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The Great Acceleration

Driving Question: Why has change accelerated since 1945?

The environmental historian, J.R. McNeill argues that, since the end of the Second World War, the pace of change produced by human activities has accelerated at an unprecedented rate. During the era of intense globalization, technological innovation, population growth, and human impacts on the plant have all increased exponentially. Why did this dramatic acceleration start, and how will it impact life on Earth?

  1. Analyze how globalization has impacted the environment.
  2. Create and support arguments using historical evidence to communicate conclusions.
  3. Use the historical thinking skill of continuity and change over time to analyze historical events and processes across multiple units.
STEP 2
STEP 3

Green Revolution

The Green Revolution’s new agricultural technology transfers aimed to reduce world hunger, but also politicized food and aid in ways that were sometimes controversial.

Key Ideas

As this video progresses, key ideas will be introduced to invoke discussion.
STEP 4
STEP 6

Eradicating Smallpox

In 1980, humanity officially eradicated the dreaded smallpox virus. Dr. Larry Brilliant tells the long history of this unique accomplishment and what it means for the future.

Key Ideas

As this video progresses, key ideas will be introduced to invoke discussion.