History

Explore History, Politics & Economics

Whether you’re fascinated by the past, wishing to keep up to date with current affairs, or to develop a deeper understanding of democracy and capitalism, we have the course for you.

City Lit offers a wide range of history, politics and economics courses on weekdays, evenings and weekends. Our courses vary from skills-based courses on oral and family history projects, to the history of empire, the history of London and the study of global powers and international politics.

Gain critical thinking and analytical skills

Courses in the Humanities help you understand our world today, and the history that has informed the political, social and economic dynamics of modern times. Our courses, including short day courses, lectures and longer-term study over several weeks or whole terms, aim to inform you of the issues that interest and matter to you. Our courses also encourage the development of wider skills such as critical thinking and analysis, listening and discussion skills, and evidence-based interpretation.

Learn from expert tutors

Our tutors are experts in their fields and come from a range of backgrounds, and include academics, experienced educators, serving politicians, acclaimed authors and renowned guides.

Browse our range of courses below to choose your perfect option: both complete beginners and returning students are equally welcome.

Courses available both in-person and online

We offer a range of long and short courses allowing you to choose between in-person and online learning.

Learn in the centre of London with our in-person courses. Our purpose-built facilities in Covent Garden mean we are ideally located and easy to get to. 

See our guide to online learning for more information about accessing our live online courses.

All our courses are live, interactive, and taught by expert tutors. No matter how you prefer to learn, we've got the class for you.

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  1. A history of global capitalism
    Course start date:  Wed 17 Apr 2024

    Location on this date:  Keeley Street

    Tutors:  Vina Theodorakopoulou
    Want to understand the history of global capitalism. Join Dr. Vina Theodorakopoulou to learn about the historical transitions towards what we know as capitalism today – evolution of capital, the role of the state, labour, competition, race, and innovation-automation.
    Full fee £149.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £97.00
  2. Stories of London
    Course start date:  Wed 1 May 2024

    Location on this date:  Blended (learn both online and in-person)

    Tutors:  Eleanor Jackson
    Explore London’s rich history in a series of guided walks. Each week we examine a different neighbourhood & era from the capital’s past. We look at its people, both rich and poor, & the events that shaped the city.



    Initial lecture via Zoom followed by 6 guided walks.



    This course will be delivered online and in person. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
    Full fee £169.00 Senior fee £135.00 Concession £110.00
    Rating:
    94% of 100
  3. Cities of Gold: Pre-Columbian Civilizations of North and Central America (2),
    Course start date:  Wed 29 May 2024

    Location on this date:  Keeley Street

    Tutors:  Max Carocci
    Join Dr. Carocci to explore the little known history of pre-Columbian civilizations North of Mexico and their links to Aztec and other Mexican cultures.
    Full fee £149.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £97.00
  4. The Mamluks (1250-1517) and the endless war against the Crusaders in the Holy Land
    Course start date:  Wed 3 Jul 2024

    Location on this date:  Keeley Street

    Tutors:  Roberta Marin
    This course will trace the political history of the Mamluks, from humble beginnings to the golden age of the sultanate. Special attention will be dedicated to their role as fierce opponents of the Crusaders.
    Full fee £59.00 Senior fee £47.00 Concession £38.00
  5. Village London
    Course start date:  Wed 24 Apr 2024

    Location on this date:  Off Site

    Tutors:  Paul Sinclair
    London is made up of a series of villages, each with its own individual characteristics. Explore Shoreditch, Mayfair, Bermondsey, Notting Hill, Clerkenwell, Islington, Harrow on the Hill and Wapping,in 8 guided walks.



    First meeting place:meet at Shoreditch High Street station.
    Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £143.00 Concession £116.00
    Rating:
    100% of 100
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