Chronicles the history of the liberal arts college in the United States from mid-19th century, identifying four periods: the 19th century, when establishment of liberal arts institutions brought new variety to higher education; 1900 to 1940, which saw development of this new collegiate model; 1940 to 1970, a period of confidence and challenges; and post-1960s, an era characterized by sobriety and managerialism. (MSE)