The California History Center academic program serves as the vital link in the partnership between the Foothill-De Anza Community College District and the California History Center Foundation. On average, 20 academic courses are offered each year through the CHC program. Courses are offered during the day, evening, and on weekends, and most courses are transferable to four-year institutions as electives.

California History Center

The following courses will be offered Fall quarter 2014 through the California History Center. Please see the History Department class listings section of the Schedule of Classes.

To sign up for a class, apply for admission and register online. For more information or questions, call the center at 408.864.8712

San Jose's Political Clout: a Historical Survey

Course: HIST-051X-95, 2 units
CRN: 22458
Instructor: Mary Jo Ignoffo

The city of San Jose has played a role in the regional, state, and national politics. This class will explore political trends over time, and how local decisions have had an impact on the larger political stage. We will examine the motivations of political entities competing for influence during particular historical periods. We will analyze the tactics and viewpoints of the pivotal personalities who definitely influenced events and outcomes of specific political and diplomatic initiatives during various political movements.

Lectures in Room: CHC, 4:00 pm - 7:50 pm: Monday, October 6, 2014; Monday, October 20, 2014
Field Studies: Saturday, October 11, 2014; Friday, October 17, 2014

Contact: ignoffomaryjo@deanza.edu

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The Intricacies of Urban Planning: Culturally Significant Landmarks of Downtown San Jose

Course: HIST-053X-95, 2 units
CRN: 22459
Instructor: Crystal Hupp

The downtown area of the city of San Jose has been under continual redevelopment for well over a decade. Revitalization efforts have created a wide variety of discussions and debates about the historical, cultural and social significance of nearly all of San Jose's downtown buildings. This course will examine the political, social and cultural debates surrounding a cross section of significant landmarks in downtown San Jose. This course is designed to foster a deeper understand of San Jose's past, the intricacies of long-term urban planning and the social and cultural communities that have developed and grown with the landmarks themselves.

Lectures in Room: CHC, 6:30 pm - 10:20 pm: Monday, October 27, 2014; Monday, November 3, 2014
Field Studies: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm: Saturday, November 1, 2014; 9:00 am - 6:00 pm: Saturday, November 15, 2014

Contact: crhupp@gmail.com

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John Steinbeck's California: His Role and Influence

Course: HIST-054X-95, 2 units
CRN: 22449
Instructor: Chatham Forbes, Sr.

Extreme social and economic disparities in the farm communities of California, especially for migrant workers, inspired the deep sympathies of John Steinbeck, who observed them at close hand in and around his native Salinas. He won both Pulitzer and Nobel Prizes for his powerful calls to remedy injustices among the under represented poor.

Lectures in Room: CHC, 6:30 pm - 10:20 pm: Thursday, October 2, 2014; Thursday, October 16, 2014
Field Studies: 9:00 am - 5:30 pm: Saturday, October 4, 2014: Salinas;
9:00 am - 5:30 pm: Saturday, October 18, 2014: Monterey

Contact: chforbessr@msn.com

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Agricultural Eden: Evolution of the West Valley

Course: HIST-107X-95, 2 units
CRN: 22518
Instructor: Chatham Forbes, Sr.

The western districts of the Santa Clara Valley evolved from Amerind villages to Hispanic pasture lands, then to American wheat farms. These gave way to vineyards. Prune and other fruit orchards then took over, and a cannery industry developed. Mercury mining and the railroad enriched the area. Yet this economy has vanished completely. Students will study this evolution in classroom and field.

Lectures in Room: CHC, 6:30 pm - 10:20 pm: Thursday, November 6, 2014; Thursday, November 13, 2014
Field Studies: 9:00 am - 5:30 pm: Saturday, November 8, 2014: Los Gatos - Almaden;
9:00 am - 5:30 pm: Saturday, November 15, 2014: Saratoga - Campbell

Contact: chforbessr@msn.com

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