...Task 1: Geography and the Development/Diffusion of Human Societies Part A: Mesopotamia is regarded as the birth place of civilization. “Historians believe that large civilizations began in Mesopotamia between 4,000 and 3,000 B.C.E.” (Wandrei, 2015). The most significant geographical factor that I feel contributed to the development of this society was the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. These rivers are part of a larger area referred to as the “fertile crescent” due to its rich soil. The soil is extremely rich due to the large amount of silt (a mixture of rich soil and tiny rocks) deposits left from the rivers during flooding, making ideal farming areas. Although the area was ideal for farming it was still extremely difficult to do due to this regions climate that usually only produced ten inches or less of rain. So with the drought and still occasional flooding, the Mesopotamian society had to learn how to control these factors to be able to succeed in this region. They had to build an irrigation system to help protect their homes from the floods and move water to their fields during the droughts. With this irrigation system it allowed for them to have a surplus in crop. Also, having access to the rivers allowed for them to trade some of their surplus crops to obtain other needed supplies to help continue building their society. “With irrigation and the necessary drainage, southern Mesopotamia became a land of plenty that could support a considerable population” (Edzard...
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...Helpful tips for GKE1 By Andrea Hall in WGU Students: ECE/Elem/Special Ed · Edit Doc -Don't try to find the information in the COS, you can waste hours and hours there. Find outside sources that help you make your specific points. -Do the tasks in whatever order is easiest for you. -Break each essay into parts, the graders don't care too much about cohesion between part A and part B. -"Discuss imperialism" means "explain how and why" (I spent a page discussing in and got it sent back--the first time they said "not enough info" and so I added even more, then they sent it back again and finally told me they wanted "how and why"). -"Diffusion" doesn't mean spreading out, it means "influence on" so "discuss the diffusion between your society and another" doesn't mean compare how the two different societies expanded, it means explain how your society had influence on the other one. -The word "justify" means give factual evidence. Helpful websites for Task 1: http://history-world.org/egypt_and_mesopotamia_compared.htm http://www.recoveredscience.com/const128mesopotamianinfluences.htm http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h1583.html http://michael-streich.suite101.com/egypt-and-mesopotamia-compared-a151958. Helpful websites for Task 2: http://susanbanthonyhouse.org/her-story/biography.php. http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/mao_zedong.shtml http://www.history.rochester.edu/class/sba/third.htmlhttp://lkwdpl.org/wihohio/anth-sus.htm http://www.historylearningsite...
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...GKE1 Task 3 Part A. The rise of New Imperialism in Africa began in 1881 and ran through 1914. Looking to expand their empires, European countries looked to Africa as its size and benefits became evident. The invasion of Africa began as a paper conquest, conducted in the drawing rooms of European capitals. Once they arrived in Africa, leaders and footmen took the ideas from Europe and put them into action on the ground. They conquered weak African chiefs and signed treaties with the powerful ones. Soon after arriving, treaties were thrown aside and the conquest began. Having far more resources and a technical advantage, European countries rolled through to central Africa. The strong firepower of the Europeans crushed most if not all of the African resistance. The Berlin Conference of 1884-1885 was the highlight of European competition for territory in Africa. France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and King Leopold II of Belgium together had acquired thirty new African colonies. They came together to negotiate their claims to African territory. They were then formalized and divided into forty new political units, subsequently displacing 110 million Africans. These units were drawn as straight lines with no regards for the villages, ethnic groups and African kingdoms. (scramble for Africa, 2015) Part A1 The indigenous people of Africa originally trusted Europeans. They believed the treaties they signed were merely a formality and based upon friendship...
