HIST 50

Contemporary American Economic History

3 Unit(s)

This course examines the Great Recession of 2008-2009 and its aftermath. Students will acquire basic knowledge of institutions, concepts, practices, decisions and policies that set the stage for the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers on Sept. 15, 2008, and will describe and analyze events, decisions, trends and policies that followed thereafter. Students will apply this knowledge in analysis of the major reasons and causes of the crisis and reflect on how events and policies in the wake of the crisis affect their personal and professional lives. An aim of the course is to aid students in comprehending the background for contemporary economic conditions and to develop more informed perspectives on policies, legislation, practices and issues that directly impact personal and professional decision-making. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 50 or ENGL 60.