Something different: A History class on The American Civil War...?

**TheDarkKnight** · April 13, 2012, 07:47 PM

I would say that it's a safe assumption to say that if someone plays a Total War game, they are interested in history. If they weren't before buying a game, they probably became interested after. However, not everyone is so interested that they would perhaps sacrifice time out of their class schedules to take an extra history class, or even become a history major like myself. Or even worse, the specific subject they are interested in learning more about isn't offered in their academic environment (I have been having this issue for a while at my school).

I realize that the internet, specifically a forum devoted to a series of games, is hardly the ideal place to discuss and teach academic subjects. But I don't mean for this to replace actual academics, and I would make that intention known from the very start. I would want this program to be a fun and informative way for people to learn things they otherwise wouldn't have a chance to learn.

What I am planning on offering is a minimum 6 week course, covering the background of the American Civil War all the way until the end. Here is a rough lesson plan (subject to change) of what I have in mind.

Outline

Spoiler Alert, click show to read:

Like I said, this is just an idea. I'm trying to get some reaction before I work on the finer points of the course. But I believe you get the general idea.

As far as assignments go, StealthFox and I are working out the finer points, but the assignments look like they will be along the lines of analysis of sources, discussion questions on short readings, and a final essay based on an approved topic by the teacher.

So, based on this information, how many of you would be interested in taking such a course?

**TheDarkKnight** · April 14, 2012, 04:17 PM

...Well so far I have only gotten one answer.

Some feedback would be nice.

**TheDarkKnight** · April 16, 2012, 04:10 PM

Alright guys, I have gotten 4 people who have voted "yes" but I have no idea who you are, so if this does eventually take off I won't have any way of really informing you directly. So if you could leave a post here or PM me or something that would be great.

**Defensore** · April 18, 2012, 09:01 AM

I am the 5th one who voted "yes". I am interested, even though I have a very limited knowledge on the subject.

**TheDarkKnight** · April 18, 2012, 05:12 PM

Originally Posted by Defensore

I am the 5th one who voted "yes". I am interested, even though I have a very limited knowledge on the subject.

Well, that would be the point of taking the class, wouldn't it?

**David93** · May 15, 2012, 05:56 AM

Id be very intrested to follow this, on a very intresting and controversial subject

**rye8111** · May 21, 2012, 10:17 PM

I am very interested in history and would have voted yes if not for two reasons:

1.) I cannot vote yet, as of now I have only 23 or so posts.
2.) I like history that is farther back in time, and has more... I'm not sure, maybe a different way of doing things?

Anyway, I love this idea and maybe someone should expand upon this!

**~~Random Peasant~~** · May 26, 2012, 02:38 AM

I would be interested in enrolling in the course, if it is still being offered.

**atheniandp** · May 26, 2012, 02:55 AM

I'm interested! Just not sure how feasible this is as I have to manage my real life academics as well. That being said, I have a weak understanding of American history and even more so the Civil War. It would do me some good to learn.

**~~Random Peasant~~** · May 26, 2012, 03:01 AM

My knowledge of American History lacks, Middle Ages are more of my strong suit, but I would like to learn more about the Civil War nonetheless.

**TheDarkKnight** · May 28, 2012, 07:14 PM

Okay, here's the situation.

I'm still interested in teaching the class, but I have a feeling I still need a few more people before I can begin. I'll start putting together a full lesson plan if I get a few more yes votes.

**~~Random Peasant~~** · May 28, 2012, 07:31 PM

I cannot vote yet, but you have a yes from me.

**Defensore** · May 29, 2012, 08:58 AM

Let's hope more ppl show up then.

**~~Random Peasant~~** · June 02, 2012, 11:38 PM

Just voted yes, eager to see how this turns out. We need more people...

**♔The Black Knight♔** · June 04, 2012, 07:30 PM

I would also like to take the class. Would be awesome to increase my knowledge on the topic.

**MonkeyD** · June 07, 2012, 04:21 PM

When's office hours?

**Lord Thesaurian** · June 14, 2012, 04:50 PM

OK this sounds like a good idea, but I guess Ive been embittered by the overwhelming number of people who bought into the "lost cause" underdog propaganda of southern sympathizers after the war. We covered the Civil War in my AP US history class at school, and it was refreshing to hear the true nature of the war and its effects on American history and culture fully dealt with. I would appreciate a PM from the prospective teacher of this class. I do not mean to give a pompous impression or that I would troll or interfere, I would just like a discussion somewhere, perhaps even a fun little debate in the fight club, over the Civil War, its causes, effects, and nature of the conflict and the sociology, etc. Turned out to be slightly off-topic I guess....