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...GKE1 TASK 4 A: The two most significant social consequences to come from the Industrial Revolution include urbanization and the increase in child labor. Before the Industrial Revolution took place, over 80% of the population lived in rural communities (BCP.ORG). With the rapid growth of population in the cities came disease and epidemics. According to Patricia Chappine, the wealthy fared far better than the industrial workers. The wealthy were able to afford housing on the outskirts of the large cities, while the industrial workers lived in what was called row housing (CHAPPINE). Row housing was introduced by the government to give factory workers and their families’ places to live. Often times, these houses were small, and as many as six people would share one bed. Not only were the living conditions inside the homes a concern, but the sanitation of the cities were an issue as well. Waste disposal systems were not heard of, and residents often threw their trash and waste onto the streets (CHAPPINE). In addition, the coal from all the factories created a film of grime all over the city and polluted the air. Another consequence that came from the Industrial Revolution, was the rise and use of child labor. During the Industrial Revolution, the agriculture business declined, which forced entire families to move to the larger cities. In order to pay for the cost of living both women and children were forced to work in the factories. In the textile factories, children were sought...
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...1 Geography and the Development and Diffusion of Human Societies GKE TASK 1 Michelle Murray Western Governors University GKE Task1 2 A. The two rivers, Tigris and Euphrates are substantial examples of geographical and environmental factors that impacted the development of the Mesopotamia civilization. Mesopotamia- “known as the land between two rivers”. (Hollar,2011). Details Tigris river is 1180 miles long deeper but shorter than the Euphrates river. The Euphrates River is 1700 miles long and not as deep only flat boats can ride along this river. (Hollar,2011). I believe both rivers contributed to the Mesopotamia civilization and were significant geographical and environmental factors. The two rivers were a point of focus from the beginning. They provided rich soil perfect for agriculture, deposits of mud and clay to build their community, mode of transportation and water for irrigation for crops. The use of these valleys’ soil and water were signs of innovation and exchange. The Mesopotamians made the Fertile Crescent fertile with their irrigation technology. (Keita,n.d) They had to create an irrigation system so they could better operate the river’s water. Along with the fertile soil, proper irrigation and organized labor they reaped the benefits of the land. They were able to grow a surplus of food not only for the community...
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...Meghan Fletcher GKE1 February 12, 2014 Task 1 The Mesopotamian society was influenced by many factors. The most significant factors that contributed to the development of Mesopotamian society were the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers. Virtually every aspect of Mesopotamian life was influenced by the presence of these two rivers. From the beginning, the Mesopotamian’s had to develop an irrigation system so they could better utilize the river’s water. From this point, water from these rivers became the building blocks their society was built upon. “The soil itself is largely a gift of the rivers, which deposit tremendous quantities of silt on their lower course and in the northern part of the Persian Gulf.” (Hollar, 2011) The soil consisted of clay and silt, the Mesopotamian’s then used the clay from the soil to make bricks to build houses out of. Crops flourished due to the rich soil, the irrigation system put into place by the Mesopotamians, making them a self-sustaining agricultural society. French fries, mashed potatoes, tater tots and hash browns: potatoes are a main staple in America and many other countries. They are found in almost every country in the world and date back to ancient Andean society. As the Incan Empire grew, it absorbed the nearby Andean Society, as well as their use of potatoes. When the Spanish conquered the Incan empire, they discovered the many uses of potatoes. The Spanish Explorers then brought them back to Spain. The Spanish then cultivated potatoes...
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...PART A The most significant physical geographical factor that contributed to the development of the ancient South American society of the Incas was the Andes Mountains. The Inca Empire had villages and cities throughout the Andes Mountains. Some of these settlements were as low as sea level and their capital, Cusco, was at an altitude of 11,200 feet. The Andes are considered some of the longest and highest mountain ranges. In fact it’s tallest peak, Mount Aconcaqua, in Argentina, tops out at 22,841 feet (Zimmermann, 2013). Despite the fact that people were traversing mountains the people flourished creating trails, aqueducts and agricultural practices that still exist today. Almost every aspect of the Incas life were affected by the Andes. Due to the changes in climate and altitude from one settlement to another, the Incas had to develop resilient breeds of crops including potatoes, quinoa and corn (Graber, 2011). Not only were the mountains home to the Incas believed them to be Gods. They created some of the most indelible cities right into the sides of the mountains in an extremely precise manor that is still studied to this day. For these reasons and many more, the Andes Mountains are certainly one of reasons the ancient people of South America grew as a civilization. PART B The process of diffusion between early human societies can easily be seen through the use and distribution of the potato throughout the globe. The potato was originally cultivated in...
