Economic History

This course examines the historical roots of the global economic system.The course starts with the emergence of free trade around 1840 and the rapid economic globalization in the 19th century. We will discuss why several countries abandoned free trade and opted for more protectionist policies in the decades around 1900. 1914 represents a watershed, also in economic history. The outbreak of war triggered 30 years of economic deglobalization. Why did this happen? We’ll study the economic warfare during WW1 and WW2 and the economic impact of the wars. The economic crises of the interwar era also led to comprehensive changes in economic policy. Even in the US, capitalism became increasingly regulated. After the destruction during WW2 the international economic system had to be rebuilt from the scratch. What political choices were made - and why? From c. 1970 the international economy was increasingly liberalized. Why did this happen and what were the consequences? We’ll follow the development up until the financial crisis in the 2010s.

The specific course topics may change annually and will usually reflect that years lecturer's research interests. Information on topics for the academic year is found under studies on the webpage for the department with academic responsibility.

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 comprehensive knowledge about

• global economic history after c. 1840
• different perspectives and approaches in the field of modern economic history

Skills

Candidates should be able

• to analyse and discuss central developments covered in the course
• to reflect orally and in writing about central problems and debates
• to apply empirical knowledge and theoretical approaches when analyzing key issues in economic history

Lectures, case-studies and assignments. The assignments must be approved in order to take the exam. The obligatory activity from a previous semester can be approved by the department.