Anchor Dates: Topic 1

Vocabulary flashcards covering key anchor dates, events, movements, and concepts of European history from the 14th century to the late 15th century.

14th century (1300’s)

Humanism develops.  Focus on Antiquity and value of man (as opposed to Scholasticism, which drew inspiration from Medieval period & Bible).  Develops into Italian and Northern (Christian) Humanism.

1450

Printing Press invented by Gutenberg - allows the spread of ideas more quickly through the printing of books & pamphlets. Helps spread the Reformation.

1453

Fall of Constantinople - Ottoman Turks sacked Constantinople.  Allows Ottoman expansion into Eastern Europe.  End of Roman (Byzantine) Empire.

1453

End of Hundred Years’ War - fought between England and France.  EFFECTS: loss of all English territory in France except Calais.  Increased taxes -> unrest.  Decline in importance of nobility in battle due to longbow.

1490-1527

High Renaissance - paintings and sculpture influenced by Humanism (antiquity & value of man).  Shading (chiaroscuro) & linear perspective create more lifelike art.  Botticelli, Michelangelo, Rafael, da Vinci, etc.

1492

Ferdinand and Isabella unite Spain - rise of consolidated monarchies in Europe.  Subdued the nobility & expelled Moors and Jews (reconquista & inquisition).  Similar state consolidation in France & England while HRE & Italy remain fragmented.

1492

Voyage of Columbus - begins Age of Exploration & Columbian Exchange which introduced new food to Europe -> population growth.  Inflation from influx of silver/gold bullion from the New World.