Much is said about Washington. Much of it is wrong. This course will immerse students in the history, politics, culture, diversity and character of the nation’s capital. You will learn about Washington’s transformation from a remote federal city into the world’s most powerful capital. We will analyze the accuracy of how Washington has been depicted throughout history, how it is represented – and misrepresented -- in modern culture, and why it is ridiculed by politicians who want to work there. We will assess the truth behind popular Washington myths and look behind the city’s glorification and vilification in literature and film. We will examine the enormous divide between Washington’s have and have nots. We will probe Washington policy debates and rituals and survey the research tools used to separate fact from fiction. You will have an opportunity to study and visit monuments, museums, and perhaps even Ben’s Chili Bowl.
UCR/UCI/UCSB/UCD/UCSC only
Campus course equivalencies: UCR- HASS191W; UCI- UCDC180
Syllabus: