This class offers students an opportunity to explore the rich historical links that exist between Yale and Japan, and, in the process, to deepen their understanding of Japanese and East Asian history, U.S.-Japan relations and aspects of the Asian-American experience. The class is also designed to guide students through the process of preparing an original research paper using the remarkable collections of archival materials available at Yale. It offers ideal preparation for those planning to write a senior thesis in History or East Asian Studies, but is also a good fit for any student who simply wants an opportunity to explore the Yale libraries more deeply. Over the course of the semester we will discuss various collections of Japan-related materials held in the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library and the Manuscripts and Archives Department at Sterling Memorial Library.
No knowledge of Japanese is required or expected, but students who are interested in using the language to conduct research are, of course, very welcome.
Instructor: Daniel Botsman