HIS 616 - The Maritime History of Massachusetts

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The purpose of this course is to familiarize the student with the importance of maritime activities to the social, economic and military history of the United States from colonial times to the start of the American Civil War. Inherent in this narrative are the exploits of maritime explorers, fishermen, merchants, ship-owners, ship-builders, privateers, pirates, commercial sea captains and naval heroes. The story of America’s growth as a world-class, maritime power is an important theme in the development of the United States. It is hoped that this course will provide students with a contextual framework for understanding the significance of maritime activity in the economic evolution of the nation.