HIST 150

THE MODERN WORLD

Summer 1 2020 (Online)

Live Sessions: MW, 10-11:45 AM

 

Jacksonville University

Instructor: Dr. Jesse Hingson

Office phone: (904) 256-7215

Office Hours: TRF, 12-1 pm and by appointment

E-mail: jhingso@ju.edu

Instructor website: http://users.ju.edu/jhingso

 

NOTE: This course was originally scheduled with in-person class sessions to take place on Mondays and Wednesdays, 10-11:45 AM.  However, because of Jacksonville University’s decision to move classes to remote learning as a result of COVID-19, live online sessions will be scheduled on these days and times instead.  It is not mandatory but strongly recommended that you attend the live sessions.  Students will be tested on material from the live sessions, which will be available throughout Blackboard Collaborate and recorded. 

 

Course Description and Topics: This course is a survey of global history from approximately 1500 to the present.  It is not an attempt at a comprehensive history, and many historical events and figures will be necessarily left out.  However, this course is based on a variety of larger questions.  Success in the course depends on attending classes regularly, reading all assigned materials, completing assignments on time, and participating.  This course is required for the B.A. and B.S. degree in History and fulfills a requirement in the core curriculum for all Bachelor degree-seeking students.  As a result of this course, students will be able to do the following:

 

1)   Understand global connections between cultures, civilizations, and empires before European hegemony

2)   Assess the significance of the Scientific Revolution, the Enlightenment, and the Atlantic Revolutions for the rest of the world

3)   Compare and contrast the impact of the Industrial Revolution and Western imperialism on different parts of the world

4)   Analyze the causes of war in the twentieth century and evaluate war’s role in generating global revolutions

5)   Evaluate historical factors behind genocide in the modern world

6)   Compare and contrast the impact of decolonization and the Cold War on different regions of the postwar world

7)   Evaluate the impact of globalization and the major social and cultural forces that promote intercultural exchange and affect history on a supra-regional scale

8)   Interpret primary source works and evaluate various scholarly interpretations

 

Academic Dishonesty: Students are expected to know and abide by the policy as stated in the university catalog and student handbook: “Members of the Jacksonville University community are expected to foster and uphold the highest standards of honesty and integrity, which are foundations for the intellectual endeavors we engage in.  To underscore the importance of truth, honesty, and accountability, students and instructors should adhere to the following standard: I do not lie, cheat, or steal, nor do I condone the actions of those who do.  Academic misconduct occurs when a student engages in an action that is deceitful, fraudulent, or dishonest regarding any type of academic assignment that is intended to or results in an unfair academic advantage. In this context, the term ‘assignment’ refers to any type of graded or ungraded work that is submitted for evaluation for any course. Academic misconduct includes but is not limited to cheating, collusion, falsification, misrepresentation, unauthorized collaboration on assignments, copying another student’s work, using or providing unauthorized notes or materials, turning in work not produced by the individual, and plagiarism.  Furthermore, providing deceitful, fraudulent, or dishonest information during discussions of an academic manner with faculty are also examples of academic misconduct.” (Jacksonville University Academic Catalog).  Course Level Penalties: A first offense may result in a failing grade for the assignment. Second offenses may result in failure in the course.  Significantly egregious violations may result in expulsion from the university.

 

Assistance for Needs Related to Disability: Students with a documented disability requesting classroom accommodations or modifications, either permanent or temporary, resulting from the disability are encouraged to register with the Disability Support Services (DSS) office at the beginning of the term and/or prior (if/when possible), as accommodations are not provided retroactively.  This office is located on the third floor of the Davis Student Commons, room 336 (256-7787).  The office may also be contacted through their website (https://www.ju.edu/disabilityservices/index.php).  This office will assist in recommending accommodations that eliminate barriers in academic coursework and/or guide you through the different supportive mechanisms that JU offers.

 

Student Behavior: Students are expected to behave according to accepted norms ensuring a climate wherein all can exercise their right to learn.  Such norms are set forth in the JU catalog.  I will not tolerate classroom behavior that violates these norms.  These include rude or uncivil behavior toward others.  Such behavior will be grounds for dismissal from the class and/or failure of the course.

 

Textbooks (REQUIRED): Textbooks may be purchased at the campus bookstore.

 

1) Kevin Reilly, The Human Journey: A Concise Introduction to World History, Volume 2, 1450 to the Present, 2nd edition (ISBN-13: 978-1538105610) (abbreviated below as HJ)

2) Kevin Reilly, Worlds of History: A Comparative Reader, Volume Two: Since 1400, 6th edition (ISBN-13: 978-1319042080) (abbreviated below as WH)

 

Requirements and Grading Scale:

Quizzes: 5 @ 25 points each=125 points (25%)

Discussions: 5 @ 25 points each=125 points (25%)

Response Papers: Midterm @ 50 points + Final @ 100 points=150 points (30%)

Participation: 100 points (20%)

Total: 500 points (100%)

 

SCALE: A=500-450; B+=449-435; B=434-400; C+=399-385; C=384-350; D+=349-335; D=334-300; F=≤299

 

*No grade of “I” or “Incomplete” will be given unless a documented emergency prevents you from completing the course.

