China since the Twentieth Century From Republicanism and Maoism to Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for the New Era
HIST 3805A
China since the Twentieth Century
From Republicanism and Maoism to Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for the New Era
Fall 2026 Instructor: Prof. Jacob Kovalio
Dear Students,
China – the second most populous nation on earth and the third largest in territory is also a civilization with a documented history of about 3000 years. This intensive, informative and most timely course, although focused on the period since the 1911 [Xinhai] Revolution, starts with a brief introduction of China’s premodern political and socio-cultural institutions and their legacy. The course subtitle refers to China’s three political regimes since the 20th century. Today’s People’s Republic of China [PRC] is a totalitarian, anti-democratic politico-social and cultural entity, driven by a unique and overall successful State-capitalist economy – all dominated by the Chinese Communist (in name only) Party [CCP] under ruler Xi Jin-ping’s “socialism with Chinese characteristics for the new era.” In 2026, this intriguing system, reminiscent of prewar Corporatist Italy and Germany is considered a viable alternative to democracy by many African and Asian nations.
Participants are strongly urged to attend classes regularly. Each twice-weekly class starts with a brief review of the latest Chinese news as covered by the People’s Daily or Global Times or China Daily. Questions and debates are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED. However, Social Networking and Texting in ANY form, as well as Eating are allowed only during breaks which usually include a musical interlude.
GRADING contains two elements: 1 – One in-class identification and definition exam-worth 50% of the grade. 2-One TYPEWRITTEN research essay, worth 50% of the grade, due at term’s end, and which should include : a – A cover page. b – A summary page. c – Footnotes as citation style. d – Up to five sources. There is NO mandatory length and NO email submission. AI may only be used as a research and preparatory tool. PARTICIPANTS MUST COMPLETE ALL ASSIGNMENTS IN ORDER TO BE IN GOOD STANDING.
The main knowledge-promoting instrument for the class is HIST 3805A : China since the Twentieth Century Learning Handbook [2026 edition] by Jacob Kovalio which will be in the our bookstore in early August. The traditional text for the course is Jonathan D. Spence’s classic The Search for Modern China [New York: W.W.Norton and Co., 2010] available in the bookstore and online.
411 Paterson Hall