USSO 219 - Native American Cultures: Issues Past and Present

Institution:

Case Western Reserve University

Subject:

Description:

Who are Native Americans? How has their identity been defined? Too often, it is thought that all Native Americans share similar cultural and physical characteristics, rather than understanding them as culturally diverse peoples. In addition, many perceive Native American cultures as static and unchanging. The goal for this course is to challenge these myths and explore the dynamic and diverse nature of Native American communities. Within this framework, students will also examine shifting Native American identities over time. The course is divided into three sections: (1) Contemporary Native Issues, (2) The Problem of Culture Area: Real Cultural Surveys, and (3) Two Case Studies. The purpose of these divisions is to first provide students with a basic understanding of some of the important issues of social identity and representation in Native American communities today. The purpose of the second division is to explore historically how these issues developed and the diversity of Native American cultures within specific regions. In the final section, we will explore two specific Native American cultures in a historical and contemporary context. The requirements for this course include article reviews, a midterm and final, and a final paper with presentation. Native American speakers will be invited periodically to discuss particular issues of relevance with students. Prereq: Passing letter grade in a 100 level first year seminar in USFS, FSSO, FSCC, FSNA, FSSY or FSCS. Prereq or Coreq: FSTS 100.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.case.edu

Phone Number:

(216) 368-2000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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