In this comprehensive SELF-PACED/ASYNCHRONOUS contemporary world history course (approx. late 1940s - early 20th century, with ongoing ramifications), learners will unravel the complex tapestry of global relations in the aftermath of World War II and dissect the Cold War era, a period marked by a tense standoff between superpowers that reframed global alliances and redefined the nature of international conflict.

The journey begins with the Yalta Conference's shadow looming over Europe, leading to the carving up of the continent into spheres of influence, symbolized most starkly by the division of Germany. Berlin becomes the epicenter of Cold War tensions, its partition serving as a concrete manifestation of the ideological battle between capitalism and communism. Learners will delve into the Berlin Blockade and Airlift, examining how these events served as a prelude to the construction of the infamous Berlin Wall.

Moving eastward, the course will chart the meteoric rise of Communism in China, from the tumult of the Chinese Civil War to the decisive shifts under Mao Zedong's leadership. Learners will examine the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, investigating the social upheaval and cultural transformations that reoriented Chinese society and governance.

In parallel, the course will traverse the rugged terrain of post-colonial nations in Africa and the Indian Subcontinent. Learners will navigate through the complex landscape of decolonization, studying the strategies and ideologies that propelled nations toward independence. The narrative of India's partition will be a focal point, offering insights into the subcontinent's altered destiny in the wake of British withdrawal.

The examination then shifts to the hotbeds of the Cold War in Asia—Korea and Vietnam. Students will survey the political and social ramifications of these wars, dissecting the international perspectives that turned these regional conflicts into global crises. The lessons will illustrate the intricate web of allegiances and interventions that characterized these wars, from the jungles of Vietnam to the 38th parallel in Korea.

Another pivot to the Caribbean spotlights the Cuban Revolution and the subsequent Cuban Missile Crisis. Here learners will analyze the dual perspective, chronicling Cuba's internal revolutionary transformation alongside the nail-biting superpower standoff that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.

Learners will then ascend from terrestrial conflicts to the celestial competition of the Space Race. They will explore how advancements in rocketry and space exploration became both a battleground for ideological supremacy and a catalyst for technological innovation, symbolizing the boundless aspirations and profound fears of the age.

Finally, as the Cold War thaws, learners will assess its long-term global impact, how détente, Gorbachev’s reforms, and Reagan's diplomacy contributed to ending the Soviet Union, heralding a new global order and presenting ongoing challenges in an interconnected world.

In the course's concluding phase, learners will study the rise of Middle Eastern Nationalism after decolonization and the complex Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, from its early 20th-century roots to the consequential wars and ongoing territorial disputes. 

THERE ARE NO LIVE MEETINGS, but learners will receive direct feedback on their work each week. 

At the beginning of each week an introductory video will be posted to the classroom along with supplemental written and visual handouts.  Interactive activities for learners to complete and post to the classroom will be posted each week as well.  These activities will be specific to the week's topic, but will include challenges and activities surrounding each period.   Both learners and teacher will interact virtually, providing encouraging, constructive feedback on shared posted work.  Most materials can be used digitally***, although there may be a few that need to be printed traditionally.  

After completing activities and assignments, learners will receive regular feedback from me before moving on to the next topic.  Learners are not expected to share their completed activities and project with the class but are able to do so.    Also each week, learners will have an opportunity to receive individualized teacher feedback.  I will be available for office hours and meetings throughout the course by appointment according to your time zone. 

This contemporary world history class is a great companion to your homeschooling experience or utilized as a full homeschool curriculum for late middle school or early high school.   Overall, learners will emerge from the course with a profound grasp of how the significant shifts of the mid-20th century continue to shape the geopolitical contours of our current landscape.

Cold War Conspiracy Theory Project**
This captivating project will surely engage learners as they delve into the intriguing realm of Cold War era conspiracy theories.  After choosing from a list of teacher and/or parent approved era-relevant conspiracy theories, learners will assume the roles of researchers and historians, driven by the quest for uncovering the truth behind these mysteries. The project provides a comprehensive framework that guides learners through each step of the process, enabling them to acquire essential skills along the way.

As part of the project, learners will develop a solid foundation by learning key definitions and concepts related to conspiracy theories. They will be introduced to the significance of primary and secondary sources and gain the ability to discern the credibility of different sources. Furthermore, learners will practice effective note-taking techniques and brainstorming strategies to enhance their research process.

With this knowledge and skill set in place, learners will embark on an exploration of their chosen historical conspiracy theory. They will gather evidence from a variety of sources, meticulously evaluating and analyzing the information at hand. The project encourages students to form evidence-based conclusions, ensuring that their perspectives are grounded in sound reasoning.

Finally, learners will culminate their efforts by crafting a logical and organized presentation that showcases their diligent work. Their persuasive poster or digital presentation should aim to prove or disprove to their classmates of the truth behind the theory they have selected or been assigned. It will reflect the culmination of their research, critical thinking, and analytical skills, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on their peers.

This project promises to be an immersive and enlightening experience for students, offering them a unique opportunity to explore history through the lens of conspiracy theories.  

**PEEPS Diorama Project:
As an alternative to the Cold War Conspiracy Theory Project, learners will have the option to undertake the PEEPS Diorama Project. A diorama, defined as a life-size, three-dimensional scene from nature or history, will be recreated on a PEEP scale for this project. Learners will select an event from the Cold War era that they have studied and utilize the resources provided in class to gather ideas for their project. I will be available to provide guidance, suggestions, and help students refine their ideas. Once students have gained teacher and/or adult approval for their chosen event, they will proceed to construct a diorama representing the selected event. This project offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with history in a creative and hands-on manner, and I look forward to witnessing their imaginative interpretations come to life.

Please note: The specific requirements and guidelines for both projects will be provided in class.

This class is also offered as a live class, you can view it here: 
https://outschool.com/classes/homeschool-middle-school-contemporary-world-history-yu3JPmhh

While my courses can be taken in any order based on individual preferences and needs, I would highly recommend taking them in chronological order. This sequencing allows for a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and enhances the learning experience. Therefore, I suggest following this chronological order for optimal learning:

(Self-Paced) Homeschool Ancient World History
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Classical Era: Greece, Rome & Beyond
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Medieval World History
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Early Modern World History
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Modern World History
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Cold War Era & Beyond 

By following this chronological order, learners can gradually build upon their knowledge and develop a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter. They can trace the evolution of ideas, events, and societies over time, which fosters a more coherent and interconnected understanding of the subject.

However, I understand that individual circumstances and preferences may influence the order in which courses are taken. Ultimately, it is important to choose the sequencing that aligns best with your learning goals and interests.