Since independence in 1947, the countries of South Asia have seen major wars, a nuclear arms race, dozens of small insurgent movements supported by neighbors, and complicated politics around identity, citizenship, and migration. At the core of these issues are questions about whether and how to transition a multiethnic, multireligious empire into nation states. This course will explore the major questions of war, peace, and politics in modern South Asia. Why did India and Pakistan fight three wars in the first 25 years of independence, but have largely avoided open conflict since? Why have some insurgencies escalated into major conflagrations while others have simmered at low levels for decades? How have religion and language shaped patterns of migration and citizenship, and been shaped by them in return? Along the way, students will design and conduct their own research on key issues in South Asian politics. |