This course will guide the student through an understanding of the musical, social, economic and cultural importance of Jazz music. No prior musical experience is necessary for success in comprehending the structures and history of Jazz music therefore this course is open to anyone willing to listen to and read about Jazz music. History of Jazz is a Pathway course within the UB Curriculum, and it can help you to complete topics in the obvious categories of Cultures, Art and Imagination, Human Nature, but also Communities, Populations and Spaces, Economy, Business and Society and Equality, Power and Justice. History of Jazz is structured around a series of listenings, readings and viewing of historical videos that place Jazz within the context of societal changes, economic development and artistic evolution of American culture.