Has the expansion and collapse of imperialism over recent centuries been the single largest historical process that made the world we live in today? This module will enable students to explore this question and critically analyse how empires have shaped the world in countless ways: for instance, repopulating continents, carving out nations, imposing languages, technology and values. It will offer a detailed understanding of the economic, political, cultural and social histories of empire through a close examination of their structures, instruments and consequences. Students will appreciate the importance of empires to networks of trade and power across multiple continents and be able to map out and critically engage with the ways in which modern economic and cultural globalisation formed and its relationship with protectionism, nationalism and xenophobia. In doing so, students will develop a greater understanding of how these themes continue to shape our world in the twenty-first century.
Lecture 16, Seminar 16
1,000 words Book Review. Assessment Details: Review an approved book related to the field of study and place it within its historiographical context. worth 40%.
1,500 words Essay. Assessment Details: Write a question-based essay. worth 60%.
Reassessment Method:
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
Understand the history of modern empires to encourage a better understanding of the modern multicultural world and the political, economic and cultural structures that underpin it.
Evaluate the history of modern empires and demonstrate their skills in researching historical subjects and in communicating their knowledge and ideas, using a variety of methods.
Differentiate between the political, economic and socio-cultural developments in the history of European empires.
Review a variety of historical writings and formulate a reasoned critique of their reliability.
Work effectively independently or in groups to construct and defend a position and argument.
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