HIST 420: Islamic History in the Americas embarks on a captivating journey through the often-overlooked presence and contributions of Muslims in the American continent from the pre-Columbian era to the present day. This course illuminates the historical traces of African Muslim slaves, the narratives of Muslim explorers before Columbus, and the impact of Islamic culture on indigenous civilizations. It further explores the migration patterns that brought Muslims to the Americas, the establishment of Muslim communities, and their role in shaping the social, economic, and cultural landscapes of North, Central, and South America.
Delving into the archives, students will uncover the stories of resilience, adaptation, and contribution of Muslims in the face of challenges such as slavery, discrimination, and assimilation pressures. The course also highlights the revival of Islamic identity among African Americans in the 20th century, the influence of prominent figures like Malcolm X, and the rise of diverse Muslim communities that contribute to the multicultural mosaic of the Americas today.
Through a blend of historical texts, archival materials, and contemporary research, “HIST 420: Islamic History in the Americas” offers a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted experiences of Muslims and their enduring legacy in the Americas. This course aims to foster a nuanced understanding of the complexities of religious and cultural identity, migration, and interfaith relations in the American context.
Overall Objectives for this Course:
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Trace the historical presence of Muslims in the Americas from the pre-Columbian period to modern times.
- Recognize the contributions of African Muslim slaves to the cultural and economic development of the Americas.
- Analyze the impact of Muslim explorers and traders on indigenous civilizations and early colonial societies.
- Understand the challenges and achievements of Muslim communities in the Americas across different historical periods.
- Explore the revival of Islamic identity among African Americans and its influence on the civil rights movement.
- Examine the diversity of the Muslim experience in the Americas, including issues of migration, assimilation, and interfaith dialogue.
- Assess the role of Islam in shaping contemporary social and political discourses in the Americas.
- Develop critical thinking skills through the analysis of historical documents, narratives, and current research on Islam in the Americas.
- Engage in thoughtful discussions on the significance of religious and cultural diversity in shaping the history and society of the Americas.
