Free Online American History Courses & MOOCs

Seeking Women’s Rights: Colonial Period to the Civil War (edX)

EdX

Columbia University,ColumbiaX

Seeking Women’s Rights: Colonial Period to the Civil War (edX)

Humanities History

Discover how women's history has transformed the study of history as we know it with this enlightening course. From Colonial America to the Civil War, you'll explore the pivotal moments and movements that have defined women's rights in the United States. Learn about the individual rights women fought for and how their efforts continue to influence society today.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

Women American History Women Work

Coursera

University of Houston

American Deaf Culture (Coursera)

Languages & Literature

Dive deep into the vibrant world of American Deaf culture with our comprehensive online course. Over six weeks, you'll explore the historical context, societal norms, and unique aspects that define this rich community. Learn to view Deafness not as a disability but as a distinct cultural identity, complete with its own language, art, literature, and history.

Oct 26th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Community American History Deafness

Coursera

University of Pennsylvania

American Education Reform: History, Policy, Practice (Coursera)

Humanities History

Embark on a fascinating exploration of U.S. education reform with this insightful course. From pivotal moments in history to influential policies, discover how social forces have driven change in American schooling. Learn about the key decisions and major turning points that have shaped educational practices not just within the United States but also globally, including their direct application to local schools.

May 4th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History Education Depression

Smithsonian's Objects That Define America (edX)

EdX

Smithsonian,SmithsonianX

Smithsonian's Objects That Define America (edX)

Humanities

Embark on a fascinating journey through American history with 'Objects That Define America,' an educational course presented by the esteemed Smithsonian Institution, available on edX. This unique program delves into the stories behind iconic artifacts, inventions, and exhibits that have defined the United States' cultural and historical landscape over centuries.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

America American Culture American History

Teaching Historical Inquiry with Objects (edX)

EdX

Smithsonian,SmithsonianX

Teaching Historical Inquiry with Objects (edX)

Education Humanities

Transform your history classroom into a vibrant hub of inquiry and discovery with 'Teaching Historical Inquiry with Objects'. Designed for middle and high school teachers, this course introduces an engaging approach where students explore the past through tangible objects. Learn how to motivate students, foster critical thinking skills, and inspire civic engagement through hands-on historical inquiry.

This course is archived

5-12 Weeks

Teaching American History Historical Inquiry

FutureLearn

The University of Newcastle, Australia

Introduction to American History: From Reconstruction to World War, 1865-1919 (FutureLearn)

Humanities History

Embark on a journey through America's transformative period following the Civil War. This course will guide you through key events such as Reconstruction, segregation, and the shaping of U.S. foreign relations up to World War I. Gain insights into the domestic and international developments that defined this era.

No sessions available

3 Weeks

Civil War Reconstruction American History