EdU HIS1005 Lecture 01 What is Modern World

WHAT IS MODERN WORLD?

  • Introduction to the concept of the modern world, its origin, meaning, and impact.

Course Synopsis

  • This course is the second part of a world history survey from 1500 to present.

  • Major themes:

    • Increasing interconnectivity of global regions.

    • Influential forces: religion, trade, warfare, science, colonialism, industrialization, migration.

    • Emphasis on early economic growth and technological progress led mainly by Western countries.

    • Global perspective focusing on major historical events and themes linking diverse regions.

  • Topics explored:

    • Spread of major religions.

    • Age of Exploration.

    • Rise of modern nation-states and empires.

    • Global economic market emergence.

    • Political ideologies and nationalism developments.

    • World Wars I and II and the age of globalization.

Assessment Tasks

  • Group Presentation

    • Topic related to origins of the Modern World.

    • Weight: 20%

  • Midterm Exam

    • Open-book exam based on lecture content and assigned readings.

    • Weight: 30%

  • Final Essay

    • 1,200-1,500 words on a key theme/ issue explored in depth.

    • Weight: 50%

Required Textbook

  • A History of the Modern World, Ninth Edition.

    • Authors: R. R. Palmer, Joel Colton, Lloyd Kramer.

Course Content Overview

  • 16th and 17th Centuries: New ways of understanding the world.

  • 18th Century: Challenges to the old order.

  • 19th Century: The coming of modernity.

  • 20th Century and Beyond: Towards a global civilization.

Why Choose the Inquiry at 1500?

  • Emergence of dramatic world changes initiated by the West post-1500.

  • Transition from Medieval to Modern periods initiated by exploration and colonization actions.

  • Example: The Reconquista impacted European expansionist endeavors.

The Historical Importance of 1500: Nationalism

  • 16th century marks rise of nationalism.

  • Shift from feudal particularism to national consciousness in Britain, France, and Spain.

  • Nationalism undermined feudalism and Christian universalism.

Science and Technology since 1500

  • Notable increase in scientific achievements in the 16th century.

  • Transition from reliance on Eastern knowledge to Western scientific innovation.

  • The Scientific Revolution initiated where cities became centers of learning.

Before Beginning the Lecture

  • Understanding modern history necessitates examining its European origins.

  • The modern world arose from Europe’s complex political, military, economic, and scientific advancements.

1.1. The Rise of Europe

  • Europe, by 1300, emerged robust against invasions from Asia (Huns, Magyars, Tartars, Ottoman Turks).

  • Transition from barbarism to a distinct European civilization established by 1300.

1.2. Comparing 13th Century China and Europe

  • China's political unity hindered similar scientific advancements seen in Europe.

  • European competition (kings, lords, cities) fostered conflict and innovation.

1.3. The Early Modern World History

  • By 1300, Europe had developed its own socio-political institutions and characteristics.

  • Christianity challenged and evolved through rational and philosophical inquiry.

2.1. Secularization

  • Transition from traditional to modern societies led to re-evaluation of religious beliefs.

  • Latin Christendom pioneered the process of secularization, creating space for new interests.

2.2. Tragedies to Christian Europe

  • Series of tragedies (Mongol invasions, Ottoman control) heavily impacted Christianity's influence.

  • A notable decline in Church dominance and challenges to its authority emerged.

2.3. Mixture of Decline and Revival

  • Protestant Reformation posed challenges to the Catholic Church, emphasizing a shift towards secular values.

  • A new European identity began to form from the mix of decline and revival activities.

3.1. The Black Death

  • Bubonic plague caused massive population decline in the 14th century.

  • Resulted in social upheaval and significant alterations in marriage and family structures.

3.2. Revolts and Repressions

  • Labor shortages post-plague led to increased wages but also to revolts due to socio-economic dissatisfaction.

  • Peasant uprisings occurred as a reaction to class tensions.

3.3. The Hundred Year’s War

  • Conflict between England and France featured the rise of early English nationalism.

  • Used iconic tactics (longbows), establishing national identities.

4.1. Troubles of the Medieval Church

  • Church’s achievements led to vulnerabilities, corruption, and inability for reform.

  • Papacy began losing influence amid growing dissatisfaction.

4.2. The “Babylonian Captivity”

  • Avignon Papacy perceived as subservient to French influence, damaging papal reputation and authority.

4.3. The Great Schism

  • Division of the papacy (Roman vs. Avignon) caused lasting impact on Christian unity and authority.

4.4. Response to Crisis

  • Emergence of alternative religious perspectives challenging established ecclesiastical authority.

  • John Wyclif’s ideas foreshadowed later reform movements.

5. The Conciliar Movement

  • Efforts to resolve the papal schism resulted in more complexities, with attendance encumbered by rivalries.

  • Ultimately resulted in diminished papal power but continuity of religious leadership in Europe.

Conclusion

  • The impact of long-lasting crises shaped transitional dynamics for Europe post-1500.

  • Strengthened monarchies and emerging national identities by the late 15th century.

  • The historical significance of the church’s crisis foreshadowed significant religious reformations to come.

Suggested Reading

  • Chapters 1 & 2 from A History of the Modern World, R. R. Palmer and Joel G. Colton.