HIST 102

HISTORY 102: World History from 1500 to the Twentieth Century

I HAVE RETIRED, SO I NO LONGER TEACH UNDERGRADUATE COURSES AT UBC.  I AM RETAINING INFORMATION ABOUT THIS COURSE FOR ARCHIVAL PURPOSES.

This course offers a broad survey of the history of the world from the end of the 15th century to the middle of the 20th century. The course begins at the pivotal moment in world history when oceanic contact created new connections between Europe, the Americas and Asia. During the first term the course will focus on the period from 1500 to 1800. We will examine the political, social, economic and religious systems of some major civilizations — particularly those of Europe, East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East — and consider how increased contact among these cultures resulted in highly variant patterns of conquest, conflict and competition. The second term will cover the history of the world from 1800 to the mid-twentieth century. We will see how the increased globalization that resulted from the intensification of European colonialism in the 19th century was reshaped by the political catastrophes of the early 20th century, which in turn led to new forms of global rivalry and interaction.

In addition to attending two lectures each week, students will also attend a weekly discussion. Every student who registers for the course must also register for a discussion tutorial. Evaluation will be based on written work, examinations, and participation in the weekly tutorials.