Technological Innovations from 1450 to 1750

Ethan Taylor
8 min read
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#AP World History: Modern - Technology & Innovation (1450-1750) π
Hey there, future AP World History master! Let's break down the tech and innovation of the 1450-1750 period. This is a big one, so let's make sure you're ready to rock this on the exam! This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the exam. Let's get started!
#π§ Thematic Focus: Technology and Innovation
Human ingenuity led to major tech advancements, boosting efficiency, comfort, and security. These innovations also had some major unintended consequences. Think of it like this: every new gadget has a good side and a not-so-good side. π‘
#π― College Board Learning Objective
Explain how cross-cultural interactions led to the spread of technology and changed trade and travel patterns from 1450 to 1750. Basically, how did everyone's tech get shared, and what happened because of it?
#π Historical Developments
KC-4.1.II: Knowledge, science, and tech from the Classical, Islamic, and Asian worlds spread, fueling European innovation. It's like everyone was sharing their best ideas, and Europe took it to the next level. π
KC-4.1.II.A: This included new tools, better ships, and a better understanding of wind and currents. All of this made transoceanic travel and trade possible. Think of it like upgrading from a bicycle to a spaceship. π
#TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)
- Indian, Chinese, and Arab empires were the OG tech innovators.
- Europeans got in on the action, driven by money and global competition.
- Massive sea voyages became a thing.
- Goods, ideas, and people moved around the world (sometimes not by choice). π’
#βοΈ Causes of Technological Innovation (1450-1750)
- Distraction from Discontent: Rulers used exploration to keep the poor from revolting. Think of it as a shiny object to distract from problems at home. π
- Lust for Wealth and Power: Exploration and trade became tools for European states to compete and gain an edge. It's like a real-world game of Risk. π°
- Renaissance Spark: Scientific and intellectual movements led to new technologies like the astrolabe and sextant, making exploration more feasible. It's like leveling up in a video game. π€
#π οΈ New Technologies
#π¬ Innovations in Science
π Newtonβs Laws of Gravitation
- Explained how objects move in the universe.
- Allowed for calculating gravitatio...

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