| Students will learn about the foundations of the U.S.
government, from the original vision of separation of
powers and checks and balances to examining who
holds power, who has sought it, and how individuals and
groups (e.g., women, white propertyless men, enslaved
people, Indigenous communities, and immigrants) have
responded and advocated for their place in society. They
will explore how policies, structures, and institutions
shape social, economic, and political outcomes. The
course empowers students to critically evaluate power
structures, engage in informed political action, and
promote positive change. Students will analyze historical
and contemporary experiences of diverse groups and
understand how race, class, gender, and ethnicity
intersect in political and social movements. Emphasizing
active citizenship, the course prepares students to
address current political challenges and encourages
them to think critically, communicate effectively, and
participate thoughtfully in their communities. |