Using primary source documents and other evidence from the textbook and videos, analyze the interactions between regions and cultures resulting from the creation of trans-Atlantic empires and trade networks c. 1450 – 1750 in an essay of about 500 – 750 words (about 2-3 typed, double spaced pages in size 11 or 12 font).
This essay will be graded using an asset-based rubric, meaning you will be rewarded for fulfilling each item in the rubric, but you will not be penalized for extraneous information, misspelled words, or improper grammar. However, to achieve the highest scores, you must have a coherent and well-written essay, so it is still in your best interest to proofread, edit, and polish your writing. 20 points will be awarded for a “good faith” attempt on the essay (one-paragraph “snippets” do not count), with the other 30 points awarded according to the rubric standards below.
SLO #1: Analyze and interpret historical events and issues by assessing secondary and primary sources, including identification of multiple perspectives, quotation of sources, and evaluation of arguments.
Thesis Statement (5 points)
The thesis must make a concrete argument for how the creation of trans-Atlantic trade networks and empires fostered new interactions between regions.
The thesis must make a historically defensible claim; the paper must contain an argument that can be corroborated or contradicted using evidence.
The thesis must appear in the introductory paragraph of the paper.
Merely re-stating the prompt is insufficient.
Document Contextualization (10 points)
Demonstrate an understanding of the basic meaning of at least two primary source documents from the “Global Themes and Sources” sections in Chapters 12 and 13 (5 points for each document).
You may demonstrate understanding by correctly placing the document in valid historical context or stating its significance in your own words or contextual quotation.
Cite documents using the Primary Source number in the book–i.e. “Primary Source 12.3” (parenthetical citations or footnotes are acceptable).
Note that the “Interpreting Visual Evidence” entries do NOT count for this point.
Global Historical Context (5 points)
Specify how the creation of an “Atlantic world” affected at least two regions of the world.
You should consider primarily Europe, the Americas, and Africa as distinct regions for purposes of this assignment, but you may also address the effects on Asia where relevant.
You may link these regions to the primary sources or use additional evidence from the textbook to provide context. Please cite the page number in Worlds Together, Worlds Apart for specific historical evidence.
You MAY include “Interpreting Visual Evidence” sections on this point.
Analyzing Change Over Time (5 points)
Analyze how the creation of trans-Atlantic trade and empires changed human cultures over time using primary or secondary (textbook) source evidence.
The change must be supported by at least two pieces of evidence, either in the form of documents or secondary citations (these can be the same sources you used for other components in the rubric).
In formulating your response here, it may be helpful to compare and contrast how people lived before and after the Columbian Exchange.
Excellence Point (possible 5 points)
If you earn all 25 of the core points above, you may be eligible for up to 5 excellence points, which are awarded for particularly outstanding essays. Excellence points may be earned in several ways, some of which are listed below.
The paper is persuasive and exceptionally polished writing, free or nearly free of spelling or grammatical errors (you must get this to be eligible for a 50/50).
The thesis is clear and comprehensive, well above the minimum acceptable standard.
There is particularly insightful analysis of each document, and/or a concise and analytical discussion of more than two documents, or more than two regions.
There is proper historical context or secondary evidence throughout the paper and its document analysis, beyond the minimum required.
