Learning objectives
The course is designed to offer the necessary means to discern the elements of continuity, transformation or turning points in the political-institutional processes related to the world of diplomacy and of international politics, in order to critically understand the historical achievements and failures of the models of collective security and international cooperation, as seen in a dynamic perspective between the universal institution of reference and the power politics of States.
By the end of the course, the knowledge students will have acquired will not only foster a more lucid grasp of the diplomatic practices through which States reflect their foreign policy views into international politics; but will also enhance an objective and dispassionate interpretation of international relations and of today's world community, also in the light of the cultural tradition and moral heritage which are components of the European identity.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
In the first part of the course, the historical evolution of the art of diplomacy will be examined: from its ancient and medieval origins to the rise of modern permanent diplomacy and its phases of development in the contemporary age. Particular attention will be paid to diplomatic sources and correspondence, as well as to the pontifical diplomacy as the most ancient example of diplomacy of a non-State actor in the international system. The second part of the course will cover issues of international politics related to the long and complex phenomenon of decolonisation during the 20th century: from the first mandates of the League of Nations in the aftermath of the First World War to the several independence processes of the people of Asia, Africa, and America.
Full programme
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Bibliography
A reading list for the exam includes the following two compulsory volumes.
1) De Leonardis, M. (2021). Storia dei trattati e politica internazionale. Fonti, metodologia, nascita ed evoluzione della diplomazia permanente. Milano: Educatt.
2) Duce, A. (2013). Storia della politica internazionale (1945-2013). Il tramonto degli imperi coloniali. Roma: Edizioni Studium (from p. 82 onwards).
Students who had already taken the exam of History of international relations based upon the text under point 2, are required to replace it with the following book:
Duce, A. (2019). Storia della politica internazionale (1957-2017). Dalle conquiste spaziali al centenario della Rivoluzione d’ottobre, Roma: Edizioni Studium (only pp. 23-188, 258-323, 333-432, 449-578, 600-610).
Students from previous academic years who have not yet taken the examination are required to submit the syllabus relating to: the year in which they formally completed their attendance; or the year in which they actually attended the course; or the last concluded academic years.
Teaching methods
Lectures will be supported with PowerPoint slides. Analysis of diplomatic documents, treaties and historical maps, seminars with experts and scholars are also planned.
Assessment methods and criteria
Considering that this is an advanced course of History of International Relations and according to the stated educational objectives, the examination consists of an oral interview aimed at verifying, by means of two or three questions, not only knowledge and understanding of the themes of the course programme, but also the ability to apply the methodological instruments gained and to be able to synoptically correlate historical events. The final assessment, calculated out of 30 marks, is based upon the candidate's ability to synthesise and analyse a historical problem, the exactitude regarding at least the most significant historical data, the correctness of the presentation and the vocabulary of the discipline.
Other information
Referring to a historical atlas is highly recommended.
