AP World History is an advanced course that covers the development of human civilization throughout history. It is a challenging and rigorous course that requires students to understand and analyze historical events from different regions and time periods. In this article, we will discuss the nine units of AP World History.
Unit 1: The Global Tapestry (1200-1450)
During this period, various civilizations around the world began to interact more frequently through trade, migration, and conquest. This unit covers the rise of empires such as the Mongols, the spread of religions such as Islam and Christianity, and the growth of trade networks such as the Silk Road.
Key Concepts:
- The growth of interregional trade
- The spread of religions
- The rise and fall of empires
- The development of new technologies
Unit 2: Networks of Exchange (1200-1450)
This unit focuses on the expansion of trade networks during the same time period as Unit 1. Students will learn about how various regions traded goods and ideas with each other, leading to cultural diffusion and exchange.
Key Concepts:
- The development of new forms of transportation
- The role of merchants in facilitating trade
- The impact of trade on societies and cultures
Unit 3: Land-Based Empires (1450-1750)
During this period, several powerful empires rose to prominence through conquests and expansion. This unit covers major empires such as the Ottoman Empire, Mughal Empire, Safavid Empire, and Ming/Qing China.
Key Concepts:
- The rise and fall of empires
- The role of religion in state-building
- The impact of European expansion on non-European empires
Unit 4: Transoceanic Interconnections (1450-1750)
This unit covers the period when Europeans began exploring and colonizing the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Students will learn about the impact of this expansion on both Europeans and non-Europeans.
Key Concepts:
- The causes and effects of European exploration and colonization
- The impact of disease on non-European societies
- The rise of Atlantic slavery
Unit 5: Revolutions (1750-1900)
This unit covers major revolutions that occurred during this period, including the American Revolution, the French Revolution, and the Latin American revolutions for independence.
Key Concepts:
- The causes and effects of political revolutions
- The growth of nationalism as a political ideology
- The role of industrialization in changing societies
Unit 6: Consequences of Industrialization (1750-1900)
During this period, industrialization brought major changes to societies around the world. This unit covers the social, economic, and political consequences of industrialization in different regions.
Key Concepts:
- The impact of technological innovations on society
- The role of global capitalism in shaping economies around the world
- The growth of social movements such as socialism and feminism in response to industrialization
Unit 7: Global Conflict (1900-present)
This unit covers major conflicts that occurred during the 20th century, including World War I and II, the Cold War, and decolonization movements.
Key Concepts:
- The causes and effects of global conflicts
- The rise of totalitarianism as a political ideology
- The impact of decolonization on different regions
Unit 8: Cold War and Decolonization (1945-1989)
This unit focuses specifically on the Cold War and decolonization movements. Students will learn about the political tensions between the United States and Soviet Union, as well as the struggles for independence in Africa and Asia.
Key Concepts:
- The causes and effects of the Cold War
- The role of non-aligned nations during the Cold War
- The impact of decolonization on different regions
Unit 9: Globalization (1989-present)
This unit covers contemporary issues related to globalization, including economic interdependence, cultural exchange, and environmental challenges.
Key Concepts:
- The growth of global capitalism
- The impact of technology on globalization
- The challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation
In conclusion, AP World History covers a vast expanse of human history from various regions around the world. By understanding these nine units, students can gain a deeper appreciation for how societies have developed over time and how they continue to be shaped by various factors.