Western Civilizations

Choose ONE event in the History of Western Civilizations, as defined by the time
span and geographical parameters of this course, and explain its importance and historical context. Use the
following as touch points for your essay:
Who were the major people involved? Why were they in a position to be involved?
What preceded your event to make it possible?
What happened?
Why was it important?
What effect did your event have down the road, historically speaking?
There are some restrictions, as follows:
The event must have taken place within the geographical confines of Europe (between the rise of Greece
and the fall of the Soviet Union), North Africa (between the rise of Rome and the end of the Moor's rule of
Spain) or the Middle East (between the pre-Greek ancient era and the fall of the Roman Empire). Any essay
addressing an event outside of these geographical and time parameters will be rejected.
Do not choose for your event something large that takes multiple years, decades or generations. You may
not, for example, choose the Scientific Revolution or World War II. Choose a specific, identifiable event
involving a clearly identifiable (and preferably small) group of people, complete with a few primary figures.
You may not choose a military conflict or battle.
You may not choose the birth or death (as a specific event) of any historical figure.
You may not choose the Black Death or any other event named specifically in any previous assignment this
semester, whether or not you actually answered that question.
Suggestions of events you could choose - this is my no me