Temaomtale HIS116

Høsten 2026 tilbys følgende tema i HIS116:

Tema: The Cold War, Then and Now

Ansvarlig: Elena Kochetkova

The Cold War is a widely recognized historical term, often invoked to describe present-day global tensions. But how well do we really understand the past? And can we accurately describe today’s conflicts using historical terms? 

This course will show that the Cold War is not merely a chronological period, but an epistemological framework crucial for interpreting post-1945 history. It is designed for both newcomers and those already familiar with the topic, offering three major perspectives: 

First, you will be introduced to the essentials of the Cold War while maintaining a critical distance from stereotypes and myths. The course examines the Cold War as a period of both tensions and cooperation across the Iron Curtain from the 1940s (with roots traced back to 1914–1917) to 1991, exploring a wide range of historical episodes. At the end, we will extend the discussion to the legacy of the Cold War in today’s global and regional crises. 

Second, you will gain knowledge of both traditional and innovative approaches to the Cold War as a global phenomenon that shaped political, economic, environmental, and cultural histories in both East and West. By uncovering the multiple dimensions of the Cold War, we will trace the unique biographies of various actors—from institutions to individuals, officials to civilians, politicians to tourists. 

Third, the course will explore how the Cold War extended beyond the USA–Soviet axis, affecting Africa, Latin America, and Asia. We will examine hidden rivalries between rising powers and regional blocs and analyze their influence on global politics. 

Throughout the course, we will move beyond the dominant view of the Cold War as purely a political rivalry. Themes include technological and cultural modernity, dreams and realities of prosperous societies, economic competition and restrictions, decolonization and technological aid to the so-called Third World, technology transfers and encounters of smaller actors, and imagining the Other. 

These perspectives will allow you to study trajectories of communism and capitalism across the globe while uncovering both international tensions and cooperation. 

Upon completing the course, you will have a solid understanding of the period and a broad familiarity with diverse historical approaches. You will also have the option to choose assignments that develop your skills in critical reading, in-class discussion, and small research projects, enhancing your digital literacy. 

No prerequisites are required—only your interest. The course is taught in English, but you can fulfill assignments in Norwegian.