Muslims have been in the land that would become the United States since before the country was founded. Their presence on this land dates back for almost 500 years, and shaped the founding of the nation. Muslims continue to impact American cultural life in politics, sports, music, literature, and film. This course will examine this long history, focusing on cultural contributions of Muslims to America. The class includes visits to sites in New York City related to the presence of Muslims in the city. In addition to regular writing assignments, students will be introduced to the production of arts influenced by Muslims, and will be expected to produce at least one piece of art (e.g. poetry, calligraphy) in that style.