This course serves as an introduction to the study of history. It examines the chaotic and fragmented world of Eurasia after the Mongol imperium; out of this general chaos, the Chinese and Islamic empires established their preeminence in an already long-interconnected Asia. At the same time, European states—through exploration, exploitation, colonization and revolution—created the beginnings of a globally-connected modern world. Hence, we will trace the world from the 1500s to the end of the 20th century, and we will examine closely the ideas, individuals and events that shaped this new world. Students read a significant number of primary sources, as well as secondary accounts and interpretations. The course emphasizes developing analytical thinking, reading and writing skills. In the spring semester, students will conduct a major project in library research.