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960
Rise of the Song Dynasty in China (960-1279, China, East Asia)
During the Song Dynasty, the emperors and Confucian scholar-bureaucrats strengthened the imperial bureaucracy through the expansion of the civil service examination system and emphasized Neo-Confucian philosophy. There were many developments in this era such as gunpowder, the magnetic compass and woodblock printing. The dynasty's governance reforms and advancements led to long-lasting precedents not only in China but across East Asia, influencing neighboring regions for centuries. -
1200
Feudalism in Europe (1200-1450)
In Western Europe, Feudalism created a rigid class system and decentralized political power, shaping medieval European society and land-based economics. Feudalism involved kings, lords, knights and peasants. Themes that correlate with this event are Political, Social and Economic. -
1206
Mongol Conquests and Pax Mongolica (1206-1368)
The Mongol Empire, located in Central Asia, became the largest contiguous land empire in history. The Empire was able to facilitate trade across Eurasia through the Pax Mongolica. The empire helped revive the Silk Roads which led to cultural and technological exchange. Other groups involved with the Mongols during the time were the Song Dynasty, Abbasid Caliphate, etc. Themes that connect to this event are Governance, Economic Systems Cultural Interactions. -
1215
Creation of Magna Carta
In England, a famous document known as the Magna Carta was established by the English community to limit the powers of the monarchy, laying the foundation for constitutional governance. A theme related to this event would be Political Structures. -
1235
Rise of the Mali Empire
The Mali Empire became a powerful state in West Africa, led by two notable people; Sundiate Keita and Mansa Musa. Especially under Mansa Musa's ruling, who made a famous pilgrimate to Mecca, the empire gained lots of wealth, proving Mali's prosperity during that era. Themes involved in this event are Political Structures and Economic Systems. -
1271
Marco Polo's Travels to China (1271-1295)
Marco Polo traveled from Venice to China from 1271 to 1295. His detailed narrations introduced Europe to Asia's wealth, culture and developments such as paper money. His journey reflected the silk Roads' significant trade networks and fostered cross-cultural exchange. These travels boosted European interest in Asian goods and exploration. The event is key for showing Eurasian interconnection before modern globalization. -
1279
Introduction of Paper Money in China
The Song Dynasty introduced paper money in China, revolutionizing trade and economic systems in China and influencing global commerce. Merchants were heavily involved in the use of paper money, as it was beneficial in exchanging goods. Themes correlating with this topic are Economic Systems and Technology and Innovation. -
1280
Establishment of the Swahili City-States
The Swahili city-states emerged as significant trade hubs in East Africa, connecting Africa to Indian Ocean trade networks. They facilitated the exchange of gold, ivory and enslaved people with other regions, blending African and other foreign cultures. Themes involved in this event are Economic Systems, Cultural Interactions and Social Structures. -
1280
Expansion of the Silk Roads
The Silk Roads facilitated the exchange of goods like silk, spices and porcelain, as well as ideas, technologies and religions, including Buddhism and Islam, between diverse cultures. Groups of people involved in this event were merchants, travelers and empires such as the Abbasid Caliphate. Themes that correlated with this event are Networks of Exchange and Culture Developments. -
1291
The Crusades (1096-1291)
A series of religious wars that occurred in Europe and the Middle East were initiated by European Christians to reclaim Jerusalem from Muslim rule, leading to increased cultural exchanges between Europe and the Middle East. People involved in this event were the European Christians, Muslim forces and the Byzantine Empire. Themes correlated with this event were Cultural Interactions and Religion. -
1347
The Black Death (1347-1351)
The Black Death spread across Europe, Asia, North Africa and other regions across the globe; impacting the entire world. The Black Death decimated populations, leading to significant social, economic and cultural changes, including labor shortages and shifts in power dynamics. Themes involved in this event are Humans and the Environment and Social Structures. -
1453
Conquest of Constantinople
In 1453, Sultan Mehmed ll of the Ottoman Empire captured Constantinople, ending the Byzantine Empire. The city, strategically located, became Istanbul, the capital of the Ottoman Empire. The conquest shifted power and trade routes to the Ottomans and led to European exploration to find news routes to Asia. This event is the most significant in Unit 2 because it symbolized the end of the Byzantine Empire, shifted trade power to the Ottomans and launched a new era of Islamic imperial power. -
1492
Columbian Exchange
The Columbian Exchange facilitated the widespread transfer of plants, animals diseases and cultures between the East and West hemispheres. Crops like maize and potatoes revolutionized diets in Europe, while animals such a as horses and cattle transformed the Americas. Disease spread rapidly, wiping out indigenous populations. This event is the most significant in Unit 3 because it impacted economics, environments and societies globally. -
1500
Expansion of the Indian Ocean Trade Network
The Indian Ocean trade network expanded significantly during this period, facilitated by advances in maritime technology such as the lateen sail, rudder and astrolabe. This expansion led to increased trade in goods like spices, textiles, etc. which led to cultural exchanges, including the spread of Islam and the development of diasporial communities. Themes involved in this event are Economic Systems, Cultural Developments and Networks of Exchange. -
