This course examines the forces that went into the creation of the world we now live in, focusing on events from the seventh to the nineteenth century. We will consider the rise and fall of political powers such as Song of China, Islamic Caliphates, & the Ottoman Empire, as well as events like the Conquest of the Americas, the African Atlantic Slave trade & colonialism. We will consider the historical role of commerce, travel, technology, environment, and culture. We will seek to develop an understanding of world history different from the pre-processed version often taught in U.S. schools. Offered Fall and Spring.