History

Senior Seminar

HIS4935

This class incorporated high-impact practices, including supervised undergraduate research and the use of entry-level professional research and writing tools. This class focuses on the 1920s, a transformational period in American History where I developed my research skills and use of primary sources.

Panhandle History

HIS4427

This course provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse history of the Florida Panhandle, the region bounded by the Perdido River to the west and the Apalachicola River to the east. By the end of the semester, I gained insight into the various processes that have shaped this area from the prehistoric era to the advent of modern tourism.

The course covered the Native American era, the age of discovery, the colonial period with its international rivalries for control of West Florida, and the American acquisition of the territory. It also explored the territorial and early statehood periods, the impact of the Civil War and Reconstruction, and the influences of industries such as lumbering, railroads, fishing, and agriculture. This course also examine the transformative changes brought by the 20th century, including the establishment of military installations, population growth, and the rise of tourism.

History of Florida

AMH4420

This course allowed me to critically analyze and understand the processes that lead to the development of Florida, from the prehistoric era to the present. This entailed the natural history of Florida, the Native American period, discovery by the Europeans, the colonization and settlement of Florida, Florida’s role in the borderlands struggle, American acquisition of Florida, the Territorial period, the Seminole Wars, Florida’s statehood, the Civil War and Reconstruction, Pioneer Florida, beginnings of tourism, Spanish-American War, World War I, the Florida Land Boom of the 1920s, the Great Depression, World War II, post-war development of the state, the Kennedy Space Center, the impact of Walt Disney World, and modern challenges for Florida.

Maritime History

HIS4284

Maritime history is indispensable for comprehending the pivotal role that oceans have played in shaping human civilizations. Understanding maritime history provides insights into technological advancements, trade routes, and the interconnectedness of diverse societies. It unveils stories of exploration that shaped cultures and propelled economic development.

This class is vital for fostering an appreciation of contemporary maritime issues, environmental concerns, and the geopolitical dynamics of maritime spaces, offering students a holistic perspective on the inseparable relationship between human history and the world's oceans.

Papers

The USS Indianapolis Disaster: Evaluating Military Accountability in the Face of Tragedy

University of West Florida

ANT3137: Shipwreck Archaeology

While the course was discussing a subfield of Anthropology, this paper has a very strong historical narrative to it. I decided to highlight this paper because it highlights my ability to use primary sources to provide evidence for my claim. I learned a lot about the USS Indianapolis and its role in the final chapter of World War II. This paper was able to give me a new perspective on military protocols and preventative measures. I enjoy doing research on this era of history and I would like to contribute this collection of knowledge to my education in History.

Shadow of History: Revisiting the Battle of Santa Rosa Island

University of West Florida

AMH4427: Florida Panhandle History

Santa Rosa Island, located southeast of Pensacola, Florida, served as a strategic outpost for Union forces aiming to control the Gulf Coast during the American Civil War. On October 9, 1861, Confederate General Richard Anderson launched a surprise attack on the Union encampment on the island, resulting in the pivotal Battle of Santa Rosa Island. Despite its critical role in the early stages of the war, this battle remains a relatively obscure chapter in the history of Florida’s Civil War involvement. This paper seeks to illuminate this overlooked engagement by analyzing primary sources, historical accounts, and contemporary evaluations. The objective is to enhance awareness of the Battle of Santa Rosa Island and its significance in the broader context of the Civil War, particularly within the history of the Florida panhandle.

Thomas Jefferson: Enlightenment Thinking of Native Americans

University of West Florida

HIS3002: Historian's Craft

I undertook a research project focused on Thomas Jefferson, specifically examining how his scientific interests influenced his perspectives on Native Americans. This paper is particularly notable for its demonstration of my proficiency in utilizing primary sources to substantiate my arguments. Through this investigation, I gained significant insights into Jefferson's views and thought processes concerning the future of America. The study afforded me a new perspective on the former president and has been instrumental in refining my research skills. I look forward to applying these enhanced skills in future research endeavors.

Research

The White Plague in Pensacola: Community Responses to Tuberculosis in the 1920s

HIS4935: Senior Seminar

Faculty Mentor: Dr. John Jenson

In the 1920s, tuberculosis, often referred to as the "white plague" due to the pale appearance of its victims, significantly impacted communities worldwide, shaping public health, medical practices, and social perspectives. This paper examines the specific case of Pensacola, Florida, during this era, highlighting the challenges and progress in addressing the tuberculosis crisis. Despite the city's economic prosperity and vibrant urban life, tuberculosis presented a serious threat, prompting significant public and policy responses. The establishment of a sanatorium in Escambia County in 1921 met with notable opposition, reflecting broader community debates about managing the disease. This analysis explores how public opinions regarding tuberculosis influenced local responses and decisions, offering insights into the interplay between societal attitudes and public health measures.

Siena Ward

History

Papers

The USS Indianapolis Disaster: Evaluating Military Accountability in the Face of Tragedy

Shadow of History: Revisiting the Battle of Santa Rosa Island

Thomas Jefferson: Enlightenment Thinking of Native Americans

Research

The White Plague in Pensacola: Community Responses to Tuberculosis in the 1920s