Mediterranean History: Exchange and Mobility (15th–18th Century)

The Mediterranean has always been more than just a sea; it was a dynamic crossroads where civilizations collided, competed, and collaborated. Understanding this region requires looking beyond borders to the routes that connected diverse cultures during a period of massive intellectual and social change. This course provides a foundational understanding of how mobility shaped the early modern world, tracing the circulation of people and knowledge across three continents. You will gain a deep perspective on the historical forces that turned the Mediterranean into a global hub of exchange, learning to analyze the past through the lens of movement rather than static boundaries. What you'll learn: - Analyze the major trade routes and maritime networks that linked Europe, Africa, and Asia - Examine the impact of human mobility, including the migration of merchants, sailors, and scholars - Trace the circulation of scientific ideas and cultural practices across diverse borders - Understand how objects and commodities influenced social status and daily life - Explore the role of port cities as melting pots for religious and ethnic diversity - Evaluate historical sources through the lens of modern global history and environmental factors The course begins with essential terminology and the geographical foundations of the region before moving into thematic written explorations of specific exchange networks. You will read through detailed historical accounts and analytical text that connect the Renaissance to the Enlightenment through the shared experience of the Mediterranean. This course is designed for beginners and history enthusiasts; no prior knowledge of Mediterranean history or archival research is required. Start your journey into the history of the Mediterranean world today.