PSIR 205 Political History of Europe Acar Kutay

PSIR 205 Political History of Europe Acar Kutay

Why to bother about history? the development of political freedom, constitutional government, the rule of law, individual rights Relationship among religion, society, and the state The development of science and technology and their impact on ideas, social institutions, and everyday life The influence of intellectuals

Is history boring? • Yes! • But, wait…!Not necessarily. • Why do we have so many movies and shows taking place in history?

Art, entertainment and history

Just a few examples

And more!

History as source of entertainment • Fiction and reality • History as a source of contemporary political discourse • History can be re-written: ideology and history

History makes you smart! Credit: The Thinker_Rodin

Textbook • The Wester Heritage – Engaging, user-friendly, pedagogical, key word, concepts explained – CD – Maps

The coverage of the course • From 17 th century to the end of Second World War • An overview • Key events and their consequences

Major changes • The Treaty of Westphalia: sovereignty and nation-state system! • Paths to nation-building: England France • Unsuccessful attempts: Germany and Italy • Enlightenment • The French Revolution • WWI and WWII • Social and economic life

Exams!! • 4 Quizzes: 2 best considered: 20 percent • Mid-term: 30 percent • Final exam: 40 percent • Presentations: 10 percent