Early Modern Period
1450-1750
Big Concepts
Three Themes Dominate
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contacts with the Americas ushered in a vital series of biological exchanges--of diseases, crops, animals, and people, known as the Columbian Exchange
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transregional trade network was redefined, becoming global, as levels of trade increased and shipping technology improved
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various new empires formed, partly due to the use of guns, and several European powers staked claims in the Americas as well as in coastal regions and island groups in Asia
Social Changes
Important social changes also occurred due to the establishment of Atlantic slavery and the intensification of serfdom. The exploitation of labor increased in many societies.
Continuities
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continued spread of major world religions
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no systematic changes in gender relations (persistent patriarchy)
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no technological breakthroughs until after 1750
From Stearns World Civilizations 7th edition​