Since the beginning of the nineteenth century, the business of war has been monopolized by nation states. Over the past decade, mercenaries and private military companies have re-emerged as an important force in world politics. The new trend to contract the task of war has changed warfare and the nature of state control over violence. This unit examines the historical development of the mercenary from the medieval period to the present day in Asia and Europe. The focus is on the shifting relationship between the state and private violence. -- Course Website
Instructor: Dr Reto Hofmann
Prerequisites: A first-year sequence in History or permission
