This course explores the roles that warfare and the military have played in Asian history from the time of Sun Tzu (ca. 400 BC) to the present. It focuses on China, Japan, and confederations in the Asian steppe. It considers China's continuous interaction with forces in the steppe zone and key military developments that have shaped Chinese civilization up through the late 20th century. The examination of Chinese military history also considers the debate over the virtues and vices of militia armies and mercenaries. The examination of Japan focuses on the emergence of the Samurai, the development of military government under the Shogun, military modernization in the late 19th century, and the impact of the Japanese military on Asia in the 20th century. The course concludes with reflection on how the particular experience of war in each country continues to shape attitudes towards the military and warfare in Asia.
