This course dwells on Southeast Asian modern history, specifically during the period of Western imperialism from the second half of the 19th century until the Japanese interregnum. A foundational overview of the history of the region from the rise of the classical states and their encounter with the Western powers will be given, to fully understand the dynamics which led to the mid 19th century phenomenon that last through until the Japanese occupation. The course will equip second year undergraduates with an understanding of the main themes, problems, debates, and types of sources relating to that history.