S. Legal Conflict and Change During the Civil War and Reconstruction

This seminar explores a variety of legal issues, conflicts, and changes emerging during the Civil War, Reconstruction, and its aftermath, via a mix of primary and secondary sources. In tracking legal development during a critical period of American history, it provides an opportunity to obtain a deeper understanding of the context generating and explaining the Reconstruction Amendments. This seminar's 3-credit designation reflects the significant amount of assigned reading that is necessary for the intended immersive experience.

To participate in the seminar, students must apply for admission by sending an email to Professor Murray's assistant, Evita Yumul ([email protected]), with the following information: (1) a law school transcript; (2) a CV; and (3) a short (no more than 1-2 paragraphs) statement of why you are interested in taking the seminar, what you hope to get out of it, and (if you intend to pursue the Major Writing Credit) whether you have a general idea of what you might be interested in writing about. Applications are due by August 10, 2025. You may find a quick glance at the current syllabus helpful to see the seminar's goals; if so, please contact Evita Yumul for a copy. Students will be admitted off the waitlist consistent with this application process.

Note: I require the transcript and CV not to impose some sort of grade or journal cut-off, but because I want to, if possible, have students who have taken a range of classes. E.g., it would be ideal to place students who have taken Law of the Political Process in conversation with students who have taken International Law.