The course emphasizes the significant events in Western history within the context of the modern world. Special emphasis is placed on analyzing social, political and philosophical questions and writings in context. This course examines the origins and development of the United States as a great world power from the Spanish American War to the post-Cold War era. Focusing on the connections between international and domestic events, the course evaluates the role of the US as a global power over the past century. This course provides an historical study of the evolution of Russian society from the Age of Kiev to the present including the era of the tsars and the Soviet period.
Special attention is given to the contemporary situation in Russia.
This course consists of an historical study of the ideas and institutions of the countries of East Asia with primary focus on developments in China in ancient times and in the modern era since 1800. Contemporary problems are also discussed. This course provides background for an analysis of some of the major problems of contemporary African life. Topics include the ancient culture of Africa, the slave trade, colonialism, African nationalism, and current political, economic and social trends in Africa. This course provides a survey and examination of Japanese history from its beginnings to the twentieth century, and includes a consideration of political, social, economic, intellectual, and cultural developments.