James Bays

Jim Bays is a retired corporate attorney who has taught Osher courses at Dartmouth and in Texas on U.S. history in the late 18th century, including courses on Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, the transition from the Articles of Confederation tp the U.S. Constitution, and the Electoral College. He is a 1971 graduate of Dartmouth College and received his law degree from the University of Virginia Law School in 1974.

A Horse Designed by a Committee: The Electoral College (Fall Term 2024)

Participant Testimonials: 

Jim was well-prepared and engaging.  The course was structured well and Jim demonstrated a thorough understanding of the topic.  He'd done his research.

Jim's class was great. He had great material and knowledge of the subject and delivered it in an engaging and digestible level with some fun along the way.  Great class. 

The Hour That Changed Ben Franklin Forever (Spring Term 2024)

Participant Testimonials: 

Especially well designed and effective. The factual content was quite dense, but materials, though not simplifying, were indispensable.

Really excellent 2- session summary not only of the fateful hour but of Franklin's position in society at that time- the term " Rupert Murdoch" of his time really resonated.

Marbury v. Madison: The Untold Story (Winter Term 2024)

Participant Testimonials:

I will take any course that Jim offered. Great study leader, vast knowledge about his course details

Jim’s commentary supplemented by clear, brief but critical factual power points was expertly delivered. 

The Mystery of Tom (Spring Term 2023) 

Participant Testimonials:

This was such an interesting and engaging class. I learned so much, the presentation and material was great, and the complicated subject addressed so well. I am very much looking forward to any future classes Jim may offer -- I will be signing up for all of them!

Perfect. Jim is excellent, I will listen to this course again.