 

1) Quizzes: Quizzes will be based on the lectures, readings, and supplemental materials.  The use of notes and readings is allowed during the quiz period, but you must work on your own.  It is strongly recommended that notes be taken on all materials and that these are reviewed before starting each quiz, which will be given on the Blackboard site.  Consult the schedule to know when the exams will take place.  Failure to complete the quiz by the dates indicated will result in a zero.  Each quiz will have a time limit of one hour (in one sitting).  Each quiz will count for 25 points with a combination of multiple choice, true/false, and short answer questions.  You will be allowed to take each quiz twice with the highest grade counting.  What do they say about those who don’t learn from history?

 

2) Discussions: Discussion questions will be posted on Blackboard to survey your reactions to ideas about the history of the modern world.  Two postings minimum are required for each discussion board.  The first posting must be a minimum of 100 words. It is expected that all postings be written well.  Strong responses will incorporate specific examples from the lectures, readings, and supplemental materials.  The second posting must be a thoughtful response to at least one student colleague and must be at least 75 words, incorporating specific examples from the assigned materials. Discussion boards are worth 25 points each, which will be distributed among five categories (5 points each): 1) the overall quality/readability of the writing; 2) the overall quality of the ideas; 3) the use of examples from the lectures and readings; 4) the use of examples from the films/visuals; 5) the quality of responses to colleagues in the class. Please also be prepared to expand on a topic when prompted by the instructor or colleagues to do so.  The rules against plagiarism will apply to this assignment, so please make sure that you post your own thoughts and ideas.

 

3) Response Papers: Among the discussion board topics listed, expand on one question in the form of a response paper (or a formal argumentative essay).  The purpose of this assignment is to apply your knowledge of the materials.  The use of any materials outside of what has been assigned is unnecessary and strictly prohibited.  Each response should be typed, New Times Roman, 12­ point font, double­spaced, limited to 1200­-1800 words, and use parenthetical citations.  It is expected that all written work be carefully edited.  Strong responses incorporate an introductory paragraph with a clear thesis or argument.  Body paragraphs must have viable topic sentences and be steeped in evidence to support the argument/thesis.  Thoughtful conclusions explore the larger implications of main ideas.  I would be glad to provide ungraded feedback on a draft before you turn in the final graded version.  The Response Paper must be submitted directly to the instructor via e­mail (jhingso@ju.edu) by the deadline indicated on the schedule. Each late paper will be penalized ten (20) points for each 24­ hour period it is late (starting the second after it is due).  Please note that rules against plagiarism will apply especially to this assignment, and programs (e.g., turnitin.com) will be utilized.  To give you an idea of how the Response Paper will be assessed, a sample response paper and grading rubric are provided on Blackboard.  Please write out the response paper topic at the top of your response paper.

 

Re-Write Policy: The grade for the first Response Paper may be improved by a maximum of ten (10) points.  Instructor’s comments and suggestions must be incorporated from the original first draft.  No corrected papers will be accepted either before or after the due date and time listed in the schedule.

 

4) Participation: Part of this grade is measured by participation in surveys at the beginning and end of the course.  It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that these assignments are completed when they are due.  Participation will also be assessed by communications with the instructor.  It is required that each student make a phone appointment with me at least twice during the semester, one before the midterm response paper is due (25 points) and another appointment before the final response paper is due (25 points).  These appointments are designed to address any questions and concerns about the course material.

 

SCHEDULE: Instructor reserves the right to change the schedule if necessary.

Date(s)

Large Questions, Readings, Supplemental Materials, and Important Tasks

WEEK ONE

May 11

·          LIVE SESSION 1 (10-11:45 am)

·          Introductions and Syllabus

·          Participate: Course Survey (due by May 11 at 11:59 pm) (25 points for participation)

·          View: http://www.gapminder.org/tools 

Why did western Europeans lead in overseas expansion?

·          Read: HJ, chapter 7-8

·          Read: WH, chapter 15

·          Read: Joel Mokyr, "How Europe Became So Rich"

May 13

How did western Europeans first conquer the Americas?

·          LIVE SESSION 2 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 8

·          Read: WH, chapters 16-17

·          Watch: NOVA’s The Great Inca Rebellion

·          Read: David Silverman, “Guns, Empires, and Indians"

·          Listen: Interview with Michelle Daneri

What were the origins of the Atlantic slave trade?

·          Read: HJ, chapter 8

·          Read: WH, chapters 16

·          Watch: TED Lesson on the Atlantic Slave Trade

·          Watch: Time Watch: The African Trade

·          View: Interactive Map of the Slave Trade

·          Take: Quiz #1 (due by May 15 at 11:59 pm)

·          Participate: Discussion #1 (due by May 17 at 11:59 pm)

WEEK TWO

May 18

Why did the Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment originate in western Europe? 

