This course provides an introduction to the history of Socialism, Marxism, Leninism, and Maoism so that China Studies students may better understand the meaning of the phrase used to describe the official PRC doctrine: "Socialism with Chinese characteristics". The course examines the historical development of Socialism and Communism in a world context, and then focuses on the Socialist and Communist development in China. It also reflects on the recent and current trends of Socialism in the world.