HIST 615: Problems in American History

HIST 615-DL1: U.S. National Security State
(Fall 2026)

07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M

Online

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Section Information for Fall 2026

How should a democratic polity reconcile security with liberty?  Has America's role as "leader of the free world" undermined freedom at home?  What is the "nation," and what is "security," and who decides?  How have the politics of national security shaped the broader arc of American history?  In this seminar we will read widely in the history of the U.S. national security state, seeking answers to these questions.  Readings will explore such subjects as the Red Scare and McCarthyism, citizenship and civil liberties in times of war, the military-industrial complex, programs of surveillance and counter-subversion, and the shifting relationship between state agencies and civil society.  Throughout, we will pay particular attention to contentious debates about what has threatened American national security at different moments, and the impact of security practices on culture, politics, and society at home.   The course will both provide an overview of the history of the national security state and offer an introduction to the interdisciplinary methods historians use to make sense of this complex and controversial subject. 

This is an online live video section.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 1-6

Readings and discussion of bibliographies, interpretations, and research trends in topics selected by instructor. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by History & Art History. May be repeated within the term.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

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