Unit 4: Transoceanic Interconnections, c. 1450 to c. 1750

Land based empires were extensively covered in Unit Three, but now it’s time to look beyond the shore and across the sea. Unit Four, titled Transoceanic Interactions, begins with a discussion of technological advances that made transatlantic travel possible. Students then learn about motivations for exploration, and the impacts of European contact with the New World. The unit then talks about the five sea-based empires: the English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and the Dutch, and how they maintained their power overseas. Lastly, students learn about groups that challenged state power, both in land and sea based empires, as well as the changing social hierarchies that these empires brought about. The historical skill that students should focus on is continuity and change across time throughout the Early Modern Period.