U.S. History A follows a review of the nation’s beginnings and the impact of the Enlightenment on U.S. democratic ideals. The course traces the change in the ethnic composition of American society as well as the changes to the map of the United States. An emphasis is placed on the expanding role of the federal government and federal courts in its first hundred years as well as the continuing tension between the individual and the state. Students learn that rights under the U.S. Constitution comprise a precious inheritance that depends on an educated citizenry for their preservation and protection.

U.S. History B follows major turning points in American history in the 20th and 21st centuries. Following a review of the post Civil War years, students build upon the previous study of global industrialization to understand the emergence and impact of new technology and a corporate economy, including the social and cultural effects. They study the movement toward equal rights for racial minorities and women and the role of the United States as a major world power. Students consider the major social problems of our time and trace their causes in historical events.