This course is an interdisciplinary survey of major issues relating to rural life in the United States, with an emphasis on agriculture and on southwestern Minnesota and the surrounding states. This semester's theme is "Exploring Southwest Minnesota." We will learn about 19th century exploration of this region, and do some exploring of our own. The course covers both historical and contemporary issues of life in the countryside. Major course topics include rural and regional demography, agricultural philosophy and politics, environmental issues in rural places, and local and regional history. Students learn in different ways, and this course will offer several means of assimilating information. Group discussion of assigned readings will be central to daily class meetings. Written assignments, public presentations, and field trips are also required.

The course has three aims. The first is to encourage students from both rural and non-rural backgrounds to think broadly and critically about issues of rural life and to understand the context of rurality in the American experience. The second aim is to explore the culture, history, and environment of the region around Marshall. Finally, the course aims to develop academic skills useful in all college courses and in life generally. Students will have an opportunity to improve analytical writing, critical reading, research, critical thinking, and public speaking skills. The instructor expects to educate students about major issues of rural and regional life through guided, progressive course assignments that will strengthen academic skills.

Part of this class will be modeled on the great 19th century exploring expeditions that opened the Great Plains, Rockies, and far West to American settlement. On the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark "Corps of Discovery," we will do some exploring of our own. Central to this project will be a series of seven field trips into the heart of this piece of the Louisiana Purchase. We will explore by foot, car, boat, and book. Each student will conduct a semester-long project delving deeply into one aspect of the region. Whether you are new to southwest Minnesota or have lived here your whole life you will learn new things about the nature, history, and people of the old "Northwest Territories."