This course will begin a two-year cycle of courses that will examine in depth the history of the United States and its social, political, and economic systems. The course will begin with pre-Columbian history and then quickly move to European exploration of the Americas. The bulk of the course will focus on the period from European colonization through to the Civil War, Reconstruction and late 19th Century history. Students will study the political, economic, social, and culinary development of the United States. Special emphasis will be given to the study of the U.S. Constitution, its roots and influence on modern American Society. The course will also emphasize critical and analytical historical writing and is designed to prepare students for the AP U.S. History Exam.