History of Nationalism in Central and Eastern Europe

In  the 20^th Century, three phenomena had fateful consequences for Central and Eastern Europe: (1) the unsuccessful attempt to eliminate, after WWI, national tension by creating new nation-states, and the encounters with both major totalitarian ideologies, (2) Nazism and (3) Communism. The present eruptions of nationalism are rooted in the heritage of these phenomena.

Comparative histories of the formation of modern national identities, including the ‘national awakening’ of non-dominant nations, will be interpreted against the backdrop of national policies of multi-ethnic states, national programs and leaders. The major focus of the course will be oriented toward topics surrounding post-WWI Central and Eastern Europe, Nazism and Communism. We will examine the disintegration of post-Communist Central and Eastern Europe, discuss the ethnic conflicts, policies toward minorities and xenophobia.

The bibliography  of required and recommended reading will be handed out in class, the abbreviated titles are in the syllabus. The guidelines for  mid-term and finals will be available in class two weeks before the scheduled exam.