This course offers an introduction to the history of modern Europe with special attention to the connections between Europe and the rest of the world. We will discuss major landmarks in modern Europe cultural, political, social, economic, and intellectual history and situate these developments within a global context. Key topics include the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, the First and Second World War, the Holocaust, Decolonization, and the fall of communism. Throughout we will explore recurrent themes such as war and peace, reform and revolution, nationalism and national identity, democracy and fascism, colonialism and imperialism, the dynamics of economic and political change, race and migration, and terror and violence. By studying modern Europe and its historic relations with the rest of the world we are better able to understand a host of contemporary issues, from global inequality, to the rise of far-right parties, to climate change.
3-5 units · Letter or Credit/No Credit · GER: WAY-SI
This course offers an introduction to the history of modern Europe with special attention to the connections between Europe and the rest of the world. We will discuss major landmarks in modern Europe cultural, political, social, economic, and intellectual history and situate these developments within a global context. Key topics include the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, the First and Second World War, the Holocaust, Decolonization, and the fall of communism. Throughout we will explore recurrent themes such as war and peace, reform and revolution, nationalism and national identity, democracy and fascism, colonialism and imperialism, the dynamics of economic and political change, race and migration, and terror and violence. By studying modern Europe and its historic relations with the rest of the world we are better able to understand a host of contemporary issues, from global inequality, to the rise of far-right parties, to climate change.
Offered in Winter 2026 at Stanford University.