HS1FBB-From Berlin to Baghdad: The origins of the War on Terror

Module Provider: History
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Mara Oliva
Email: m.oliva@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module examines US foreign in the post-Cold War era, with a particular focus on the tragedies of 9/11 and the ‘War on Terror’ which followed, and their influence on the US and its role in the world. This module is optional for SINGLE HONOURS STUDENTS ONLY.

Aims:
The aim of this module is to obtain an understanding of US foreign policy in the post Cold War world. In particular, it focuses on how the tragedies of 9/11 and the subsequent £War on Terror£ have provided the clear organizing principle lacking in US foreign policy since the containment of communism became an irrelevant notion in 1989.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that students will be able to:

• identify the sources of the topic in question


• trace its historical development


• be aware of differing historiographical interpretations of the pattern and causes of this development


• understand how ideas and events are shaped by their historical contexts


• organise material and articulate arguments effectively in writing, both unde r timed conditions and in assessed courseworkÌý


• demonstrate familiarity with bibliographical conventions and mastery of library skills.

Additional outcomes:

The module also aims:

• to encourage students to think independently


• to help students develop good oral and written communication skills


• to develop the effectiveness of students in group situations


• to develop IT skills through the use of relevant resources.

Outline content:
Beginning with the fall of the Berlin wall in 1989, this module looks at America£s search for a purpose in the post-Cold War world. In the 1990s, George H.W. Bush envisioned the US as the guardian of a £new world order£, and the Clinton administration sought the £enlargement£ of America£s political and economic influence. However, both presidents eventually came to accept, albeit grudgingly, that America£s multifaceted roles, responsibilities, and objectives could not be reduced to a single fund amental principle. During the early years of the George W. Bush administration, it appeared that the tragedies of 9/11 and the subsequent £war on terror£ would provide the clear organizing principle lacking in US foreign policy since the containment of communism became an irrelevant notion. For a time, most Americans were united in support of Bush£s foreign policies and the military incursions into Afghanistan and Iraq. As the swift invasions transformed into grinding occupations, however, popul ar support for Bush£s policies waned, and the rubric of the war on terror lost much of its political and rhetorical cachet. By analyzing these issues, the module will allow students to understand the US role in the world and its influence in the face of the post Cold War world£s daunting complexities.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Teaching is by eight two-hour seminars over one term. Students are reminded to email their tutors for help and advice whenever needed and to note office hours.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One 1-hour unseen paper requiring 1 answer.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

One written assignment of c. 1,250 words, to be submitted via Blackboard on Turnitin, by 12 noon on the submission deadline in Week 11 specified on the module site on Blackboard. Five marks will be deducted if the coursework exceeds 1,312 words (i.e. 5% over the word limit).

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Where a re-sit is permitted, students will be assessed on the failed element(s) only in August. Any element(s) already passed will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed mark of 40% or more. The module mark will be capped at a maximum of 40%. Failed coursework must be re-submitted by 12 noon, on the last Friday of August.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1. Required text books:


2. Specialist equipment or materials:


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:


4. Printing and binding:


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification:


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 31 March 2022