Until recently, the history of European imperialism was often comparative history, in which the British and French empires, and sometimes also the Dutch empire, were compared with each other. Only recently has there been more talk of a more common European approach to the colonial past, which also pays attention to the way in which European countries without overseas territories were involved in the imperial projects of other European countries. Moreover, recent research shows that the European integration process was closely intertwined with modern imperialism and decolonization. 

Tonight’s speakers will explore the advantages and disadvantages of this historiographical focus on Europe’s countless entanglements with the rest of the world. What are the pros and cons of studying modern imperialism as a collective European endeavour? They seek to address this issue not only by focusing on the historical debate, but also by taking into account current political issues and social tensions.