From its first appearance in a school gymnasium in Massachusetts in 1891 until today, the game of basketball has proved to be both an arena, and a bellwether, for the expression of larger social issues and trends in American life, especially with regard to race. Not only has the game itself changed significantly during the past century, but so have the styles, ethos, and aspirations of those who play it. Ranging across the entire history of the sport, this course will focus on basketball's own particular racial narrative, highlighting not only the immense African American contribution to the development of the game, but also basketball's ever-changing role in American society.

The mini-course seminars will introduce students to a range of issues and experiences related to the topics and identity categories of specialized topics in Afroamerican, African, and/or Caribbean studies. The courses will explore and analyze major aspects of the subject matter:

1. historical contexts for the interactions of African and the diaspora;
2. personal experiences; and
3. meanings and effects.

This is a combined short lecture/discussion course that is designed to function as an introduction to the subject matter. Students at all levels are welcome to enroll.

Course Requirements:

Regular attendance, active participation in class discussions, and keeping up with the reading for the course are all both expected and essential. Students will also write essays and take a final examination.

Intended Audience:

This course is geared towards students who have interests in Afroamerican, African, and/or Caribbean studies. The course meets the 200-level area course requirement for DAAS majors and minors.

Class Format:

Seminar