070180 KU North-Atlantic World in the 18th Century (fspr.) (2006W)

This course discusses the development and growth of the European colonial Empires in the Americas and will put special emphasis on the changes within the European balance of power during the 18th century (the end of French America in 1763) and the final destruction of the European colonies, beginning with the independence of the United States in 1776. The course will explain political, cultural, and economic similarities and differences between the Spanish, French, and British Empires in America. The course will further demonstrate that it was during the 18th century when a genuine Atlantic World emerged, connecting Europe, the Americas, and Africa. Trade-links, migration-pattern, and the transfers of ideas created a variety of trans-national networks and united the Old World and the New in numerous ways.