HIST 245 - The Second World War

Credits: 5
Examines the history of World War II from its long-term origins in the post-WWI era, through the rise of dictators and imperial conquest in the 1930’s. Examines key figures and events of the war: from Hitler to FDR; from the nature of warfare to domestic fronts; from Pacific to the European theaters; from the Holocaust to the atomic bombs. Gives special attention to the various ethnic, religious, and political groups affected by World War II.

Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL& 101 or instructor’s permission.

Satisfies Requirement: Social Science

Course Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this class will be able to:

Describe the conditions and events in Europe and Asia that led to the Second World War.
Analyze the comparative advantages of the Grand Alliance and the Axis Powers.
Analyze the influence of World War II on decolonization in the 20th Century.
Explain the effects of “total war” on civil society.
Evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, and trends in the historiography of World War II.

Program Outcomes

Distinguish between opinions, facts, and evidence-based interpretations.

College-wide Outcomes

Critical Thinking - Critical thinking finds expression in all disciplines and everyday life. It is characterized by an ability to reflect upon thinking patterns, including the role of emotions on thoughts, and to rigorously assess the quality of thought through its work products. Critical thinkers routinely evaluate thinking processes and alter them, as necessary, to facilitate an improvement in their thinking and potentially foster certain dispositions or intellectual traits over time.
Written Communication - Written Communication encompasses all the abilities necessary for effective expression of thoughts, feelings, and ideas in written form.