1. Introduction

European Civilization, 1648-1945 (HIST 202)

The course will concern European history from 1648 to 1945. The assigned readings include both standard historical texts and works of fiction, as well as films. Although the period in question encompasses many monumental events and "great men," attention will also be paid to the development of themes over the long term and the experiences of people and groups often excluded from official histories. Among the principle questions to be addressed are the consolidation of state power, the formation of identities, linguistic and national affiliations, and the effects of economic change.

00:00 - Chapter 1. Course Structure and Requirements
14:38 - Chapter 2. Major Themes: State-Making, the Rise of Capitalism, and War
33:27 - Chapter 3. Brecht, "A Worker Reads History"

Complete course materials are available at the Open Yale Courses website: http://open.yale.edu/courses

This course was recorded in Fall 2008.