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...GKE1 Task 2 Miranda Stewart Western Governors University A) Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Saxony, now Germany, in 1483 and died in 1546. (Martin Luther and the 95 Theses. 2013) During his 63 years of life he set in motion many changes that would take place in the world. His two most significant changes were his key role in the Protestant Revolution and the translation of the Bible into German, which later was translated into English, thus making it available for all to read. Luther was originally attending school at the University of Erfurt and training to become a lawyer when he was caught in a severe thunderstorm and, after nearly being struck by lightning, pledged that he would become a monk if he survived. Survive he did so he quit the study of law and entered an Augustinian monastery. While he stopped studying law he did not stop studying. His desire to study and learn led him to become a professor of the Bible and was eventually led to new understandings of the Catholic religion and the Bible. (Martin Luther and the 95 Theses. 2013) Luther penned his “95 Theses” in 1517 and nailed it to the door of the church that he was currently teaching at. While legend has made it something of a dramatic act of defiance, pinned to the door on a stormy night, it is much more likely that he was straightforwardly announcing his academic discussion that he was opening up. (Martin Luther and the 95 Theses. 2013) This posting, however he was intending it, hit too close...
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...GKE - Task 1: Geography and the Development/Diffusion of Human Societies Part A The Nile River was a significant geographic factor that contributed to the development of Egypt. This 6,695 Kilometer river; which is the largest river in the world contribution to Egypt's early human society in a way that is difficult to replicate. (The River Nile Facts, 2008). The Nile River provided drinking water for farmers and others who lived alongside the banks of the Nile. Also the Nile River floods predicted essentially how crops harvested. If there was too much water, the irrigation system could be damaged and if there was too little, there could be famine. This, however, did not deter the farmers, because they knew that this was their livelihood and their means of survival. The annual floods began from July to October. After the floods water receded, crops were ready for harvest from February. There were three seasons; the time of which the floods occurred , the receding of the water and the preparation for harvesting by preparing the soil and planting the seeds. There was also transportation of goods along the Nile River. This enabled the Egyptian civilization to attain economic growth. Therefore, it is clear what a significant factor the Nile River played and contributed to the development of Egypt. It's contribution was unprecedented. (Orlin, 2010) Part B The process of diffusion regarding Tea is a story that is truly amazing. The story of how Tea originated in...
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...Task 1-A: The two most significant environmental or physical geographic factors that contributed to the development or expansion of the United States is the California Gold Rush and the Irish Potato Famine. The first most significant factor was the California Gold Rush. Before gold was officially discovered in Northern California on January 24, 1848, Kelly (n.d.) states that the entire population of the California territory was around 25,000. A few years after California was admitted as the 31st state in The Union in 1850, a special census was taken and the population had grown to 223,856. Kelly (n.d.) also states that in San Francisco alone, the population was approximately 800 in 1848 to well over 50,000 at the close of 1849. Before the rush, California was a vast wild wilderness that most Americans never dreamed of visiting. There were tales of savage people and even more savage wilderness and it was widely known that lawlessness and general uncivility reigned supreme throughout the new Western Territories. These tales enthralled the general public but deterred most from doing anything but follow the stories through newspaper articles and books. But with the discovery of a gold nugget at a sawmill owned by John Sutter, all of this changed. Newspapers reported the great discovery and when U.S. President James Polk confirmed the rumors in his annual congressional address in December of 1848, the California Gold Rush was on! This rush came a time in history when people...
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...THEMES IN U.S. & WORLD HISTORY Task 2 I. Introduction: a. Audience Hook: The outcome of events and the development of cultures and societies around the world have been impacted by significant individuals throughout history. These individuals have changed political governments as well as societal changes within our own country, the United States and around the world. This paper will discuss one of our well known world leaders and a well-known American Leader and the significant impact these individuals had on society and political changes. b. Thesis statement: History shows how leaders impact the outcomes and development of cultures and society due to social and political changes and influences. c. Preview of Main Points: i. World leader Gandhi led to Satyagraha and the equal rights for all. ii. Martin Luther King Jr. contributed to the Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act. II. Gandhi’s contribution to social changes. a. One of the worlds most pronounced leaders of the twentieth century. b. Concept of Satyagraha, truth and firmness (Mohandas Gandhi). c. Indian Independence from Britain in 1947. III. Martin Luther King Jr.’s contribution to the social changes made in the United States. a. King traveled the Country and the world to lecture other leaders, activists, and protestors on the importance, how to, and benefits on non-violent protesting. b. Civil Rights Act prohibiting racial discrimination (History.com) c. Voting Rights Act guaranteeing...
