From Tiananmen Square to Tehran, activists have been at the forefront of the modern era’s most striking social and political movements. By capturing the attention of global audiences, leaders like Susan B. Anthony, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Yousafzai have given voice to the oppressed and marginalized. Utilizing an expansive geographic framework, this course will examine the history of social and political activism beginning in the late 19th century and moving through the modern era. Students in this course will have the opportunity to develop and refine their research skills by learning to interpret and analyze primary sources, while adhering to methodologies employed by professional historians. After carefully considering the strategies of social, political, and economic campaigns aimed at securing civil rights, promoting peace, and resisting oppression, students will apply the knowledge they have gained by selecting an individualized research project and producing a podcast episode showcasing their work.
