History Course Listing

History Courses

HIST101. Intro to the History Major

This course is designed to assist incoming History majors in developing knowledge and skills that lead to academic success, while simultaneously fostering a positive transition to college life. Students will be introduced to the discipline and the best practices of professional development, including familiarity with the department’s curriculum, university career and academic resources, and related opportunities for professional growth in the campus and local community. 1 credit.

HIST125. World History I

A survey of world history from prehistory to 1500 CE with an emphasis on historical inquiry, cultural comparison, and the role of ethnocentrism in shaping perceptions of the world. 3 credits. FGLO, WI.

HIST126. World History II

A survey of world history from 1500 CE to the present with an emphasis on historical inquiry, cultural comparison, and the role of ethnocentrism in shaping perceptions of the world. 3 credits. FGLO, WI.

HIST150. Historical Inquiry I

Historical inquiry into cultural continuity and change from prehistory to 1500 CE. Topics will vary by section. 3 credits. FHCI, WI.

HIST151. Historical Inquiry II

Historical inquiry into cultural continuity and change from 1500 CE to the present. Topics will vary by section. 3 credits. FHCI, WI.

HIST1HC. Hist FHCI Transfer Pillar

History FHCI Pillar Course.

HIST1XX. History Elective

HIST221. US Hist Colonial-1877

A survey of continuity and change in American life from the Colonial Era to 1877, with emphasis upon the political, cultural, diplomatic, and societal forces which have shaped its development. Students will analyze historical sources to practice inquiry, construct arguments, and examine historical interpretations. 3 credits. WI. FHCI

HIST222. US Hist 1877-Modr Times

A survey of continuity and change in American life from 1877 to modern times, with emphasis upon the political, cultural, diplomatic, and societal forces which have shaped its development. Students will analyze historical sources to practice inquiry, construct arguments, and examine historical interpretations. 3 credits. WI.

HIST241. Colonial Latin America

A survey of Latin American history from the pre-Columbian era through independence. Major themes include the evolution of the societies, economies, and religions of Native American peoples; the impact of Spanish and Portuguese conquests, settlement, government, trade and culture upon native civilizations; the influence of African population and culture; and the creole nature of the resulting society in the colonial period. 3 credits. NW

HIST242. Modern Latin America

A survey of the history of Latin America since independence. Major themes include the emergence of national identities, the legacies of colonialism, industrialization, social movements, and revolutionary change. 3 credits. NW.

HIST250. Historical Methods

This course is an introduction to the methods and practice of the study of history. Students will learn to understand how historians construct and write about the past and will be introduced to the history of writing of history. Students will also learn to critically evaluate historical arguments and the material used to produce those arguments, to develop research skills, and to produce written work in accordance with disciplinary conventions. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing (25 or more credit hours). 3 credits.

HIST2HC. History HC Transfer Pillar

History HC Pillar Course

HIST2XX. History Elective

HIST300. Tch His Soc Sci Secn Sch

A methods course designed to offer preparation for student teaching, this class focuses in depth on content required for the secondary school classroom in history, political science, and social studies. Other topics covered include instructional planning, assessment and evaluation, teaching techniques, classroom management, and school/community interaction. This course is open only to students seeking secondary school licensure. Prerequisite: Admission to Teacher Preparation Program. 3 credits.

HIST301. American Colonial History

This course will reflect on the period of European colonization of North America, its impact on native societies and the introduction of enslaved Africans between the late-sixteenth and late-eighteenth centuries. The course will highlight the historical, geographical, social, economic, and political developments of English North American colonies from 1607 to 1765. We will integrate multiple perspectives related to History, Geography, Psychology, Sociology, and Economics as we explore the collision of cultures that defined the colonial experience prior to the American Revolution. Prerequisite: Completion of FHCI pillar. 3 credits. SI. US

HIST302. The Early American Republic

The United States from the adoption of the Constitution of 1787 through the Mexican War. Political institutions and practice, economic growth, reform movements, and westward expansion are emphasized. Prerequisite: HIST 221 or permission of instructor. 3 credits. US.

