HIS211

This course explores key developments in Imperial Russian history from the seventeenth century through the collapse of the Romanov dynasty in 1917. We trace Russia?s transformation from a feudal society into a modern empire, while examining the tensions that undermined its stability?social upheaval, industrialization, and new intellectual movements. While following a broad chronological arc, we focus on three major themes: political power, social and cultural change, and empire building. Politically, we?ll examine the strengths and failures of tsarist leadership and the intrigue of the imperial court. Socially, we'll consider the perspectives of nobles, clergy, peasants, and intellectuals in shaping Russian identity and values?especially debates over whether Russia belonged to ?the West.? Finally, we?ll analyze the Russian Empire?s vast expansion, its governance over diverse peoples, and the lasting implications of ruling a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-confessional state. Through these lenses, we?ll investigate how and why the empire ultimately collapsed. This course counts toward the Eastern European and Eurasian Studies major/minor. GLAFC, Spring semester, odd years.

Global Affairs & Cultures (GLAFC)

Odd Years