The graduate students in History at the University of Toronto are pleased to invite proposals for the Fourth Annual Graduate History Symposium, to be held February 8-9, 2008. The aim of this two-day conference is to explore scholarly research into cross-cultural relations. We understand culture in its broadest sense as a shared system of values and attitudes, and as such would encompass religion, race, ethnicity, nationality, politics, class and gender. Any topic related to the theme of cultures in contact will be considered.

Globalization, multiculturalism, ethnic tension - evidence of cultures in contact is all around us. History shows us that transnational and cross-cultural interactions are not unique to the contemporary world. For centuries, different cultural groups have come into contact. The effects have been both positive - enrichment of languages & art, technological advancement, exchange of knowledge - and negative - wars, imperialism, racism, discrimination. The outcome of such interactions are at the centre of Cultures in Contact.

Based in one of the most multicultural cities in the world, the University of Toronto is an exciting place to discuss these issues. We encourage submissions from graduate students from all disciplines. It is our goal to provide a supportive environment for graduate students to present work in progress and receive feedback.

Proposals, which should not exceed 250 words, should be emailed to culturesincontact@utoronto.ca. Please also include a short biographical sketch. The deadline for submissions is November 16th, 2007. You will be notified of acceptance by mid-December.

For more information, visit our website:
http://www.chass.utoronto.ca/gradhistsymp/AGHS4