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European History since 1815
Political, Economic, Social, and Cultural Trends
Karl Vocelka July 20 – July 31 4 ECTS credits

Europe changed in the last 200 years dramatically: borderlines moved, eco-
nomy and society changed, there were breaks and continuations in the de-
velopment of all countries. Without looking to the long history of the
European continent one cannot understand Europe of today.
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Many phenomena of the 19 and 20 century had a large impact on the
identity constructions of European countries. Discussions about pheno-
mena like former political structures, multi-nationalism, national identity,
minorities etc. between participants of different countries and cultures will K. Vocelka
allow comparisons and connect this class to problems of the present. The
course attaches great importance to culture, as this topic is – talking about
Europe – often neglected.
The course deals in a broad way with all European countries, but has a clear
focus on Central Europe and will cover the following topics:
• What is Europe? Antique heritage, Christianity, Enlightenment
• European Countries 1815 – 1918 – 1945 – 1989
• Political systems in Europe including Fascism and Communism
• Demographic development – urbanization – migration – genocide
• Nationalism – national states versus multinational giants
• The East West conflict and the Iron Curtain
• The building of the European Union
• Economic development (industrialization, mechanization of agriculture,
colonialism, globalization)
• Social changes (from a class society to modern society)
• Selected examples of cultural changes (e.g. The birth of modernity
around 1900 scientific progress and ecological ideas, the impact of
digitalization and modern media)
Requirements: Attendance and participation in class discussion constitute
30%, a short paper 30% and a written final (essay-type) 40% of the grade.

The summer program allowed
me ample opportunities for
academic achievements, and
enjoying the surrounding
beauty either on campus, or
at the lake.

Rania El Razzaz, Egypt

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