The Passion and Glory of American Athletics

The Passion and Glory of American Athletics

Sports are inherently political, but Trump opened the door wide for the right wing to impose its own politics onto sports. His bombastic rhetoric inspired the right-wing media and athletes to embrace hateful politics that undermine the idea of sports as pure entertainment and escapism. Cultural globalization is assumed to have a similar effect to … Read more

Hollywood Spotlight – The Evolution of American Cinema

Hollywood Spotlight

This course surveys the cultural and political ramifications of Hollywood’s global operations. It also focuses on films outside the commercial mainstream: symbolist in technique and Freudian in subject; women’s psychothrillers; and special effects pictures. When film attendance started to decline in the 1950s, studios began producing movies for TV. This was a much more efficient … Read more

Road Trip Chronicles – Must-Visit Places Across the US

Road Trip Chronicles

Imagine steering toward a mountainous landscape where every turn opens to an unexplored vista. Picture navigating through an expeditionary saga of epic journey tales. Whether you’re savoring fresh lobster and coastal views in New England or exploring rushing waterfalls and groves of coastal redwood trees along Big Sur, a road trip through California is a … Read more

American Music Through the Decades – From Jazz to Hip-Hop

American Music Through the Decades

From jazz to hip-hop, American music has been shaped by major social and political movements. The 1930s and 1940s saw the rise of swing orchestras with fun dance rhythms while gospel and blues flourished. The 1960s ushered in the era of doo wop, surf, girl groups and soul singers as well as prog-rock and psychedelic … Read more

Immersing Yourself in Festivals and Celebrations

Immersing Yourself in Festivals and Celebrations

Taking part in local festivals and celebrations is an effective way to immerse yourself in the culture of your host country. These experiences give you firsthand insight into cultural nuances that are difficult to obtain through books or lectures. From the gastronomic traditions of Oktoberfest in Germany to the color-filled Holi festival of spring in … Read more

Diverse Delights: A Culinary Journey Across the United States

Diverse Delights

Uncover the rich tapestry of cultural influences and culinary traditions that have shaped each region’s unique cuisine. From savory classics to mouthwatering desserts, this cookbook collection will inspire you to expand your culinary horizons. From 25 choices of cream cheese in a New York deli to blueberry pancakes in Oregon, discover a host of new … Read more

Capturing the Essence of American Home Life

Capturing the Essence of American Home Life

  Family traditions bring people closer together and create a sense of belonging. They can range from yearly holidays to everyday routines and even small acts of kindness like volunteering. Whether they are profound or silly, all traditions serve the same purpose of connecting people to one another and creating lasting memories. Here are some … Read more

Exploring American Traditions – From Thanksgiving to Independence Day

Exploring American Traditions

  In 1870 Congress passed legislation making Thanksgiving, New Year’s Day, Christmas, and Independence Day federal holidays. Since then, the President has had the discretion to set the date for the holiday. Americans often associate these events with their religious beliefs or with family traditions. But they also have their own unique customs for celebrating … Read more