Courses

What does it mean to be middle class in America, and what has it meant historically? This course examines the history of middle-class status in America, from the early days of professionalization and corporate bureaucracy, to the progressive era political mobilization, to the mid-century consumerist era, to the present white collar precariat. By looking at cultural habits, social organization, and political engagement, and by examining materials from living room furniture to avocado toast, we'll chart the rise and fall of the most sought-after class denomination in American history.