World History since 1500

This thematic and comparative course surveys broad patterns of human development across cultures, the ways in which civilizations interacted, and recurring processes and problems encountered in global history from 1500 to the present. Central themes are the development of global trade networks, the significance of slavery in different world cultures, the foundations of the modern industrialized world, the rise of nationalism, and the effects of globalization. Students will investigate social, cultural, religious, and political aspects of the different periods covered. Restricted to students with freshman and sophomore standing. HA