The United States of America started as individual colonies isolated by a huge ocean to the east and a huge continental land mass west of the Allegheny Mountains. Now, 400 years after Jamestown and Plymouth, America is the most powerful nation on earth. We’ve experienced explosive growth in the relentless push west to the Pacific Ocean. We’ve celebrated our unique and better way of life, a model for oppressed people everywhere. Yet, we’ve experienced a deadly civil war, an economic system sustained by slavery, and an expansionist drive that pushed native inhabitants out of the way. What’s wrong with America is solved by what’s right with America: as ever, we are intent on upholding our founding principles, “with justice and liberty for all.” America is a work in progress. So we re-examine our story:
Getting Started—Colonies to revolution and independence.
Expanding Nation—We’re on our own…how do we establish ourselves?
Sea to Shining Sea—Slavery, Trail of Tears, expansion Sea to Sea; slippery slope toward civil war.
Post Civil War/Manifest Destiny—How to unwind from slavery and Civil War. How and why of “Jim Crow”. What to do about the Indian Territory?
Building a World Power—Binding the continent together with infrastructure, worldwide trade, building a growing society.
Expanding Beyond Borders—Trying our hand at European-style colonialism.
Our ever-popular master instructor, retired Naval officer and business executive, brings his love of world exploration and history to bear on our nation’s story. Limit 50. 6 Classes.
Todd Clayton
10:00—Noon Tuesday, Starts Feb. 18
The Village at The Triangle
4517 Triangle Avenue (78751)