American Colonies - Thesis & Context
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Questions and Answers

What was the capital of the Aztec Empire?

  • Cuzco
  • Tenochtitlan (correct)
  • Inca Trail
  • Machu Picchu

The Spanish brought diseases to the Aztecs that they were well prepared for.

False (B)

What was a significant agricultural achievement of the Incan Empire?

Irrigation system

The famous site known for its amazing stone work and as a great hiding place is __________.

<p>Machu Picchu</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following crops with their associated civilization:

<p>Potatoes = Incan Empire Tomatoes = Incan Empire Cocoa = Incan Empire Cotton = Incan Empire</p> Signup and view all the answers

What thesis is proposed about the American colonies?

<p>The real story behind the American colonies is untold. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The history taught about American colonies primarily focuses on the experiences of Native Americans.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the author mean by describing colonizers as a 'CAST'?

<p>The colonizers are the main actors in the historical narrative, while other groups are overlooked.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The traditional historical narrative has predominantly highlighted the experiences of __________ who came to colonize America.

<p>white Europeans</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the perspectives with their significance:

<p>White Europeans = Main actors in colonization Native Americans = Omitted from traditional narratives Enslaved peoples = Essential contributors to the history Women = Often overlooked in accounts</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Taylor, what made it easier to write history in the past?

<p>Focusing on a single cultural narrative. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Different individuals can experience the same event and have identical perspectives.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenge is presented in rewriting American history?

<p>To expand the focus on all groups involved in the colonization, not just the white Europeans.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the main focus of Francis Bacon's scientific philosophy?

<p>Scientific inquiry and proof (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Galileo was the first to propose the theory of gravity.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the three G's that motivated exploration?

<p>Glory, Gold, God</p> Signup and view all the answers

The astrolabe is used to determine __________.

<p>longitude</p> Signup and view all the answers

What major event in 1453 blocked western European trade routes with the East?

<p>Fall of Constantinople (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Prince Henry the Navigator established a navigation school in Spain.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who was the explorer that first successfully sailed around the tip of Africa to reach India?

<p>Vasco da Gama</p> Signup and view all the answers

Venice profited greatly from the __________ by controlling trade routes.

<p>Ottoman trade restrictions</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which invention was NOT mentioned as a technological advancement aiding exploration?

<p>Steam engine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Latitude can be scientifically proven based on the seasons.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following explorers with their achievements:

<p>Bartholomew Diaz = First to reach the tip of Africa Vasco da Gama = First to reach India by sea Christopher Columbus = Explored the Americas Ferdinand Magellan = First to circumnavigate the globe</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason Spain and Portugal sought to explore new routes?

<p>To bypass Venice and the Ottoman Turks for trade</p> Signup and view all the answers

The __________ was a bridge created during the Ice Age that allowed migration between continents.

<p>Beringia</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the motivation behind the Commercial Revolution?

<p>Increased trade and commerce (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the main purpose of evidence-based reasoning?

<p>To draw conclusions based on data (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the three perspectives discussed during the exploration/colonization time period?

<p>Ethno-history (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Secularism promotes the integration of religion into public life.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the period of renewed interest in classical Greco-Roman ideas from 1300 to 1600?

<p>Renaissance</p> Signup and view all the answers

Racism as a concept existed before the colonial period.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Martin Luther posted his list of grievances, known as the ___ Thesis.

<p>95</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who was the Roman emperor that converted to Christianity?

<p>Emperor Constantine</p> Signup and view all the answers

Christianity was spread through the teachings of Jesus Christ and his _____ called Apostles.

<p>followers</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which family was known for sponsoring many artists during the Renaissance?

<p>Medici (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their correct descriptions:

<p>Constantine = Moved the capital from Rome to Constantinople Islam = Founded by Muhammad around 600 CE Great Schism = The split of Christianity into two branches Crusades = Military campaigns sanctioned by the Church</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Protestant Reformation resulted in the increased power of the Catholic Church.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one of the three big ideas of the Renaissance.

