HIST1400 : American Environmental History

This course examines the interaction between humans and the natural world in the United States from the late nineteenth century to the present. In addition, heavy emphasis is placed on recent Minnesota Environmental history. The course considers such diverse topics as the impact of industrialization and urban growth on the environment, the emergence of ecology and green politics, and the creation of the idea of Nature in American culture. Students will be expected to develop an historical understanding of the major themes of modern American environmental history; relationships between human activity and pollution in cities, emergence of reform movements and environmental regulation, relationships between increasing urban growth and increasing environmental concern, and the rise of environmental politics in both local and national settings.

Prerequisites: The course is taught for students interested in American history as well as those seeking a better understanding of environmental issues. Students will need access to a computer and be familiar with word processing programs and browsing the Internet.

Credit Breakout:  3.00 lecture,   0.00 lab,   0.00 other.