HISTORY OF MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY CHINA

The course aims to offer a critical reflection on the political and social history of twentieth-century China, focusing in particular on the experience of colonialism and anti-colonial struggles, the origins and development of Chinese nationalism, and the revolution and construction of the socialist state. Its objective is to provide students with the opportunity to understand the historical experience of Chinese society throughout the twentieth century and the significance that this experience continues to hold in contemporary China.

The course adopts a biographical approach. It explores the history of twentieth-century China through the political, socio-cultural, and personal biographies of five key figures: Sun Yat-sen (1866–1925), Chiang Kai-shek (1878–1976), Mao Zedong (1893–1976), Deng Xiaoping (1904–1997), and Xi Jinping (1953– ).

Knowledge and understanding of the political, cultural, and social events and dynamics that shaped China during the twentieth century in a global perspective, as well as of the main historiographical debates concerning these processes.

Knowledge of contemporary history.
Ability to read and comprehend texts in English.

Sun Yat-sen's China: Colonialism and nationalism
Chiang Kai-shek's China: Nationalism, militarism, and modernity
Mao Zedong's China: Revolution and the construction of the Socialist State
Deng Xiaoping's China: Socialism with Chinese characteristics
Xi Jinping's China: Globalisation and international rise

Guido Samarani, "La Cina contemporanea", (ed. agg.), Einaudi 2017

The full bibliography will be published at the beginning of the course.

Oral examination on the topics covered during the course and on the supplementary readings recommended by the instructor, or alternatively proposed by the student with the instructor's prior approval.

oral

The lecturer has a duty to ensure that the rules regarding the authenticity and originality of exam tests and papers are respected. Therefore, if there is suspicion of irregular conduct, an additional assessment may be conducted, which could differ from the original exam description.

60% knowledge and understanding of the topics covered in the course
40% ability to develop arguments and engage in critical reflection

Lectures
Classroom discussions on materials selected by the instructor

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "International cooperation" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development