<p>Humanism</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the reasons for moving the capital to Constantinople?

<p>It offered a defensible position. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The invention of the ___ allowed Martin Luther to spread his ideas widely.

<p>printing press</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church have the same leadership structure.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which two major groups emerged from the Great Schism of 1054?

<p>Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following figures with their contributions:

<p>Martin Luther = 95 Thesis Galileo = Father of Modern Science Copernicus = Heliocentric theory Kepler = Mapping star movements</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Renaissance and the Scientific Revolution significantly influenced the __________ of America.

<p>building</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does humanism prioritize?

<p>Human potential and achievements (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term refers to viewing history as a series of events leading to a predetermined outcome?

<p>Teleology (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Classicism involves the study of modern scientific ideas.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Galileo famously known for challenging?

<p>Church teachings about the earth</p> Signup and view all the answers

Emperor Constantine legalized Christianity, leading to its widespread acceptance.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The secular separation from religion in society focuses on ___ matters.

<p>worldly</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were the two groups involved in the ancient trading networks in the Mediterranean?

<p>Christian-ruled states and Muslim states</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did the Renaissance bring a renewed interest in?

<p>Ancient Greek and Roman ideas (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The term 'BC' stands for 'Before _____'.

<p>Christ</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary impact of Renaissance thought on the church?

<p>Increased questioning of church authority</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a key theme in the building of America?

<p>Trade (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following historical events with their significance:

<p>Papal authority = Centralized in Rome Priests' marital status = Priests in the Eastern Orthodox Church can marry Sacred language = Roman Catholics use Latin Services structure = Eastern Orthodox services are in local language</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main motivations behind the First Crusade?

<p>Greed for land and wealth (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Crusades were solely about religious motivations.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What economic impact did the Crusades have on Europe?

<p>Increased trade and the development of trade routes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ______ Plague was responsible for the death of more than a third of Italy's population.

<p>Black</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following cities with their roles during the Commercial Revolution:

<p>Venice = Crusaders' trading base Genoa = Sponsor of Atlantic exploration</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT a reason people joined the Crusades?

<p>To establish a new religion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The silk road was primarily used for trade between Africa and the Americas.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What new items were introduced to Europe as a result of the Crusades?

<p>Pepper and silk.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The __________ __________ was a time of rapid trade and business growth in Europe, occurring around the 1500s-1600s.

<p>Commercial Revolution</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following effects with their respective details:

<p>Black Plague = High mortality and social upheaval Crusades = Increase in trade routes Commercial Revolution = Emergence of banking systems Renaissance = Focus on humanism and empirical observation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which religious leader initiated the First Crusade?

<p>Pope Urban II (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Eastern Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church were in complete agreement about the Crusades.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did survivors of the Black Plague experience in the aftermath?

<p>Increased health and economic opportunities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the Crusades, the Pope promised fighters a remission of __________.

<p>sins</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a major goal of the Crusades?

<p>Reclaiming Jerusalem (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary goal of Christopher Columbus' voyage in 1492?

<p>To find a faster route to the Indies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Columbus successfully realized he had discovered a new continent during his voyages.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which three ships did Columbus sail on his first voyage?

<p>Nina, Pinta, Santa Maria</p> Signup and view all the answers

Columbus called the island he landed on __________.

<p>San Salvador</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the term with its description:

<p>Encomienda system = Forced labor system that enslaved indigenous people Mesoamerica = Region that includes middle America Indigenous people = Native people of the Americas Conquistador = Conqueror of land and cultures</p> Signup and view all the answers

What major misconception did Columbus have about his voyage?

<p>He believed he had discovered a new route to India. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Columbus made a total of five trips to the Americas.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Amerigo Vespucci realize about the lands Columbus had encountered?

<p>They were not part of the Indies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The __________ were the natives living on the islands Columbus encountered.

