Baker Peace Conference 2019
Contemporary History Institute

Contemporary History Institute

Contemporary history students and faculty explore the historical impact of recent world events on today's contemporary landscape. They seek interdisciplinary perspectives about the period in world affairs from World War II to the present.

To broaden the conversation about contemporary history with colleagues and the community, the institute hosts eminent speakers throughout the academic year plus the annual Baker Peace Conference each spring.

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Upcoming Events

Contemporary History Institute events are free open to the campus and community.

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Thursday, February 20 2025 Baker Peace Conference: After Saigon’s Fall: The Postwar Decade (1975-1985)’ 3:00 PM — 9:00 PM Walter Hall
Friday, February 21 2025 Baker Peace Conference: After Saigon’s Fall: The Postwar Decade (1975-1985)’ 10:00 AM — 5:00 PM Walter Hall

Recent Events

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The Evolution and Revolution of College Sports

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Recent News About the Contemporary History Institute

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Len Elmore

Guest speaker event featuring former NBA player Len Elmore

The Contemporary History Institute hosts the 7th annual Elizabeth Evans Baker Endowed Lecture featuring Len Elmore discussing “The Evolution and Revolution of College Sports” on Thursday October 24 at 7:30 p.m. in Baker Center Theater.

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Girl working on laptop surrounded by trees

Five doctoral students awarded Contemporary History Institute fellowships

Five graduate students are the 2024–25 recipients of the Contemporary History Institute's Klinder Fellowships and the Baker Peace Fellowships.

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View of South Green at sunset. 

Baker Peace Conference to focus on 'Democracy in Decline?' on Feb. 22-23

The Contemporary History Institute will host the 2024 Baker Peace Conference, themed “Democracy in Decline? The Politics of Pluralism, Participation, and Populism,” on Feb. 22-23.

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