CHE2105

Introduction to Chinese History: China and the West 1500-2000

Faculty
Prof. Ronnie Hsia

Course Description
This course will analyze China’s history in the world and her relationship with the West from the 16th to the 21st centuries. Topics are organized both chronologically and thematically. We will begin our survey with the arrival of the Portuguese on the southern Chinese coast and end with examining Sino-Western relations on the eve of the Beijing Olympics. We will examine different phases of contact: from peaceful cultural encounter focused on trade and Catholic missions during the Early and High Qing dynasty to military and diplomatic conflicts in the 19th century, from confrontation between Chinese nationalism and communism with western imperialism to détente and diplomatic normalcy in modern times. Thematically, this course will focus on the three main aspects of Sino-western exchanges: trade, culture, and war and diplomacy; the history of Hong Kong will also feature in our study. There will be two field trips, to the Museum of Maritime Defense and the Museum of Hong Kong History.

Note:
CUHK students may use this course to fulfill the requirements of CHE, University General Education (Area A)* or general elective.  (* CUHK History majors cannot take this course to fulfil General Education requirements.)