Module: HIS5102-20 The British Empire: From Opium Wars to Decolonisation

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Iftikhar Malik

Module Tutor Contact Details: I.Malik@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module examines the history of Britain’s colonial empire from the first opium war to the period of withdrawal and decolonisation. It examines Imperial history from a variety of perspectives: economic, political, military, cultural and ideological.

It also explores the disputed impact of the Empire on British culture and society and the debates regarding the rise of the nineteenth century Empire, its costs and benefits and the causes of decline. The British Imperial experience will be considered in comparison with the history of other Empires, together with its continuing relevance to contemporary politics and society.

2.Outline syllabus:

Topics and themes include:

• The Opium Wars

• Developments in India (the ‘Mutiny’ and its aftermath)

• Developments in Africa (the 1882 occupation of Egypt, the establishment of Rhodesia and the Boer War)

• The impact of World War I and its aftermath

• Post war developments in India and the Middle East

• The impact of World War II and the process of decolonisation.

• Britain’s decline as a great power and the importance of relations with the United States.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

This module is taught through a mix of lectures, discussion groups and work-based seminars. The discussion groups enable students to respond to lecture topics through their own research; seminars provide an opportunity to develop greater understanding through the examination of key texts and documents.

Students will be expected to access a wide range of materials and to engage with the relevant academic controversies and debates.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Ex (In Class)

• Description: Timed critical analysis (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Essay (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%