Western History I-E2

Numbering Code U-LAS01 10008 LE38 Year/Term 2022 ・ First semester
Number of Credits 2 Course Type Lecture
Target Year All students Target Student For all majors
Language English Day/Period Fri.3
Instructor name BHATTE, Pallavi Kamlakar (Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies Senior Lecturer)
Outline and Purpose of the Course This is an introductory undergraduate course that enables students to find answers to a common yet less understood question, what is "Empire"? The course will focus on how Western colonialism has shaped the past and present of Asian, African and Latin American people. We will explore the meaning and significance of "Freedom" for the colonized by learning about their confrontation and challenges to Western imperialism in the form of resistance, political subversion, military uprisings and revolution. A variety of sources including films, government documents, secret documents, photographs, memoirs, speeches, political cartoons will be introduced to enhance learning and develop analytical skills.
Course Goals The goals of this course are to guide students to

(a) compare alternative and compelling views and interpretations
and assess their significance,

(b) become familiar with key debates of the period,

(c) assess primary sources in the light of historical research and

(d) present arguments clearly and concisely both orally and on paper.
Schedule and Contents Week: Content
1: Introduction to the course and Overview
2 & 3: What is “Empire”?
● Britain an the Modern World
● Empire outside of Europe
● Spain, Portugal and the “New World”
● Pirates and Rebels
● The Seven Years War

4: Discussion / Activity based on 2 & 3

5 & 6: Revolution:
● American Revolution
● Declaration of Independence
● Haitian Revolution
● Declaration of the Rights of Man

7: Discussion / Activity based on 5 & 6

8 & 9: Political Subversion:
● The Mughal Empire and the East India Company

10: Discussion / Activity based on 8 & 9

11 & 12: Rebellion and Revolt:
● 1857 Indian Mutiny
● Latin American Revolutions

13: Discussion / Activity based on 11 & 12
14: Conclusion and Summary
15: Final examination
16: Feedback

*Note: The schedule may change slightly depending on class requirements.
Evaluation Methods and Policy A system of continuous evaluation will be adopted.


Although this will be a lecture styled course, students will be required to engage in discussions and/or presentations and submit written work in English as per instructions.

Final grade will be based on the following:

★ 30% Regular participation and activity in class.
★ 30% Two written responses to readings (15% each)
★ 40% Exam/Final Paper at the end of the course.
Course Requirements None
Study outside of Class (preparation and review) No prior knowledge of history is required. Students should be able to participate in discussions with their classmates in English. All necessary out of class preparation announced in class is mandatory.
Textbooks Textbooks/References Reference materials and readings will be provided in class.Students will be expected to go through the handouts and bring them to class as per instruction.
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