This is a college level course in which we will survey the history of Europe from approximately 1450 to modern times: from the High Renaissance to the very recent past. The primary focus of the course will be to provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of some of the major themes in modern European history, to train students to analyze historical evidence and to develop in students their ability to analyze and express historical understanding in writing. The course is intended to approximate an introductory lecture and discussion seminar typically taken within the first two years of one’s college or university study. AP® European History will provide students with an opportunity to further develop their skills of critical thinking, writing, and expression. In addition, this course seeks to prepare students to successfully perform on the AP European History examination.