History   

Explore how the wartime strategies of Churchill, Roosevelt, Stalin, Hitler, and Mussolini shaped the course—and outcome—of World War II. Each leader brought a distinct perspective, deeply influenced by their experiences in World War I, which informed their decisions in the global conflict that followed. This seminar examines how leadership at the highest level determined the direction of the war, often in defiance of expert counsel. Through their choices, we’ll see how war molded these men—and how they, in turn, molded war. This is World War II from the top down. Who among them proved to be the greatest strategist?

This in-person course traces the story of immigration to America from the arrival of the English in the 17th century through the 21st century. We’ll explore why people came, where they settled, the challenges they faced, and the lasting impact they’ve had on the nation. Sessions will include PowerPoint presentations and lively, thought-provoking discussions designed to deepen understanding and encourage participation.

In this age of overblown claims and outright falsehoods, common sense needs to make a comeback. This course goes back to some of the basics, looking at fallacies that have been recognized as illogical reasoning since at least the times of the Romans. Yet, such arguments persist.

Calling all music lovers—this is not your typical lecture series. This course is a fist-pumping, head-nodding, lyric-deconstructing journey through the music of protest, rebellion, and revolution—past and present. Each week, we’ll explore powerful themes like racial injustice, anti-capitalism, mental health stigma, women’s empowerment, and youth-led uprisings through the lens of music that demands to be heard. From icons you know—Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, and Aretha Franklin—to modern firebrands like Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Macklemore, and Logic, we’ll pair legendary anthems with contemporary tracks to see how music fights back across generations.   Each session includes two main songs (usually one rock/pop and one rap/hip-hop), lyric analysis, music videos, and live performances.

"Certain I am that unless Congress speaks in a more decisive tone, unless they are vested with powers by the several states competent to the great purposes of War…that our cause is lost…I see one head gradually changing into thirteen."—George Washington May 31,1780

Many believe that our Constitution is the heart and soul of the American political system. But how did we get from thirteen colonies coalescing to win a revolution to thirteen states ratifying a Constitution? This course will examine the debates of strong opinions, beliefs and fears, political philosophies, theories and realities as well as trial and error (the fun part). There will be slides, emailed handouts, and time for discussion and questions from the class.

This series covers the first years, Sep.1939 – Dec.1941 of World War Two from the viewpoint of Britain and the rest of Europe, before the United States entered this conflict. Beginning with the Peace Treaty at the end of World War One, with its effects on both the Axis and Allied powers in various parts of Europe, the Middle East and the Far East, and up to the December 7^th, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, when the United States declared war on Japan, making it a true World War. David Barrett was a young child living in London during the Blitz, and his memory of this important time adds to the understanding of this presentation.

This seminar will emphasize the culture and arts of this critical time in British dominance and influence in the world during the 19th century. One of the themes in this seminar was the uniqueness of British art in contrast with the art revolutions occurring on the continent. Another theme will be the developments in fashion, dance, urban development, and everyday daily life (ex. arts and craft movement) in this transformative period. Finally, the connections between Victorian culture and its impact on 19th century United Sates culture will be examined.

In this course on Modern Scotland, students will embark on an exploration of contemporary Ireland through the lens of renowned Scottish writers. Participants will explore a curated selection of three impactful books, each offering a unique perspective on the cultural, social, and historical fabric of modern Scotland.

From the Garden of Eden to the Salem witch trials and the 1980s “Satanic Panic,” humans have blamed misdeeds on the Devil. But where did the idea of the devil come from? Did the ancient Israelites believe in such a being? Is Lucifer the same as the Devil? Did Jesus believe in hell? This course traces the evolution of the idea of the Devil from Zoroastrian and Jewish roots through Christianity and Islam, exploring figures like the adversary in Job and the dragon in Revelation. We’ll see how European folklore and writers such as Milton shaped his image, and how “the Devil” still haunts modern American political rhetoric.