HIST303. Civil War and Reconstruction

The United States from the close of the Mexican War to the Compromise of 1877. The constitutional, political, economic, social, and military aspects of the period are emphasized. Prerequisite: HIST 221 or permission of instructor. 3 credits. US.

HIST304. Emergence Modern America

The United States from the Compromise of 1877 to the First World War. The Industrial Revolution and its consequences, the rise of the nation to world power, and the birth of modern reformism are emphasized. Prerequisite: HIST 222 or permission of instructor. 3 credits. US.

HIST305. Modern America, 1914-1945

The course offers a study of the United States in the pivotal eras of the First and Second World Wars and the Great Depression. Prerequisite: HIST 222. 3 credits. US.

HIST306. Modern America, 1945-Present

The course offers a study of the United States from the end of World War II to the present. The main emphasis is on domestic affairs, such as the economy, social conditions, religion, politics, and intellectual life. Prerequisite: HIST 222. 3 credits. US.

HIST307. The Old South

The basic political, economic, social, and intellectual institutions, forces, and problems that collectively shaped the antebellum South. Prerequisite: HIST 221 or permission of instructor. 3 credits. US.

HIST308. U S Diplomatic History

American foreign relations from the Revolutionary Era to the present with emphasis on the Twentieth Century. Prerequisite: HIST 221 or 222 or permission of instructor. 3 credits. US.

HIST314. Political History of Africa

A survey of the political landscape of African history. A major portion of the course examines the significance of precolonial kingdoms, assesses the growth of the "slave trade", analyzes African intellectual history, and explores the "eve of colonialism" in Africa. 3 credits. NW.

HIST316. Public History

This course provides students with an upper-division introduction to career opportunities in history outside of classroom teaching. The class provides students with necessary skills in genealogical research, historic preservation and the national register nomination process, the treatment of historic sites, grant writing techniques, and knowledge of national, state, and local historical professional associations. The development of computer skills in web page design and power point presentation is emphasized. Prerequisites: HIST 221 and 222 or permission of instructor. 3 credits

HIST318. Introduction to Museum Studies

An introduction to the field of museology, covering the history, philosophy, and ethics of the profession; various types of museums and different aspects of museum work; the museum's role in the community; and the effects of philanthropy and government on museums. Designed primarily for those concentrating in public history. Prerequisites: HIST 221 and 222 or permission of the instructor. 3 credits.

HIST319. Archival Management

An introduction to the archival profession, including the acquisition, accessioning, arrangement and description, preservation, and referencing of archival records. 3 credits.

HIST320. African-American History

A survey of the black experience in America from the Colonial Era to the present. 3 credits. US.

HIST321. History of Women in America

The changing role of women in American life from the Colonial era to the present, contrasting the ideology of women's place in society with the reality of their lives. The Victorians, the fight for women's suffrage, and the 20th-century liberation movement are emphasized. Prerequisite: HIST 221 or HIST 222 or WGST 110 or permission of instructor. 3 credits. US.

HIST323. American Military History

This course examines American Military History from the colonial era through the present-day, with an emphasis on the development of military institutions during the twentieth century. In addition to analyzing the major events and examining the major figures relating to the American military, it also emphasizes the evolution of military doctrine and theory, and examines the changing role of the military in American society. 3 credits. US.

HIST324. American Indian History

A survey of American Indian peoples from pre-contact to present with emphasis on issues of sovereignty, land and politics. 3 credits. US.

HIST325. Digital History

This course explores the evolution and practice of digital history. Through discussion, lab, and project-based learning, students will draw upon a wide range of digital sources, tools, and technologies to conduct historical research and communicate their research to a digital audience. 3 credits.

HIST326. Oral History

This course explores the theory and practice of oral history. By doing, interpreting, and using oral history, students will develop an understanding of key issues in the field including memory, narrative, the use of oral history, ethics, and community engagement. Students will explore a variety of interview techniques, digital tools, and transcription methods while planning and completing an oral history project. 3 credits.

