This course will focus on the local history of the Kansas City region from the beginning of European settlement to the present. Students will learn about local Native American tribes and the effect of European settlement on their development, the controversies surrounding the admission of Missouri and Kansas into the United States, Kansas City’s role in westward expansion, the Civil War and its effects on the region, the emergence of the Populist movement in Kansas, the involvement of Kansas City in World War I, the development of Jazz in Kansas City, the Pendergast Political Machine during the Roaring 20s and Great Depression, the growth of the suburbs in Kansas City area, desegregation and its effect on Kansas City and the region and other local topics.

This course surveys history from ancient times through the modern period from a world perspective. Students are introduced to the ancient river civilizations, the Empires of Greece and Rome, and medieval life. The course continues with the development of European monarchies and their evolution into modern nations. Finally, students will investigate causes and results of twentieth century global events/conflicts. Emphasis is placed on emergence of new nations and the potential of today’s society.