History & Social Sciences

Examines the lives, leadership, and legacies of Ulysses S. Grant, Woodrow Wilson, Dwight Eisenhower, and Jimmy Carter. Through lectures, videos, and readings, explore the experiences that shaped each president, the challenges they faced, their accomplishments and shortcomings, and their lasting impact on America. Instructor: Gerard Walsh 

Trace the immigrant experience from the 1830s to the present. Explore the journeys of German and Irish newcomers, Eastern European and Jewish immigrants, and more recent arrivals from Central America, examining the challenges, opportunities, and issues that have shaped America’s diverse population. Instructor: Gerard Walsh 

This installment of Asian HERstory explores the remarkable rise of South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore from Japanese colonial rule and devastating war to becoming “economic miracles” emulated by the world. While they are also centers of democracy and global popular culture today, we will examine the contrasting trajectory of North Korea as one of the most oppressive and dangerous entities in existence today. Instructor: Dr. Linda Kato 

Explore the world of 18th-century Native Americans of the Northeast, from daily life and spiritual beliefs to diplomacy, travel, and warfare. Discover village life, the roles of men and women, council traditions, the “mourning war,” and the profound impact of the 18th century on Native communities. Instructor: Roger Swartz 

Michelangelo, da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, Donatello, Durer: Many of the most recognizable names in all of art history are associated with the Renaissance, a rebirth of classical ideals that swept Europe from the fourteenth to seventeenth centuries. What motivated these artists and why do their works have lasting impact today? Discover the cultural revolution that was the Renaissance and how it changed the world forever! Instructor: Kara LaRose 

Trace the history of the Middle East and North Africa from the rise of Islam to the modern era. Explore empires, crusades, colonization, and contemporary conflicts while examining how politics, warfare, economics, culture, and religion have shaped societies across the region. Instructor: Husayn Hosoda 

Explore the history of stained glass from ancient glassmaking to contemporary works. Learn to identify imagery, understand materials and techniques, and discover major artistic movements that shaped the craft. The course includes a guided visit to a historic Louis C. Tiffany interior in Baltimore. Students must self-transport. Instructor: Jessica Smith. 

The Sullivan Campaign Revisited explores the 1779 expedition as more than a military campaign. Through Washington’s leadership, logistical innovation, political obstacles, and battlefield events, this course examines how the Continental Army and state governments evolved four years into the Revolution, revealing the growing strengths and challenges of the American war effort. Instructor: Roger Swartz 

Discover the fascinating story of how English grew from the language of a small group of Germanic tribes into a global language spoken around the world. Explore the influences of Old Norse, French, Latin, and other languages and uncover the origins of familiar words, expressions, spelling patterns, and pronunciation quirks. Examine how migration, conquest, trade, technology, and popular culture have continually re- shaped English and contributed to the many varieties spoken today. Gain a new appreciation for the surprising history hid- den in the words we use every day. No textbook. Materials are included in the cost of the course. 

Navigate the unwritten rules that shape communication and relationships around the world. Explore how cultural expectations influence greetings, introductions, communication styles, body language, punctuality, gift giving, dining, business etiquette, and more. Compare customs across countries and regions while learning practical strategies for avoiding misunderstandings and adapting respectfully in unfamiliar cultural settings. Build the cultural awareness and confidence needed to conduct international business, develop global relationships, and connect more effectively with people from around the world. No textbook. Materials are included in the cost of the course.