<p>Arawaks</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following civilizations with their characteristics:

<p>Mayan = Known for math, science, and culture Aztec = Warrior society that controlled Central Mexico Arawaks = First indigenous people Columbus encountered Incas = Empire known for their architecture and agriculture</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the negative impacts of Columbus' voyages on the indigenous populations?

<p>Spread of diseases to which they had no immunity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Columbus was celebrated by all of Spain upon his return from the Americas.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary motivation behind the Spanish encomienda system?

<p>To extract labor from indigenous people for agricultural and mining work.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The cycle of colonization includes sending explorers, conquistadors, missionaries, and __________.

<p>permanent settlers</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Columbus' descriptions of the natives change over time?

<p>He portrayed them as savage cannibals. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

The Untold Story of American Colonies

The hidden or untold narratives within American history that focus on the perspectives of marginalized groups like Native Americans and enslaved peoples.

The 'Traditional' American History

The inaccurate portrayal of American history that prioritizes the experiences of white colonists, neglecting the contributions of Native Americans, enslaved Africans, and other marginalized groups.

Alan Taylor's Thesis

The author's argument that the true story of American colonization involves diverse perspectives and experiences beyond the dominant narratives.

Prioritizing White European History

The act of prioritizing white European history while neglecting the experiences of other groups, contributing to an incomplete and biased understanding of the past.

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The Ensemble

Groups like Native Americans and enslaved Africans who were crucial to the American historical narrative, but often marginalized or excluded from the traditional historical account.

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Eurocentric Viewpoint

A perspective that views history solely from the viewpoint of the dominant group, neglecting the diverse experiences of other cultures and populations.

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Expanding Our Focus

The goal of American history should be to expand its focus to incorporate the experiences of diverse groups, creating a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of the past.

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Including Diverse Perspectives in American History

The idea that American history should include the experiences of all groups involved, not just those who came from Europe.

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Evidence-based reasoning

A way of thinking that draws conclusions from data rather than assumptions or logic alone. It emphasizes the importance of evidence in forming beliefs and making decisions.

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Repeatability

The ability to repeat an experiment or observation under the same conditions and obtain consistent results.

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Renaissance

A period in European history (1300-1600) characterized by a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman ideas, leading to advancements in art, science, and culture.

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Humanism

A Renaissance philosophy that emphasized the value of human beings, their potential, and their achievements. It encouraged the study of humanity and classical Greek and Roman thought.

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Secularism

A separation of religion from public life, focusing on worldly and non-religious matters in areas like government, education, and science.

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Classicism

A return to the study of classical Greek and Roman literature, art, and philosophy during the Renaissance.

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The Medici family

A wealthy Italian family who were major patrons of the arts during the Renaissance. They sponsored many artists, architects, and scholars.

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Protestant Reformation

A period of religious reform in the Christian church, starting in the 16th century. It challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and led to the establishment of new Protestant denominations.

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Martin Luther

A German priest who initiated the Protestant Reformation by challenging Catholic doctrines and practices. He believed that salvation could be achieved through faith alone.

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95 Theses

A list of 95 statements that Martin Luther wrote challenging the practices and doctrines of the Catholic Church.

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Scientific Revolution

A revolution in scientific thought that began in the 16th century. It involved a shift from Earth-centered (geocentric) to Sun-centered (heliocentric) view of the universe.

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Nicolaus Copernicus

An Italian astronomer who challenged traditional astronomical views by proposing a heliocentric model of the solar system.

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Age of Reason

A period in history characterized by increased questioning and challenging of traditional beliefs, particularly in the areas of religion and science.

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Critical thinking

The ability to see and understand the world from different perspectives and to challenge assumptions.

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Galileo Galilei

An Italian astronomer and physicist who made significant contributions to astronomy, physics, and the scientific method. He was accused of heresy by the Catholic Church for supporting heliocentrism.

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Teleology

The idea that historical events are predetermined and inevitable, leading to a specific outcome. It focuses on patterns and big picture, overlooking the individual and emotional aspects.

