Get an introduction to the hidden history, culture and people of the North East of England. Where was the light bulb invented? What about the first steam locomotive, or hydroelectricity? They were all invented in the North East of England. This course introduces you to the historical, technological and cultural connections between the people and places of the North East and the wider world.
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You’ll learn how the region’s industry and trade inspired global innovations in science and engineering.
You’ll explore the rich history of diversity in the North East, and what it means to be “Geordie”.
You’ll learn about regeneration in the North East today, and how it will affect the future.
What topics will you cover?
Week 1 - The global impact of stereotypes associated with NE England and what it means to be a ‘Geordie’
Week 2 - The pre-modern north east and how it flourished infrastructurally, culturally and economically as it moved increasingly towards full industrialisation
Week 3 - The industrial north east and its global connections between 1800 and 1960
Week 4 - The social, political, economic and cultural impact of the region’s rapid deindustrialisation as northeasterners came to terms with their post-industrial future between 1960 and 1999
Week 5 - The position of the region in a global context in its recent history, present and future (from 2000 onwards) and how dramatically this compares to previous eras
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you'll be able to...
- Demonstrate a greater appreciation of the diverse history, economic development, and cultures of the North East over time and in national and global contexts.
- Explain how the North East has impacted on the economy, cultures and politics of the world
- Interpret the significance of global forces in shaping North East history
- Explore the causes and consequences of industrialisation and deindustrialisation in the North East and, with that historical understanding, improved understanding of contemporary regional identity.
