Fall 2007

HIS 350L • US-East Asian Relations-W

Course Description

This course will examine America's complex and conflict-ridden relations with the countries of East Asia since the early nineteenth century. Topics will include the opening of East Asia to Western commerce; imperialism and colonialism; the Asian-Pacific War; the Cold War and its hot wars; and globalization, economic bonanza, cultural fusion, and the tensions of the present era. Class participants will write a series of critical essays and guided research projects on selected aspects of U.S.-East Asian relations.

For purposes of this course, East Asia is defined as Japan, mainland China and Taiwan, and the two Koreas.

Grading Policy

The course follows a seminar rather than a lecture format. Participation in discussion 25% 8 papers (1.5 pages each) on readings 15% Short essays totaling 10 to 12 pages 50% Comprehensive final examination 10%

Texts

Walter LaFeber, The Clash: U.S.-Japanese Relations throughout History,W. W. Norton, 1997. Michael Schaller, The United States and China into the Twenty-First Century, third edition [or most recent], Oxford University Press, 2002. Chalmers Johnson, Blowback: The Costs and Consequences of American Empire, Owl Books, 2000. And other readings to be assigned.

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