Hidden Histories of World War 1

Discover the lesser-known histories of World War One on this 6-week, co-taught course, from the role played by Africans to the declaration of war by Brazil and the significant role played by soldiers from the Indian subcontinent.
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In stock
SKU
233983
Full fee £149.00 Senior fee £149.00 Concession £97.00

What is the course about?

We will explore some of the lesser-known political, social and military dynamics of World War One and reflect upon why some aspects of its historiography might be overlooked or underplayed. Following a co-taught overview of the era to set the scene, we will then examine 4 case studies: India and Indian experiences of WW1; Africa and the experience of Africans; Brazil’s declaration of war on Germany and Brazil’s experiences of WW1; and the lesser-known experiences of African American and First Nation Peoples who served in this global conflict. In the final session, we will reflect upon the significance of our case studies, some of their legacies and why some histories of WW1 are less well known to us than others. Please note that the course is co-taught, so you will meet different tutors on this course.

What will we cover?

• Week 1: General overview of WWI (Dafydd Townley)
• Week 2: India (Ketan Varia)
• Week 3: Africa (Sunday Oyewole)
• Week 4: Hidden Histories of the USA (Dafydd Townley)
• Week 5: Brazil (Maisa Edwards)
• Week 6: Conclusion/Aftermath (Dafydd Townley).

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Evaluate the significance of the role played by India in WW1 and the repercussions of war for the independence movement
• Assess the role played by Africa and Africans in WW1
• Identify the role played by African Americans and First Nation Peoples in WW1 and the impact of their contributions to the war effort
• Explain why Brazil declared war on Germany and Brazil’s position during WW1
• Critically consider the impact of the above 4 case studies on our understanding and knowledge of WW1.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

A rudimentary knowledge of WW1 would be helpful, but a basic overview of the conflict will be provided in the first session to help you to frame your understanding of our 4 key case studies. Generally, the only requirements for this course are an open mind, an interest in the topic, and a willingness to engage constructively and respectfully in class discussions/debates in a safe and encouraging learning environment.

If you wish to take a longer general course on WW1 to complement this one or would like a general introduction to the topic, HEH116 Sleepwalking to Catastrophe? The Origins of WW1 with Dr. Matthew Powell may be the course for you.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Lectures, discussions and debates. The first and final sessions will be particuarly interactive as we set the scene/draw conclusions. Access to a Google Classroom where you can find resources relating to the topic will be provided. However, reading is encouraged rather than mandatory. As stated, the course is co-taught, so you will meet 4 different lecturers on this course.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No - a pen and paper if you wish to take notes.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

HWH160 China in the World Wars and the World Wars in China (Saturday workshop, onsite).

 

Maisa Edwards See more See less
Sunday Abraham Ogunode See more See less
Dafydd Townley See more See less
Ketan Varia See more See less

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.