Author Profile

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.

About The Book

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.

Table of Contents

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 Contemporary Global Issues
Continuities and Changes in Global Politics
Historical Roots of International Conflicts
Environmental and Climate Diplomacy
Technology and Global Governance
Migration and Transnational Movements
Human Rights in Historical Context
Revisiting Sovereignty in the Modern Era
Future Directions in Historical International Relations
Bibliography
Index