HIST 320 - Decolonization

The end of colonialism and the emergence of new independent states in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Middle East has been one of the most formative processes that has shaped the world we live in today. This research seminar will explore the process of decolonization in the twentieth century as the end of empire was negotiated between colonial states, former colonial subjects and citizens, international organizations, and a plethora of non-state actors. We will research and discuss several case studies of decolonization in different parts of the world, and we will especially emphasize the international dimensions and global interconnectedness that characterized the dismantling of imperial structures and regimes in the course of the twentieth century. Students will produce a twenty-page research paper using primary and secondary sources. Meets the global and/or comparative history requirement, and can count towards “Colonization and Empire,” or “Law and Social Justice,” or “Global/Comparative” fields. Prerequisite(s): One 100- or 200- level history course or consent of instructor. Alternate years. (4 Credits)