From the Presidency to the Parliament; the Romanovs to Reconstruction; Aristotle to John Adams, this weekly class explores a new topic in world history every week.  

I employ a student-centered approach, where I act as a facilitator asking questions and prompting discussions in order to promote critical thinking. Research projects and class participation will be encouraged, but not required. One topic, period, or event will be chosen each week by me, from topics provided by the students. 

Topics may include (but are not limited to): 

The U.S. Civil War and the Reconstruction

The class explores events leading up to the Civil War and discusses post-war attempts to redress the inequities of slavery and its political, social, and economic legacy.  

The Russian Revolution

One of the most significant events of the twentieth century, the Russian Revolution of 1917 marked the end of the Romanov dynasty and centuries of imperial rule. We explore events leading to the end of the Tsars rule and the ascendency of Communism.  

The Renaissance 

A period of European cultural, artistic, political, and economic “rebirth” following the Middle Ages. The Renaissance promoted the rediscovery of classical philosophy, literature, and art and was associated with great social change. Come explore the impact of this period on history. 

Empires and Kingdoms

What are the differences between empires and kingdoms? In this session we look at political dynasties. Join me in exploring the Ottoman, Persian, and British empires. We'll meet Genghis Khan, the Mongol Empire's most famous/infamous leader; follow Napoleon on his path to power; and contemplate the Umayyad dynasty, considered one of the largest empires in history..   

Sessions are learner-directed, with a student discussion at the end of the class to decide what the following class topic will be. I will choose the topic from among the student topics proposed. This ensures that topics within my area of expertise and appropriate to the age and maturity of the students in the class.