HIS 605SEM - Research Seminar on Imperialism and Colonialism

The main purpose of this class is to guide students in the preparation of a substantial essay of original research. To this end, each student will write a seminar paper of between 7,000 and 8,000 words (inclusive of notes) that is based on primary sources and engages the relevant historiographical and methodological debates in the scholarly literature. When devising a paper topic, students should feel free to interpret “imperialism and colonialism” broadly to include formal and informal imperialism, colonialism, post-imperialism, post-colonialism, neo-imperialism, etc. Students should remember that the work needs to be original and feasible. Primary sources are the sine qua non of historical research, so be sure you have identified sources that you can reach during the semester. An ancillary but equally important goal of the class is to continue students¿ professionalization by engaging in cooperative and critical analysis of each others¿ work, as well oral presentation of your own work. Therefore, every written assignment will be defended and discussed in class.

Credits: 3