The study of European history since 1450 introduces students to cultural, economic, political, and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which they live. Without this knowledge, we would lack the context for understanding the development of contemporary institutions, the role of continuity and change in present-day society and politics, and the evolution of current forms of artistic expression and intellectual discourse. In addition to providing a basic narrative of events and movements, the goals of the AP program in European History are to develop (a) an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern European History, (b) an ability to analyze historical evidence and historical interpretation, and (c) an ability to express historical understanding in writing.

European history from the Renaissance to the present, addressing the intellectual, cultural, political, social, and economic developments that have shaped the modern age. Emphasis is on the intellectual responses to science, the evolution of the nation-state, and industrialization, along with their impact on society and politics. What has changed over time and what has remained the same will be two of the principal questions asked throughout the course.