1500
Portuguese Trading Post Empire
Portugal established a trading post empire in regions such as Indian Ocean (East Africa, India, Southeast Asia) and Brazil, controlling key maritime trade routes rather than large territories. Portuguese explorers and merchants, as well as local rules were involved as this trading post empire changed global commerce by introducing European dominance into Indian Ocean trade. Themes related to this event are Economic, Political, Technology and Interaction between humans Environment. -
1500
Devshirme System in the Ottoman Empire
The devshirme System recruited Christian boys to be trained as Janissaries (elite soldiers) and bureaucrats in the Balkans, Ottoman Empire. This strengthened the centralized Ottoman power and created a loyal administrative class. Themes involved to this event are Political and Social. -
1500
Transatlantic Slave Trade
From West Africa across the Atlantic Ocean, over 12 million Africans were forcibly transported to the Americas. This system fueled plantation economies (especially sugar) and had a devastating impact on African societies. European traders and African negotiators also played a key role in this. Themes related to this event are Economic, Social, Political and Interaction with the Environment. -
1501
Establishment of Safavid Empire
Shah Ismail established the Safavid Empire in Persia, announcing Shia Islam is the official religion. The Safavid Empire had an on-going conflict with the Sunni Ottoman empire. Themes involved in this event are Religious Developments and Political Structures. -
1503
Establishment of the Spanish Encomienda System
Among the Indigenous peoples in Spanish Colonies in the Americas, especially the Caribbean and Mesoamerica, a system of forced labor was established that exploited Indigenous populations; later replaced by African slave labor. It led to colonial social hierarchies as well. Themes related to this event are Social, Economic and Political. -
1547
Expansion of the Russian Empire under Ivan's rule
Ivan lV, also known as Ivan the Terrible, expanded Russian territory eastward into Siberia, reducing the power of the nobles and using military force to maintain control. This expansion laid the foundation for Russia as a major Eurasian power. People who were impacted by this event were the boyars (nobility) and Cossacks. Themes that relate are Political and Interaction with Environment. -
1556
Akbar's Reign and Religious Tolerance in the Mughal Empire (1556-1605)
Akbar centralized power in the Mughal Empire and promoted religious tolerance through established policies. He expanded the empire significantly and supported cultural development and diversity. People involved with this event in the Mughal Empire were the Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, etc. Themes that correlate with this event are Governance, Cultural Developments and Religious Interactions. -
1556
Akbar's Rule in the Mughal Empire
Akbar, the Emperor of the Mughal Empire in South Asia (India), promoted religious tolerance in a population filled with Hindus and Muslims, abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims, and created a centralized government. His reign is seen as a high point in Mughal political and cultural strength. Themes related to this event are Political, Cultural and Social. This event is the most significant in Unit 2 because Akbar's Reign was a powerful example of unifying a diverse population under on empire. -
British East India Company Charter
The British East India company began as a private trading company in India, conducted by England during the time of Queen Elizabeth's rule. Over time, the company developed into a political and military force, leading to British imperialism in India. Themes that connect to this event are Economic, Political and Social. -
Creating of the Tokugawa Shogunate
Japan was unified under a centralized feudal regime in 139. There were policies established which had severely limited foreign influence and trade, causing Japan to be an isolated nation. Tokugawa leyasu was involved as she led Japan during this time, as well as Japanese daimyos and Christian missionaries. Themes correlated to this event are Governance, Technology Innovation and Cultural Interactions. -
Tokugawa Shogunate Established in Japan
The Tokugawa Shogunate unified Japan, located in East Asia, after a long period of civil war. It centralized power under the shogun, established strict social hierarchies, limited foreign influence, and initiated over 250 years of peace and isolation under the sakoku policy. People involved in the established social hierarchies and the event in general were Tokugawa leyasu, daimyo (feudal lords) and samurai. Themes correlated to this event are Political, Social and Cultural. -
Reign of Louis XlV in France
In France, King Louis XlV centralized power in the monarchy, built the Palace of Versailles to control the nobility and promoted the idea of divine right kingship. His rule is a key example of absolute monarchy, which impacted the French nobility and commoners. Themes that relate to this event are Political and Social. -
Establishment of Gunpowder Empires
The Ottoman Empire, Safavid Empire and the Mughal Empires were the three known Gunpowder Empires located in Southwest, Central and South Asia. These Empires were known for their military strength, religious and political conflicts (especially between Sunni and Shia Muslims), architectures (ex. Taj Mahal) and cultural diversity. Their rise marked a new era of imperial expansion and centralized bureaucracy. Themes that connect to this event are Political Structures Technology and Innovation. -
Invention of Gutenberg Printing Press
