HIST2030 The Great Powers in the Middle East 1798-2001

How is it that events in what at first glance may seem a marginal region have become so important? Has this always been the case? This topic explores the reasons why numerous powers, ranging from the French, the British, the Turks, the Germans and the United States, have attempted to establish and maintain their dominance in the Middle East, broadly defined as including North Africa, the Levant and Gulf regions through to Afghanistan. Apart from studying how power has been projected over the region, this topic will also look at the cultural manifestations of contact with the Middle East, in order to understand not only how power was negotiated, but also how it was articulated. To do this, we must also ponder whether grand imperial designs for the region were compatible with local conditions and local politics in various historical settings.

This topic aims to provide:

• 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 great power internvemtion in the Middle East and how it has been represented and received
2. Appreciate the complexities, characteristics and legacies of great power intervention in the Middle East
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