Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/reconstructing-americas-story
National Stories
This introductory module examines America's national narrative and the complex historical context from which our narrative was born. We will examine the "standard story" of America's founding and the complex contradictions between America's declared ideals and the reality of our historical practices of slavery and discrimination.
The Philosophy of the DeclarationThis module examines the political philosophy of the Declaration of Independence, discussing the relationship between slavery and the Revolution, and describes the nature and purpose of the Founders’ Constitution.
Retelling the Standard StoryThis module examines American history as the consistent search for unity and equality. It also covers the impact of the Declaration of Independence on American constitutional history.
The Source of Our IdealsThis module examines the modern reading of the Declaration to antislavery activists and why those ideals entered the Constitution.
The War That Made AmericaThis module examines the nature of the conflict that precipitated the Civil War, and describes how the Civil War changed from a war for unity to a war for freedom. It also explores the connections, or lack thereof, between the ideologies of the two sides and the political theory of Founding America.
Reconstruction and RedemptionThis module examines the changes made to the Constitution by the Reconstruction Amendments. It also covers Redemption, the coup against the Reconstruction governments, and how the history of Reconstruction and Redemption was framed to promote white unity.
How the Struggle ContinuesThis module examines why the standard story is counterproductive in terms of creating real unity among Americans and seeing the continuing struggle between the ideologies of the Founding and Reconstruction. Finally, it looks to explain how a better story can open a path forward.
America has long defined itself as a country born out of a rebellion against tyranny with freedom and equality as its founding principles. But a closer examination of the historical record reveals problems with the standard American story – how can we be a country built on freedom and equality when our Founding Fathers embedded inequality in our founding documents? Guided by the expertise of constitutional law scholar Kermit Roosevelt, this course invites students to critically examine the nar
An amazing course that opens a window onto traditional American history. This "alternative" reading of American history should be taught in all high schools. Thank You.
Professor Roosevelt presents information in a concise and easily understand manner. His teaching style makes me anxious to learn more. Thank you for having this course.
very thought provoking in the current political climate.