World History at a Glance

Renaissance 15 th century Period in history after the Middle Ages (aka the Dark Ages) Means “rebirth” Interest in classical learning (Greeks, Romans) New ways of thinking, exploration, art developed at this time

Emphasizes the value of human beings, and generally prefers critical thinking (reason) over acceptance of dogma (teachings long accepted) or superstition.

1454-Gutenburg printed what became known as the Gutenburg Bible on the first printing press

Intertwined… Scientific Revolution – new ways of thinking and viewing the universe new technologies Age of Exploration

European countries searching for an all-water route to Asia to get spices, silk, and more Portugal began exploring 1 st in the early 15 th c. Columbus suggested sailing west to get the east; accidentally “discovered” the new world

How did Europeans influence the areas they explored/colonized? Created colonies Spread Christianity Introduced new language Regulated trade (controlled the economy)

Exploration led to creation of colonies… Mercantilism Governments regulated trade to create a favorable balance, THAT IS nations built their wealth by making sure they have more exports than imports and stockpiling gold and silver. Colonies were a critical part of mercantilism; they supplied the raw materials AND the markets for finished products.

Protestant Reformation The Protestant Reformation was a major 16th century European movement aimed initially at reforming the beliefs and practices of the Church Key ideas of the Reformation – a call to purify the church – a belief that the Bible, not tradition, should be the sole source of spiritual authority

Catholic Church Lutheranism Presbyterian Huguenot Church of England Methodist Baptist Calvinism