HIST330. Hist of Cntrl Asia and Afghan

The course examines the major political, social, and, economic changes that occurred in Afghanistan and Central Asia from the nineteenth century to the present. 3 credits. NW

HIST331. Frontiers Early American Repub

This course explores the interactions among individuals, societies, and civilizations that shaped the history of the trans-Appalachian frontier and borderlands in the early American republic from 1783 to 1850. The course examines themes such as sources of Indian resistance, the contested boundaries of race and slavery, the meanings of liberty, the composition and purposes of families and communities, and the forces of disunion that threated the nation. 3 credits. US.

HIST335. History of China

An interdisciplinary survey of the history of China from the Neolithic period to the present. Topics include the spread of agriculture, the Zhou, Qin, Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, the period of the Chinese Republic, the Communist Revolution, Communist China and China’s rise as a geopolitical power with a focus on an understanding of the global challenges and issues facing migrant workers and the urban poor. In addition to history, course units cover religion, art, poetry, literature, and film. Pre-requisite: Completion of FGLO Pillar. PGLO. WI. 3 credits.

HIST336. History of Japan

Japanese political and cultural history, with emphasis upon the modern period. The opening of Japan, the Meiji Restoration, modernization, the rise of militarism, the American occupation, and current issues are stressed. 3 credits. NW.

HIST337. History of Ottoman Empire

This course surveys history of the Ottoman Empire, one of the longest-lasting empires in world history (ca. 1300-1923). NW 3 credits.

HIST338. History of Islamic Civilizatio

This course surveys Islamic culture, from its origins in Arabia to its present role in the world today, including its diffusion to new regions such as Europe and North America. Attention focuses on the interplay of theology, religious/ritual practices, social pressures, and competing cultural dynamics across history. Pre-requisites: Completion of FGLO. NW. PGLO. 3 credits.

HIST339. Conflict in Modern Middle East

This course traces the evolution of conflict in the modern Middle East with a focus on warfare, generational misunderstandings, religious compunctions, economic stress, gender issues, and resource competition. 3 credits. NW.

HIST341. East Africa:Pre-History/Presen

East Africa: Pre-History to the Present. This course examines the history of East Africa, the geographic region south of the Saharan Desert and between the Indian Ocean and the Equatorial Rainforest. As East Africa is one of the "cradles of humanity", the course will begin with an examination of the Stone Age and will continue through the political and social crises that have plagued the region in recent years. Other course themes include the Bantu and Nilotic migrations, the Iron Age, State Formation, the Slave Trade, Imperialism, and the Anti-colonial Struggles for Independence. 3 credits. NW.

HIST344. Hist & Bio Women's Hlth

This course is designed to teach students about the history and biology of women’s health, especially reproductive health. Students will explore the history of women’s health in the United States during the twentieth century. They will also explore the anatomy and function of the female reproductive system. Topics covered in this course include: menstruation, contraception, sterilization, eugenics, pregnancy, childbirth, post-partum, breastfeeding/feeding, fertility problems and solutions, and endometriosis. Prerequisite: completion of the FSRC and FHCI pillar requirements. 3 credits. PHCI. WI.

HIST345. Crit,Crops,Dstr Latin Amer

This course examines the changing relationship between nature and human culture in Latin America. Attention will be given to human attitudes and appetites, from Aztec cannibalism to contemporary conspicuous consumption, as well as to the role of characters like hookworms, whales, hurricanes, bananas, ants, and guano in history. NW. 3 credits.

HIST345. Crit,Crops,Dstr Latin Amer

HIST346. Gender Sexuality Ltn Amer Hist

This course is an introduction to gender and sexuality in Latin American history from the pre-conquest period to the present. Emphasis will be on gender and power relations during major events and processes in Latin American history, including conquest, the development of colonial social and economic institutions, industrialization and globalization, Indigenous movements, state building, and revolution. 3 credits. NW.

HIST347. The Art and History of Berlin

HIST348. History of Spain

An interdisciplinary survey of the history of Spain from prehistory to the twenty-first century. Topics include Roman Spain, the Visigoths, Caliphate of Córdoba, Reconquista, Siglo de oro, Spanish Civil War, and the transition to democracy after the Franco dictatorship.

