A House Divided: The Road to Civil War, 1850-1861

Course Description

"A House Divided: The Road to Civil War, 1850-1861" is an introductory-level course offered by ColumbiaX as part of the "Civil War and Reconstruction" XSeries. This captivating journey through one of the most pivotal eras in American history explores the complex factors that led to the Civil War, focusing on the tumultuous decade of the 1850s.

The course delves deep into the political and social landscape of pre-Civil War America, examining the institution of slavery and its profound impact on the southern and national economies. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how the issue of slavery's expansion came to dominate national politics, and how political leaders of the time grappled with the growing crisis.

What Students Will Learn

  • A thorough overview of the political and social history of the 1850s
  • Various historical interpretations of the crisis of the Union
  • The central role of slavery in the southern and national economies
  • The rise of the Republican Party and Lincoln's ascent to national prominence
  • Critical analysis of key events such as Bleeding Kansas, the Dred Scott decision, the Lincoln-Douglas debates, and John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry
  • The process of the Union's dissolution in the winter of 1860-61
  • Skills in analyzing primary sources using materials from Columbia's Rare Book and Manuscript Library

Prerequisites

This course is designed for beginners, and there are no specific prerequisites. However, a general interest in American history and a willingness to engage with historical texts and concepts will be beneficial.

Course Coverage

  • Setting the stage for the Civil War
  • American slavery and its economic impact
  • Historians' perspectives on the coming of the Civil War
  • Territorial expansion and sectional conflict
  • Immigration and nativism in the 1850s
  • The rise of the Republican Party
  • The Buchanan administration
  • Lincoln's emergence as a national figure
  • The gathering storm of conflict
  • The secession crisis

Who This Course Is For

  • History enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of the Civil War era
  • Students of American studies or political science
  • Educators looking to enhance their knowledge of 19th-century American history
  • Anyone interested in exploring the roots of contemporary issues related to race, freedom, and national identity in the United States

Real-World Applications

  • Enhanced critical thinking and analytical skills applicable to various professions
  • A deeper understanding of current political and social issues rooted in Civil War-era conflicts
  • Improved ability to interpret and analyze historical documents and primary sources
  • Better comprehension of the complexities of leadership during times of national crisis
  • Valuable insights for careers in education, journalism, law, and public policy
  • A foundation for further studies in American history, political science, or social justice

Syllabus

  1. Setting the Stage
  2. American Slavery
  3. Historians and the Coming of the Civil War
  4. Territorial Expansion and Sectional Conflict
  5. Immigration and Nativism
  6. Rise of the Republican Party
  7. The Buchanan Administration
  8. The Emergence of Lincoln
  9. The Gathering Storm
  10. The Secession Crisis

By enrolling in "A House Divided: The Road to Civil War, 1850-1861," students will embark on a fascinating exploration of the forces that shaped modern America. This course offers not just historical knowledge, but also valuable insights into the ongoing struggle to define freedom, equality, and national identity in the United States.