Although the Modern History Department is so-called to distinguish its focus from the Ancient History Department, the title is something of a misnomer, as the department is home not only to scholars of modern history, but also to scholars of medieval history, who grudgingly accept the title of “modern” because “ancient” clearly does not apply. As such, the Modern History Department offers courses primarily in American and European history from the Medieval Period to the present. A limited number of courses on non-Western cultures are offered each semester to broaden students’ perspectives, but students should note that the Department has primarily dedicated its resources to the history of our own society, i.e. Western civilization.