IR106: From Sarajevo to Baghdad: Key Decisions on War and Peace, 1914-2003

This course offers an intensive investigation of a central set of topics over the last century of international politics.

It will introduce students to the international history of the two world wars and the Cold War as well as the post-Cold War period, but it does not attempt to cover every aspect of the years since 1914. Instead, it focuses on key decisions and turning points, analysing them in-depth and placing them in context.

As the course progresses, students will be encouraged to make comparisons and draw out wider themes as well as to develop their knowledge and understanding of the individual topics. The material should be readily accessible to students with little previous background in the field, as well as rewarding for those who already have familiarity with the content. 

Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course. 

Level: 100 level. Read more information on levels in our FAQs

Fees: Please see Fees and payments

Lectures: 36 hours

Classes: 18 hours

Assessment: One written essay (50%) and one written examination (50%)

Typical credit: 3-4 credits (US) 7.5 ECTS points (EU)

Please note: Assessment is optional but may be required for credit by your home institution. Your home institution will be able to advise how you can meet their credit requirements. For more information on exams and credit, read Teaching and assessment

This course is suited those who wish to understand the key turning points from the last century of international politics. If you are considering a career in politics, international relations or political history, you will benefit from this course.

• A knowledge and understanding of key turning points in international politics between the benchmark dates of 1914 and 2003, including the origins, development, and conclusion of the two world wars and of the Cold War.
• A knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of decisionmaking in circumstances of extreme political crisis.
• Enhanced familiarity with historical methodologies, including analysis of historical debate (historiography) and historians’ use of evidence.
• Familiarity with a body of case studies that can form a basis for more conceptual and theoretical work in international relations and political science.

The design of this course is guided by LSE faculty, as well as industry experts, who will share their experience and in-depth knowledge with you throughout the course.