Berlin, Germany

The Making of Europe: The Long 20th Century

This course provides an overview of the political, socio-economic, and cultural developments that shaped Europe in the long 20th century. Many deeply impacting developments occurred over the course of the 20th century: Two World Wars were fought, the birth of the European Union and the fall of Communism, just to name a few. Being such a crucial city in Europe’s history in the 20th century, Berlin is the most logical location for this course. Special emphasis will also be given to Germany's role in the middle of the continent and to the historical origins of the European Union and its present state. The city of Berlin, with all its tangible historical remains, will be dealt with as a city of former crisis with great promises for a better future.

In this course we will try to identify the democratic values that have shaped the rebirth of Europe and discuss the challenges with which present-day Europe is faced. The course will reflect on Europe's place in the global, multi-polar world of the 21st century.

Several excursions will be organised in which you will visit some key historic sites in the city.

Course leader

Dr. Dörte Ohlhorst

Target group

The course is open to undergraduate students from different fields of study with an interest in
culture, society and politics.

Fee info

EUR 1430: course fee and program fee