HIST 361 - United States Military History: Rise of a Warrior Democracy

“Peace through strength,” “Uncommon valor was a common virtue,” and “In war, there is no substitute for victory.” These phrases spoken at various times by different military commanders illustrate the importance America’s leaders and citizens have accorded to the U.S. armed forces, issues related to national defense, and the American approach to war-fighting. This course traces the history of the United States military from its colonial origins to the present day. Along with examining the purpose and performance of the military during times of conflict, assessment will be made of its function as a political and socioeconomic institution; its role and effectiveness as an instrument of diplomacy and foreign policy; the extent and limitations of its power within America’s constitutional system; its relevance and function during peacetime; the evolution of its strategies and tactics; the impact and application of technology; and the contributions of major figures who built and shaped it into not only a force of overwhelming power, but an institutional organ of American society.

Credits: 4
Terms Offered: As Needed