Hidden Histories of WW2

Discover the lesser-known histories of WW2 on this 6-week, co-taught course, from the role played by Indians during the independence era to the experiences of Africans and the First Nation peoples of the USA. 

Choose a starting date

Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.

Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.

Book your place
In stock
SKU
242077
Full fee £149.00 Senior fee £149.00 Concession £97.00

What is the course about?

Explore some of the lesser-known political, social and military dynamics of WW2 and reflect upon why some aspects of its historiography might be overlooked or underplayed. Following an overview of the era, we will examine 4 case studies: India and Indian experiences of WW2; Africa and the experience of Africans; Latin America; and the lesser-known experiences of African American and First Nation Peoples. In the final session, you will reflect upon the significance of these case studies, their legacies, and why some histories of WW2 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: 11/05/2026 – Dr. Dafydd Townley/overview

Week 2: 18/05/2026 – Ketan Varia, Indian experiences

BANK HOLIDAY 25/5/26

Week 3:  01/06/2026 Dr. Sunday Oyewole African experiences

Week 4:  08/06/2026 – Dafydd Townley, USA

Week 5: 15/06/2026 Dr. Maisa Edwards, Latin America, Brazil

Week 6: 22/06/2026 Dr. Dafydd Townley, conclusions

 

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 WW2 and the repercussions of war for the independence movement

• Assess the role played by Africa and Africans in WW2

• Identify the role played by African Americans and First Nation Peoples in WW2 and the impact of their contributions to the war effort

• Explain Latin America's role with particular reference to Brazil

• 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 general knowledge of WW2 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 topics explored, and a willingness to engage constructively and respectfully with both learners and tutors in any class discussions/debates. 

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

Lectures, discussions and debates. Access to a Google Classroom where you can find resources relating to the topic will be provided. Reading is encouraged. 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?

Please see our global and Imperial History area on the website for details of other courses. Other courses of interest may be found in our Americas, Africa and Asia areas.    

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.