In addition to the events themselves, we will explore the changing ways historians and others have interpreted these events, and learn about theories of peasant rebellion. The first third of the course concentrates on peasant life in 'traditional' China and the peasant rebellions of the nineteenth century. The second third looks primarily to questions surrounding the role of Chinese peasants in the communist revolution. The final third considers theories of peasant rebellion and revolution. The final draft of the research paper must be submitted on December 7.
Attendance is mandatory.
All absences must be explained and a typed outline of the missed readings submitted.