An exhibit of Ollin Klubi posters

Spring Seminars 2010.

Research on Churches and the Cold War: Experiences and Challenges

Date: Thursday, 6 May 2010, 4-6 pm, Pinni B3110

Speaker: Professor Aila Lauha, University of Helsinki

Invitation poster

Abstract: The Department of Church History at the University of Helsinki has coordinated and conducted research on churches and the Cold War since the late 1990s. In her paper, Professor Aila Lauha will discuss some threats and challenges which are relevant to this kind of study on the recent past. In addition, she will give some general insights into research carried out under her supervision, especially within the EU funded research project ‘Churches and European Integration’.

Reassessing Cold War Europe: View from the 'Other' Side

Date: Thursday, 8 April 2010, 2-4 pm, Pinni B3110

Speaker: Dr. Sari Autio-Sarasmo, Senior Researcher at the Aleksanteri Institute, University of Helsinki

Invitation poster

Abstract: This presentation focuses on the Eastern point of view to the Cold War era in Europe. It is based on the new approach to the Cold War studies which emphasises interaction and collaboration instead of confrontation and conflict between East and West. The presentation is based on the forthcoming book 'Reassessing Cold War Europe', edited by Sari Autio-Sarasmo and Katalin Miklóssy (Routledge 2010).

From Neutron Bombs to Cruise Missiles: NATO’s Tightrope Walk, 1977-1979

Date: Thursday, 25 March 2010, 2-4 pm Pinni B3110

Speaker: Dr. Kristina Spohr Readman, Senior Lecturer at the London School of Economics

Invitation poster

Abstract: This lecture explores NATO’s road to reaching its 1979 dual-track decision, a landmark in the nuclear policy of the Western Alliance. Based on recently released archival evidence, Dr. Spohr Readman sheds new light on how NATO came to look for the reinforcement of its deterrent capability via long-range theatre nuclear missiles. She will argue that the 1979 decision owed much to the creativity of the Germans, British and Norwegians, while the Americans were struggling to ever truly lead.

The United States and the Baltic Question during the Cold War: Practical Considerations of the Symbolic

Date: Friday, 19 March 2010, 10-12 am, Pinni B3110

Speaker: Jonathan H. L’Hommedieu, University of Turku

Invitation poster

Abstract: The Cold War’s contested memories have been a persistent source of tension between Russia and the Baltic States. An important component of the Baltic States’ narrative is the continual non-recognition of the Soviet annexation by the United States. This lecture looks at the real implications that this often considered symbolic policy had on international relations during the early Cold War. In addition, the question of what role, if any, the policy had on the outcome of the Cold War will be addressed.

The United States and Iran: How to Move On?

Date: Thursday, 18 February 2010, 2-4 pm, Pinni B3110.

Speaker: Dr. Barbara Zanchetta, Researcher at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs

Invitation poster

Abstract: Barbara Zanchetta's lecture assesses the roots of the impasse between the United States and Iran, unveiling the complex motivations of the mutual hostility that has characterized the bilateral relationship for decades. Dr. Zanchetta puts the nuclear controversy into a broader context, while underlining the overall strategic importance of Iran for the United States, and for the "West" in general. Finally, she tackles with the issue of how to improve relations in the foreseeable future.

Obama and Transatlantic Relations: One Year on

Date: Thursday 21 January 2010, 2-4 pm, Pinni B 3110.

Speaker: Jussi Hanhimäki, Finland Distinguished Professor.

Invitation poster

Abstract: The election and inauguration of the first African-American president of the United States was greeted with great enthusiasm throughout Europe. Were such hopes misplaced? This presentation will review the evolution of US-European relations in the first year of the Obama administration and argue that the Obama Doctrine may well differ from the Bush Doctrine in its methods but is remarkably similar in its overall goals and the role that transatlantic relations play in U.S. foreign and security policy.

The seminars are held in English. All welcome.
Enquiries to Benedikt.Schoenborn(at)uta.fi.

Previous Seminars.