HIS 320. The History of Crime and Punishment in the United States

Ways in which Americans have defined crime, explained its causes, and punished and rehabilitated criminals. The relationships among crime, social values, and social structure. Areas of emphasis include colonial Massachusetts and Virginia; the creation of police forces and prisons during the first half of the 19th century; criminality during the Gilded Age and Progressive Period; Prohibition; creation of the FBI; crime and the Great Depression; and some aspects of crime and punishment between 1950 and 1970. (Offered Fall 2006 and Spring 2007.)
Prerequisite: English 102 and junior standing or above.
3 hours, 3 credits
 
Course Description