American History Course

What are the key events and cultural narratives that have shaped the identity of the United States?

Arizona Social Studies Standards - High School (PDF)

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We will explore the rich and diverse history of America, starting from the time before European contact with Indigenous peoples to the events leading up to the American Revolution. We will learn about the different cultures of Indigenous North America, the impact of European colonization, and how these historical events shaped our nation. We will examine how myths and stories have influenced our understanding of history. 

We will dive into an exciting exploration of America's development as a new nation and the impact of slavery. We will learn how the expansion of the United States changed the lives of many different communities and how these changes shaped our nation. Together, we will discuss important topics such as the Louisiana Purchase, westward expansion, and the Civil War. We will also examine how the legacies of slavery continue to influence our society today. 

We will then explore some of the important conflicts in modern American history, focusing on themes like imperialism, progressivism, and the impact of war. We will learn about how America expanded its reach during times of war and peace, and how these actions affected different communities, especially those who were often overlooked. We will study significant events like World War I, World War II, and the Cold War, as well as the struggles for civil rights that followed. 

We finish by studying important topics that shape our world today, focusing on economic expansion, global conflicts, and the challenges we face in the 21st century. We will explore how immigration policies have evolved over time and the impact they have on different communities. We will discuss other contemporary issues such as the militarization of law enforcement, racial inequality, and the role of technology in society.