United States history is best studied in the context of the greater world in which it resides.  While history doesn't repeat itself, it does rhyme and we can learn to see themes that cross across centuries and millennia and apply those to current world situations.

 

Some of the events covered include the New World, Western Europe, Asia (China, Japan, India) and Eastern Europe, the American Revolution, the Age of Napoleon, Africa, Rebellion and Repression. 

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Early Modern students memorize several passages (provided by the instructor) each semester. All but one passage are chosen by the student. Geography is also given prominence because where History happens is also important.

 

While this class can entirely stand alone, there is an overall goal for all history students.  In taking all four years of history, students will have an overall understanding of human history from the beginning to the year 2000, knowing all people are subject to the human condition and God is moving whether we see Him or not. Understanding history includes understanding different perspectives, motivations, biases, and even locations; being able to sift primary and secondary sources to determine a viewpoint consistent with the known understanding of events; and having a grasp on the subject to discuss intelligently and understand this subject in multiple contexts. Students will have a grasp on the subject to discuss intelligently and understand this subject in multiple contexts including literature, philosophy, natural sciences, and even our common culture/literacy. (as defined by E.D. Hirsch, Jr.)

 

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