Course Descriptions

HIS 240 - The City in American History

3 Credits

This is a study of selected North American cities from pre-colonial times to the present, focusing on the forces and conditions that have stimulated their emergence, growth and transformation. Consideration will be given to such themes as the search for security, role of government in organizing a city, the influence of religion, the struggle for power and dominance, entertainment, technological advancement, and the impact of population concentration. Race and ethnic issues as well as class and gender matters will be introduced. Throughout, stories of diverse cities will be examined as means of understanding the broader social, cultural, political and economic history of the nation.

Learning Attributes: WR

New SUNY General Education: SUNY - U.S. History and Civic Engagement

Retiring SUNY General Education: SUNY-AH - American History (SAMH)

MCC General Education: MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

Course Learning Outcomes
1. Outline the historical process leading up to the establishment of selected cities in America
2. Discuss the history of selected cities established by Native Americans before Europeans arrived in America
3. Appraise the global forces operating on America's cities since the colonial period
4. Describe the major urban economic institutions that have impacted the history of United States
5. Articulate the role of technology in the growth and development of urban physical appearance in America
6. Discuss the major historical forces that create economic inequalities in America’s cities
7. Analyze the issues associated with urban policy, planning and reform in selected American cities
8. Describe the challenges of maintaining physical and psychological security of American city-dwellers since the colonial period

Course Offered Spring

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Fall Semester 2025
Spring Semester 2025
Summer Session 2025