·          LIVE SESSION 3 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 8-9

·          Read: WH, chapter 19-20

·          Read: Michael Greshko, “Isaac Newton’s Lost Alchemy…”

·          Watch: "Classical" Music of the Enlightenment

What are the origins of modern racism?

·          Read: HJ, chapters 8-9

·          Read: WH, chapters 19-20

·          Read: Jamelle Bouie, “The Enlightenment’s Dark Side”

·          Read: Faye Flam, "Science's Biggest Blunder"

·          Read: Aaron Hanlon, "The Use of Dubious Science..."

May 20

Why did the Industrial Revolution begin in the Atlantic World?

·          LIVE SESSION 4 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 9

·          Read: WH, chapters 21

·          Read: Ashley Bowen, “The American Textile Industry…”

·          Read: Ryan Smith, “A History of America’s Everchanging…”  

 

 

What are the origins of modern socialism?

·          Read: HJ, chapter 9

·          Read: WH, chapters 21

·          Read: Alan Taylor, “Child Labor in America 100 Years Ago”

·          Read: Sheri Berman, "Five Myths about Socialism"

·          Take: Quiz #2 (due by May 22 at 11:59 pm)

·          Participate: Discussion #2 (due by May 24 at 11:59 pm)

WEEK THREE

MAY 25—HOLIDAY—NO LIVE SESSION SCHEDULED

May 27

What are the origins of the revolutions in the Atlantic world?

·          LIVE SESSION 5 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 9

·          Read: WH, chapter 20

·          Listen: Interview with James Vaughn

·          Listen: Interview with Natalie Arsenault

How were western nations able to conquer and colonize regions within Africa and Asia by 1900?

·          LIVE SESSION 6 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 10

·          Read: WH, chapter 22-23

·          Watch: “The Opium War” (only the first 45 minutes!)

·          Listen: Interview with Cacee Hoyer

·          Watch: Congo: A Curse of Riches

·          Watch: Act of War: Overthrow of the Hawaiian Nation

·          Response Paper #1 Review

·          Take: Quiz #3 (due by May 29 at 11:59 pm)

·          Participate: Discussion #3 (due by May 31 at 11:59 pm)

·          MIDTERM RESPONSE PAPER DUE—JUNE 2 (by e-mail)

WEEK FOUR

June 1

What caused the world wars of the twentieth century?

·          LIVE SESSION 7 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 11

·          Read: WH, chapter 24-25

·          Listen: NPR Interview with Christopher Clark

·          View: British National Archives, The Great War, 1914-1918

·          Listen: Interview with David Crew and Charters Wynn

·          Watch: Alex Gendler and Anthony Hazard, “How Did Hitler…”

What are the origins of modern fascism and communism?

·          Read: HJ, chapter 11

·          Read: WH, chapter 24-25

·          Listen: Interview with John Merriman on the Paris Commune

·          Listen: Interview with Joan Neuberger

·          Read: Ira Katznelson, "What America Taught the Nazis"

·          Listen: NPR Interview with Adam Serwer

June 3

What caused the genocides of the twentieth century?

·          LIVE SESSION 8 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 11

·          Read: WH, chapters 25

·          View: documentary “Genocide Factor”

·          View: USHMM Exhibition on US Responses to the Holocaust

·          Take: Quiz #4 (due by June 5 at 11:59 pm)

·          Participate: Discussion #4 (due by June 7 at 11:59 pm)

WEEK FIVE

June 8

What caused the creation of Asian and African states during the twentieth century?

·          LIVE SESSION 9 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 11-12;

·          Read: WH, chapter 23 and 26

·          Listen: Interview with R. Joseph Parrott

·          Listen: Interview with Snehal Shingavi

·          Listen: Interview with Aarti Bhalodia

·          Read: Benjamin Talton, “The Challenge of Decolonization…”

Why did the Cold War end?

·          Read: HJ, chapters 11-12

·          Read: WH, chapter 26-27

·          Listen: Interview with Jeremi Suri

·          Read: Sarah Pruitt, “The Myth that Reagan Ended the…”

June 10

What has triggered the recent backlash against globalization?

·          LIVE SESSION 10 (10-11:45 am)

·          Read: HJ, chapter 12

·          Read: WH, chapter 28

·          Read: Rick Wartzman, “The First Time America Freaked Out…”

·          View: Wealth Inequality in the World

·          Read: Yascha Mounk, “How Populist Uprisings Could Bring…”  

·          Take: Quiz #5 (due by June 12 at 11:59 pm)

·          Participate: Discussion #5 (due by June 14 at 11:59 pm)

WEEK SIX

June 15

LIVE SESSION 11 (10-11:45 am): Response Paper #2 Review

June 17

NO LIVE SESSION—WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR APPOINTMENTS IF NEEDED

June 19

 

·         FINAL RESPONSE PAPER DUE (BY E-MAIL)

·         RE-WRITE DUE (Original must be attached)

·         COURSE ASSESSMENT SURVEY (25 points will count toward participation grade)