This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module builds on Introduction to Military History (Part 1) and examines the separate natures of armies, navies and air forces. In addition, it looks at the factors which have shaped the experience of combat for the different branches of the armed forces and questions whether there is a timeless experience of combat. The module also looks at the great military thinkers of the eighteenth, nineteenth and twentieth centuries to establish their influence on the conduct of warfare including Clausewitz, Jomini through to twentieth century figures such as J.F.C. Fuller and Basil Liddell Hart.
This module will be taught through one 1-hour lecture and one 1-hour seminar each week, with the exception of Enhancement Week and one week that will be dedicated to coursework feedback.
This module is assessed by:
- Topic Essay (2,500 words) - 35%
- Historiographical Essay (3,500 words) - 45%
- In-class Presentation - (15 minutes) - 20%
GAT, A, 'A History of Military Thought'
HOWARD, M 'Warfare in European History'
PARET, P (ed), 'The Makers of Modern Strategy'
STRACHAN, H 'European Armies and the conduct of war'
BLACK, J, 'Rethinking Military History'
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes of this module are that, on completion of this module, students will be able to:
- Students will gain the knowledge and conceptual tools to understand and interpret key aspects of military history. Students will obtain a knowledge of the historiographical debates surrounding these issues covered in the module.
- Students will develop the ability to discuss issues that are raised in the module, and to present their work in written and oral form. Through exposure to the distinctive nature of nineteenth century culture, students will gain an enhanced understanding of the diversity of human societies.
- Students will learn to use and evaluate relevant primary sources relating to political, military, economic, social and cultural history. Through a diversity of sources, students will be exposed to a variety of outlooks and learn about the importance of using diversity of sources in their research into the past.
The intended subject specific learning outcomes of this module are that, on completion of this module, students will be able to:
- Through this course students will develop a range of intellectual and transferable skills, and acquire certain kinds of understanding. They will come to understand the problems that are inherent in the historical record and the limits within which interpretation is possible.
- They will develop critical thought and independence of mind, the capacity to deploy arguments, and the ability to challenge received opinions and conclusions.
- Students will improve their essay and oral presentation skills. They will also learn how to make good use of the relevant library resources and, where necessary, IT skills.
- Students will gain transferable skills in the following four areas: communication, group working, problem solving, improved learning and plans for improved learned.
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