Research...Paper?

Although Andra and Mia have already done a great job of summarizing the topic we've chosen for our epic blogging research extravaganza, I suppose I should have a go of it as well. Basically, we as a group are interested in following three separate countries within Europe itself (as opposed to the allegedly uncivilized countries of Africa and the New World) that were under the control of other European powers at some point. We want to trace not only the methods of conquest and governance by the colonizing force, and, ultimately, the rise to independence by the weaker nation, but also the psychological effects of the period of outside control, and the legacy of such a period over the centuries.

Specifically, although we're still ironing out the details, it looks like Andra will be looking at the Baltic states controlled by USSR, I'm thinking of exploring the Spanish Netherlands, and Mia is looking into a few options, including Moorish Spain, Ireland, and Poland, before making a final decision.