SEMINAR IN AMERICAN COLONIAL HISTORY
(HIST 511)
Fall 2009
DR. ROBERT CRAY
( crayr@mail.montclair.edu )
DI 417 - (973) 655-5256)
Office Hours:  Wed.  11:30-12:30, 4:00-5:00; Fri., 7:25-8:25 am or by appointment

This course examines the "New Atlantic History," a bold intellectual paradigm that places western expansion within a distinct perspective.  Europe and the Americas, although seemingly divided by the Atlantic, actually found themselves linked together by a maritime network that facilitated political, economic, and cultural exchanges.  Indeed, events on one side of the globe stimulated developments elsewhere.  The old world and the new world could not escape shared influences as the imperial center - the European capitals and seaports - impacted upon the most isolated corners of the Americas.  The movement of people and goods tied not only Europe and the Americas, but Africa into this Atlantic web.  We will attempt to test the validity and implications of this premise in a series of readings listed below that focus upon the British North American colonies.

COURSE BOOKS

Alison Games, Migration and the Origins of the English Atlantic World.
R. Godbeer, Escaping Salem.
T.H. Breen and Stephen Innes, Myne Owne Ground.
Donna Merwick, Death of a Notary.
J. Merrell, Indians' New World.

REQUIREMENTS

1. Since this is a seminar class much of our time will be spent in discussion.  This means close reading of the books.  Lectures will occur to supply additional information, and you will be required to bring in primary source material.
   
   

2. There will be a short paper between six and seven pages based on class readings and discussion.  More importantly, students will write a term paper of twelve to fifteen pages based upon extensive primary and secondary research on an approved topic.  You will submit an outline and deliver an oral report on your proposed topic along with a working bibliography.  Be sure to identify a historical question and theme you wish to pursue - in other words, why should we be interested in this topic?  What is the larger issue you are addressing here in the narrative?  You will present a second oral report when you hand in the finished term paper.  Presentations should be no more than seven or eight minutes.  In addition, you will Xerox copies of your introduction for the class to read and discuss - say two pages or so - so we can work together on how to shape the topic.  Failure to complete these assignments in a timely manner will result in grade reductions.
   
   

3. Grades:  Short paper = 40%; term paper = 60%.  I will consider class discussion and class assignments as a component of the grade.  You will need to bring in a brief copy - a page, diary entry, town account, et.al. - of some primary source that will serve as an important component of your term paper.
   
   

4. Given the fact that this is a relatively small class we should attempt to foster a collegial spirit during our meetings - this means animated discussion, debate, and argument.

CLASS SCHEDULE

Comments of questions:  goscinskis@mail.monclair.edu
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