This course introduces the complex and colourful history of East/Central Europe, the region that lies between today's Germany and Russia on the North European Plain. Despite centuries of invasion and conquest from almost all directions, its peoples formed strong national identities, rich cultures and at times, powerful states of their own. We will also dip into the history of their neighbours, particularly Russia and the Balkan countries and we will discuss how far the region's past might determine its future in the changing and dangerous world of the 21st Century. No special knowledge or preparation are needed, but some reading and videos may be recommended for those who are interested.