This course involves an investigation of significant themes in the historical development of European society since 1914. Primary focus is on the issue of changing European perceptions of the nature of social organizations and of Europe's broader role in the international system. Topics include: the origin, nature, and effects of world war; the Russian Revolution and the rise of the Soviet state; the rise of Fascism and the emergence of totalitarian style movements; the construction of the Soviet empire in Eastern Europe and the emergence and ultimate resolution of the cold war; decolonization; and the rise of the welfare state and emergence of European federalism.