In order to form a more perfect union [minimum spanning tree algorithm]

The goals of the course are threefold. First, the student should take from the course a general understanding of the major events, persons, and themes of United States history from contact to the Civil War. The course is designed both to serve as an overview of two and a half centuries of American history and to allow the in-depth exploration of some of the most important issues of that time period. The student who successfully completes the course should possess knowledge of American history that is both academically sound and personally worthwhile.