Why have some states attempted to impose themselves politically, militarily and economically on others? When does hegemony turn into imperialism? How have those subjected to imperialist pressures reacted? In this topic, students will investigate a series of empires from the ancient world, the Middle Ages, and the modern period to explore how different people have experienced imperialism throughout history.
The topic employs a truly global approach to demonstrate that, while European states have historically embraced empires as a means of ordering populations, other civilisations around the world have also developed forms of imperialism. As part of this investigation, students will scrutinise both primary and secondary sources, conduct their own research into imperialism, and be exposed to differing historiographical methodologies.
Timetable details for 2021 are no longer published.