Russia's invasion of Ukraine, political radicalization, the crisis of the US, the rise of China - these are global shocks that define our current moment. But in Europe, it is commonly said, they have a particular meaning. Not only are they close at hand. They signify a particular type of shock, a "pivot in time" as Germany's Chancellor Scholz put it. They signify an awakening. They signify "the return of history". Looking back to the 20th century, I want to explore the recurring theme in European public debate of the "end" and the "return" of history.

About the speaker

Professor Adam Tooze teaches and researches widely in the fields of twentieth-century and contemporary history. From a start in modern German history with a special focus on the history of economics and economic history his interests have widened to take in a range of themes in political, intellectual and military history, across a canvass stretching from Europe across the Atlantic. His most recent book was Crashed: How a Decade of Financial Crises Changed the World (2018).

Host and Sponsors

This event is hosted by the Institute for European Studies (IES), part of the Mario Einaudi Center for International Studies. The IES Luigi Einaudi Distinguished Lecture is an annual event.