1. There will be a short QUIZ on this during your next class.
Concepts that you need to understand in order for “Modern History” to make sense.
There will be a short QUIZ on this during your next class.
Modern History – Beginning in the 15th Century, The Renaissance through the Enlightenment.
Late Modern History – From the 1700’s onward (The age of Revolution)
Contemporary History – From 1945 to present. Looks at things directly responsible for the way we live now.

2. Feudalism and dominance by the Catholic Church are slowly fading away
Feudalism and dominance by the Catholic Church are slowly fading away. Being replaced by Absolutism and Humanism
Absolutism – Hereditary rule by one leader – a king
Humanism – Sees Human beings and the things they accomplish as more important than divine or supernatural matters.

3. Humanist beliefs:
Stress the potential value and goodness of human beings
Emphasize common human needs
Seek solely rational ways of solving human problems.
Total dependence upon an all powerful deity no longer necessary

4. Compared to our present time, change during the Early Modern Era did not happen quickly.   This is chiefly because change is dependent upon the spread of ideas. (communication) The faster and more efficiently we can communicate our ideas, the faster innovations in science, technology and society can develop.

5. Major leap in communication: Johannes Gutenberg and the invention of a printing press with moveable type.

6. With the printing press makes the access of ideas faster and, more importantly, cheaper.
Everyone can have access, not just the wealthy.
As literacy and education increases along with various technologies; change occurs at an increasingly rapid pace.

7. During the Renaissance interaction between Europe and the Middle East brings an exchange of ideas.
This includes the rediscovery of lost knowledge from classical Greek and Roman times.

8. European trade is blocked (or is at least not as prosperous) in the East which is controlled by Islam.
Therefore, Europe must try to find a way of getting to Asia by traveling West.

9. RESULTS: The exploration and colonization of the Americas spreads European (“Western”) culture, as well as the genocide of Native Americans and the enslavement of African peoples.

10. Summary of Concepts Important to the Study of Modern History
Shift of focus away from God and toward Humans.
Rediscovery of forgotten knowledge.
Feudalism gives way to Absolutism
The Exploration and colonization of new areas and the subsequent subjugation of non-Europeans
Better communication spreads new ideas.