History and geography of Canada 15-HIGK-KAN-11

The course constitutes an introduction to the geography and history of Canada. The first, shorter part, focuses on various aspects of physical and political geography of present-day Canada. Against this background the second, more extensive part is set which outlines the main political, social and cultural developments in Canadian history from prehistoric times to present day. The classes are set in chronological order and cover the history First Nations of North America, exploration and colonization, Canadian confederation and gradual independence within the British Empire and the Commonwealth and post-WWII developments. A particular emphasis is placed on the creation of Canadian national identity, French-English relations and the relations with the United States. To complete the course students need to participate in in-class discussions, prepare a number of reading assignments and take a geography test and the final exam.