Instructions:

Technology, political culture, social structures, economic growth, and cultural traditions have all been
identified as major causes for the success of civilizations, empires, and nations throughout history.
For your final essay, choose one of the three themes below and write fully about your chosen topic.

1) Alliances and Empires: Since the year 1650, the rise of nation states has also led to
larger alliances and empires. Choose three examples of alliances between nations and
imperial systems from the year 1650 to the present. Examples may include the Qing
Dynasty of China, the British Empire and/or Commonwealth, the European Union, or the
African Union. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each alliance or group of
alliances, and include a section on the role those alliances played in either causing or
preventing warfare.

2) Technology: From 1650 to the present, communication, transportation, and industrial
technologies have changed tremendously. Chose three events from anywhere in the
world between 1650 and the present that have been directly impacted by technology in
one of those categories. In each case, how did technology change the trajectory of world
events?

3) War and Society: The unequal distribution of power, wealth, and resources has caused
revolutions and wars throughout history. Choose three conflicts from 1650 to the present
in any part of the world, from more local conflicts to world wars, and identify a social factor
that contributed to the conflict (such as slavery in the Civil War, anti-Semitism in World
War II, or religious fundamentalism in terrorism). After examining these factors, do you
think such social causes outweigh political or more overtly military causes for war and
conflict?

Guidelines:
 Your examples must fall within the time period 1650 – today.
 Provide at least 4 written pages (not including title page or reference page).
 Use at least 5 reputable sources.
 Employ APA formatting and citations.