The Making of the Contemporary World, 1900-2000

Course description This an introductory undergraduate-level course on contemporary history, aimed at non-specialist students of history. It is a wide-ranging comparative course that explores important themes, concepts and theories relevant for the study of the 20th century. The course will examine theories of imperialism as well as the emergence of nation states, as empires collapsed. It will also turn to the challenge to liberal democracy posed by totalitarian regimes, which first emerged in interwar Europe. This will be followed by a discussion of genocide, the emergence of total warfare and the challenges of post-war reconstruction. Finally, the course examines the place of the nation-state in an era of global capitalism, as well as broader issues of minority rights and migration. The course presupposes a basic knowledge of contemporary history and familiarity with contemporary politics, as well as proficiency in English, which is the language of instruction.