The Handbook of Historical International Relations serves as a foundational text that systematically bridges the gap between historical inquiry and international relations theory. It challenges the "presentist" bias of the field by demonstrating that global politics did not begin with the Peace of Westphalia. Instead, the volume explores a vast array of global systems, from ancient empires to pre-colonial African and Asian polities. By integrating historical sociology, the contributors examine how long-term structural changes—such as the evolution of sovereignty, diplomacy, and trade—have shaped the contemporary world. This approach encourages scholars to move beyond Eurocentric narratives and recognize the pluralistic origins of global order. The collection further investigates the racialized hierarchies and colonial legacies embedded within international law. It highlights the role of non-state actors, such as merchant companies and religious movements, in constructing transnational networks. By emphasizing the "longue durée," the handbook provides the tools to deconstruct modern political concepts. It remains an essential resource for understanding the historical contingencies of power, identity, and global governance across diverse temporal and spatial contexts.
Leo Sanchez stands as a distinguished scholar whose expertise profoundly informs the discourse within the Handbook of Historical International Relations. His intellectual contributions are characterized by a rigorous synthesis of classical political thought and contemporary global sociology. Sanchez has dedicated much of his career to deconstructing the Eurocentric foundations of international theory, advocating for a more inclusive history that recognizes the agency of non-Western actors. His work often explores how ancient and medieval diplomatic practices established the precedents for modern global governance. Through meticulous archival research and theoretical innovation, he has helped redefine the "historical turn" in the discipline, ensuring that the study of the past remains a critical tool for analyzing power structures today. As a key contributor and expert associated with this landmark volume, Sanchez focuses on the intersection of institutional development and cross-cultural encounters. He is particularly recognized for his analysis of imperial systems and the evolution of territorial sovereignty across different civilizations. By moving beyond the traditional Westphalian narrative, his scholarship highlights how diverse regional orders—from the Mediterranean to East Asia—contributed to the shared heritage of international society. His pedagogical approach emphasizes the importance of the longue durée, encouraging students and peers to view current geopolitical shifts as part of a continuous historical process. Sanchez’s role in the Handbook reflects his commitment to providing a sophisticated, multi-layered framework for understanding the complex origins of the modern world.
Preface Chapter 1. Foundations of Historical International Relations Defining Historical International Relations Scope and Significance of the Field Interdisciplinary Approaches History and International Relations: Convergences Key Concepts and Terminology Sources and Evidence in Historical IR Periodization in Global History Debates on Historical Interpretation Chapter 2. Classical and Early International Systems Ancient Diplomatic Traditions Empires and Interstate Relations in Antiquity Greek City-States and Balance of Power Roman Imperial Governance Early Asian International Orders Religious Influences on Early Diplomacy Trade Networks and Cultural Exchange Decline and Transformation of Early Systems Chapter 3. Medieval International Orders Feudalism and Political Fragmentation The Role of the Church in Diplomacy Islamic Caliphates and International Relations Byzantine Diplomacy Crusades and Cross-Cultural Interactions Trade Leagues and Economic Diplomacy Norms of War and Peace Transition to Early Modern Systems Chapter 4. Rise of the Modern State System The Peace of Westphalia and Sovereignty Emergence of Nation-States Absolutism and State Power Diplomatic Practices in Early Modern Europe Colonial Expansion and Global Order Balance of Power Politics Legal Foundations of International Relations Transformation of Political Authority Chapter 5. Imperialism and Global Expansion European Colonial Empires Economic Motivations and Trade Cultural and Ideological Justifications Resistance and Anti-Colonial Movements Imperial Rivalries and Conflicts Impact on Indigenous Societies Globalization in the Imperial Age Decline of Empires Chapter 6. War and Diplomacy in the 19th Century Congress System and Concert of Europe Nationalism and State Formation Industrialization and Military Power Diplomatic Alliances and Treaties Revolutions and International Impact Expansion of Global Trade Legal Developments in Warfare Prelude to Global Conflict Chapter 7. World Wars and International Transformation Causes of the First World War Diplomacy during World War I The Interwar Period and League of Nations Causes of the Second World War Wartime Alliances and Strategies Post-War Settlements and Reconstruction Emergence of Superpowers Institutional Foundations of Modern IR Chapter 8. Cold War Era Ideological Conflict: Capitalism vs. Communism Formation of Military Alliances Proxy Wars and Regional Conflicts Nuclear Deterrence and Arms Race Decolonization and New States Diplomatic Negotiations and Treaties Cultural and Political Influence Chapter 9. Post-Cold War International Relations Emergence of a Unipolar World Globalization and Economic Integration Rise of International Organizations Regional Conflicts and Interventions Terrorism and Security Challenges Humanitarian Interventions Multipolarity and Emerging Powers Evolving Diplomatic Practices Chapter 10. Historical Perspectives on Contempo
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