HIST 159 Technology, Policy and War
Taught as schedule allows (consult the Course Directory)
The course will cover the great turning point of twentieth century Chinese history: namely the two wars that set her on her present course. These were the war of resistance against Japanese invasion, 1932-1945 which became an important theater in World War II globally, and the civil war between the Communists and the Nationalists, 1945-49 which saw the Communists win China and take over government there, while the Nationalists retreated to Taiwan. The course will look not only at armies and battles, but also at society during wartime, how the arts were used as mobilizational tools by both sides, wartime economics and inflation, foreigners in the wars, and the international dimensions of both struggles, especially the roles of the Soviet Union, the United States, Japan, and Britain. Readings will be both secondary and primary, supplemented by images, film clips, recordings, etc. Midterm examination and paper in lieu of final. This is material that Professor Waldron is currently researching. No previous background in strategic studies, war, or Asian history is expected or required, though it is most welcome.
