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The History of the United States of America, Part 3 – Wednesdays, 7:00PM
America in the 20th Century
Fall Quarter (10 weeks): October 7 – December 16 , 2026
(no class November 25)
The 20th century marked the rise of the United States as a global superpower, characterized by massive industrial growth, technological innovation, and significant social change. Often called the “American Century,” this period was defined by the nation’s pivotal roles in the World Wars, the Cold War, and the fight for civil rights, alongside the rise of mass culture. During the Fall quarter, we study the Progressive Era of Teddy Roosevelt, America’s role in the First World War, and the Roaring 20s. (Please see syllabus. Note that the syllabus dates are yet to be updated for the 2026-27 academic year.)
William H. Fredlund, the Director of the Institute, obtained his B.A. and M.A. from UCLA, where he specialized in European history and art history. He studied in Italy on a Fulbright Fellowship and completed a double Ph.D. in history and humanities at Stanford, specializing in Renaissance Italy. Dr. Fredlund has taught for UCLA, the University of Florence, Stanford, and UCSC Extension.
