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FUBiS Term III: The Cold War
(Kurs # 2.15)
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Typ: |
B Track |
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Dozent(en): |
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Sprache: |
Englisch |
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Veranstaltungsumfang: |
48 (6 Kontaktstunden pro Tag) |
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Bonuspunkte: |
4 Credit Points |
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Anzahl Plätze: |
18 |
Inhalt
Many of the certainties of post-World War II international relations are vanishing or altering beyond recognition. This course will introduce students to the institutions, issues, and ideas that have shaped international relations since the end of World War II. We start by looking at the world in 1945, with the collapse of German and Japanese power and the origins of the super-power rivalries in the so-called “Cold War”. Using case studies, we will discuss such issues as the nuclear arms race, de-colonisation, and super-power conflict by proxy in the years between 1945 and 1990. Important, specific events and crises in this regard will receive special attention; such as the Korean War, the Berlin crises, the Cuban missile crisis, and the conflict in Vietnam. In addition, we look at the division and reconstruction of Europe as well as the emergence and disintegration of the "Third World". Economic issues in international relations, such as trade and competition for resources, will also be studied. Attention will be given to the role of international organisations such as the United Nations in world affairs. The course is designed to provide historical knowledge of world affairs in the second half of the 20th century, but we will also investigate changes brought about by the collapse of communism in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe; the disintegration of nation-states in the post-Cold War order; the Gulf War; and continuing conflict in the Middle East. In this way, the roots of contemporary crises will be examined. Students will gain an understanding of the recent past, which will help equip them to evaluate the current and emerging international order.
Requirements and Grading
- Attendance in class/excursions and careful reading of assigned course materials
- Participation in seminar sessions (30%)
- One short essay (20%)
- Final exam (50%)
Excursions
In many respects Berlin was the symbol of the Cold War. Not only was it scarred by the post-WWII divisions of former allies - the most graphic representation of which was the Wall – but it was at the centre of repeated crises between the Superpowers well into the 1960s. We will be taking full advantage of the Cold War history in Berlin via tours of several historical sites. These will likely include the “Checkpoint Charlie” museum, the Berlin Wall exhibit, and the Allied Museum. Details will be confirmed in the first class. These should be considered mandatory for all students as attendance will be taken.
Zielgruppe
Everyone is welcome to this course. It is ideal for students who have background in modern international relations history and supplements courses on the world wars or global politics/history. However, the course is designed for those without such training who have an interest in international relations. Students planning careers in diplomacy, journalism, or academia will find this course especially beneficial.
Weiterführende Links
