The Modern Revolution: Crash Course Big History

The video explores the concept of modernity, tracing its roots from the Renaissance to the Industrial Revolution. It discusses the global unification through European exploration, highlighting both positive and negative impacts, such as increased connectivity and the horrors of slavery. The Industrial Revolution is examined as a pivotal moment in cultural evolution, with a focus on why it began in Britain rather than China. The video concludes by considering the ongoing modern revolution and its potential future implications, emphasizing the importance of collective learning and sustainability.

Which event is NOT considered a potential starting point for the modern era?

• The Renaissance

• The American Civil War

• The Industrial Revolution

• The French Revolution

What was one of the main reasons Europeans sought new trade routes to Asia?

• To escape the Black Death

• To avoid Ottoman-controlled trade routes

• To find new lands for settlement

• To spread Christianity

Which crop from the Americas significantly boosted European agriculture?

• Potato

• Wheat

• Rice

• Barley

What was a key factor in the success of the Industrial Revolution in Britain?

• Abundant gold reserves

• Advanced military technology

• A large population of skilled laborers

• Access to coal and a global trade network

Which invention was crucial for expanding Britain's trade network during the Industrial Revolution?

• The spinning jenny

• The compass

• The printing press

• The steam engine

How is the Industrial Revolution compared to the Cambrian explosion?

• Both were driven by technological advancements

• Both led to rapid cultural evolution

• Both were biological changes

• Both occurred in the 18th century

What was a major reason the Industrial Revolution did not start in Song dynasty China?

• Cultural and political climate

• Lack of coal resources

• Absence of trade networks

• Limited population growth

What is the Anthropocene era characterized by?

• The end of technological progress

• Humanity's significant impact on Earth's biosphere

• The rise of industrial societies

• The dominance of agrarian societies

What is a potential risk of the modern global system?

• Overpopulation leading to resource scarcity

• Technological stagnation

• A decline in cultural complexity

• Decreased connectivity

What is a key driver of collective learning?

• Religious movements

• Population numbers and connectivity

• Military conquests

• Natural disasters