4. Throughout history, powerful elites have dominated (socially, politically, ec

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4. Throughout history, powerful elites have dominated (socially, politically, economically). How do the relatively less powerful and the truly disenfranchised (as variously defined, depending on the era and region in question) fit into history? To what degree are they merely victims or puppets of the elite? To what extent are they active shapers of history? Explain the most salient examples over time.
5. Some historians view wars as catalysts for profound social, political, and economic change. Others believe that wars entrench the status quo. Looking at the major wars fought by the US (Indian wars may be considered collectively as a single war), with which side (if either) do you most agree, and why? [If you agree with neither, what conclusions would you draw about the impact of wars, and why?]
6.  Identify and examine key social, political, cultural and economic movements in American history.  To what extent did each of these movements promote reform, rebellion, or both reform and rebellion?  Be clear in the ways you define reform and rebellion, pointing out how your definitions might differ from that of other Americans.
7.  How and why have certain Americans tended to view themselves and their nation as “exceptional”?  How has this notion shaped American culture, politics and economics?
8. Which has been more significant in shaping American history: race or class? [Note: It is acceptable to argue that the significance of race or class has varied in different eras, but make sure you give concrete evidence. 
9.  Design a new American History survey course.Write a course description explaining what you hope to cover and what you hope the class will learn from this course.What key people, places and events would you highlight?  Why would you highlight these?  What books and/or other readings would you use when developing lectures and discussions?  What books and/or other sources would you have the class read?  Defend and explain these choices.  
10.  How have historians tended to define “politics” over the course of American history? When and why have these definitions changed and varied?  What impact do these definitions have on how historians have approached and written about the nation’s past?  

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