This course provides an overview of the history of Eastern Eurasia (mainly East Asia and Southeast Asia) from ancient times to the beginning of the modern era. We will explore key historical events, patterns of political, economic, and cultural change, and the interactions between different regions within Eastern Eurasia and with other parts of Eurasia. This course will also discuss common trajectories and divergences among the regions within Eastern Eurasia in a comparative and global perspective.
The course focuses on three major objectives:
1. To develop a basic knowledge of history, society, and culture in Eastern Eurasia.
2. To develop a basic knowledge of major political systems, economic trends, and philosophical developments in Eastern Eurasia, as well as world history.
3. To interpret primary sources and understand how they relate to the historical narrative.