This readings course introduces graduate students to the methods of cultural history through a survey of key works and cutting edge new scholarship in twentieth century US cultural history.  Topics to be discussed include critical approaches to study of race, gender, sexuality, and religion; transnational approaches to US history; the relevance of sound studies and visual culture studies for historical work; and the neglect of class in much contemporary US history.  Students will also learn to think critically about music, film, photography, and other artifacts as historical sources.  Students will read a book a week, write two 12 page papers, lead class discussion one week, and attend 3 relevant lectures across grounds (a list will be provided).  Leading class discussion means placing the assigned book in its historiographical and theoretical context and describing its sources, methods, and arguments.