German History, 1806-1945

This course examines the development of German history from the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire to the end of World War II. During that time the German states went from being a sleepy backwater to being the conquerors of Europe, finally conquered themselves by the Allied Forces. Through lecture, readings, and discussion we will examine post-Napoleonic Germany, Prussia’s role in uniting Germany, the Wilhelmine Empire, the Weimar Republic, and finally National Socialism. The class will take into account politics, economics, war, and culture in painting a full picture of the development of a distinct German state and society.