This course explores the course of the Civil War and Reconstruction in Washington, D.C., and how those events were remembered, forgotten, and memorialized. Students will read primary and secondary sources, discuss historical references in films, protests, and pop culture, and visit historic sites in the district. They will learn about D.C.’s unique place in the critical years surrounding the Civil War and how our collective memories of those events are shaped by the built environments we inhabit. Students will also learn to think critically, analyze historical sources, engage in constructive discussion about difficult topics, and write analytical and research papers.
About the Instructor: Professor Gideon Cohn-Postar received his Ph.D. in History from Northwestern University in 2020. His research focuses on election law, voter intimidation, racism, and labor advocacy in the late 19th century United States. When not reading and writing about the Civil War and Reconstruction he conducts voting rights investigations for the House of Representatives’ Committee on Oversight and Reform.
*For a copy of the syllabus to review or submit for academic credit, please email academics@ucdc.edu.