HIS 322-01 - Sex & Sexuality in American History (Fall)

4 credits (Fall)

This seminar investigates the history of sex and sexuality in the United States, from the colonial era through the twentieth century. We will identify changes, contradictions, and continuities in sexual ideals as well as the even more complicated realities of Americans’ sexual experiences. We will discuss the invention of heterosexualities and same-sex sexualities, as well as the laws, policies, and traditions that shape them. Students will write in-depth research papers on some aspect of American sexual history.

Prerequisite: HIS 100 and HIS 222 or GWS 111.
Instructor: Lewis