HIST 1780 UFOs and Cold War America 3.0 Credits
People's experiences of seeing UFOs and aliens, regardless of the reality of things, are historical events that occur in historical and cultural contexts that shape people's understanding of their experiences. In this course, students study the cultural history of the UFO phenomenon in America, particularly in the context of the Cold War, a period when Americans expressed both optimism and dread about technology (and therefore UFOs) as salvation or as the bringer of doom. The growth of a secretive national security establishment and military-industrial complex contributed to a culture of conspiracy, including about UFOs, that is still strong today. By studying these cultural histories, students develop new ways of thinking about America, Cold War history, and technology.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit