China in the World Wars and the World Wars in China

About this course

The course traces China’s position before, during and after the World Wars, including the Chinese Labour Corps in the First World War, the Chinese Expeditionary Force in Burma, the Sino-Japanese War and Allied involvement. It considers political change, economic effects, social transformation, women’s experiences and the transition from the Republic to the People’s Republic of China. Teaching combines illustrated lectures with discussions and debates. Participants also work in small groups to examine original sources, supported by handouts for class discussion.

What you'll learn

• Explain China’s geopolitical position across the periods before, during and after the two World Wars.
• Analyse China’s military contributions and wider involvement in both conflicts.
• Assess how the wars affected China’s politics, economy and society.
• Examine women’s wartime experiences and the relationship between war and changing gender roles.
• Relate wartime developments to the formation of the People’s Republic of China and the conflicts’ continuing legacy in national memory.

Is this course right for you?

This introductory course is intended for learners without prior knowledge of the subject. It involves lectures, discussion, debate and small-group analysis of original sources, with an emphasis on listening to differing views. A good grasp of English is requested.

• No previous knowledge of the topic is necessary.
• Participation includes discussion, debate and collaborative source analysis.
• Learners should be willing to consider different perspectives.

Before you go

• Learners may bring a pen and paper, or digital equivalents, for taking notes.
• Handouts are provided for discussion purposes.