What do historians mean when they speak of politics and the political today? Approaches to political history have diversified significantly, raising new conceptual, theoretical, and methodological questions. This course invites Research Master students to explore recent debates and approaches in the history of politics, in both early modern and modern contexts. Dates: 29 January; 5, 12, 19, 26 February; 5 March 2026. Registration deadline: 8 January 2026, via: bureau@onderzoekschoolpolitiekegeschiedenis.nl

Participants will examine how key concepts shape the study of political history and what these developments mean for historical methods and source analysis. The course offers a critical overview of the current state of the field while encouraging reflection on new directions and unresolved questions.

At Research master level, students will learn how to define and apply key concepts in political history, critically assess political-historical scholarship, analyse sources using conceptual tools, and develop these insights in discussion and written work.

Dates: 29 January; 5, 12, 19, 26 February; 5 March 2026
Time: 13:30-15:15
Location: Radboud University
Credits: 5 ECTS (6 ECTS optional)
Registration deadline: 8 January 2026, via: bureau@onderzoekschoolpolitiekegeschiedenis.nl