Ever wonder how we got to now? Many socio-economic challenges are traceable to the "Gilded Age (1865-1900)" when the U.S. grew from a fledging agrarian society to a major industrial power. This discussion-based course balances theory with application to explore: -Whether those gains were worth the costs? -Were "Divine Providence" and "Manifest Destiny" doctrines misused to exploit immigrants, workers, indigenous and people of color? -Were the renown industrialists who built this nation actually Robber Barons? -How can students hone their presentation skills to more effectively engage and persuade? Join us as this course may change your perspective forever!