American Studies Department

The American Studies Department offers an interdisciplinary approach to the myths, values, symbols, institutions, and behavior of the peoples of the United States and to the questions raised by the influence of the United States in shaping the modern world. The American Studies major is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the history and major features of American civilization.

Students anticipating careers in law, business, public policy, communications, education, journalism, teaching, and careers as professors of American studies, history, and literature have typically enrolled in the department.

As a sponsor of programs in law, journalism, and environmental studies, the department welcomes students who seek active engagement with the contemporary world through firm grounding in a sound liberal arts education.

13th Annual Tillie K. Lubin Symposium
(Co-Sponsor)

“I thought it was funny”: Gender ... Race ...    ... Humor ...

Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Rapaporte Treasure Hall, Goldfarb Library

1:30 pm panel discussion
8:00 pm comedy performances
(including a performance by Lauren Antler, daughter of American Studies Professor Joyce Antler)

November 28, 2007 marks the sixty-fifth anniversary of the infamous Cocoanut Grove Fire in Boston. Nearly 1000 Bostonians entered the popular Cocoanut Grove nightclub on November 28, 1942, unaware of the casualties they would face as victims of the worst club fire in the American’s history.

American Studies major, Rachael Dionnne '08, will examine this fire disaster in her honors thesis. See story.