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Advanced Topics in Economic History

Key information

  • Module code:

    6SSPP363

  • Level:

    6

  • Semester:

      Autumn

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

This module is for students who are interested in economic history and wish to understand (i) the questions and debates that motivate current research and (ii) the methods used to address these questions.

This module covers a number of key events or developments in the economic history of the world. Each week focuses on one event (e.g. the Black Death) or one topic (e.g. trade). We learn about the historical context but also how the studies draw a connection to existing work in economics, political economy, political science and development. We also consider the challenges these studies face, including the unavailability of data. We discuss the most appropriate methods for the study of each specific research question (e.g. game theory, econometrics / statistics, a case study).

Each seminar is organized around one research article that students are asked to read in advance. The seminar will revolve around a critical discussion of this one article. By the end of the semester students will be able to read, understand and assess recent research articles published in leading academic journals.

Assessment details

2,000-word essay (40%) & 2-hour written exam (60%)

Educational aims & objectives

  • Discuss some of the most important events and episodes in economic history.

  • Use examples to introduce students to the methods most commonly used in the economic analysis of historical events.

  • Prepare students to read and understand recent research articles in economic history.

  • Enable students to formulate their own historical research.

  • Help students learn how the past can provide us with valuable lessons for the present.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module the students will be able to:

  • Read and engage critically with recent articles and books in economic history (including those focusing on periods they are unfamiliar with).

  • Formulate research questions in a way that allows for empirical analysis.

  • Conduct their own historical research, interpret the results, and draw lessons that are of value for today.

Teaching pattern

Lecture Schedule [indicative]

  1. Property rights and trade: Medieval guilds, Atlantic trade

  1. Knowledge, beliefs and technology: the printing press, the Protestant reformation, universities

  1. The Black Death

  1. Conflict and the origins of the state

  1. Path Dependence

  1. The Glorious Revolution and the French Revolution

  1. The slave trade in Africa, colonial legacies

  1. The extension of the franchise

  1. The Great Divergence between China and western Europe

  1. The Second World War and social capital

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.