL
Eugene Debs and the Pullman Strike
Farm Protest & the Populist Movement
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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OCTOBER 3 & 8.
THE PROGRESSIVE ERA (1900-1920) CLASS STRUCTURE & POLITICS
Read: Give Me Liberty (Chapter 18)
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapter 5)
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Who Were the Progressives?
Who Were the Socialists?
The I.W.W/ Protests and Strikes
Women Struggle to Gain the Vote
The Election of 1912 (if time permits)
OCTOBER 10: SECOND EXAM:
THE NEW INDUSTRIAL ORDER AND THE PROGRESSIVE ERA
Second Exam will cover Chapters 16, 17 & 18 in Give Me Liberty and Chapter 3, 4, & 5 in
A People’s History of the U.S.
OCTOBER 15 & 17 UNREST AT HOME AND ABROAD- WORLD WAR I
Read: Give Me Liberty (Chapter 19 & 20)
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapter 6)
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World War I: The Great War in Europe- Documentary
The Red Scare
The ‘20’s and The Harlem Renaissance
OCTOBER 22, 24 & 29: HARD TIMES: THE GREAT DEPRESSION
Read: Give Me Liberty (Review Chapter 20 and read Chapter 21)
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapter 7)
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The causes of The Great Depression
Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal
Repatriation of Mexicans and Mexican Americans: Review of recent policies
American Indians and The New Deal
African Americans in the Depression
Women in the New Deal
OCTOBER 31: THIRD EXAM: COVERING WORLD WAR I- THE GREAT
DEPRESSION. Short essay exam. You will have 50 minutes to complete this exam.
Please bring a Blue Book. Exam will cover Chapters 19, 20, & 21, In Give Me Liberty and
Chapters 6 & 7 in A People’s History of the U.S.
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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NOVEMBER 5, 7 & 12: WORLD WAR II
Read: Give Me Liberty (Chapter 22)
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapter 8)
American Realities (Chapter 10) required reading (Book on reserve in the
Library).
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World Events that led to the War
American Foreign Policy
Pearl Harbor, (December 7, 1941) U.S. Enters the War
People of Color on the Home Front: Japanese Americans, Mexican Americans, African
Americans and American Indians
Women During the War
The War Ends
NOVEMBER 14: Make up Exam Day. Students who are not making up an exam do
not need to attend class. Groups should meet in the library to work on final
presentations.
NOVEMBER 19, 21 & 26: POST-WORLD WAR II- THE 1950’s
NOVEMBER 26: BOOK REVIEW EXAM DUE: THIS EXAM IS OPTIONAL
You must inform the instructor of your intentions two weeks before this Book Review is
due otherwise I will not accept the exam. You must turn in your Book Review at the
beginning of class. No exceptions!
Read: Give Me Liberty (Chapters 23 & 24)
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapters 9 & 10)
American Realities (Chapter 11) required reading. Book on reserve in the Library
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The Cold War (1945-1953)
The Truman Doctrine
The Marshall Pan
McCarthyism
Middle America Moves to the Suburbs
NOVEMBER 28 & 29: THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY, NO CLASSES HELD
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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DECEMBER 3 & 5: THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT
Read: Give Me Liberty (Chapters 25 & 26) Chapters 27 & 28 are optional
People’s History of the U.S. (Chapters 11 & 12) Chapters 13 & 14 are optional
American Realities (Chapter 12 & 13) required reading. (Book on reserve in the
Library)
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Brown vs. the Board of Education
The Montgomery Bus Boycott
Non- Violence and Civil Disobedience
The Vietnam War: Have We Learned Anything?
The Anti War Movement
The Chicano Movement
The American Indian Movement
Final Exam: December 10, 12 & 17.
The Final exam oral projects will cover Post- WW II. The 1950’s, the 1960’s Civil Rights
Movement, Vietnam and significant events to the present. All students must be present the
three days of finals. If you are absent during finals your grade will go down a whole letter
grade and so on. If you do not attend finals you will have to take an incomplete and /or an
“F” for the semester. Work schedules should not, under any circumstances, interfere with
your ability to complete your class requirements. No exceptions
DECEMBER 19: THIS DAY IS RESERVED FOR STUDENTS WHO HAVE NOT
FULLFILLED THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS CLASS. STUDENTS WHO HAVE
COMPLETED THEIR WORK DO NOT HAVE TO ATTEND CLASS THIS DAY.
HAVE A PEACEFUL HOLIDAY SEASON!
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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EXTRA CREDIT FOR FALL 2013
Instructions on how to do the oral /written work are on page 12 of the
syllabus.
ORAL PRESENTATIONS:
Students will have an opportunity to present oral presentations that are well
researched and documented during this semester. These presentations will be
presented at the end of class every Thursday and cannot exceed 5 minutes.
You must be well prepared and ready to explain and analyze your report. You
may read a newspaper article and/or magazine article to prepare for this extra
credit and report on the following topics below. These oral presentations are
worth 0-15 points.
 American occupation in the Middle East
 International news regarding hunger, famine, drought conditions and
genocide.
 Articles on education, the environment, California Politics, national and
local issues and policies.
 The current recession
 Articles of concern on the following issues:
 The current recession
 Racial profiling
 Gender discrimination
 Entitlement or government programs
 Employment and job security
 National debt
WRITTEN CRITIQUE:
You may also read and write a short historical observation on the
contributions of the various Americans featured in the readers, "From
These Beginnings ", “For The Record” and “The 100 Greatest Americans
of the 20th Century” on reserve in the library. All work must be type
written and double-spaced. No exceptions. These short essays must be 2
and ½ pages long. They are worth 0 - 20 points.
The following are the deadlines for these short extra credit essays:
 September 26
 October 24
 November 21
Syllabus/ History 17-B C/L Fall 2013
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GRADING SCALE
The following is my grading scale and an example of how I calculate
your exams and final grade.
100-96=A+ 89-86=B+
95 - 93=A 85-83=B
92 - 90=A- 82-80=B-
79-76=C+
75-70=C
69-66=C-
65-60= D+ to D59 =F
EXAMPLE
1 st exam = 54=F
3 rd exam 85=B
2 nd exam =75=C
4th exam =89=B+
Final exam 95=A 36 divided by 4 = 9= B+
Grade for the class
I drop the lowest score on the 1 st or 2 nd exam and add extra credit to the
highest score left. If your highest score on that exam is a "C", it can only
go up to a "B" if you have enough extra credit. In order for me to drop
the lowest score on the first or second exam students are
required to take all exams. No exceptions to this rule. I divide your
scores by the following scale (see below) and the number of exams you
have taken and this determines your final grade.
11 = A 9 = B + 7 = B - 5 = C 3 = D +
10 = A- 8 = B 6 = C + 4 = C - 2 = D
1 = D0 = F