Americans on the Move

Course examines the patterns, meanings, causes and effects of migrations to and within America from the 17th century to the present. Among the topics covered are the 17th century European incursions into North America, the first westward movement in and from the Virginia colony, slavery and the Middle Passage, the great movement west following the Lewis and Clark expedition, the 'Trail of Tears,' the 'Great Migration' of African-Americans after the Civil War and in the 20th century, the displacement of Americans during the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression, the forced migration of Japanese Americans from their west coast homes during World War II, and the more recent movement of Americans to Sunbelt states, and as the result of natural disasters. The inspiration or other emotional impact of the arts -- plastic, literary, and performing -- on immigration and migration is an integral part of the course.