HIST 365: Seminar: American Technological Development

The growth of American technology is examined from the early years of the Republic through the twentieth century. Topics include the cultural impact of firearms in Colonial New England; interchangeable parts and the implementation of mass production; the factory as system and community; railroads and corporate structure; innovation and regulation in hydraulic engineering; and the role of the military in developing “modern” technologies. Extensive readings from recent important books and articles in the history of technology are the basis for class discussion. [SS, W] [W] Prof. Jackson
Prerequisites: either HIST 215 or HIST 252 or permission of instructor