History of International Relations

The course aims to provide a critical understanding of the dynamics that defined international relations in the years between the end of the First World War and the end of the Cold War.
Relying on the knowledge learned during the first year of the degree programme, the course will examine the ideological, political, economic, human and cultural factors that have led States to form their different lines of foreign policy and influenced the course of international relations during the 20th century.

Upon completion of the course, students will be familiar with the decision-making processes of the main international actors and the forms of negotiation underlying international agreements and treaties. They will also have a firm grasp of the main events and fractures that have defined relationships between States in the past and will be able to reflect critically on the historical roots of current problems. Students will be comfortable explaining events with accuracy and using the most appropriate vocabulary, and will have acquired the tools necessary to guide them in examining past and present international issues.
The classroom course materials will enable those attending to read and critically interpret diplomatic documents and other primary sources.