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1492
Christopher Columbus Exploration
Columbus discovered the Americas for Spain. He sailed across the Atlantic Ocean, not knowing where he would land. This is related to culture and society because Columbus is sailing for his country, Spain, and Columbus interacted with the native societies he met there. This is significant because Columbus discovered America, while taking advantage of the native societies, but we still celebrate a holiday just for his discovery. -
Jun 7, 1494
Treaty of Tordesillas
The Pope divided the world for Spain (West) and Portugal (East). Although, no other country obeyed or cared for the treaty. This relates to culture and society because the Church and the Pope steps in to settle disputes, which fits into the Catholic religion. This is significant because at the time the treaty was signed, little exploration had taken place, so Spain was granted a much larger portion of land, while Portugal was only given Brazil. -
Galileo's trial
Galileo was put on trial for going against the church believing the heliocentric theory. The church believed in the geocentric theory the whole time. Galileo confessed to heresy. He did not want to be excommunicated if he was found guilty at a trial. This relates to society and culture because Galileo is questioning the church's beliefs. This is significant because Galileo's idea of the heliocentric theory is later validated after Galileo confesses to heresy. -
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English Civil War
The English Civil War was a conflict between King Charles I and Parliament, led by Oliver Cromwell. Parliament ends up winning this war. Charles I was found guilty of treason and was executed. This is related to culture and society because the execution of Charles I ends Divine Right in England. This is significant because the execution of Charles I ends absolutism and Divine Right. The king was subject to the laws of Parliament, not the laws of God.