Topic 1: Discuss the origins of the Cold War in Europe. Was it inevitable? What factors brought it about? What were the major aspects of the Cold War? What was the role of the European governments in it? How did the Cold War impact Europe?

Topic 2: Compare the development of Eastern and Western Europe in the first post-WWII decades. What common features can you identify in this development? What were the most significant differences? Where did they come from?

Topic 3: Discuss the origins of the European integration. What factors brought it about? What goals did the architects of the European integration pursue? What alternatives were under consideration? What impact did the integration have upon the participating countries?

The purpose of this assignment is to help you develop your argumentative writing skills as well as an ability to approach historical phenomena in a comparative perspective.

You are not expected to analyze primary sources for this assignment. However, you have to demonstrate an ability to use relevant secondary sources in support of your argument.