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Contingency

The concept that historical events could have unfolded differently depending on choices and actions made at pivotal moments. It acknowledges multiple possibilities and emphasizes the significance of individual choices.

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Christianity

The belief that Jesus Christ is the Messiah and the Son of God, forming the foundation of Christianity.

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Apostolic Period

The period after Jesus' death when his apostles spread his teachings to new audiences. It marked the exponential growth of Christianity.

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Emperor Constantine

The Roman Emperor who converted to Christianity in 313 CE, significantly influencing the expansion of the religion throughout the Roman Empire.

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Shift of the Roman Capital to Constantinople

The relocation of the Roman Empire's capital from Rome to Constantinople (now Istanbul) by Emperor Constantine. This move facilitated the spread of Christianity and influenced the political and cultural landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean.

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Eastern Orthodox Christianity

A major branch of Christianity that emerged from the Eastern Roman Empire, with its center in Constantinople. It is characterized by distinct theological and liturgical practices compared to Western Christianity.

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Roman Catholicism

The primary branch of Western Christianity, with its center in Rome and the Pope as its supreme authority. It has distinctive theological perspectives and liturgical practices.

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The Great Schism

The division of Christianity into Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy in 1054 CE due to religious and political differences. This marked a significant shift in the religious landscape of Europe.

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Islam

The religion founded by Muhammad in the 7th century CE, with its core beliefs revolving around the Quran and the concept of one God (Allah).

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Mediterranean Trade Route

A major trade route that historically connected the East and West, traversing the Mediterranean Sea and facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

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City Republics of Venice, Florence, and Genoa

The city-states of Venice, Florence, and Genoa, prominent in medieval Italy, which flourished as centers of maritime trade in the Mediterranean, connecting Europe to the East through the movement of goods.

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First Crusade (1096)

The First Crusade, a series of military campaigns launched by European Christians starting in 1096, primarily aimed at recapturing Jerusalem and the Holy Land from Muslim control.

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Remission of Sins

The Pope's promise of forgiveness for sins committed during the Crusades, motivating people to participate in these potentially dangerous expeditions.

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Trade Routes

The eastward expansion of trade routes between Europe and Asia, driven by the Crusades and the desire for exotic goods.

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Trade and Its Impact

The exchange of goods, ideas, and diseases between Europe and Asia facilitated by the expansion of trade routes.

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Black Death (Bubonic Plague)

The devastating bubonic plague pandemic that struck Europe in the 14th century, significantly impacting population and economic activity.

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Commercial Revolution

The period of economic growth and expansion in Europe, spurred by trade and the growth of banking, starting around the 1500s-1600s.

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Venice

The city of Venice, a major trading hub and center of the spice trade during the Commercial Revolution.

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Genoa

The city of Genoa, a rival to Venice, focusing on banking and financing trade during the Commercial Revolution.

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Empirical Thinking

A mode of inquiry characterized by observation, experimentation, and critical thinking.

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Age of Exploration

The period of exploration that began in the 15th century, driven by the search for new trade routes and resources.

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Great Schism

The great division within Christianity, splitting the Roman Catholic Church in the West from the Eastern Orthodox Church in the East.

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Spread of Islam

The spread of Islam, originating in the Arabian Peninsula, and its influence on the world.

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Christianity Expanding with Rome

The process of the Roman Catholic Church expanding its influence along with the Roman Empire, leading to its dominance in Western Europe.

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Crusades and Its Impact

The influence of the Crusades on trade routes and the exchange of goods, ideas, and diseases, creating a more connected world.

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Crusades

A series of religious wars fought by European Christians to regain control of the Holy Land from Muslims.

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Commerce (Trade)

The exchange of goods, services, and ideas between different regions.

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Legends/Stories

Stories and legends passed down through generations, often shaping perceptions about faraway lands.

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Sextant

A navigation instrument used to determine latitude by measuring the angle between the horizon and the sun or a star.

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Astrolabe

A navigation device for determining latitude and longitude.

