131-076 Asia, the Pacific & the West in History

This subject is part of the U21 Diploma in Global Studies and is taught over a nine week period with one week for orientation exercises. Students who have completed 131-214 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. The subject dates and HECS/course fee census date for this subject change each year. Check your enrolment record for the correct census date for this subject.

Usually 12.5 points of first-year history or Asian studies, or admission to the Universitas 21 Certificate in Global Studies.

From Burma to Japan, Manchuria to Thailand, the Cook Islands to Cambodia and Tibet, this subject will explore histories of Asia, the Pacific and the West's involvement in these areas from the 16th century to the present, with an emphasis on 20th century history. The subject will be divided into three thematic groups: early contact between Asia, the Pacific and the West; colonisation, resistance and the struggles for independence; and the decolonisation process and recent crises in Asia and the Pacific. Questions explored over the course of the subject include: What was the nature of early contact between the West and Asia and between the West and the Pacific? How did contact with the West transform states and societies in Asia and the Pacific? What policies did colonial powers (including Japan) implement? What forms did resistance to these policies take? How did colonisation and eventual decolonisation exacerbate racial, ethnic and national tensions, and how have these factors influence states and societies in Asia and the Pacific today? Finally, we will look at the role (if any), human rights, sanctions, and economic trade have had on the West's relations with countries in Asia and the Pacific today, particularly China (Tibet), Myanmar, Fiji, and Cambodia.

• 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.

Class participation, and written work totalling 4000 words comprising a 1000 word radio documentary comparison 30% (due during the one-week break), tutorial participation though on-line postings equivalent to 500 words 25% (throughout the teaching period) and a 2500 word essay 45% (due one week after the final class).

A subject reader will be available as a CD.