War, Revolution, and Empire: U.S.-Russian/Soviet Relations, 1776-Present

FAIN: ES-231262-15

Ferris State University (Big Rapids, MI 49307-2295)
Christian Peterson (Project Director: February 2015 to May 2017)

A four-week institute for twenty-five school teachers on the political relationships between the United States and the Soviet Union/Russia, from 1776 through the present.

This proposed four-week institute for teachers will explore the complexities of U.S. -Russian/Soviet relations since 1776 through the prism of “War, Revolution, and Empire.” By reading a number of fundamental works and participating in cultural activities, the participants will develop a much deeper understanding of Russian/Soviet history and the evolution of U.S. foreign policy. As this institute unfolds, the participants will use their knowledge to address the question of why U.S.-Russian/Soviet relations have often become strained and competitive. Do geographical, historical, ideological, and cultural differences make conflict inevitable? If not, what steps can Americans and Russians take to improve the relationship between their nations in the coming years and break down the barriers that separate them?