Human Migration and Expansion in the Rise of the Asia-Pacific

This course illuminates the dynamic past of the Asia-Pacific including the arrival of early people and later human expansions that populated our region and led to the region's distinctive and influential cultures, states and nations. Significant events covered in the course include the emergence of complex societies culminating in expansive empires and early globalisations, such as those of the Qin, Khmer, Kofun, Joeseon, Lapita, Tonga and Polynesia. The course examines the movement of people from mainland and island Asia to the remote islands of the Pacific and the environmental impacts of hunting and foraging and farming as well as the impact of natural events such as climate change on social formations. The course includes practical sessions and the study of material culture from ancient societies. It will be of particular interest to students seeking to further their understanding of the Asia-Pacific region and those looking to develop expertise in government and NGO organisations that are engaged in regional issues such as the environment, cultural heritage, public policy, foreign affairs and think tanks.