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100
The Rise of Christianity
Christianity became a major source of social services like schooling and medical care, that later became an inspiration for art, culture, philosophy, and an influential player in politics and religion. -
476
The Fall of the Roman Empire
The dissolution of the Roman Empire freed Europe from rule by a sole force. Royal monopolies provided peace and stability, but by seeking to maintain the status quo also tended to restrain experimentation and protest. -
793
The Viking Age
Vikings played a critical role in the trade networks of the medieval period, linking the East and the West through their broad journeys. Their effect on trade and economy included the initiation of new goods and commodities. -
800
The Carolingian Renaissance
The Carolingian Renaissance pronounced a cultural renewal during Charlemagne's reign. It resurrected learning, standardized Latin, and preserved classical literature. This period saw the institution of schools, the development of new scripts, and the support of arts and architecture. -
1095
The Crusades
The Crusades caused immense death tolls, changed power dynamics, and encouraged trade and learning. -
1301
The Renaissance
As the population was becoming wealthier, it led to a rise in trade and travel and the spreading of new ideas. The growth in prosperity also created an interest in education, supported the flourishing of the arts, and promoted scientific discoveries and new inventions. -
1337
The Hundred Years' War
The war practically destroyed the feudal nobility and consequently brought about a new social order. By ending England's status as a power, it led to the expansion of its reach and power at sea. -
1346
The Black Death
People deserted their friends and family, left cities, and shut themselves off from the world. Funeral rites became negligent or stopped altogether, and work stopped being done. -
1440
The Printing Press
The printing press reformed society by normalizing language, spreading ideas, increasing literacy, and increasing the printing industry. -
1492
The Age of Exploration
The era saw expansive enslavement, exploitation, and military conquering of native populations, simultaneous with the growing economic influence and distribution of Western and European culture, science, and technology leading to population growth worldwide. -
Thesis Statement
The social aspects of Western Civilization reveal both continuity and change over time, as events such as religious movements, cultural shifts, military complexes, and technological advancements have consistently influenced and reshaped Western Civilization’s development and global impact.