The American West

Give me a home, where the buffalo roam are driven into pens and shot.

After a bizarre story about Andrew Jackson, we deal with the mythology of
"the West" and some of its less pleasing realities, particularly for various Indian groups.

Business (continued)

"Is anyone a scientologist?"

First ten minutes is spent wanking around, discussing scientology, Opposite Day, popsicles and strange mail. Then we discuss business organization in the 19th century, as well as differing views on the social responsibilities of the rich toward the poor.

Rise of Business (January 23)

I blame the cough meds.

Lecture covers reconstruction, railroads, and the rise of business and industry. At the end, I tell a stupid tale about riding a train.

Reconstruction (January 18)

Kaboom.

This lecture addresses major transformations, 1865-1890; Reconstruction and the meaning of "freedom" to African Americans; lingering traces of slavery in the post-civil war era.

Course Intro (January 16)

Here it is.

Lecture covers the civil war and its consequences for Americans.