This course offers an in-depth exploration of the major political developments and cultural transformations that shaped Britain and the United States throughout the twentieth century. By examining both nations comparatively, the course highlights how their internal dynamics, global roles, and cultural productions interacted to define the modern Western world. Students will investigate key historical moments—from world wars to the Cold War, civil rights movements, and late-century globalization—while analysing how political decisions, social change, and cultural expression intersected in each context.
Politically, the course traces Britain's transition from imperial superpower to welfare state and U.S. ally, alongside America’s emergence as a global hegemon. Students will study major political crises, public policies, shifting party ideologies, and international leadership roles, paying particular attention to transatlantic cooperation in diplomacy, security, and economic policy.
Culturally, the course explores the rise of mass media, consumer culture, and artistic movements that redefined identity, gender, race, and class in both societies. It examines literature, film, music, media, and popular culture as both reflections and drivers of political and social change. Special emphasis will be placed on moments of cultural exchange—such as the spread of Americanization in post-war Britain and British cultural waves influencing the United States.
By combining cultural and political lenses, the course encourages students to understand the twentieth century as a period in which Britain and the USA both diverged and converged in shaping global modernity. Through lectures, documents, films, and comparative analysis, students will gain the conceptual tools to critically assess transatlantic relations and the evolving identities of both nations.
- المعلم: AMINA M'LILI