New directions in the history of imperial and global networks

An ECR workshop at the University of Exeter, in collaboration with the History & Policy Global Economics and History Forum. 23 June, Reed Hall, Exeter (12-5pm)

Following the Brexit vote and the election of Donald Trump on a protectionist programme much debate has focused on the future of economic, political and humanitarian networks and the apparent challenges to globalisation present today. This, in turn, has stimulated interest in earlier histories of imperial and global networks. In Britain, for example, there has been a great deal of discussion of the potential value of reviving historical trade links with the Commonwealth, a move which has pejoratively been referred to as ‘Empire 2.0’ by its critics.

As well as showcasing new research in the history of imperial and global networks this workshop will include a seminar on training in public engagement, focused on addressing public audiences and policy-makers, led by History & Policy. We invite papers from early career researchers on any aspects of the history of imperial and/or global networks since c.1800. ECRs are defined as postgraduate students or those within ten years of the award of their PhDs. Topics may include (but are not limited to):

– How have the politics of imperial/ global networks been shaped by the growth of supranational organisations?

– What had been the role of political actors, business organisations, and NGOs in shaping the development of imperial/ global networks?

– How have popular audiences been mobilised historically in support or opposition to particular concepts of imperial/ global economic or political relationships?

– How should we recast existing histories of imperial and global networks in the light of Brexit, and how should we interpret Brexit in the light of these histories?

Participants will receive feedback on their papers from invited established scholars including Martin Daunton (Cambridge) and colleagues in the Centre for Imperial and Global History Exeter. The event is part of a series generously funded by the British Academy. Please send a title and 150 word abstract to David Thackeray (d.thackeray@exeter.ac.uk) by 21 April.