Note: This class can be taken on its own, but the student is encouraged to take this class alongside American Literature. The classes coordinate and will provide a fuller educational experience.

According to the American Historical Association, “Laymen and educators are generally agreed that knowledge of our own history is essential in the making of Americans.” The study of American History is essential in helping students to understand who we are and where we are at as a nation today.

American History is the story of a nation founded upon the ideals of freedom and opportunity. American History is the story of the fascinating heroes, the equally fascinating villains, and the
common men and women who built this nation. America is the story of a nation of immigrants who journeyed from faraway lands to make a better life for their families and who made a contribution which enriched this country. American History is full of magnanimous ideas and the
events which inspire us. American History remembers those who gave their lives to protect our freedoms and way of life. The promise of America is unique in the history of the world. America is a land of dreams, a land of privileges, a land of responsibilities, and a land of possibilities. America is “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” Yet American History is also about the deep struggles which are still with us today.

This course will be a survey of American History from pre-colonial days to the modern era. In order to make wise decisions about the future of America it is essential to know the past. To protect our freedoms means the youth of this country must be educated.

What does it mean to be an American? What shared experiences, values, and ideas define and shape who we are as individuals and as a nation? How did we get to where we are today? What is your place in the story of America? These questions will shape the American History course.

But . . . we are also Christians. To leave out the influence Christianity has had on this country would be to leave out that which helped to make America both great and good. Christian students must be taught history in order to take their place in shaping this country we call the United States of America.