HIST 258: U.S. Constitutional History

This course analyzes the history of the U.S. Constitution from 1787 to the present.  We will focus primarily on two main topics in constitutional history:  (1) federalism, property rights, and economic regulation and (2) civil rights and civil liberties.  The main objective of the course is to provide you with a broad understanding of the changing role of the Constitution in American society and the ways in which the Supreme Court’s interpretations have been shaped by social, economic, and political developments.  Additionally, the course assignments and classroom exercises are designed to help you strengthen your ability to read written texts closely, think logically and analytically, and articulate your ideas clearly and persuasively. [SS] Prof. Rosen