The 1981 French elections mark a political watershed, demonstrating that women voters have moved from political passivity to activism, both in use of voting rights and in legislative participation. A variety of demographic, social, and political changes have contributed to this changing political consciousness. (MSE)

This unit of study focuses on the historic period from 1920 to 1966 when China's Mao Zedong and India's Mohandas Gandhi constructed and applied their social and moral visions to their respective nationalist movements. These leaders developed contrasting methods to achieve social change and to establish the goals set for achieving the ideal…

Examines the dynamic and growing use of oral history in documenting the various social and political movements of the 1960s. Discusses those historical analyses and approaches particularly well served by oral history. Notes a decline in oral history in some areas due to logistical and funding difficulties. (MJP)

Maintains the contemporary political Soviet scene poses a major intellectual challenge to Western Sovietology. Analyzes reforms of the Gorbachev era and traces the development of change and the concepts of glasnost and perestroika. Discusses recent policies, problems, and strategies. Views revolution as a prolonged process. (NL)

Provides historical background to the recent democracy movement in China and its outcomes. Examines the extent of human rights violations and whether democracy can take hold in China. Highlights implications of government repression for international relations. Argues Chinese democracy will require restoration of political pluralism and civil…

Describes the somewhat contradictory movements towards political and economic integration and political decentralization in the European Union (EU). Discusses the implications of those trends for the future of the sovereign state, specifically for Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. Maintains that political power is being wrested away from core…