This course will examine global historical developments that have shaped the field of public policy. By examining a range of key policy issues and events, students will develop an understanding of the context and background of contemporary policy issues. Just as importantly, they will critically examine the assumptions behind contemporary policy practices – where those assumptions came from, how they have changed over time, and how they have changed public policy. Throughout, we will think carefully about the ways in which history and historical analysis can be useful for policymakers. We will also examine historical narrative itself – how the stories that we tell about the past shape how we understand it and how we put it to use for policy goals. Overall, the course will provide both a substantive introduction to the history of policy, as well as opportunities for reflection about the field as a whole.