Gutenberg's printing press revolutionized the production of books, making written material more accessible and affordable. This innovation helped spread knowledge quickly across Europe, contributing to the spread of the Protestant Reformation and Scientific Revolution. It also led to the growth of literacy and development of the spread of information. People involved were Johannes Gutenberg, European Scholars, religious leaders, printers, etc. A theme involved is Technology Innovation. -
Creation of the English Bill of Rights
The English Bill of Rights was enacted after William and Mary ascended to the throne. This bill limited the powers of the monarchy and promoted more power to the Parliament, It outlined the civil liberties, right to petition the king, protection from cruel/unusual punishment, etc. People involved in this event were King William lll, Queen Mary ll, Parliament of English and English citizens. Themes related to this event are Political Structures, Governance and Social Structures. -
The Industrial Revolution in Britain
A major shift to mechanized manufacturing and urbanization had occurred in Britain by British inventors (ex. James Watt), factory workers and entrepreneurs. The Industrial Revolution transformed economies, social classes and labor systems. Britain became the global industrial leader. Themes related to this event are Economic, Technology, Environment and Social. -
The American Revolution
The revolution occurred among the American colonies led by Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, etc. against the British government. The revolution resulted in the creation of the United States and inspired other revolutionary movements, especially in France and Latin America. It also applied Enlightenment ideals like natural rights. Themes related to this event are Political, Culture and Social. -
The French Revolution (1789-1799)
The French Revolution was a crucial event where the French people, inspired by Enlightenment ideals, overthrew the monarchy and established a republic. French leaders began to lead radical changes, while the revolution spread the ideas of liberty and equality. The political, social and cultural changes reshaped France. This event was most significant in the unit because it led to global revolutions and marked the rise of modern democratic ideologies and the decline of monarchies. -
The Haitian Revolution
The Haitian Revolution occurred in Haiti, Caribbean as a result of the first successful slave revolt in world history; led by the Enslaved Africans and Toussaint L'Ouverture to the establishment of Haiti was the first Black republic. It challenges global systems of slavery and colonialism. Themes related to this event are Political, Social and Culture. -
Opium Wars
The Opium Wars occurred after Britain forced China to open ports and import the Opium drugs, which was at China's disfavor. This led to the First Opium War and the Second Opium War. Themes related to this event are Economic, Political and Culture. -
Meiji Restoration
The Meiji Restoration marked Japan's shift from a feudal society under the Tokugawa Shogunate to a modern, centralized state. Under Western pressure, Japan rapidly industrialized, adopted Western political and military practices, and became an imperial power. This transformation, led by Emperor Meiji and reformers, is key for political, technology and economic themes, as Japan became the first non-Western industrial power, changing the dynamics of global power. -
British Raj in India
After the Sepoy Mutiny, the British took direct control of India, ending the rule of the East India Company. This marked a new era of formal imperialism with new governance and economic exploitation. It involved the British government, Indian rules and Queen Victoria. Themes related to this event are Political, Economic, Social and Culture. -
Construction of the Suez Canal
The Suez Canal was invented in Egypt by French and Egyptian engineers, later under British control. The canal drastically reduced travel time between Europe and Asia. It became a key strategic imperial technique, especially for British access to India. Themes connected to this event are Technology, Economic, Interaction with Environment and Political. -
Chinese Exclusion Act
The Chinese Exclusion Act was enacted in the United States, restricting immigration from China. It reflected based off the growing anti-immigrant sentiments due to economic changes and racial ideologies. This was implemented by the U.S. congress and American laborers, targeting Chinese immigrants. Themes correlated to this event are Social, Political and Economic. -
Berlin Conference
European leaders decided to divide Africa into colonies without African input. The conference involved many European powers such as Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, etc. This decision formalized the Scramble for Africa and led to brutal systems of colonial rule. Themes related to this event are Political, Economic, Social and Interaction with Environment. This is the most significant event of the unit as it prioritized European imperial dominance over Africa, leading to cultural disruption. -
Congo Free State Under King Leopold ll
In Congo, Central Africa, King Leopold ll implemented brutal forced labor and mass killings during rubber extraction. Its a key example of exploitative colonial rule, as it directly impacted the Congolese by forcing them to produce labor. Themes related to this event are Economic, Social and Political. -
World War l
A total war that occurred between the Allied Powers (Britain, U.S., France, etc.) and Central Powers (Germany, Ottoman Empire, etc.) led to massive casualties, the collapse of empires and political tensions. It also laid the foundation for WWll. Themes involved in this event are Political, Social and Economic. This is also the most significant event of the unit because it was the beginning of modern, industrialized warfare and revolutionary political changes. -
