History

There was no more world-changing event of the twentieth century than the Russian Revolution of 1917. It laid low the world's biggest Empire and brought to power revolutionaries--the Bolsheviks--determined to transform their country and the world. Guided by the political philosophy of Karl Marx, the Bolshevik leaders nationalized all businesses, real estate, landed property, and financial assets. They repudiated traditional diplomacy and what they called "imperialist war." They worked to abolish the free market and money. They legalized abortion, simplified divorce, and appointed the world's first female ambassador and cabinet minister. They also launched a crusade against world capitalism.

The course provides an introduction to Swedish politics. Topics discussed include the political system in general, the constitution, the government and the various Swedish political parties. Both historical and contemporary perspectives are taken. Emphasis is on the role of Sweden as a small country in a global context, and as a member of the European Union and the United Nations. Swedish attributes such as the "Swedish Model" and the policy of neutrality are analyzed from a historical perspective as well as with reference to the present situation. Special attention is given to policies concerning issues of social welfare, gender equality, refugees and diversity.