Course content

This course explores the theme of globalization from a historical-evolutionary, perspective. A problem central to this course is whether the European overseas expansion from the 15th century and subsequent colonization of other continents is THE globalization or ONLY one episode in the historical process of global connectivity. Thus, the module will provide detailed insights into the trans-continental processes (connections, interactions and networks) from the 15th Century to the present. The geographical and chronological focus is, though not exclusively, the Atlantic Ocean Arena (Africa, America,and Europe). The Indian arena as a peripheral metro-pole in the Europe-dominated global world will also be explored. Additional themes studied include dynamics of dominance and resistance; colonialism and decolonization; process(es) of socio-cultural cross-fertilization; trans-national economic and social formations through oceanic trade and migration; and colonialism and international law. Concepts like globalization, empire, imperialism, colonialism, decolonization, the Atlantic World; and Indian Ocean Arena will be interrogated.

Learning outcome

A candidate who completes this course is expected to have the following learning outcomes according to the course curriculum, defined as knowledge and skills:

Knowledge

A candidate will acquire

• an advanced knowledge about European expansion and colonization from the 15th Century as a phase of an evolving historical process of global connections and flows.
• an advanced knowledge about the nature, impact and implications of this process in fomenting transformations on a global scale
• thorough understanding of how colonized peoples engaged and managed their colonial situation
• detailed insights into the historiography of expansion, colonization, and globalization
• the ability to apply theories and perspectives used in analyzing imperial expansions in general, and in the context of international developments and globalization

Skills

A candidate should be able to

• critically interrogate the ideas and theoretical assumptions and established perspectives of the field - should be able to write an extended independent, well-structured analytical essay/paper, using the relevant empirical and theoretical knowledge of the field
• deliver (individually or in team) oral presentations on a chosen topic/theme during lecture/seminar sessions
• locate the history of expansion and encounter within a context of broader global historical changes

Learning methods and activities

Focus on Student-active learning (through lectures, seminar and presentations) - Assigned chapters/topic: student's group work and presentations; and maximum two individual student's presentations. Learning activities based on assigned texts; individual presentations through seminars; and group presentation (through blogs or wiki, or other BB resources). NOTE: Students presentations are mandatory preconditions to participate in the take-away or home examination.

Compulsory assignments

• Group work and Presentation
• Seminar: Assigned text and Presentation

Recommended previous knowledge

None

Required previous knowledge

Open to all with BA in history OR related/relevant humanities/social science disciplines.

Course materials

Total expected reading: 750-800 pages

Core readings:

- Abernethy, David B., The Dynamics of Global Dominance: European Overseas Empires, 1415-1980. New Haven & London, Yale University Press, (preferably, latest edition).

- Peter N. Stearns, Globalization in World History, London and New York (preferably latest version): pages 90-122

- Compendium: articles/book chapters.