Western Civilization Historical Events

The Crusades and Islam

• Islam's influence during the Crusades was due to its scientific and cultural achievements
• Islamic societies made significant contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and medicine

The Scientific Revolution and Age of Exploration

• The Scientific Revolution and Age of Exploration served as catalysts for the expansion of Western civilization
• Emphasis was placed on empirical evidence, humanism, and individualism
• These movements led to the emergence of new technologies and exploration of new lands

The Reformation Period

• During the Reformation, there was a shift away from centralized religious authority
• Protestant leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin challenged the authority of the Catholic Church
• The Reformation led to the emergence of new Christian denominations and the fragmentation of religious authority

Secularism

• Secularism grants individuals autonomy over personal choices and decisions
• Secularism encompasses issues such as marriage, education, and personal freedom
• Secularism emphasizes the separation of church and state

The Period of Colonization

• The period of colonization marked by the Catholic Counter Reformation was characterized by the attempt to reassert Catholic authority
• The Catholic Church sought to regain its influence and counter the Protestant Reformation
• This period was marked by the establishment of colonies and the spread of Catholicism in the Americas