The conference theme is “Histories of Capitalism,” and thus papers or panels which explore the intersection of politics and capitalism are especially welcome. However, we encourage scholars working in all areas of the history of politics to submit individual papers or complete sessions.

In light of our location next year and current political developments, the following suggestions for sessions and topics emerged from the discussion.

A panel discussion on the pending presidential election in the United States.

A session devoted to past Canadian politics [what period], perhaps with particular attention to an analysis of poll books.

Recent developments in the politics of higher education, including state funding decisions, calls for privatization of public institutions or separating flagship institutions from state systems, and plans to measure faculty “productivity” in terms of research funding and course enrollments.

A comparison of Canadian and U. S. polity on a range of issues: immigration, gun control, health care or gay marriage, and financial regulation.

A session on the role or social media in current political affairs – facebook, twitter, i-phone and android phones, etc. International perspectives that include the Middle East would be especially welcome.

Canadian and U. S. relations with China.

Modern Day populist campaigns, perhaps comparing and contrasting the Tea Party movement with the Occupy Wall Street uprising.

The role of Asians in American and Canadian politics, perhaps noting the role of Confucian Institutes.

The politics of financial crises, perhaps putting the current economic turmoil in Europe and the U. S. in some perspective, and perhaps including an analysis of how Canada largely managed to elude the financial meltdown.

In light of the 50th anniversary of the Cuban missile crisis, and ongoing tensions with Iran, a session on the politics of nuclear containment or proliferation.

The above items should be considered only as suggestions and areas where the network will actively seek out presenters, but papers and sessions dealing with a wide range of other political themes are very much welcome.