1) We turn next to the web of trade across the Atlantic that links the growing American colonies to Europe and Africa. It transforms the world for better and for worse. It might cause one to pause over their next cup of coffee or before a bite of chocolate!A further note to clarify some questions from students regarding this discussion:There's a sidebar about "exotic beverages. Read that article about salve issue in American coffee, tea and cocoa. These beverages were traded across the Atlantic and helped increase the demand for sugar to sweeten these popular drinks. Sugar cultivation fueled the slave trade

2) On Oct 20th, the Baltimore Ravens will travel to Pittsburgh to battle the Steelers in Heinz Field, which is located across from the old fort built by the French (Fort Duquesne). As we all know the French built the fort where the Allegheny River and Monoghela River meet to form the Ohio River (hence the name of the old "Three Rivers Stadium").George Washington and a British general, named Braddock, led forces from our area (Maryland & Virginia) across the mountains to attack the French fort at the three rivers. Much like the Ravens will cross the mountains to attack the Steelers in thier Heinz Field fortress. Do you think the Ravens will be as successful as George Washington and General Braddock? Why or why not?