Instructor

Leonid Trofimov
trofimol@queensu.ca

Message from the Instructor

Welcome to our course! A few words about myself: I was born and raised in Russia, a country, which has always been uncertain about its place in Europe and about modernity in general. After witnessing the collapse of the USSR, I moved to the West to explore what was truly a New World to us.

I got my MA and PhD in history from the University of Illinois at Chicago. My research interests mostly focus on 20th century history. Most recently, I co-edited a collection of documents on World War I and the Russian Revolution. My dissertation examined the origins of the Cold War and I recently published an article examining the role of Soviet reporters at the Nuremberg trial of Nazi leaders in 1945-46. I am also more broadly interested in the ways culture influences the development of international relations.

In the course of the past few years, I have taught a number of European survey courses and seminars. Here is one question that we have to confront from the outset: how relevant is Europe to our modern, increasingly globalized world? Major 20th century conflicts like World War I, World War II, and the Cold War originated in Europe and our world is a very different place because of them. But neither these cataclysms, nor present-day Europe happened out of the blue. Our course will allow us to examine Europe's experience with modernity more closely and over a broader period of time.

I look forward to working with you. I believe there are three prerequisites to our success. First: reliable communication channels. Never hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. E-mail is the best way to get in touch, but I will also have regular Skype office hours (see below). Second: continuous engagement. We have to make sure to keep up with our readings and assignment schedule. Last, but not least: this is history, so let's enjoy it!