131-231 Terror and Counter Terror, 1789-1945

Usually 25 points of first year history.

This subject examines conceptual, historical and legal debates surrounding terror and counter terror in the late 18th century, the 19th century and the first half of the 20th centuries. The terms terror, terrorism, terrorist, counter-terror and repression are interrogated and students are invited to assess their validity and usefulness. The course traces the history of Terrorism and counter-terrorism from the French Revolution in the late 18th century to the Irish and Russian Terrorists of the 19th century and the spread of terror and counter-terror on a broader basis in the first half of the twentieth century, including in the use of terror by colonial, Soviet and Nazi occupational forces. Although the subject is focused on the pre WW2 period a final lecture will bring developments up-to-date.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion.

A research essay of 2500 words 55% (due mid-semester), a reflective essay of 1500 words 35% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 10%.

A subject reader will be available.