Explore History Through Gaming: Europa Universalis IV World History Class

Dive into the transformative period from the mid-15th century to the Napoleonic Wars, a time that marked the end of the Middle Ages in Europe and the rise of European nations as global powers. This era witnessed the beginning of colonization, the subjugation of non-European states, and a host of significant changes that shaped the modern world.

In this unique class, we will use the acclaimed computer game Europa Universalis IV by Paradox Interactive as our learning tool. Each learner will take the helm of a country starting in 1444 AD and guide it through to 1815 AD. You will make critical decisions that affect your nation's trajectory, including:

Economic strategies
Advances in science
Diplomatic relations
...and much more.

As we navigate the historical challenges presented in the game, we'll engage in discussions comparing our in-game experiences with actual historical events. We'll explore how real-world peoples, leaders, economic shifts, cultural dynamics, and religious issues unfolded during this pivotal era.

Join us for an immersive journey through history, where your decisions will not only shape your virtual empire but also deepen your understanding of our world's past. Enroll now and lead your nation through the ages in Europa Universalis IV!

Week of August 1st: We choose countries and start the clock at 1444. Topics for discussion include the War of the Roses, and the 100-year war between England and France, as well as the position of the Ming Dynasty of China as the World Super Power of the time.

Week of August 8th: We continue play through the late 1400s. Topics for discussion include what pre-Protestant Europe looked like, including the power of the Catholic Church, the role of the Holy Roman Empire, and the Iberian peninsula's division between Portugal, Castille, and Aragon, while the Mughal Empire dominated the Indian subcontinent.

Week of August 15th: We continue play. Topics for discussion include a survey of the Americas and Africa - the power of the Incan and Aztec Empires in the late 15th century, as well as the power of the Malinese Empire in Africa. Meanwhile, the Ottoman Empire has consolidated its power over the Eastern Mediterranean, cutting off Christian kingdoms from the Silk Road trade route to China.

Week of August 22nd: As play comes to the early 1500s, Europe stands at the brink of transformation. On the one hand, new technological developments - like the widespread adoption of gunpowder weapons for warfare and better ship designs - allow Europeans to seek new ways to establish trade with China over the oceans. On the other hand, the rise of Protestantism throws the continent into the turmoil of religious wars.