This course is designed to examine major themes, trends, and issues of World History.  Students will study the origins and evolution of the contemporary world character and its institutions, and their significance today.  Students will also further develop skills such as critical thinking, historical interpretation, research, and writing.

The rationale for the study of history is based on the premise that the course material (1) provides a profound opportunity to gain a sense of individual identity and community responsibility, (2) encourages the student to recognize how our past significantly shapes our present and the future, (3) serves as a constant lesson that life is complex and without simple solutions, (4) provides for the use of skills that transcend all subject matter, and (5) demonstrates how the individual may contribute to the perpetuation of a democratic and egalitarian society.

This course will provide an overview of the history of Africans and their descendants across the globe, including but not limited to African civilizations prior to European colonialism, encounters between Africa and Europe, the displacement of Africans to the Americas and elsewhere, and the development of Black communities in and outside Africa. Learners will explore the complex interplay among the political, economic, and cultural forces that shape our understanding of the historic achievements and struggles of African-descended people in the United States, and their relation to others around the world. In addition to the curricular materials, students will have the opportunity to select a topic for further exploration and in-depth research. A variety of texts and community resources will be used to provide applicable and real world examples related to the content. The course will also provide opportunities to make connections to current events and issues related to social justice and racial equality. 

The course is project based and will use a variety of resources and materials to provide students with opportunities to work both independently and cooperatively.