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...GKE1 Task 4 One of the most significant social consequences of the First Industrial Revolution was the increase in industrial production, bringing wealth and power to Great Britain. There was not any labor laws in place to regulate the industries. Businesses would hire children for labor. These children would work full-time in coal mines and factories as cheap and unskilled laborers. These working children did not have time for their education. Injuries in the work place and diseases and sicknesses were prevalent. If the children tried to speak up they would be punished. With the push of the middle and upper class Child Labor Laws were put into effect. Children had to be nine years of age or older, they could only work a maximum of twelve...
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...The First Industrial Revolution occurred from 1780-1850 and changed the way people lived and worked worldwide. New technologies and manufacturing processes were changing lives across the globe. These synergistic advances led to more developments and social consequences began to arise. The way people worked was changing as well as the way they would live. Urbanization was one significant social consequence that was caused by the First Industrial Revolution. Urbanization is the growth of a city, and broadly the transition from the majority of the population living in rural circumstances and working agriculture, to living in urban circumstances, and working in industrial jobs. Before the Industrial Revolution began, people were mostly living in rural communities and agricultural was still one of the main trades. As factories began to arise and new machinery was introduced that greatly sped up production, more and more people began to leave their rural communities and transition into cities where the uprising factories were located. Because of this rapid movement, cities began to expand in population at a rapid rate. Although this change was stimulating the booming industries such as textiles, steel, chemicals and food production, it also brought along negative effects in which people were facing living in crowded areas for the first time. These areas were often dirty and polluted and constituted a big change for those who made the merger. Most of the people who were migrating into...
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...Industrial Revolution The Untied States and Great Britain were at the for front of the Industrial Revolution, this revolution was a period between 1780 and 1850 of rapid scientific and technological change in these countries. Soon after the rest of the world would follow. One of the big changes that happened during the Industrial Revolution was changes to manufacturing. New tools were able to transform the ways textiles, steel, food production, and chemicals were produced. This new innovation made it much faster for these products to be produced and in return led to greater productions. A single powered machine could produce more in one day that a single factory worker could in one week. This led to the ability to meet consumer demand on a much faster scale. These new machined also brought more uniformity to what was being produces, meaning the things such as screws, and fitting were able to be standardized and that led to a foundation if future technologies. These new machines were expensive investors had to pool their money together in order to buy them which contributed to the spread of corporation, and factory model of production (Soomo, The Industrial Revolution and Social Consequences). Because of this new large scale manufacturing, occupations that people once relied on for work and income were now taken over forcing people to work in factories. Factory workers even included women and young children. This led to the breakdown of the family unit. Before factories...
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...Mohandas Gandhi played a very important role in our world history. The things he accomplished during his lifetime, many people forever thank him for. There are two significant changes that occurred as a result of Gandhi’s actions: Indian’s gaining full independence and when he led the Salt March to protest against Britain. Mohandas Gandhi was shocked by the treatment of Indian immigrants in South Africa, so he joined the struggle to obtain basic rights for them. (BBC, 2013) He developed a non-violent way to address the wrong doings with speeches and protest, which attracted millions of followers, including the South African government. During his time, Gandhi led three major movements that he turned into political weapons. They were the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Quit India Movement. (Indian independence movement, n.d.) The Civil Disobedience Movement caused for the whole nation to join Gandhi in his fight against the British. This started the negotiating of the Indian Independence, but at this point the British were still not ready to let go. (Maps of India, 2004) After 15 more years, and a few more arrest, Gandhi finally had the chance to talk to Britain’s new government about the independence the nation craved. He sensed they wanted more power, so he distanced himself from the negotiations. Even so, the government eventually conceded too many of Gandhi’s demands, which led to the Indian Independence Act 1947. (Indian independence...
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