This undergraduate Year 3 (Junior) course in Modern European History provides students with an in-depth exploration of Europe’s political; social; and cultural transformations from the late 18th century to the present. Students will engage with key themes such as revolution; nationalism; industrialization; imperialism; war; and the rise of modern ideologies. The course emphasizes critical analysis of primary and secondary sources; fostering the ability to evaluate historical arguments and develop well-supported interpretations. Through structured lectures; discussions; and written assignments; students will refine their research and analytical skills while gaining a nuanced understanding of Europe’s role in shaping global history. The curriculum encourages comparative perspectives; examining how different regions and societies experienced modernization; conflict; and societal change. By studying major events such as the French Revolution; the World Wars; the Cold War; and European integration; students will assess continuity and change over time. The course also highlights historiography; introducing students to diverse scholarly debates and methodologies. This prepares them to engage with complex historical questions and articulate their insights effectively. Writing assignments; including essays and document analyses; are designed to strengthen clarity; coherence; and argumentation. Participation in discussions promotes collaborative learning and the exchange of ideas. By the end of the course; students will have developed a deeper appreciation for Europe’s historical legacy and its contemporary relevance. They will leave with enhanced critical thinking; communication; and research skills; valuable for careers in education; law; public service; or further academic study. This course is ideal for history majors and minors; as well as students interested in understanding the forces that have shaped the modern world.
