This course is an introduction to the causes and character of conflict in Asia, especially the conflicts that either have involved or could plausibly involve the United States of America. These conflicts often combine aspects of civil conflict with aspects of international politics, and one of the important themes of the course will be to look at Asia’s conflicts through both of these lenses. In addition, we will examine America’s foreign policy options and how it selected strategies to deal with these conflicts. By the end of the semester, students will 1) Be familiar with the key historical events and concepts related to conflict in East Asia 2) Be able to explain these developments using a range of major theories and conceptual lenses in comparative politics and international relations. The course will explore the questions and topics covered in the course using historical, literary, and audiovisual materials.