Expanding Your Empire
OER PROJECT: WHAP/ LESSON 3.1OPENER EXPANDING YOUR EMPIREUnless otherwise noted, this work is licensed under CC BY 4.0. Credit: “Expanding Your Empire”, OER Project, www.oerproject.com/PurposeIt’s not always easy being in charge. Before you learn more about how historical empires expanded and maintained power, think about what you would do as the ruler of your own kingdom.Process1.Imagine that you are the ruler of a small but ambitious kingdom in the year 1450 CE. Your people look to you for protection, wealth, and power—but you’re surrounded by other strong kingdoms and empires that are growing fast. As the ruler, you must choose oneof the following options to support your kingdom:Choice A: Expand through military conquest, forming a powerful army to crush your rivals.Choice B:Strengthen your empire through trade and diplomacy, making allies and controlling key trade routes.ChoiceC:Use religion, culture, or new technology to unify and expand your rule.2.Write a short decree (or announcement) to your people explaining the choice you made above, and how and why it will expand your empire.3.Be ready to defend your choices—other rulers (your classmates) may have different ideas!