Online Modern Global History

HST 101 - Global History since 1500

Overview

This course gives an overview of the main events across the globe from 1500 to the present. Rather than an overview of discrete polities and regions this course focuses on the connections and interactions between global powers and the peoples that they represent and/or conquer. The period of globalization that we will review in this course began with Portugal’s efforts to find a sea route to the East. They were soon followed first by the Spanish, and then by the Dutch, French, and English. The imperial exploits of these European powers frame the broader global perspective of the course. This will first take us to the Islamic empires from the Mediterranean to India, then South America, Asia, and Africa before returning to Europe. The final section of the course will cover the two world wars of the twentieth century.

View syllabus

Course prerequisites and requirements

To be successful in this course, we recommend English language fluency and computer literacy. We also encourage you to make sure your laptop or desktop computer meets the technical requirements.

Quick facts

Next start date:

Mar. 18, 2025 (8 weeks)

Credits: 3
Length: On-demand or 8 weeks
Cost: $25 + $400

What you’ll learn

Basic knowledge of important historical events in Global history from 1500 to the present
Make connections between past and present, local and global
Understand history as historians practice it providing a broader and more engaging understanding of history
Acquire and use critical thinking skills that will enhance the ability to comprehend and evaluate historical texts
Learn how to sort through and evaluate historical information

Transcript

This course appears on your transcript identically to how it appears on the transcript of an enrolled ASU student who has taken the course on one of ASU’s campuses. Course attendance dates will be listed on your transcript. An on-demand course will appear on your transcript in the session you complete the course.

This course satisfies 3 credit hours toward the GCSI: Global Communities, Societies and Individuals General Studies requirements for Arizona State University. It is strongly encouraged that you consult with your institution of choice to determine how these credits will be applied to their degree requirements prior to transferring your credit.