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Glory (3Gs)

The desire to achieve fame and recognition through exploration and conquest.

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Gold (3Gs)

The pursuit of wealth and resources, often driven by the desire for gold.

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God (3Gs)

The desire to spread religious beliefs and convert others to a particular faith.

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Fall of Constantinople

The Ottoman Empire's capture of Constantinople in 1453, disrupting trade routes and leading to the search for new ones.

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Venice's Monopoly

Venice's control over trade routes, leading to higher prices and the motivation for European countries to seek alternative routes.

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Prince Henry the Navigator

The Portuguese prince who established a navigation school and sponsored voyages to find a sea route to Asia.

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Tenochtitlan

A city in Mesoamerica, built by the Aztecs, and known for its advanced irrigation systems and agriculture.

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Irrigation Systems

The practice of bringing water to crops through canals and ditches, used by the Aztecs and Incas to improve their agriculture in challenging environments.

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Disease and Conquistadors

The Spanish conquistadors were able to easily defeat the Aztecs because they brought diseases with them that the Aztecs had no immunity to.

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Inca Road System

The Inca created a vast network of roads throughout South America to facilitate trade and communication. Some of these roads are still used today.

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Machu Picchu

A famous Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, known for its impressive stonework and its use as a hiding place during times of conflict.

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Columbus's Enterprise of the Indies

The idea that a faster route to Asia could be found by sailing West, rather than the traditional route around Africa.

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Trade Winds

The winds that facilitated Columbus's westward journey by pushing his ships across the Atlantic.

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Arawaks

The indigenous people Columbus encountered upon landing in the Caribbean, whom he incorrectly believed were from the East Indies.

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Columbus and the Shape of the Earth

The belief that Columbus's voyages proved that the Earth was round, a concept already accepted by scholars.

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Amerigo Vespucci

The navigator who realized that Columbus had not reached the East Indies after travelling West.

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Mundus Novus

The term used to describe the new lands discovered by European explorers, specifically referring to the Americas.

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The Narrative of Native Backwardness

The mistaken notion that Native Americans were inherently less developed or inferior to Europeans due to their differences in culture and technology.

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Encomienda System

The practice of exploiting Native American labor by forcing them to work, usually on farms or mines, under the Spanish control.

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Disease and Native Depopulation

The devastating impact of European diseases on Native American populations, to which they had no immunity.

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The Cycle of Colonization

The series of actions taken by European powers to establish colonies and control new territories, including exploration, conquest, and settlement.

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Explorer

A person who explores uncharted territories, often driven by a desire for knowledge, wealth, or glory.

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Conquistador

A conqueror, specifically one who takes control of a new territory usually for its resources or strategic importance.

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Mayan Civilization

The ancient civilization that flourished in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, known for their advanced mathematics, astronomy, and architecture.

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Aztec Empire

The powerful Aztec Empire, dominant in central Mexico, known for their organized society and sophisticated culture.

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Tribute

The practice of paying tribute to a ruler or a powerful person, often in the form of goods or services.

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Study Notes

American Colonies - Thesis & Context

  • The book, American Colonies by Alan Taylor, argues that traditional American history has largely ignored the experiences of non-white Europeans, Native Americans, and enslaved Africans.

  • Historical accounts often focused solely on white European colonists, creating a biased and incomplete narrative.

  • This oversight stems from a prioritization of the European experience and a tendency to neglect perspectives outside this narrow scope.

Taylor's Critical Analysis

  • Taylor compares historical writing to a play, where white Europeans are the primary characters while other groups are relegated to supporting roles, despite their crucial contribution.

  • This suggests an imbalance in historical accounts, emphasizing the need to include diverse viewpoints.

Defining American History

  • When should American history actually begin? Various points are suggested: (Norse arrival, Siberian migrations, before English departure.)

  • Colonists' lives weren't universally better than those in Europe, and the success depended on the individual and their circumstances.

  • Murrin's point: "Losers outnumbered the winners," highlights the imbalance in historical records that favor the victors.

