Highlights - Changing World

Religious Change: The 15th century saw significant changes in Christianity, including the rise of humanism, Protestant Reformation, and the questioning of the Church's authority.

Italian Renaissance: The Renaissance movement in Italy (14th century) emphasized classical learning, humanism, and artistic innovation, with cities like Florence and Venice playing key roles.

Humanism: Humanism emerged as an intellectual trend, focusing on human creativity, aesthetic, reasoning, and logic. Italian Humanism emphasized classical learning, while Christian Humanism merged humanist ideals with religious teachings.

Late Medieval Heresy: The Black Death led to questioning of the Church's authority, with movements like Lollardy (John Wycliffe) and Hussitism (Jan Hus) critiquing the Church's practices and doctrine.

Martin Luther: Luther's 95 Theses (1517) challenged Catholic teachings, advocating for salvation through faith alone, questioning indulgences, and emphasizing the Bible as the ultimate authority.

Shifting Trade Patterns: The fall of the Byzantine Empire led to new trade routes being explored, including the Atlantic Ocean. Spain and Portugal led European expansion in the late 15th and 16th centuries.

John Cabot: Cabot sailed across the Atlantic in 1497 and 1498, seeking new lands and trade opportunities for England.

Changing Dynasties: Both Scotland and England experienced significant dynastic changes in the 14th-15th century. The Stewart dynasty rose to power in Scotland, while the Tudors took over in England after defeating Richard III at Bosworth Field.

Wars of the Roses: The Wars of the Roses (1455-1485) saw a conflict between the Lancastrian and Yorkist factions in England, with the Tudors eventually emerging victorious.