The Mongols’ dominance impacted China, Japan, and Korea in different ways in the 13th and 14th centuries. While some East Asians were subjects of the Mongols, others served as allies or resisted their insurgence. Through different disciplinary lenses including art and literature, this institute will examine the short-term rule and long-term implications and legacies of the Mongols in East Asia. We will explore themes of diversity, identity, and resistance that affected social structures, economies, and governances. This institute offers secondary teachers the opportunity to work with scholars and specialists to question established narratives and investigate primary sources to better understand the Mongols’ presence in East Asia.
In 2023, India replaced China as the world's most populous country. Over the past century, China has experienced significant demographic shifts influenced by rapid industrialization, stringent population control policies, economic reforms, and evolving social norms. This short course explores the historical context, motivations, and consequences of China's population control measures, as well as the subsequent policy shifts aimed at mitigating the effects of a shrinking population. The course will analyze:
· the socio-economic impacts
· gender dynamics
· regional variations in China's demographic transition
· the implications of these demographic changes on global economic trends and domestic social policies.
By the end of the course, participants will gain a nuanced understanding of China's demographic evolution, the role of patriarchal authoritarianism, and the global economic implications of India's population surpassing China’s.
Using Niki Alsford’s 2024 book Taiwan Lives: A Social and Political History, this course explores Taiwan's history from 1895 under Japanese rule to 2020 under President Tsai Ing-wen. Similar to The Canterbury Tales, the book features the stories of twenty-four individuals to illustrate significant periods, historical events, and social changes in Taiwan’s evolution and identity. Designed to enrich understanding and teaching of Taiwan’s history, this course offers participants a deep exploration of Alsford’s text, popular media, discussions with fellow educators, and the opportunity to meet the author.