The 1960s in the United States were marked by prosperity, social unrest, a losing war, large scale civil rights movements and the flowering of youth culture. In the process the 1960s became one of the most documented, celebrated and condemned decades of the twentieth century. This course examines the 1960s in a historical perspective in order to raise questions about the longer term 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 the United States, Britain, France and Australia during these years.

• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the key events, movements and ideas of the period 1956-1972 in the United States;
• Continue to develop strong research, writing and analytical skills, with particular reference to relevant primary sources;
• 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.

The course is offered on campus via lectures (which will be streamed) and tutorials. The course will not be offered in 2009.

One ninety minute lecture and one tutorial per week. Lectures will be taped.  Students will be expected to spend an average of seven hours per week outside these contact hours to prepare for tutorials and for research and writing of written work.