Handbook

The study of empire is critical to understand the post-colonial present, the re-emergence of empire, persisting problems of Indigenous rights and to contemporary understandings of human rights more generally. This course focuses on the history of European empires from the late 15th to the late 20th century. It will provide a critical examination of European colonial ideologies and practices. It will also focus on the imperial experiences of colonized peoples, looking at ways in which they engaged with empire across places and time.

The course will offer you the opportunity to understand what imperialism was about, how it changed the face of the world and its impact on the present. The course will also familiarize you with key concepts, texts and methodologies for the study of comparative imperialism as well as early-modern and modern history. Those who successfully complete this course will strengthen their analytical and research skills as well as their historical knowledge.