History, Political Science & Law

Upcoming Courses

Courses

This lecture will provide an update on the US Supreme Court's October 2024 term, which will conclude in late June or early July 2025. The lecture offers an overview of the Supreme Court's procedures and decision-making approaches and will analyze the major decisions reached by the Court in areas of the law including the First Amendment, Second Amendment, gender identity, and executive power.


Monday, July 21, TBD - UR Campus (25 seats (20%) remaining)
Study the architectural design of the great houses on 5th Avenue in New York City and their summer 'cottages' in Newport, Rhode Island, which were built in the Gilded Age. Learn about the architects hired, what the design of the great edifices and opulent interiors were trying to achieve, and on what architectural precedents they were based.


Thursday, June 26, TBD - UR Campus ( No seats currently available )
This is a participatory study in 19th-Century Russian painting in which viewers will follow the most significant moments in the development of Russian art through selected paintings. The study is not a conventional art history course, but rather is an opportunity for participants to optimally engage and express the experience of aesthetic ecstasy evoked by the paintings. For this reason the class size will be limited.


Tuesdays; June 3 & 4, Special Programs Building, Room 160 ( No seats currently available )
Identified and excavated during the Yorktown Shipwreck Archaeological Project, Betsy represents the measures taken by the British to carry on the fight before their ultimate surrender at Yorktown in 1781. In the over 40 years since Betsy's rediscovery, learn how the wreck continues to teach us about the history of the battle, and the ways in which 18th century materials pulled from York River have been preserved.


Thursday, June 26, TBD - UR Campus
The course will look at these two complementary and imperfect systems from an economic perspective.


Fridays; June 13, 20, 27, TBD - UR Campus
This interactive class will use case study methodology to study history via the book 'Democracy: A Case Study' by David Moss (2017). You will role-play the decision makers of the day as you analyze problems that eventually led to momentous decisions in our nation's history. Experience history in a more immersive way.


Thursdays, July 24 and 31, Aug 7, 14, 21, Synchronous Online ( No seats currently available )
Would you like to find out what happened AFTER the containers found under Lee were opened? Kate Ridgway, State Archaeological Conservator for the Department of Historic Resources, talks about the efforts to preserve artifacts removed from the Lee Monument, including preparing for the day they were found through the current preservation efforts and how these efforts helped inform the removal of the cornerstone boxes under other monuments on Monument Avenue.


Wednesday, June 4, Special Programs Building, Classroom 156 (6 seats (15%) remaining)
Let's talk about planning for the future. How can you ensure that your preferences and directives for your financial assets are carried out correctly? We'll discuss the legal options available to assist in making the best decisions. Elder Law will also be discussed. Questions are welcome!


Tuesday, Aug 12, TBD - UR Campus
This walking tour explores the gardens, outbuildings and other estate features that made Maymont a showplace without equal in Gilded Age Richmond. Guests will learn about the design of the Italian garden, the arboretum comprised of rare specimen trees imported in the 1890s, and the uses of the various outbuildings.


Tuesday, July 15, Maymont Gardens
Brian Wilson started the Beach Boys in 1961. Inspired by Doo-wop, their earliest songs were about themes of interest to California teens: cars, surfing, school, and love. Over the decades, they had 40 Billboard hits. Later, they introduced elements of jazz and progressive music, and their 'Pet Sounds' album is one of the best ever. We will discuss the Beach Boys as a cultural phenomenon and groove to many of their greater and lesser-known songs.


Tuesday, July 22, TBD - UR Campus (13 seats (12%) remaining)
Have you ever wanted to trace your family history, but didn't know how to begin, or became overwhelmed when you did? Then, this class is for you. Learn how to set goals and stay organized; use basic research tools, techniques, and reliable sources; and ways to ensure you have the facts. The goal is to give you skills and resources to begin discovering your ancestors and their true stories.


Mondays & Thursdays; July 7, 10, 14, 17, TBD - UR Campus
Would you like to become more efficient and productive using Ancestry.com, the largest genealogy database in the world? Join us to learn about tips and techniques to improve your searches, dos and don'ts about family trees, and the University's Library edition vs. paid subscription. Additionally, you will learn to navigate the site to find all the features and resources available such as connecting with other researchers, accessing tutorials, and learning to use the card catalog.


