HIST 2041 - Myths in U.S. History

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 3 Lab None
Course Description: This second-year course is an examination of U.S. history from the alternative perspective of myths (the stories that Americans tell about themselves).  This course will cover the stereotypes and distortions that contribute to their sense of U.S. history. Myths studied will vary, but will be linked to broad historical concepts such as common ideals, race and ethnicity, the American Dream, and others.
MnTC Goals
5 History/Social/Behavioral Science, 9 Ethical/Civic Responsibility

Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1020  with a grade of C or higher or ENGL 1021  with a grade of C or higher.
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: None

Major Content

1. Introduction to Myth and its Use in U.S. History
2. Early U.S. Myths (i.e., Pocahontas, the first Thanksgiving, the Native as Savage, Religious Myths)
3. Myths of Race and Ethnicity
4. Myths of Common Ideals (i.e., Freedom, Democracy)
5. Myths of the West
6. Myths of the American Dream
7. Myths of American Innocence and Progress (i.e., the Myths of the Federal Government, War)
8. Myths and You

1. explain the difference between myth and reality in the story of the people of the United States, accounting for the complex relationship between the stories that Americans tell and the actuality of what may have happened in the past.
2. analyze connections between factual evidence and mythical assumptions relevant to their understanding of U.S. history.
3. synthesize historical material from diverse sources and points of view. 
4. demonstrate critical analysis of historical events, processes, and/or concepts.
5. evaluate the relevance of U.S. myths and history to their own lives.

05. 03. Use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories.

05. 04. Develop and communicate alternative explanations or solutions for contemporary social issues.
Competency 2 (7-10)
09. 01. Examine, articulate, and apply their own ethical views.

09. 02. Understand and apply core concepts (e.g. politics, rights and obligations, justice, liberty) to specific issues.

09. 04. Recognize the diversity of political motivations and interests of others.

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