Modern History after ca 1750

This course provides students with detailed overview of the important social, economic and political processes within Norwegian and International history from ca 1750 up to the 21st century. An important goal is to emphasise the linkage between Norwegian, European and global histories, as well as to highlight the different perspectives in the historiography. The course starts with the Enlightenment and the major upheavals in the 18th century, and explores other key themes like the industrial revolution, nationalism in Europe, European expansion and imperialism. Other important themes are the great wars, genocide and human catastrophes of the first half of the 20th century, the political and economic developments in the inter-war years, the Cold War, and trans-national projects (like the European integration), decolonisation, the liberation of women, developments in the Middle East, and economic and cultural globalisation. Above all, the course will highlight the ways in which international trends and events influence developments in Norway.

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

Knowledge

The candidate:

• has broad knowledge in important political, economical and social history in the period after ca. 1750.
• is familiar with different perspectives used by historians to explain fundamental historical themes in the period.
• has general knowledge about the inter-connections between Norwegian, European and global history.

Skills

The candidate:

• is able to explain important historical developments in the period after ca. 1750.
• is able to carry through a source analysis that complies with the requirements of academic writing.
• is able to discuss historical issues and to draw independent conclusions.

General competence

The candidate:

• is able to engage in discussions and has insights into relevant ethical and historical considerations and is therefore able to analyse a case from different points of view. Critical thinking is central here.
• is able to convey key issues such as historical insight and theory through experience with handling large amounts of information, and is able to present findings both in writing and verbally, or through other revelant modes of expression.
• is able to plan and execute assignments over time.

Lectures, up to 10 obligatory group seminars, and obligatory written term paper. Obligatory group seminars, required attendance 80 % (8 of 10 seminars). The obligatory activity from a previous semester can be approved by the department. The course is taught in Norwegian.