Thoralf Klein

Thoralf Klein is a Professor in Chinese and Global History, specializing in China's global relations over the past 200 years. He holds a Dr. Phil from the University of Freiburg (2000) and a Dr. Habil from the University of Erfurt (2007). He was a Fellow at the University of Konstanz (2007/08). Currently, he serves as a review editor at H-Soz-u-Kult and on the advisory board of the journal Globalgeschichte/Global History. His research focuses on imperialism, religion, media, and Sino-German/African relations.

Education:

• Dr. Phil, University of Freiburg, 2000
• Dr. Habil, University of Erfurt, 2007

Research Interests:

• History of religion (Christianity, political religion)
• Imperialism, colonialism, postcolonialism
• Transcultural studies, media history
• Representation of China in the West
• Sino-German and Sino-African relations

Recent articles highlight themes like the Boxer War’s media representation, global modernity, and religious-political dynamics in modern China. Klein’s work bridges cultural and global historiography, emphasizing cross-border interactions.

Labs/Teams: Engaged with H-Soz-u-Kult and Global History networks, fostering transcultural dialogue in historical scholarship.