Russian Revolution
The Russian monarchy, led by Tsar Nicholas ll, was overthrown and the world's first communist state was established. This inspired socialist movements and led to the formation of the Soviet Union. People involved in this event were the Bolsheviks, Vladimir Lenin and Russian workers and peasants. Themes connected to this event are Political, Economic and Social. -
Great Depression
The Great Depression resulted from the severe global economic crisis that led to mass unemployment, poverty and a shift toward state intervention in the economy. This also contributed to the rise of totalitarian regimes. Themes connected to this event are Economic, Political and Social. -
World War ll
World War ll, one of the deadliest wars, involved the Axis Powers (Germany, Japan, Italy, etc.), Allied Powers (U.S., Soviet Union, Britain), civilians and Holocaust victims. The atomic bombings, decolonization movements and the establishment of the United Nations. Themes related to this event are Political, Social Technology and Economic. -
Holocaust
The Holocaust was a systemic genocide of 6 million Jews and millions of others. The genocide was led by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime in the Nazi-occupied parts of Europe, with their control impacting Jewish communities and disabled individuals. The Holocaust is an example of racial ideology and totalitarianism, leading to international human rights efforts. Themes connected to this event are Social, Political and Culture. -
Creation of the United Nations
The United States, Soviet Union, United Kingdom, China and 46 other founding nations established the United Nations to promote international peace and human rights cooperation after WWll. The United Nations replaced the league of Nations and has since contributed majorly to global diplomacy and humanitarian efforts. Themes connected to this event are Political, Culture and Social. -
Truman Doctrine and Marshall Plan
The Truman Doctrine was established in 1947 by President Harry Truman and U.S.c Congress as a policy to prevent the spread of communism. The Marshall Plan was also established by Truman, providing massive economic aid to rebuild Western Europe, strengthening capitalist alliances. Themes involved in this event are Political and Economic. -
Partition of India
The end of British rule in India resulted in a divided subcontinent as religious tensions grew among the Hindus and Muslims. The Partition was led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah to create a separate land for the Muslims, known as Pakistan. Themes related to this event are Social, Political, Religious, Human-Environment Interactions. -
Algerian War of Independence
The Algerian War of Independence was one of the bloodiest decolonization struggles, as a result of the Algerian movements against the French colonial government's control. It involved the National Liberation Front, French government and Algerian Civilians. Themes involved in this event are Social, Political and Human-Environment Interaction. -
Great Leap Forward
Mao Zedong, the ruler of China at the time, had implemented an economic and social campaign to rapidly industrialize China and collectivize agriculture led to famine and millions of deaths. Themes connected to this event are Economic, Social and Technology (industrialization). The event impacted the Chinese Community Party and Chinese peasants. -
Cuban Missile Crisis
The Cuban Missile Crisis occurred, due to the conflict between the U.S. and USSR under the rulings of John F. Kennedy, Nikita Khurshchev and Fidel Castro. This was the closest the Cold War came to nuclear war; the crisis ended with a peaceful resolution but exposes how dangerous the rivalry had become. Themes related to this event are Political and Technology. This is the most significant event of the unit because it was a global turning point as diplomacy had failed. -
Internet's Accessibility
The internet is established globally, especially in the U.S. and Europe. Tim Berners-Lee was the creator of the World Wide Web, as well as tech developers who contributed to the development of the internet. The internet revolutionized communication, culture, globalization and access to information. Themes connected to this event are Technology, Social and Economic. -
Creation of World Trade Organization
Many nations and international trade ministers across the world established the World Trade Organization, replacing the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. The World Trade Organization promotes global trade through free-market policies, helping the global economy. The World Trade Organization helped make international trade central to national policies. Themes that connect to this event are Economic and Political. -
Kyoto Protocol
The United Nations enacted the Kyoto Protocol, which was the first major international treaty made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and efforts to prevent climate change. Themes connected to this event are Human-Environment Interaction, Political and Economic. -
Rise of China's Global Economy
China's rapid industrialization and export-based economy led to the country becoming a global economic superpower, with the economy putting lots of emphasis on global manufacturing and trade balances. The Chinese government, global corporations and international consumers contributed to the rise of China's global economy. Themes involved with this event are Economic, Political and Technology. -
9/11 Terrorist Attacks
Coordinated terrorist Attacks in the United States conducted by al-Qaeda and Osama Bin Laden. The attacks killed nearly 3,000 people; led to the War on Teror, invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, and psychological trauma to individuals at New York on September 11, 2001. Themes connected to this event are Political, Social and Technology.