Advanced Topics in United States History Honors
This course examines in depth the most controversial decisions the U.S. faced during the 20th and 21st centuries. Questions studied will include the following: Should the U.S. have taken the Philippines after the Spanish-American War? Should we have joined the Allied efforts in World War I and II? Did JFK handle the Cuban Missile Crisis properly? What should have been U.S. policy in Vietnam and, more recently, in the Middle East? What is the proper role of the U.S. in world affairs—policeman; last, best hope of humanity; or Fortress America and isolation? Public speaking skills are emphasized as students research, prepare, and defend positions on all these issues.