Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - HIST 185 D100

Studies in History (3)

History of the Caribbean

Class Number: 3307

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 4, 2025
    Thu, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Special topics. Students may repeat this course for further credit under a different topic. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

History of the Caribbean

This course provides a broad survey of Caribbean history. It explores major topics in the history of the region, with emphasis on how its societies became the multiracial and diasporic nations or colonies of today. Our main objective is to develop an understanding of how colonial rule, and the social institutions on which it was built- slavery and other forms of forced labor, in particular--shaped the region, beginning in the early days of European expansion and continuing into our times. A secondary emphasis will be on the communities created by Caribbean peoples in the United States, Canada, and Europe. This course will require frequent reading and writing.



Grading

  • Discussion participation 20%
  • Quizzes 15%
  • Midterm Exam 25%
  • Reading Responses 15%
  • Final Exam 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Readings will be made available on Canvas and at the bookstore.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Learn more about studying History at SFU:

History areas of study


Why study History?

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.