Economic History

The course will provide students with basic knowledge of the dynamics of economic development in the long run, from the beginning of the early modern era to the late twentieth century. By combining narrative and interpretation, it will foster awareness of the complexity of modern economic growth and the multiplicity of factors - institutions, technology, markets, and policies - that have historically caused or inhibited it. Depth of historical perspective acquired via this course will contribute to strengthening students' understanding of some of the most pressing economic challenges that today's globalised world, and countries at different level of economic development within it, face along the path to sustained growth.

Upon successfully completing this course, students should be able to:
- Describe the main characteristics of pre-industrial economies and demography
- Understand the forces that caused the rise of northwestern Europe over southern Europe starting from the 16th century
- Explain the nature of modern economic growth and how and when it has been achieved in different regions of the world since the industrial revolution
- Explain the dynamics of globalization, the distributional effects it produces and concomitant historical reactions
- Understand the impact of economic crises, especially when coupled with financial crises and when addressed with ill-advised policy responses
- Discuss different explanations of long-run economic growth
- Draw parallels between current and past situations and issues.

Moreover, the course will hone students' analytical skills and further develop their ability to autonomously conduct research via group work assignments, which, by the same token, will train students' ability to effectively communicate the results of their research work, both orally and in written form.