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Unit 1: Renaissance and Exploration

  • The Renaissance (14th-17th century)
    • Originated in Italy, promoting humanism, art, and classical learning.
    • Key figures: Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael
    • Influence of patrons like the Medici family.
  • Age of Exploration
    • Motivations: God, gold, glory.
    • Key explorers: Columbus, Magellan, Vasco da Gama.
    • Impact on indigenous populations and the Columbian Exchange.

Unit 2: Reformation and Religious Wars

  • Protestant Reformation
    • Martin Luther’s 95 Theses challenging Catholic Church practices.
    • John Calvin and the development of Calvinism.
    • Counter-Reformation led by the Council of Trent and Jesuits.
  • Religious Wars
    • Impact of the Peace of Augsburg (1555).
    • Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) affecting Europe’s political landscape.

Unit 3: Absolutism and Constitutionalism

  • Absolutism
    • Characteristics of absolute rulers like Louis XIV of France.
    • The concept of the divine right of kings.
  • Constitutionalism
    • Development in England: Magna Carta, Glorious Revolution.
    • Influence of John Locke’s ideas on government and individual rights.

Unit 4: Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment

  • Scientific Revolution
    • Pioneering figures: Copernicus, Galileo, Newton.
    • Shift from geocentric to heliocentric models of the universe.
  • Enlightenment
    • Emphasis on reason, science, and individual rights.
    • Key thinkers: Voltaire, Rousseau, Montesquieu.
    • Influence on modern political thought and revolutions.