This course is designed to help students become familiar with diverse civilizations and develop an understanding of the history which has culminated in current world situations. Students study at least one new European civilization in depth while surveying the history of humankind from the Renaissance to the present. Students examine the geographic, economic, and social conditions and their influence on the modern world. Students also study the concepts of industrialization, nationalism, revolution, and imperialism. In the final units, students focus on the modern world with an extensive review of (1) World War II and (2) the Soviet economy, government and history followed by (3) an examination of present day world problems (the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe). Students are expected to complete extended reading and writing assignments.