Print this page World War II Revisited: Unresolved Questions and New Perspectives

After more than eighty years after World War II, historians continue to investigate events, personalities and decisions that remain open to debate. New evidence, changing perspectives and ongoing research frequently challenge established interpretations. This course explores a selection of lesser-known wartime case studies, including the sinking of the Lancastria, the relationship between the IRA and Nazi Germany, the Soviet Union's all-female aviation units, and the Dieppe Raid. Participants will also examine influential figures such as Theodor Morell and Joachim Peiper, considering how historians interpret their roles and significance. Along the way, the course introduces the concept of historiography and demonstrates how historical understanding evolves as new sources emerge and old assumptions are reassessed. It also considers enduring questions surrounding figures such as Rudolf Hess, Heinrich Himmler and Albert Speer.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE OUTLINE

• Historiography and how the revision of previous accounts of history might alter or question our earlier views of events or leaders.
• World War II case studies which still have questions remaining including the Lancastria 1940, IRA and the Nazis from 1941, The Dieppe Raid 1942 and the all women Soviet Aviation squadrons from 1941.
• Significant individuals including Theodore Morel, Hitlers personal doctor and Joachim Peiper, Waffen SS officer and their contribution to events of World War II
• An overview of some remaining questions which are still not answered regarding the capture of Rudolf Hessin 1941, the apparent suicide of Heinrich Himmler 1945 and the survival of Albert Speer

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Gain an overview of some key World War II events and leaders and how research may have changed over time
• Discuss the roles of a lesser known key individuals relating to the case studies
• Consider what questions which remain to be answered and why evidence seems to be unavailable or non existent