• Unit 2: Europe

    Understanding the concept of Europe, from the the Roman Empire through the European Union (EU), is essential to understanding geography. The affects of European colonialism are still felt today, and the continent still struggles with cultural forces that unite and divide it. The rural-to-urban shift prompted by the Industrial Revolution first arose in Europe and continues to affect developing countries.

    This unit begins by exploring of the physical characteristics and natural resources of Europe. Then, it looks at Europe's division until the 20th century, its efforts toward unification, and how the European Union has increased the rate of globalization. Europe is large and rich in history – let's spend some time exploring it.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 4 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • describe the climate types and physical landforms of the European continent;
      • explain how Europe's physical geography and natural resources have supported its development;
      • describe how European colonialism changed or influenced other countries;
      • summarize the impact of the rural-to-urban shift and its affect on urbanization;
      • identify the three main language groups and the three most prevalent religions in Europe;
      • discuss initiatives to encourage European unification;
      • summarize how globalization has increased with the advent of the European Union; and
      • explain the challenges that the regions of Europe have had in retaining cultural identity and uniqueness.

    • MapCheck: Europe

    • 2.1: Introducing Europe

      • Introducing the Realm: Europe URL

        This section introduces Europe's major physical characteristics, including its climate, landforms, and natural resources. It also explores how Europe's physical geography has supported its cultural and economic development.

      • Geoinquiry: The First European Industrial Revolution File

        In this exercise, you will explore the first industrial revolution and how it affected Europe. Follow the instructions and answer the questions in this document.

    • 2.2: Historical Development Patterns

      • Historical Development Patterns URL

        This section introduces the history of Europe and discusses how various cultures like the Roman Empire contributed to European development. It also explores how European colonialism influenced other countries, and how cultural forces can positively and negatively influence politics.

      • Geoinquiry: Early European Exploration File

        In this exercise, you will take a look at early European exploration. Follow the instructions and answer the questions in this document.

      • Geoinquiry: The Reformation File

        In this exercise, you will explore the effects of the Reformation on the countries and people of Europe. Follow the instructions and answer the questions in this document.

    • 2.3: Regions of Western Europe

      • Regions of Western Europe URL
        This section introduces the physical, cultural, and economic characteristics of the regions in Western Europe.
      • Imagine a European Democracy Without Borders Page

        In this video, the former prime minister of Greece discusses the Greek economic crisis and the need for Europeans to re-engage in a new democratic bargain.

      • Why Brexit Happened – and What to Do Next Page

        Watch this video, which examines why the citizens of the United Kingdom voted for Brexit in 2016 to leave the European Union and discusses post-Brexit steps toward a more inclusive world.

    • 2.4: Eastern Europe

      • Eastern Europe URL

        This section introduces the physical, cultural, and economic characteristics of the regions in Eastern Europe, including the former Soviet republics.

      • On Bulgaria and Its Future Page

        Watch this video, which discusses Bulgaria's economy, education, and society.