What was the Italian renaissance? Why was Italy a "ripe"place for it to begin? How is the renaissance intimately-connected with the social changes that are taking places in the cities? (Social changes: the rise of the Bourgeois & urban wealth). What are some themes of the Renaissance? Why is the study of Latin as well as ancient Geek and Roman civilization considered important during the Renaissance period?
What was the Protestant reformation? What was exactly being protested against? (at least 3 reasons) what is Martin Luther's role in the Reformation? Describe at least 2 specific points from his writings. Describe the German Peasant's rebellion and what does it have in common with the Luther's Reformation? Why was the Protestant reformation popular with princes and kings?
Please describe the French Civil War and the St. Bartholomew's day Massacre. (In your answer please detail the different factions involved and a brief summary of the events leading up to and including the massacre.) What is the eventual outcome of the French Civil Wars? Who was Henry IV (Henry of Navarre) and what was the Edict of Nantes? Who are the Politiques?
Why do the Europeans begin exploring in the 1400-1500's? (At least 3 reasons). Why are the Europeans so successful at conquering native populations in North and South America? In Book 1 of Thomas More's "Utopia" there is a discussion about European society. Please detail 3 critiques of European society as depicted in this discussion (explain what is being criticized and why)
In the 1600s it appears that France and Britain begin to take different paths in their political development. Discuss the political development in both counties and explain the essential differences between Absolutism and Constitutionalism. (In your essay make sure you discuss the English Civil War, The Glorious Revolution, the English Bill of Rights, Louis XIV and his attempts to consolidate power in France. )
You can use the book "The making of the west-peoples and cultures, a concise history" 3rd edition as reference.