This seminar explores aspects of womens history and the history of gender in the United States over the past two centuries. The course stresses the themes of difference among women and between women and men as a means of examining the social construction of gender and the logic of feminist analysis and activity. Students discuss the major themes in gender history, develop critical and analytical skills, and appreciate current and on-going theoretical (and controversial) debates. The course analyzes key conceptual and methodological frameworks as gender, class, sexuality, power, and race. Thematically organized, readings includeboth primary and secondary material. Students complete two papers and participate in student-led discussions.