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Learner Reviews & Feedback for Reconstructing America's Story by University of Pennsylvania

4.8
stars
12 ratings

About the Course

America has long defined itself as a country born out of a rebellion against tyranny with freedom and equality as its founding principles. But a closer examination of the historical record reveals problems with the standard American story – how can we be a country built on freedom and equality when our Founding Fathers embedded inequality in our founding documents? Guided by the expertise of constitutional law scholar Kermit Roosevelt, this course invites students to critically examine the narratives that have shaped America, from the celebrated to the contentious. Through a deep exploration of foundational moments and overlooked histories, it lays bare the myths and realities that compose the American experience. With a focus on the transformative periods of American history, such as the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, the Civil War, and the civil rights movement, the course scrutinizes the construction and impact of national stories. It questions how these narratives have served to unite or divide, to obscure truths, and to perpetuate injustices. By unearthing the diverse and often silenced voices from America’s past and present, Roosevelt encourages a more inclusive understanding of what it means to be American....

Top reviews

DN

Jun 27, 2024

An amazing course that opens a window onto traditional American history. This "alternative" reading of American history should be taught in all high schools. Thank You.

AW

Nov 29, 2024

Professor Roosevelt presents information in a concise and easily understand manner. His teaching style makes me anxious to learn more. Thank you for having this course.

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1 - 5 of 5 Reviews for Reconstructing America's Story

By Audrey B

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Apr 26, 2024

really fantastic lessons that make every history nerd remember the passion in the classroom from their early schooling and feel better about the current state (and opportunities we face) of our nation.

By David N

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Jun 27, 2024

An amazing course that opens a window onto traditional American history. This "alternative" reading of American history should be taught in all high schools. Thank You.

By Adi W

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Nov 30, 2024

Professor Roosevelt presents information in a concise and easily understand manner. His teaching style makes me anxious to learn more. Thank you for having this course.

By Lindsey

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May 24, 2024

awesome course

By Louis H

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Jan 2, 2025

Very insightful and eye opening knowledge provided in this course. However maybe a one sided story is told although through the lens of another side. The professor is hard to follow yet is passionate in my view about his beliefs. Overall a good course, I would recommend this to others to widen ones perspective about our struggle as a Republic. Respectfully,