Course Overview
This course traces the emergence of modern nations and civilization in the 19th and 20th centuries. Students will investigate the evolution of modern Germany, Italy and Russia in the West, and the emerging nations of Asia. They will also study the impact of 19th century colonialism in Africa and Asia, the problems which led to the Great War of 1914 and its effect on the world. It traces the development and impact of fascism on the world leading up to World War II and the Holocaust. Finally, students will explore the world since 1945 with the emergence of the Cold War, Communist China, modern Japan, the problems of the Third-World nations, and the chaotic world of the Middle East.
Topic 1- Renaissance and Reformation
The Renaissance was a rebirth of classical Greek and Roman teachings and culture, especially in the arts. It began in Italy and later spread to northern Europe. Some of the greatest artists in history like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, became prominent and respected figures for their time and for eternity with the masterpieces they created. It was an era of new ideas as well. Writers like Machievelli gave an honest guidebook to government and Thomas More suggested an ideal society. It was also the birth of the most famous writer of all time, William Shakespeare. The Reformation occurred as a result of the Renaissance's most important invention, the printing press. Word quickly spread across Europe in criticism of the Catholic Church as a host of new religions began to develop in "protest", starting with Martin Luther's new church. This period led to much unrest across Europe as many religious groups attempted to establish their hold on the continent.