Monday, Aug 4, TBD - UR Campus ( No seats currently available )
This is a guided tour of the Virginia Museum of History and Culture's exhibition: Give Me Liberty. The exhibit will inspire a deep appreciation for the continental and global forces as well as the individual actions by both iconic and ordinary people that brought about a model of democratic government that would change the world.


Friday, Aug 8, Virginia Museum of History and Culture ( No seats currently available )
In 1968 Paul Ehrlich published 'The Population Bomb,' an influential book warning of cataclysm and widespread famine in a few short years as a consequence of too many people on the planet. Since then, global population has increased from 3 to 8 billion and is still growing. Where are we headed now? We will investigate this question, relying on population experts who offer some possible answers based on current global demographic data and trends.


Fridays, July 25 and Aug 1, TBD - UR Campus ( No seats currently available )
This presentation will provide an update on the status of security challenges in several parts of the world, the role of the United States and its allies in responding to these threats, and the chances for escalation or resolution in 2025.


Monday, June 23, TBD - UR Campus
How do we know what we know about the Holocaust? The use of both secret and assigned cameras in ghettos and concentration camps enabled both Jews and non-Jews to collect evidence of Nazi atrocities. Much of this evidence was hidden and unearthed after the war. Examining these photographs allows us to learn about the history of the Holocaust.


Mondays; June 2, 9, 16, Special Programs Building, Room 160 ( No seats currently available )
We will look at the manifestations of Antisemitism, including the accusation of killing Jesus, the blood-libel, blaming the plague on the Jews, and accusing the Jews of trying to control the world. We will see the effect on Jews of the Crusades, the expulsion of Jews from countries in Western Europe, and the Inquisition.


Mondays; June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, July 7, Special Programs Building, Room 160 ( No seats currently available )
Do you enjoy peeking 'behind the curtain' when the powerful reveal their true human nature? In 'My Time with General Colin Powell,' you will learn about General Powell's tenure as Secretary of State, his professional speaking career, his humorous side, and what a beloved humanitarian he was. Ms. Lautenslager shares stories from her over 25 years working closely beside the General and celebrates what an extraordinary man he was.


Tuesday 6/10, TBD - UR Campus
How did Walt Disney's life and vision shape the creation of an entertainment empire? How did early challenges influence the company's identity and creative output? And how did Disney grow into a global powerhouse? This course explores these questions and more as we delve into the 100-year history of the Walt Disney Company, tracing its evolution from humble beginnings to a global entertainment giant.


Thursdays; July 10, 17, 24, 31, Aug 7, 14 , Synchronous Online
Architectural history follows a canon of both traditional and eclectic styles from ancient to contemporary times. Let's explore the myriad structures set against the backdrop of the societies in which they existed, the construction methods used, the patrons for whom these structures were constructed, and the notions of the builders and architects who created them.


Thursdays; July 10, 17, 24, 31, Aug 7, 14 , Synchronous Online
This course will explore the history of Manhattan, emphasizing the unique traits that drew into its harbor millions of immigrants and millions more tourists seeking to enjoy its many resources, rich culture, and complex history. Together, we will trace the history of New York City's parks, city shopping, entertainment venues, museums, and concerts. We will also discuss the social and arts movements that grew out of the city.


Wednesdays; July 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug 6, 13 , Synchronous Online
Historians, beer enthusiasts, and curious minds alike will enjoy this exploration of the history of brewing. We will begin in the distant past with the invention of beer around 4000 BCE. Then we will journey through time to the modern rise of craft brewing.


Tuesdays; July 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug 5, 12 , Synchronous Online
Chief Justice William Rehnquist led the US Supreme Court for nearly 19 years (1986-2005), overseeing cases on privacy, civil rights, the environment, the First Amendment, and states' rights. Under his leadership, the Court actively struck down federal statutes and precedent, often with conservative outcomes. However, as its composition shifted, some conservative rulings diminished.


