Module manager: Dr Sean Fear
Email: S.Fear@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
This module is not approved as a discovery module
The module provides an overview of international history from the end of the First World War through to the end of the Cold War. In doing so, the module introduces you to key themes and periods in twentieth-century international history and provides context for more in-depth modules that will be studied later in the programme. The module addresses questions of continuity and change, as well as the roles of individuals, institutions and ideas/ideology.
The aim of the module is to introduce you to key themes and periods in twentieth-century international history, as well as to develop your skills in engaging with relevant scholarship, conducting critical analysis and effectively communicating your ideas in writing.
By the end of the module, you should be able to:
1. Explain key concepts in twentieth-century international history, such as nationalism, decolonisation, Cold War and détente.
2. Identify and assess the principal sources of conflict and stability in international relations from the end of the First World War to the end of the Cold War.
3. Critically evaluate scholarly arguments made with regard to international history in the secondary literature.
Skills learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module you will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4. Locate and synthesize large amounts of information.
5. Apply critical thinking skills to historical problems.
6. Deploy analytical and problem-solving skills in a range of contexts.
7. Effectively communicate complex ideas in writing.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Seminar | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Private study hours | 180 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 20 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Time will be set aside in class to discuss preparation for the OTLA and for in-class exercises (guided by the tutor) aimed at assisting you in identifying core module themes and concepts for review.
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Online Time-Limited assessment | 48.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 29/08/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team