HIST 2231: History of New York City: People, communities, politics, culture

Abstract

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The course explores the history of New York from colonial times as a Dutch colony in 17th century, to 21st century and its current character of a postindustrial city. The course will proceed chronologically, its emphasis will be the people of the city, its immigrants and its internal migrants. The material chosen will emphasize social meanings of changing neighborhoods, conflicts between the settled population and the newcomers; the rise and fall, and rise of some neighborhoods; the recurring conflict between “machine politics” and reform movements; tension between the urban planning power of the city resulting in dislocation of existing population (considered “slum clearing”); city’s approach to crime and disorder. In addition, important events such as riots, protest movements, and labor strikes will be discussed. We will conclude with the city’s status as it faces the economic and political challenges of a globalizing world.