The conviction that a situation – previously understood as given – can be altered, provides the starting point for people to come together, define a common agenda, and attempt to acquire power. But how does this process from articulation to mobilization take shape in different historical settings? From 24 to 27 June 2025, the Summer School of the Onderzoeksschool Politieke Geschiedenis, hosted at the University of Amsterdam, explored this question. Looking for politics on the streets, interviewing people, and visiting local research institutions, we developed our insights in constant dialogue with the city around us.

On Friday afternoon, September 19, the Research School Political History will officially open the academic year at the Allard Pierson in Amsterdam.

We are delighted to welcome historian prof. dr. Gert Oostindie as our keynote speaker. His lecture, titled ‘Colonialism & Memory Wars’, will explore the recent resurgence of interest in Dutch colonial history within Dutch society and politics. Oostindie will briefly ponder the reasons behind this renewed attention and the role historians have played in it. His primary focus, however, is to reflect on the merits, challenges and pitfalls of the present boom in critical colonial studies.

View the full program here.

The Training Program 2025-2026 for PhD’s and RMA students is currently being finalized. More information will be announced soon. Keep an eye on our website!