Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - HIST 225 D100

20th Century Europe (3)

Class Number: 3410

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A survey of European history from the First World War emphasizing the origins and effects of the World Wars, the emergence of the Soviet Union and of fascism. Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

This is a survey of Europe’s history from 1914 to the early 2000s.  As different ideologies and forms of imperialism and hegemony during those years, it is no exaggeration to say that Europe was transformed several times over.  As we look at the large forces and processes in play over this time, we will also pay attention to how real people – individuals and groups – struggled to adjust and to make sense of them.  This course will cover the two world wars; the interwar period and the rise of fascist and communist systems; the tensions of the “Cold War” and life in a divided Europe; the rise of the European Union; the shift from a bipolar to a seemingly unipolar world; the struggle between national and European identities and principles; and new challenges of the early 2000s. 

Grading

  • Tutorial 20%
  • First essay test 20%
  • Second essay test 25%
  • Final exam 35%

NOTES:

The tests will be written examinations with essay questions and primary source analysis.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

John Merriman, A History of Modern Europe, Volume 2.

Heda Margolius Kovály, Under a Cruel Star.

Merriman is available in e-format on VitalSource.  https://www.vitalsource.com/ Heda Margolius Kovály’s book is not. Both books are available in physical form. Additional material will be posted on Canvas.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Learn more about studing History at SFU:

History areas of study


Why study History?

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.