Historical Perspectives - Understanding Bias

  • The concept of racism as a central factor didn't emerge until European colonization, shifting from a focus on wealth, religion, and nationalism.

  • The colonies saw the British create a militia, emphasizing the colonists' role in defense instead of a standing army.

  • This historical examination is helpful yet needs to be nuanced and balanced.

Historical Lenses

  • Teleology: A linear view of history with a predetermined outcome. This approach can obscure critical details, emotions, and contingencies.

  • Contingency: Acknowledges multiple possibilities at any given moment, considering the choices and actions that resulted in the eventual outcome.

Connecting Europe & America

  • American history is inextricably linked to European history, reflecting the foundations of America's development.

  • The core elements shaping America include religion, trade, the Renaissance, and the scientific revolution.

Religion & The Spread of Christianity

  • Christianity's spread through Europe, primarily due to Emperor Constantine's conversion in 313 CE, drastically altered Roman society.

  • The movement of the capital from Rome to Constantinople facilitated the spread of Christianity.

Muslim Influence

  • Islam emerged around 600 CE, establishing significant trade networks that connected the East and West Asian continents with the Mediterranean.

  • Islam shaped the Mediterranean trade and had a critical impact on Europe's trade patterns.

The Great Schism

  • The Great Schism in 1054 led to a split in the Christian Church, creating the Roman Catholic Church in Western Europe and the Eastern Orthodox Church in Eastern Europe

The Crusades

  • The Crusades (1096-1270) involved a complex interplay of religious and political motivations, including gaining control of Jerusalem and protecting the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Economic Impacts & The Black Death

  • The Black Death (Bubonic Plague) had profound social and economic consequences, leading to a subsequent boom from increased labor demand.

  • Trade routes played a major role in shaping interactions between different cultures and spreading valuable goods, as well as disease.

Commercial Revolution & The Renaissance

  • The Commercial Revolution, marked by increased trade and economic growth, had roots in events like the Crusades and spread of ideas from the east and from within Europe.

  • Venice and Genoa were key players in maritime trade. Venice benefited from Crusader traffic, gaining control of spice routes.

  • Genoa focused more on banking, with ambitions to grow their economy through trade.

Key Developments Before Exploration

  • European developments including the Renaissance helped drive European exploration. The development of the printing press played a key, central role in dissemination.

European Exploration Motivations

  • The three G's: Glory, Gold, and God, represent the key motivations that drove European exploration, which were tied to political, economic, and religious ambitions.

Exploration & The 3 Gs:

  • Portugal’s explorations were heavily oriented toward finding alternative trade routes and gaining economic advantages.

The Voyages of Exploration

  • Portugal and Spain's explorers sought to circumvent trade routes controlled by other nations. Important voyages include those of Diaz and Da Gama.

Columbus's Voyages

  • Columbus, seeking a western route to Asia, "discovered" the Americas. This event marked a turning point in European history, initiating the exchange between the Old and New Worlds and profoundly impacting indigenous populations.

Columbus's Legacy

  • Columbus was a complex figure and his actions had both positive and negative consequences. The impact of his voyages on Europe and the Americas continue affecting us today through the global economy and the impact on indigenous peoples.

Colonialization Cycle

  • Steps involved in colonization, illustrating the patterns of conquest, conversion, and settlement. The Encomienda system was a method of forced labor that enslaved Indigenous peoples.

Indigenous Cultures

  • Indigenous populations across the Americas, such as the Mayans, Aztecs, and Incas, developed complex societies and sophisticated systems of agriculture, trade, and governance.

  • The impacts of European diseases decimated these populations.

  • The Spanish conquest of the Aztecs and the Inca exemplifies the destructive consequences of European colonization.

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Description

Explore the critical insights of Alan Taylor's American Colonies, which highlights the overlooked contributions of non-white Europeans, Native Americans, and enslaved Africans in American history. This quiz challenges you to think about the narratives we prioritize and the historical biases in traditional accounts.

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