HIST349. History of the Andes

This course examines the history of the Andes from the Inka Empire to the 21st century. Topics include the rise of the Inka state, the conquest of the Andes, silver and exploitation in Potosí, the wars for independence, the Chaco War and the War of the Pacific, the miracle of guano, Sendero Luminoso and other revolutionary movements, contemporary Indigenous movements, coca production and drug trafficking. Pre-requisite: Completion of FGLO pillar. 3 credits. PGLO. SI.

HIST351. Medieval Europe

A study of the political, economic, and social institutions, and the religious and intellectual developments in Medieval Europe. 3 credits. EU.

HIST352. Renaissance and Reformation

The social, cultural, religious, economic, and political forces that shaped Western Civilization from the High Middle Ages through the era of the religious wars (ca. 1300-1648). 3 credits. EU.

HIST354. Frnch Revolution Napoleon

A study of the origins and course of the French revolutionary era, with emphasis upon its profound political, economic, social, institutional, and intellectual significance. 3 credits. EU.

HIST355. 19th Century Europe

The political, economic, social, and cultural development of Europe from the Congress of Vienna to the eve of World War I. 3 credits. EU.

HIST356. 20th Century Europe

The political, economic, social, and intellectual development of Europe in its world setting since the turn of the century. 3 credits. EU.

HIST357. The History of Piracy

This course explores the history of piracy from antiquity to today. Topics include the Vikings, the impact of piracy on the development of international law, the Golden Age of Piracy, Barbary Corsairs, Indian Ocean privateers, the policing of piracy in the nineteenth century, piracy in literature and pop culture, and pirates in the twenty-first century. Prerequisite: Completion of FGLO pillar. 3 credits. PGLO WI EU

HIST359. Russian History to 1861

Russia from the Kievan period to 1861, with emphasis upon the modernization efforts of Peter the Great and Catherine the Great. 3 credits. EU

HIST360. Russia Since 1861

The course examines Russian history from the emancipation of the peasantry to the collapse of the Soviet Union and the rise of the current Russian federation. 3 credits. EU

HIST360. Russia Since 1861

The course examines Russian history from the emancipation of the peasantry to the collapse of the Soviet Union and the rise of the current Russian federation. 3 credits. EU

HIST362. The Vietnam War

The course examines the origins of French colonialism in Indochina, the rise of nationalism in Vietnam, and the First Indochina War. The course then focuses on the role of the United States in Vietnam from World War II through the 1970s and the impact of the war on American society. 3 credits. NW.

HIST363. World War II

An examination of the causes, major events, and consequences of World War II, including the rise and fall of Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy, and Imperial Japan, as well as the role of the United States and its allies in the conflict. 3 credits. US.

HIST364. The American Revolutionary Era

The course examines the era of the American Revolution from the end of the French and Indian War through the ratification of the Constitution. It emphasizes the constitutional, political, economic, social, and military aspects of the period, with particular focus on the background and immediate causes of the Revolution, the conduct and consequences of the war, the Confederation period, and the adoption and ratification of the Constitution. 3 credits. US.

HIST366. History of Ancient Greece

The evolution of Greek culture and political history from c. 2000 to 300 BCE. Emphasis will be on how written documents and material artifacts testify to the dynamics that both spurred on this culture and eventually brought about its collapse. 3 credits. EU.

HIST367. The Cold War

The course examines origins, progress, and results of the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union, focusing on the period from the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution until the end of the Cold War in 1991. 3 credits. US.

HIST370. Virginia Studies

A survey of the development of Virginia's government, economy, and society from colonial times to the present. The ways in which geography affected the Commonwealth's demography, economy, and constitutional structures will be emphasized. The relationship between Virginians and national historical developments will also be explored. 3 credits. This course is specifically designed to meet licensure requirements for Liberal Studies majors, students in other majors interested in Virginia history should enroll in HIST 397 Virginia History.

