What is the west

CHY 4U1

World History:  The West and the World

This course will look at some of the reasons the west was able to influence the rest of the world from 1500.  It will also discuss the idea that the west’s influence is in decline.  There will be a large emphasis on project-based learning.  Students will develop their critical-thinking and communication skills.  Furthermore, students will have the opportunity to research a modern issue of personal interest.

The Big Idea

Since the 16th century, ideas from the West have influenced the globe.

Areas of Study

The West used many vehicles to influence the rest of the world.  These vehicles will help focus the big idea.

1. Colonialism was used by the West to assert influence over the rest of the world.

Sample topics:  New World, Social Darwinism, Missionaries, South Africa, Rwanda

** This semester we will be using this unit as a focus for Black History month.

2. Western Economic thought influenced the development of the world.

Sample topics or people:   Smith, Marx, Engels, industrial revolution, capitalism/communism

3. War & Revolution allowed the West to influence other parts of the globe.

Sample topics or people:  Burke, Paine, David, French Revolution, Protestant Reformation, parts of a revolution