  This course will focus
on relations between the United States and other countries from the colonial period to the
present. Many factors- political, economic, military, social, and cultural--have played
key roles in shaping American attitudes toward other peoples and other countries and in
determining both U.S. policy and U.S. reaction to the
policies of other nations. Keeping
in mind the close relationship between foreign and domestic politics, we will look not
only at how major political leaders have guided diplomatic relations over the years, but
also at how smaller special-interest groups, such as ethnic minorities or labor unions,
have tried to influence foreign-policy decision making. Classes will consist of lectures, discussions, and occasional audio-visual presentations. See the attached course sch edule for specific reading and classroom assignments as well as test dates. |
There will be two
major examinations based on the lectures, class discussions, and assigned readings. Each
exam is worth 25% of your total grade. You must provide a written medical excuse certified
by a physician in order to arrange for a makeup test. The professor will designate a one
hour period toward the end of the semester in which all makeup exams must be taken. There
are no exceptions to this policy.
Class participation is expected.
Everyone should try to share in asking questions, making comments, and discussing issues
which arise from the readings or lect
ures. In addition to general classroom participation,
students will be expected to take part in occasional group discussions of the articles
provided by the professor. Overall participation accounts for the final 25% of your total
grade.