HIS 240 - Public Memory and Public History (1)

The American public has an insatiable appetite for representations of the nation’s past, as demonstrated by the popularity of historic sites, museums, historical re-enactments, televised historical documentaries and Hollywood films. Yet, despite its growing audience, the discipline of history seems to be in a state of crisis. Political debates have engendered a public furor over how American history is being taught and remembered. This course will examine the often contentious relationship between popular presentations of the past for the general public and professional historians’ scholarly interpretations and provide an introduction to the growing field of museum studies. The course may include the “hands-on” experience of a mini-internship at local historical societies, libraries, and museums and the opportunity for students to create their own online exhibits on different historical topics. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or permission of the Instructor. Alternate years. No S/U option.
(Humanities)