Canadian business history has fallen out of favour among recent historians. While the field was extensively studied in previous decades, it became displaced by the growing popularity of social and cultural history. However, Canadian business history is deeply intertwined with broader questions about the economic, social and political climate of the country. Through examining key themes in business history in the last two centuries, this course will provide a broader perspective on the role and perception of Canadian business and industry in the country's past. It will also question what these lessons can tell us about its present economic state and its potential futures. This course includes discussion sessions which, along with the assignments, are intended to help students develop their critical reading and communication skills. Students do not need a background in economic or business history to succeed in this course.
Canadian business history has fallen out of favour among recent historians. While the field was extensively studied in previous decades, it became displaced by the growing popularity of social and cultural history. However, Canadian business history is deeply intertwined with broader questions about the economic, social and political climate of the country. Through examining key themes in business history in the last two centuries, this course will provide a broader perspective on the role and perception of Canadian business and industry in the country's past. It will also question what these lessons can tell us about its present economic state and its potential futures. This course includes discussion sessions which, along with the assignments, are intended to help students develop their critical reading and communication skills. Students do not need a background in economic or business history to succeed in this course.
