HIST 438 - It Can’t Happen Here: Anarchism, Communism, and Fascism in American History

FC SSCI WADV

4 credits
Liberal democracy and free-market capitalism formed the basis of an American political and economic consensus in the twentieth century. Despite this, other ideological convictions also attracted intense support, inspired ardent zeal, and generated profound fear among some members of the American public. Why? This course explores how historians have analyzed, interpreted, and debated the prevalence and significance of three alternative ideologies-anarchism, communism, fascism-and their intersections with issues of race, class, gender, ethnicity, culture, and international relations in U.S. history. Discussions and coursework will focus on major trends, questions, and debates in the history of American politics and ideologies.