Money, power and crisis: the history of financial systems in Europe

Explore the evolution of Europe’s financial systems, from medieval banking to the eurozone crisis. Discover how finance, power and society have shaped each other - and why history matters for understanding today’s economic challenges.

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.

  • Start Date: 15 Jun 2027
    End Date: 06 Jul 2027
    Tue (Daytime): 10:30 - 12:30
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
    Course Code: HPC317
    Full fee £139.00 Senior fee £111.00 Concession £90.00
    Add to Wish List

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
246482
Full fee £139.00 Senior fee £111.00 Concession £90.00

What is the course about?

This course traces the evolution of Europe’s financial systems, from medieval banking and early stock exchanges to the eurozone crisis. We will explore how finance has shaped and has been shaped by power, politics and society and reflect on the legacies of innovation, crisis and reform.

What will we cover?

• The origins of banking and credit in medieval and Renaissance Europe

• The rise of stock exchanges and early financial markets

• Finance, empire, and the global spread of European models

• The development of central banks and monetary unions

• Financial crises: bubbles, panics and reforms

• The creation and challenges of the eurozone

• The social and political impact of financial systems

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

• Identify key developments in the history of European finance

• Analyse how financial systems have influenced and have been influenced by politics and society

• Reflect on the causes and consequences of financial crises

• Engage in informed discussion about the evolution and future of European finance

• Recognise the connections between historical and contemporary financial issues

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

This course is suitable for anyone interested in history, economics and/or finance. No prior expertise is required.

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

This is a discussion-based course with case studies, group activities, and reflective exercises. You may be encouraged to read short articles or bring examples from your own interests for discussion.

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

There are no additional costs. You may wish to bring a notebook or device for note-taking and reflection.

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

You can browse more Politics, Economics & Current Affairs Courses via our website.

Vina Theodorakopoulou Tutor Website

Vina Theodorakopoulou teaches at the intersection of technology, business and society, helping learners connect big ideas on economics, innovation and human behaviour to real-world decisions and practical outcomes. With a background in financial and professional services and a PhD in behavioural economics, she brings practical insight into how decisions are made under uncertainty and how systems -from markets to organisations- affect everyday life and work. At City Lit, her courses span topics such as AI and ethics, global capitalism, innovation, sustainability and communication. Across all subjects, she focuses on connecting ideas to practice, encouraging learners to apply what they learn in meaningful and tangible ways. She has a strong interest in global cultures and communication, reflected in her teaching of languages and cultural forms, including Greek dance. She believes learning should open up new ways of thinking about work, culture and how we live — and offer practical value beyond the classroom.

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.