1. Dark Ages

2. The Dark Ages is a period that begun with the fall of Rome and ending in 1095 with the launch of the first Crusades. When Rome fell, trade collapsed and the European World was set into chaos. New groups of people scattered across the land. They were uneducated people who spoke different languages. Muslim people began moving into what had been Roman territory in the past. Their influence spread quickly and they took over many lands.

3. Middle Ages Geography Chapter 17.1

4. Physical Features of Europe Small continent Part of Eurasia-a large landmass that includes both Europe and Asia (Ural Mt. divide the 2) Diverse land – Different landforms – Waterways – Climates

5. Landforms Topography- refers to the shape and elevation of land in the region There are maps that show the Topography The different colors show different elevations

6. Landforms and waterways Mountain ranges – cover most of southern Europe – Some peaks in the Alps are higher than 15,000 feet – Snow fields and glaciers North of Alps are plains Rivers – Many in the north Peninsula – Many – Scandinavia-Largest

8. Climate – Varies in different regions – South- warm and sunny, trees that don’t need a lot of water – Northwest- mild and cold, wet, freezing in winter – Scandinavia- very cold throughout the year

9. Geography Shapes Life Most people lived on the coastal plains – Grew crops-grapes, olives By the mountains, they raised sheep and goats Rivers provided transportation and trade – Also provided easy access for invaders

10. Questions to answer p. 499 Answer questions 1a/b and 2 a-c

11. Europe after the fall of Rome Chapter 17.2