120030 VO Cultural and Regional Studies (American Civilization) (2009S)

This survey lecture course sets out to provide the background in history, geography and demography (immigration and social identities, "race" and ethnicity) necessary for a deeper understanding of U.S.- American life and arts in a foreign-language-learning context. Special sessions will deal with the political system, American "imperialism", Native Americans/"Indians", African Americans/"Blacks", Hispanics, and Asian Americans. We will also consider topical issues of the day - and all along the way, we will look at the many historical, political, and ideological differences (and similarities?) between the United States and Canada.