Spickard is an engaging but demanding prof. Lectures can be a bit unorthodox, but he truly wants you to learn. Staying on top of the readings is key - unstuckstudy was a lifesaver for me. Overall, a rewarding yet challenging class.

Best instructor I've ever had. He's extremely intelligent, provokes curiosity, and relates to his audience. He wants everyone to take something away from the class, and not just memorize random facts. There is a lot of reading, but they're mostly novels of really good books. UCSB is lucky to have him. He's a true scholar and Spicktacular educator.

Very interesting guy. Scary presence but very nice. Expresses that he wants you to leave having learned something rather than just being lectured. Grades on knowledge, not correctness. Most I have ever learned in a history course. Tells you that you must read everything he assigns but i never read a thing and got an A+ from spark notes. Loved him.

Don't let the no-technology rule scare you away, it's not that bad. Read the books and you'll be fine. Sections help a lot. Majority of what you'll need to know is from the books. Helps if you enjoy history. He has a very inspirational teaching style and wants the best for his students. I loved lectures, and wish I could take more of his classes.

DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS. Spickard is a fat old man who goes up in a lecture and blabs about how he grew up in the Baptist church. Does not teach anything that's tested and expects you to learn everything on your own through the reading. I am telling you, do not waste your time with this guy.

7 books. section attendance mandatory, said if we missed 3 sections we would fail the class. mandatory movie nights for a grade. the midterm was a handwritten and timed essay with ID questions. Term paper with very little guidance, made it hard to write. TAs arent harsh graders. make sure you have a good understanding of the readings before section