US Government: In History & Practice

This course, ostensibly designed for high school students, focuses on the history and development of U.S. government and politics, from its founding principles to the present. It covers key topics such as the emergence of political parties, post-Civil War citizenship laws, foreign policy evolution, and the tension between federal and local control. The curriculum is structured around a primary text, "A Documentary History of the United States" by Hefner and Hefner, supplemented with Supreme Court cases, speeches, and significant position pieces from various periods. Notably, the course is divided into Fall and Spring semesters, with each covering distinct topics; students can opt to take one semester or both for a full year's experience.

In terms of credit, upon completion, high school students may receive half a U.S. Government credit. The course is further accompanied by a recommendation to pair it with an Economics class (Principles or Practices) for a comprehensive full-year program in Economics and Government, highlighting a potential interdisciplinary approach.