Exploradores de la historia: períodos medieval y moderno temprano

When we think of knights, castles and kings, the first thing that comes to mind may be a fairytale. While the Medieval times had all of these things, it could be described as anything but. This class will cover all of the major events that shaped the world during the era that has been dubbed the Middle Ages. A time when religious wars created and destroyed powerful empires. A time when nations were being shaped and when the ideas of the past ancient times were being challenged and replaced. While it may not have been a fairytale, the Middle Ages were never short on excitement, drama, and change. 

In this class, students will cover the entire Medieval Age starting with the fall of Rome and ending with the Protestant Reformation. Major events and influential people will be the focus of each lesson. A list of specific topics can be found below. While classes do progress loosely in chronological order, students are welcome to join at any time as every class will begin with a review and time for "setting the stage." I have found this useful for both new and returning students as a way to prepare for new information. Lessons will be taught with a slideshow, videos, and when applicable, music. 

It is my goal to teach students in a way that inspires them to continue researching and learning after class is over. The nature of this time period can be violent and brutal. It is my highest priority to teach these events in an age-appropriate way. 
 
Week of September 23, 2024: Fall of Rome
Week of September 30, 2024: Byzantine Empire (Justinian)
Week of October 7, 2024: Rise of the Franks
Week of October 14, 2024: Byzantine Empire conflicts 
Week of October 21, 2024: Charlemagne 
Week of October 28, 2024: Early Civilizations of the Americas (Mayans and Aztecs)
Week of November 4, 2024: Incas in South America
Week of November 11, 2024: China in its Golden Age
Week of November 18, 2024: The Mongol Empire
Week of December 2, 2024: Medieval India
Week of December 9, 2024: Europe in the Middle Ages overview
Week of December 16, 2024: The Role of the Catholic Church
Week of January 6, 2025: The Crusades
Week of January 13, 2025: The Plague 
Week of January 20, 2025: Joan of Arc
Week of January 27, 2025: Magna Carta
Week of February 3, 2025: Hundred Years War
Week of February 10, 2025: The Protestant Reformation and Printing press
Week of February 17, 2025: Medieval Castles
Week of February 24, 2025: Review Summary
March 5th- Wars of the Roses
March 12- King Henry VIII