This is the story of how a small religious minority with a long history of persecution abroad, found a home in our country, and contributed to its development and acceptance for all peoples.

The fears of Fascism and Communism, the continuing issues of Racism, and the polarization of American "Identity" Politics have come closer to destroying the foundational principles of democracy.  We will deal with the many divisive issues that continue to make it more difficult for us to compete in a friendly and helpful manner.

During most of its history, France was ruled by kings. The course will dive into the facts, myths and folklore of the French monarchy. Get ready to learn more about the intrigue, glamour and debauchery of the royal families. Learn wig melting, head chopping, and odd tidbits of information to impress your friends and family.

The course will trace the history of Freedom of Expression from our beginnings through the years following the First World War.  These years chiefly involved domestic disputes - "Us versus Them, the Civil War is the most salient example.  Between 1919 and 1925, the Supreme Court established foundational cases on Freedom of Speech.  Understanding this period is important for understanding current politics.

This course will focus on the limitations imposed on the United States national government in the original Constitution (1789), and especially in the Bill of Rights (1791), and on the limitations imposed by subsequent amendments, especially those imposed on the states (and local governments) through the 13th (1865), 14th (1868) and 15th (1870) Amendments. While we will respond to your interests as we go through topics, we will spend most of our time on Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Religion, Due Process of Law, and Equal Protection of the Laws.

From the westward movement following the Revolutionary War, to the mid 19th century opening of the West, to the Dust Bowl exodus from the Midwest to the resettling of Appalachians into Northern cities, Americans have left their homes in search of better lives. So, too, have people from around the world come to America, looking for opportunities for betterment. The class will analyze the cultural, social and economic impacts that under-girded these major population shifts.    

Most Americans know something about the Civil War, but there are many interesting facts that very few know. This course will explore some of the lesser known interesting facts about the Civil War. We will examine obscure details, and overlooked information about America's most debated and discussed war.