History The American University of Paris

Overview

Through History program is offered at The American University of Paris, upon graduation, you will have a profound knowledge of historical trends across cultures in at least two different geographical or thematic areas; you will be able to critically assess the value of information by identifying, interpreting, and narrating significant historical data; you will learn how to discuss a historiographical work by identifying the basic motivations and methodological approaches of the author within the discipline of History; and you will be prepared for further study and work through your mastery of reading primary texts and writing historical essays. 

The educational goals for this major are as follows:

• You will practice the craft of historical research and writing. You will be able to:
  • Identify and ask historical questions.
  • Understand how people, ideas, and geography intersected to create historical movements.
  • Construct a factual narrative of historical events and historical change.
  • Identify periodization and understand change over time.
• You will be able to demonstrate knowledge of historical events and periods and their significance. You will be able to:
  • Place events, people, and movements within their proper historical context.
  • Distinguish between parallels and differences between previous historic moments and their present situation
• You will develop the following skills that are critical to historical thinking:
  • Understand the differences between primary and secondary sources.
  • Interpret primary and secondary sources in a critical way.
  • Construct written historical arguments in a persuasive way.  
  • Present your historical arguments to your peers in small group discussions and in oral presentations.