Introduction

The London School of Economics (LSE) is one of the world's leading social science universities, known for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and influential alumni. Founded in 1895 by a group of philanthropists who were committed to improving economic understanding and promoting social reform, LSE has since become a global hub for economic thought and innovation. This article will explore the history of LSE's economics department, highlighting its key milestones, influential figures, and contributions to the field.

Early Years

In the late 19th century, Britain was experiencing rapid industrialization and urbanization. However, this progress came at a cost: poverty rates soared as workers struggled with low wages and poor working conditions. In response to these challenges, a group of philanthropists founded LSE with the goal of providing education in economics that would help address these issues.

Key Milestones

Founding Fathers: The founding fathers included Sir Sidney Webb QC MP FBA (1859-1947), Beatrice Webb (née Potter) OBE FBA (1858-1943), George Bernard Shaw CBE DCL LL.D., H.G.Wells CBE DSc FRSL (1866-1946), Eleanor Sidgwick CB MA PhD FBA FRAS (1845-1936), Alfred Marshall OM PC DLitt MA PhD FRS MInstCE HonFRSA HonFSS(Honorary Fellow Royal Society) Professor Emeritus University College Cambridge & Director King's College Cambridge(1842-1924)

First Lectures: The first lectures began on October 3rd 1895

Establishment: Established as an independent entity in June 1900

Expansion: Expansion into other subjects such as sociology anthropology politics law philosophy psychology geography statistics mathematics computer science engineering medicine dentistry veterinary science agriculture horticulture forestry veterinary pathology public health business studies international relations development studies management media communications language literature theatre drama music art design architecture film television radio broadcasting dance environmental sciences earth sciences natural resources biological sciences chemistry physics astronomy materials technology electronics biomedical engineering chemical biology systems neuroscience cognitive neuroscience neurology psychiatry pharmacology biochemistry genetics genomics molecular biology biotechnology nanotechnology renewable energy sustainable development climate change sustainable food systems water resource management

World War I: During World War I it was used as an army camp

6.World War II: It was used during World War II by both sides

7.Post-War Period: After World War II it became more focused on international relations than before

8.The Cold War Era: During this time it became more focused on political economy than before

9.The Post-Cold War Era: Since then it has been more focused on globalization than before

10.The Present Day: Today it is one of the most prestigious universities in Europe if not globally