American History

CHA3U explores key social, political, and economic events in American history from pre-contact times to the present.

Students analyze significant themes such as

• Revolution
• Civil rights
• Immigration
• Foreign policy
• Technological change

while developing historical inquiry skills and critical thinking. The course also examines Canada–US relations and the role of the United States in shaping the modern world.

Unit 1: Precontact to 1791
Students explore the foundations of American society, from Indigenous civilizations to the creation of a new nation.
Lessons include:

• Native American Cultures
• European Settlement and Colonization
• The French & Indian War
• The 13 Colonies and the American Revolution
• The Founding of the United States
• Early Discrimination Against Indigenous Peoples

Unit 2: 1791–1877
This unit focuses on expansion, reform, and the development of early American identity.
Lessons include:

• Early American Trends and Policies
• Technological and Industrial Growth
• The U.S. Constitution and Government
• Political Movements and Reforms
• Immigration and Westward Expansion
• Manifest Destiny and Its Consequences

Unit 3: 1877–1945
Students examine the transformation of America into a modern industrial power.
Lessons include:

• The Gilded Age and Urbanization
• American Foreign Policy and Imperialism
• Labor Movements and Economic Reform
• Progressive Era Politics
• Immigration Waves and Cultural Shifts
• U.S. Involvement in WWI and WWII

Unit 4: 1945–Present
This unit analyzes modern American politics, society, and global influence.
Lessons include:

• Post-War America and Domestic Trends
• Technological Change and Cold War Tensions
• Civil Rights Movements
• Modern U.S. Politics and Global Policies
• Immigration, Diversity, and Identity in the 21st Century

• 70% of the final grade is based on coursework, including
  • Unit-based assignments and projects
  • Historical analysis essays, debates, and presentations
• 30% of the final grade is based on final
  • 10% Culminating research or presentation project
  • 20% Final exam covering all historical eras and concepts

All assessments are aligned with the Ontario curriculum and are designed to build historical literacy, civic awareness, and independent thinking.