HIST371. Virginia in the Civil War

The course examines the role of Virginia in the American Civil War, 1861-1865. It emphasizes the political, economic, social, and military aspects of the period, with particular focus on the causes of the war, on military operations in Virginia and the role of Virginia troops and leaders, on the impact of the war on Virginia’s civilian population, and on the results and consequences of the war in the state. It will consist of lectures as well as visits to various Virginia battlefields. 3 credits. US

HIST373. Early Modern England

The course examines the dynamics of English society from the sixteenth through the early eighteenth centuries. This course explores politics during the reigns of the Tudor, Stuart, and Hanoverian monarchs, as well as themes of religion and society, crime and social order, community and family, literate and oral cultural history, commerce and industrial transformation, and the impact of science on society. Trends in the historiography of the period will also be addressed. 3 credits.

HIST374. Victorian England

This course will examine the complex and paradoxical society of Victorian Britain. The extreme contrasts between wealth and poverty, morality and cynicism, creativity and constriction, imperial grandeur and domestic squalor, and collectivity and individualism will be addressed. Victorians were committed to material and moral progress, industrial and commercial expansion, and world-wide free trade. 3 credits. EU.

HIST375. Modern Germany

The course examines German history from the wars of unification to the present. It will cover the political, economic, military, cultural, and social events that have defined Germany and the German people with a special emphasis on themes that have influenced the creation of present-day Germany and Germans – nationalism, militarism, authoritarianism, and democracy. The readings, discussions, and lectures will cover continuities and discontinuities in German history; Germany’s so-called “special path” to modernity; unification and rule under Bismarck; imperialism under Wilhelm II; the First and Second World Wars; the collapse of democracy in Weimar Germany; the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party; the nature and ideology of the Third Reich; the Holocaust and modernity; Stunde Null or “Zero Hour”; reconstruction, occupation, and memory; two Germanys guided by two emerging super powers; identity in the re-unified Germany; and Germany’s important role in the European Union and in defining Europe in the 21st century. 3 credits. EU.

HIST376. Nazi Germany

This course examines the origins, nature and aftermath of the Nazi regime within the context of German and European history. It addresses political, international, social, economic, cultural, and intellectual aspects of the history of anti-Semitism in Germany and Europe; the ramifications of the Great War; the Weimar Republic and the rise of Nazism; the role of Hitler, German elites and the broader population in planning and carrying out legalized anti-Semitism and the Holocaust; the appeal of Nazism; the road to World War II; the timing and circumstances surrounding the decision to launch the Final Solution; modern and anti-modern elements of Nazi ideology; Hitler’s strategy and policy in World War II; German defeat and occupation; and the idea of “coming to terms with the past” in the aftermath. 3 credits. EU.

HIST377. History of the Holocaust

The course examines the causes, major events, and consequences of the Nazi attempt to exterminate the Jewish population of Europe during the Second World War. The class will consist of lectures, screening of documentary films, and visits to Holocaust museums in Washington, D. C. and Richmond Virginia. Offered during the summer. 3 credits. EU.

HIST378. Race & Violence in US/Europe

This course examines when, how, and why racial violence happens in the United States and Europe. While seemingly random, racial violence is the result of complex social and historical forces which occur across time and place. The goal of this course is for students to study this complexity from an interdisciplinary perspective. In doing so, students will grapple with how racial violence happens through interactions and institutions. Topics covered in this course include: racism, antisemitism, genocide, fascism, eugenics, the Ku Klux Klan, Nazis, lynching, forced sterilization, white supremacy, police brutality. These topics will be investigated using a variety of lenses: sociological, historical, psychological, economic, political, and aesthetic. Pre-requisite: Completion of FHCI-pillar course. 3 credits. PHCI. WI.

HIST380. Soc Studies Inquiry & Methods

Teacher Candidates engage in disciplinary inquiry within and across the social sciences to investigate case studies of major themes and contributions in United States history from 1492 to 1877. Teacher Candidates apply disciplinary knowledge, tools, and forms of representation into inquiry-based learning experiences that are developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive for PK-6 learners. This course also explores enduring and innovative principles, resources, and strategies to meet diverse learning needs and interests across social studies contexts. The successful completion of an embedded field-related experience is required. Prerequisites: ELEM 320 and 340, both with a C+ or higher, and admission to Teacher Candidacy. Co-requisite: ELEM 360. 3 credits.

