How did epidemics and infectious diseases shape the 20th century? An international conference organised by the Institute of History on 23 and 24 March will examine "Epidemics in the social and cultural history of the 20th century".
Epidemics make history: plague, smallpox and cholera plagues kept people in Europe in suspense until the 19th century, as did typhus, tuberculosis and syphilis. But how has the history of epidemics developed since then? How have epidemics and infectious diseases characterised the 20th century? And what problems and opportunities arise for researchers exploring epidemics as contemporary historical phenomena?
These questions will be explored at an international conference organised by the Institute of History at the university on 23 and 24 March. The conference is entitled "Infected Europe: epidemics in the social and cultural history of the 20th century". Conference director Dr Malte Thießen, Junior Professor of German and European History of the 20th Century, is expecting over 40 participants from six nations.
The aim of the conference is to outline the contours of a social and cultural history of epidemics in the 20th century and to explore the subject in greater depth in case studies and comparisons. In addition to two overview lectures, the speakers - recognised experts and young academics - will explore different thematic approaches to the conference topic in five panels. These will focus on epidemics as a history of emotions, media and science, from a comparative, relational or gender perspective. The conference is funded by the PRO*Niedersachsen programme and the Gerda Henkel Foundation. Participation is free of charge. Registration by 4 March by email: anke.berding@uol.de
When: Friday, 23 March, 20:00 - 21:30
Where: Library hall