HIS 261 Classical and Imperial China to 1911
A survey of the early history of China from its first dynasties (Shang,
Chou) to its last (Ch'ing). This course will examine the complex internal
dynamics that came to shape its peoples and institutions. External forces
on China's past, before, during, and after sustained contact with the rest
of Asia (Buddhism, for instance, and the Mongols) and the West (Marco Polo
and the White Lotus and Boxer Rebellions), will be given special
attention. Emphasis on social, cultural, economic, and military
developments. Extended analysis of primary source documents, web-based
materials, and film through the complex and often contradictory
perspectives of age, gender, ethnicity, and class will be a major focus.
Strong geographic component. This course is offered some fall semesters.
Credits: 1
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