HIST382. Pract Teach Hist & SS in Secon

This course entails integrating pedagogical practices in the disciplines of History and the Social Sciences through micro-teaching opportunities during 60 hours in a social studies classroom in an approved public school setting under Longwood supervision. Prerequisites: Admission to Teacher Preparation; fulfillment of requirements for OPS practicum placements. Co-requisite: HIST 300. 2 credits.

HIST383. International Study in Africa

This course will provide a short-term immersion in a contemporary culture that will complement historical study and analysis. Offered during intersession or during the summer. May be repeated for credit when course topic changes. May count as an elective but cannot fulfill core requirements of the major. 3 credits.

HIST384. International Study in Europe

HIST395. Special Topics

Selected topics in History. The topics will vary from semester to semester. Descriptions will be available from academic advisor. May be repeated for credits when topics change. 3 credits.

HIST397. Virginia History

A survey of Virginia history from colonial times to present. Prerequisite: History 221 and 222 or permission of instructor. 3 credits. US.

HIST407. Seminar in U.S. History

Research seminar course focused on an in-depth study of a topic or period in United States History. In this course students will practice their skills as historians, through readings, seminar-style discussions, a research project, and a formal oral presentation. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisite: HIST 250 and one 300-level HIST course, or permission of instructor. 3 credits. US

HIST408. Seminar in U.S. History

HIST409. Seminar in U.S. History

HIST414. Seminar in European History

Research seminar course focused on an in-depth study of a topic or period in European History. In this course students will practice their skills as historians, through readings, seminar-style discussions, a research project, and a formal oral presentation. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisite: HIST 250 and one 300-level HIST course, or permission of instructor. 3 credits. EU

HIST415. Seminar in European History

HIST416. Seminar in European History

HIST420. Seminar in Non-Western History

Research seminar course focused on an in-depth study of a topic or period in Non-Western History. In this course students will practice their skills as historians, through readings, seminar-style discussions, a research project, and a formal oral presentation. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisite: HIST 250 and one 300-level HIST course, or permission of instructor. 3 credits. NW

HIST421. Seminar in Non-Western History

HIST422. Seminar in Non-Western History

HIST450. Career Preparation in History

This is the capstone course in history at Longwood University. It includes an assessment of student outcomes, the preparation of a professional portfolio, and an investigation of career opportunities in history. Satisfactory completion of this course and each of its requirements is required of all history majors for graduation. 1 credit.

HIST461. Senior Seminar

Capstone course in History. Research, writing, and assessment of student outcomes. 1 credit. WR and SP.

HIST482. Dir Tch Social Studies Sec Sch

This course is required of all students seeking Secondary Teaching Licensure in History and the Social Sciences in the state of Virginia. Each student is assigned to work with a qualified Cooperating Teacher in an approved secondary school setting. The Student Teacher will follow the schedule of the Cooperating Teacher(s). Prerequisite: Completion of all major and professional education coursework; completion of Praxis II; maintain a minimum cumulative GPA 2.5 and a major GPA of 2.5. 12 credits.

HIST490. Directed or Independent Study

Must be approved by the head of the department. May be repeated. 1-18 credits.

HIST492. Internships in History

Experimental learning designed to apply the principles of history. Prerequisite: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 is required to enroll. 1-18 credits.

HIST498. Senior Thesis in History

Students conduct an in-depth project in history under the direction of a faculty member and the Longwood Senior Thesis Committee. May be repeated as 499. 3 credits.

HIST499. Senior Thesis in History

Students conduct an in-depth project in history under the direction of a faculty member and the Longwood Senior Thesis Committee. 3 credits.

History Course Listing

History Courses

In The News

Faculty Research: One woman’s story of Nazi resistance

Virginia National Guard taps alumnus for leadership position