July 14, 21, 28, Aug 4, 11, 18, Synchronous Online (5 seats (38%) remaining)
NEW TOPIC: Americans have wanted Canada since the French and Indian War when they helped create it; to the American Revolutionary War and George Washington's proposal to make it 14th state; to the War of 1812 and James Madison's overt invasion; and even the aftermath of the Civil War and William Henry Sewards's purchase of Alaska to outrun Canada to the Pacific coast. America's history is about manifest destiny; Canada's is about annexation paranoia. (Please note the changed course title and narrative, per the instructor's wishes.)


Mondays, Aug 4 and 11, TBD - UR Campus (11 seats (18%) remaining)
The US military has fought in over a hundred campaigns. One, the Second Indochina War, lasted from 1955 to 1975. Public support for the war peaked in the mid-1960s but collapsed after the Tet Offensive in early 1968. This course will examine how Hollywood's treatment of the war and its participants changed over time, reflecting America's gradual disillusionment with a conflict nearly 9,000 miles from its shores.


Wednesdays; July 9, 16, 23, 30 , Synchronous Online
English medieval cathedrals are among the most magnificent buildings in England, embodying earthly and spiritual power. Offering a glimpse of heaven on earth, the medieval master builders created stunning places of worship that remain standing after nearly a thousand years.


Mondays; June 9, 16, 23, TBD - UR Campus ( No seats currently available )
Everyone knows the Bible story about a man swallowed by the fish. But there's much more to Jonah! This class introduces modern biblical scholarship on Jonah (including who wrote the book, when, and how), explores the text's possible meanings, and surveys the history of interpretation (Jewish, Christian, Muslim). We will also discuss some 'mysteries of Jonah' or problems in interpretation, as well as Jonah in popular culture.


Tuesday, June 17, TBD - UR Campus ( No seats currently available )
The Gilded Age was a time not only of rapid industrialization, economic growth, and massive immigration, but also of political corruption and extreme economic inequality. In this interactive session, we will explore a wide variety of art that captures this period of American art history.


Tuesday, June 3, Synchronous Online (11 seats (11%) remaining)
This course will provide a deep dive into the history of the Israeli-Arab conflict with a focus on the last 125 years. What are the origins of the conflict? Who were the key players involved? What are the primary and persistent sources of contention? How have periodic wars influenced peace prospects? What are some of the blueprints proposed to establish a more permanent peace?


Tuesdays; June 24, July 1, 8,15, 22, TBD - UR Campus
You probably know what a bystander is. What about an 'upstander'? Hint: It's the exact opposite. In this class, you'll learn more about upstanders and their critical role throughout history. But you'll also learn about less-known upstanders (some local) who made an impact on society, and sometimes saved lives and changed history.


Monday, July 28, TBD - UR Campus (3 seats (8%) remaining)
'All Quiet on the Western Front' is a classic of anti-war literature. The novel first appeared in German (and in A.W. Wheen's English translation) in 1929 and became an instant bestseller. A new English translation by Kurt Beals was published by W.W. Norton in January 2025. Join Beals for a reading and discussion of the novel and the challenges (and necessity!) of re-translating a literary classic.


Monday, June 2, Special Programs Building, Classroom 156 (6 seats (15%) remaining)
Everyone has possessions they want to make sure are preserved for the next generation. Learn how conservators can help you make your treasures last. This lecture will help you learn more about conservators and what to expect when you work with one.


Tuesday, July 1, TBD - UR Campus
Learn about the first women airline pilots, including myself; the planes we flew; what inspired us to become pilots; and the obstacles we had to overcome. Gain an understanding of what it was like to break a gender barrier in the mid '70s. Learn about the changes and improvements over the last 50 years. Find out about today's opportunities, programs, flight training, and more.


Wednesday, June 11, TBD - UR Campus
Words of Veterans is a platform that helps US Veterans write down their military stories with the help of AI technology. AI provides a unique opportunity to help younger and older generations sharpen their writing, technical, and storytelling skills. Come learn how it's done!


Monday, Aug 18, Synchronous Online