After the Civil War many in the west were sympathetic to the situation of Blacks in the south.  Kansas had always had an abolitionist population and they invited southern Blacks to move to Kansas and in many occasions helped them get established.  Towns, such as Nicodemus, were created as a place to start a new … Continue reading Class Notes →

Before I post today’s Class Notes I thought I should give some quick credentials as to why I am teaching a Middle East class.  For my Ph.D. program I needed to choose an outside field to study.  I am an American Historian but I started my program in 2002, right after 9/11.  I realized that … Continue reading Class Notes →

It is hard to remember today, but historically there was a time when Congress actually held the power in this country and did something with it.  In 1867, against the president's wishes, Congress created five military districts in the south.  A General was placed in charge of each district and martial law was declared giving … Continue reading Class Notes →

Lincoln’s main goal for restoring the nation was to be lenient on the South, so the nation could heal.  His plan called for a mere 10% of the population to take a loyalty oath to the Union.  The states also had to accept the end of slavery.  In a bold move, he also gave a … Continue reading Class Notes →

I am excited for the fall semester to begin this year.  It has been over five months since I have been in a classroom.  We are opening up live instruction with several safety precautions in place.  The University has done everything it possibly can to try to keep the campus open.  This should be a … Continue reading Class Notes →

My historical take away from last night’s Democratic convention.  Joe Biden’s main emphasis was that he can restore hope in a time of darkness and that he is an ally of the light not the dark.  Is that not just another way of saying Make America Great Again?  To him Trump is the darkness and … Continue reading Class Notes →

Here is my historical take away from last night’s Democratic Convention.  I am sorry Mrs. Clinton, but even though you did win the popular vote, the election was neither stolen or cheated from you.  The Constitution is clear on how the president is chosen and it is not something new made up to cheat you.  … Continue reading Class Notes →

I am seeing many people praising President Trump for his Executive Order yesterday to provide relief for Covid-19.  I applaud Trump for what he hopes to accomplish and it is a shame that Congress will refuse to work together on real relief efforts, however, I disagree with the way it was done. The Constitution clearly … Continue reading Class Notes →