The American 1960s were marked by prosperity, a losing war, civil rights movements and an explosion of youth culture. In the process it became one of the most documented, celebrated and condemned decades of the twentieth century. This course examines the 1960s to raise questions about the significance of the Vietnam War, the War against Poverty, Civil Rights and the counter culture for American society and values. Along the way we can also explore the usefulness of decades as units of historical time and the parallels and contrasts between the experiences of other nations during these years.

After successful completion of this course, students should:

• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the key events, movements and ideas of the period 1956-1972 in the United States;
• Have an appreciation of the historical significance of those events, movements and ideas;
• Continue to develop strong research, writing and analytical skills
• Gain an understanding of the American 1960s in comparison to that decade in Australia and Europe;
• Be able to critically reflect upon the insights provided by different sources, for example music, movies and literature, to our understanding of the meanings and significances of the 1960s,
• Understand and demonstrate the significance of the subject matter for the subsequent development of the United States.

The assessment package will be based on written work, made up of a historiographical essay of 2,000-2,500 words (worth 30% of the final mark) and a research essay of 3,500-4,000 words (worth 70% of the final mark).

One ninety minute lecture and one tutorial per week.
Lectures will be taped.

Any first year History courses to the value of twelve units or with permission of the Convener.

Chalmers, D, And the Crooked Placed Made Straight, John Hopkins, UP.

This course can be counted towards a History or American Studies major.