HIST2009 Nazi Germany: Its Origins and Nature, 1870-1945

This topic examines a major European society undergoing radical change in peace and war after 1870. It includes consideration of the impact of political unification and rapid industrialisation on traditional German society; further dislocation of German life caused by the 1914-18 War and the shattering effects of the economic crises of inflation and depression; the failure of republican democracy, 1919-33; the nature of the Nazi regime in peace and war, 1933-45; and how the Holocaust became possible.

This topic aims to provide students with:

• A strong knowledge of differing perspectives on historical events and agents and how these perspectives contribute to historical discourse within the profession and more broadly
• A strong knowledge of the disciplinary nature of history, its disciplinary history, its methodology, and its role in the community
• The ability to undertake historical research and reporting
• The ability to effectively communicate a nuanced knowledge and understanding of historical events and concepts in a range of written and oral forms
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively

1. Critically reflect upon the nature of Nazi Germany and how it has been represented and received
2. Appreciate the complexities, characteristics and legacies of Nazi Germany
3. Develop their communication skills through discussion and reasoned argument
4. Locate, collect, interpret and synthesise a range of historical sources to develop a coherent argument
5. Plan, research and write an academic essay