In ENG276, students will explore significant works of rhetoric and literature that have notably influenced historical events, particularly those connected with the United States. The course opens with a study of foundational rhetorical theories. From there, we will examine and analyze works of rhetoric and literature to investigate their rhetorical strategies and how these works functioned then and continue to shape public discourse. Texts will include speeches, political pamphlets, letters, short stories, and films. Movements covered will include the American Revolution and ratification of the U.S. Constitution, the antebellum period and abolition of slavery, the overthrow and annexation of Hawaii, wars of the 20th century, and major civil rights movements. Through these analyses, students will consider how these texts shaped—and were shaped by—the social, political, and historical contexts in which they were written. Students will enhance their skills in questioning, close reading, analysis, and discussion of complex texts.