The course is an introductory lecture on Asian American history through the narrative of the Chinese and Japanese American communities in the United States. During the semester we will examine and discuss important historical events from the perspective of the selected ethnic groups, their struggles, starting from the second half of the 19th century and ending the lecture series by discussing contemporary issues that Asian Americans have to face. The class material – assigned readings, primary documents, oral histories, and films – are intended to inspire discussions and debates on such vital issues as immigration, naturalization and citizenship, xenophobia and anti-Asian sentiments, Chinese and Japanese ethnic communities, social conflicts, racial and ethnic politics in America, including the issue of civil liberties.