Economic History

Economic History provides a long-term perspective on economic and social development. Our studies concern current topics relating to globalisation, the environment, migration and gender from the perspective of economic history, but also classical issues relating to economic growth and distribution, business, entrepreneurship and innovations: A small discipline, addressing the Big Questions.

• Why, when and how did the West grow richer than other parts of the world?
• What effects has globalisation had on the division of labour and standard of living?
• Will the Earth¿s resources be sufficient in the future? How has previous environmental threats been handled?
• What is the significance of migration to economic and social development?
• Why do men and women do different jobs and receive different incomes?

The Department of Economic History is part of the School of Business, Economics and Law at the University of Gothenburg. We offer courses at First Cycle, Second Cycle and Third Cycle level. Research constitutes an important part of what we do.

Our students can read First Cycle level economic history within the scope of the economics programme, history teacher training, the European studies programme and as independent courses at the School of Business, Economics and Law. We also offer special Master courses.

The teaching staff and researchers at the Department participate in international networks and projects and publicize in international journals. Cooperation and interaction with trade and industry and society is another important activity.