CEUS U483 0677 Sperling
Introduction to the History of Tibet
A survey of Tibetan history from the earliest times to the present. Students will become
acquainted with several facets of Tibet's history, including the Tibetan empire of the 7th-9th
centuries, the impact of Buddhism on Tibetan political and social structures, aspects of Tibet's
relations with neighboring peoples, the development of the Dalai Lama's government, and the
current circumstances of the Tibetan people.
This course has been approved for culture option credit.
Exams: Midterm and final for undergraduate and graduate students; graduate students will also
be required to write a paper.
Texts: Tsepon W.D. Shakabpa, Tibet. A Political History. Graduate Students will also be
assigned additional articles to read from a list to be handed out during the first class.
Days and Time: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 11:15-12:05.