HISTORY
The Price of Freedom: America at War
SPRING HN265
Mondays
Sarah Feehan
This course will focus on America’s involvement in conflict since World War I. It will examine America’s motivation for becoming involved in various conflicts over the course of the twentieth century. It will consider whether America becomes involved in such conflicts to defend its freedom and interests around the globe or has it, as it has claimed, a greater goal of defending the freedom of others too. Beginning with World War I it will consider the governments stated reasons for committing American forces to each of these conflicts. It will also question whether America had to, needed to, or chose to become involved in each of the conflicts The way in which America conducted itself during the conflicts under examination will also be considered. This will examine the foreign policy of the time and how it guided American actions in these conflicts. The course will not be looking at a battle by battle, military history of each conflict. The impact of America’s involvement both at home and abroad will be examined. It will consider how the involvement in these conflicts was viewed at home and the impact it had on domestic politics and American society. It will also discuss how American involvement was viewed by other nations, both those also involved in the conflict, and those who remained neutral.
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BELFIELD |
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8 Mondays |
Jan 28, Feb 4, 11, 18, 25, Mar 4, 11, 25 (No Class March 18) |
7.30pm - 9.30pm |
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FEE: €155 |
Print Open Learning Application Form 2012.13 or ring (01) 716-7123 for Laser/credit card payment |
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Tutor Bio
Dr Sarah Feehan earned her PhD from UCD. Her thesis was on the Heath government and proposed arms sales to South Africa. She has previously taught courses on American foreign policy and a history of the American presidency. Her research interests include American politics and foreign policy, Britain foreign policy and Britain and the Commonwealth.
Provisional list of key topics to be covered :
World War I
World War II
Korean War
Cold War
Vietnam
Gulf War
9/11 and Beyond
Who is the course for?
This course is for anyone who has an interest in American history. It will be of particular interest to those who want to understand why America became involved in conflicts since World War I. How it conducted itself during these conflicts and the effect of America’s involvement in these conflicts had both domestically and internationally.
Reading List:
The readings will mainly be from electronic articles and websites.
A reading list will be provided at the beginning of the course.
