Courses

(HIS11926) BILL OF RIGHTS AS A FRAMEWORK OF LIBERTY

These classes (4) will provide a historically grounded explanation that captures the political, philosophical and practical reasons the Bill of Rights became necessary and became the Guardian of Liberty.

This course is not open for registrations.
Registration opens on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

(HIS12026, HIS12026Z) SUSIE KING TAYLOR'S CIVIL WAR

Explore the life of Susie King Taylor, a Civil War nurse and teacher who joined the Union Army at a young age. Using her memoir and other accounts, it highlights the experiences of Black women during the Civil War and Reconstruction in the South.

Thursday, October 15, 2026, Beaufort campus
Thursday, October 15, 2026, Live on Zoom

(HIS12126) CIVIL WAR SIDEBAR: FASCINATING POTPOURRI

This presentation examines overlooked people, events, and stories that deepen our appreciation of the American Civil War beyond its well-known milestones.

Friday, October 23, 2026, Bluffton campus

(HIS12226) THROUGH THE LENS: A CULTURAL HISTORY OF PHOTOGRAPHY

This class examines how iconic photographs have documented and shaped American history from the Civil War to the present while teaching basic techniques for interpreting visual storytelling.

Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Bluffton campus

(HIS12326) FOLLOWING THE DRUM-WOMEN IN THE CONTINENTAL ARMY

The Continental Army during the Revolutionary War conjures up images of officers in powdered wigs on horseback. What is not envisioned is the women who were officially part of the army and marched along behind them.

Thursday, October 29, 2026, Hilton Head Island campus

(HIS12426Z) UNEXPECTED CHALLENGES THE FOUNDERS FAILED TO PREDICT

Explore how the Constitutional Framers' deliberate compromises and unforeseen challenges shaped the early United States, from foreign policy and the Louisiana Purchase to the War of 1812, Benedict Arnold's betrayal, and the landmark decision in Marbury v. Madison. Through discussion and debate, participants will examine the motivations of the Founders, question their decisions, and consider how these pivotal events continue to influence America today.

September 25, 2026 to October 16, 2026, Live on Zoom

(HIS12526) DAY TRIP TO NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE MIGHTY EIGHTH AIR FORCE

OLLI members will enjoy exclusive VIP access to the Mighty 8th Museum, featuring a live Norden Bombsight demonstration by Dr. Tim Moore and a guided tour highlighting the heroic legacy of the Eighth Air Force.

Monday, November 16, 2026, Offsite: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Force

(HIS12626/HIS12726/HIS12826) THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION OF 1800

Drawing on his lineage as Thomas Jefferson's descendant, David Miller examines the pivotal Election of 1800 and its challenge to the peaceful transfer of power.

Wednesday, December 2, 2026, Bluffton campus
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, Beaufort campus
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, Hilton Head Island campus

(HIS12926) CIVIL WAR DIARIES - FEMALE NURSES, SPIES, AND SOLDIERS

This is an OLLI Digital Library recording and is available to view until December 31, 2026.

Through Civil War diaries, learn how women's service as nurses, spies, and soldiers during the war reshaped their societal roles.

Tuesday, September 1, 2026, OLLI Digital Library

(HIS13026) THE SEVEN YEARS' WAR: Build-up through the War

This is an OLLI Digital Library recording and is available to view until December 31, 2026.

Examine the role of the American colonies as extensions of European conflicts during the 16th century. The first class focuses on the contest for a continent involving three European powers - England, France, and Spain. The second concentrates on the Seven Years' (or French and Indian) War, which, some historians have maintained, marks the beginning of American (or, more accurately, at least in retrospect) United States History.

Tuesday, September 1, 2026, OLLI Digital Library

(HIS13126) WATERGATE: THE POLITICAL SCANDAL THAT BROUGHT DOWN A PRESIDENT

This is an OLLI Digital Library recording and is available to view until December 31, 2026.

Watergate still shapes American politics. This course explores its impact and lasting relevance.

Tuesday, September 1, 2026, OLLI Digital Library

(HIS13226) THOMAS JEFFERSON: A DESCENDANT'S VIEW

This is an OLLI Digital Library recording and is available to view until December 31, 2026.

David Miller, a descendant of Thomas Jefferson, explores Jefferson's views on religion and his relationship with Sally Hemings in light of historical and DNA evidence.

Tuesday, September 1, 2026, OLLI Digital Library

(HIS14026) THE HISTORY OF THE CITADEL

This is an OLLI Digital Library recording and is available to view until December 31, 2026.

Named the South's top public university for 15 years, The Citadel's graduates have shaped policy across generations-this complex history will be reviewed.

Tuesday, September 1, 2026, OLLI Digital Library