History is more than the study of the past. It is the process of recording, reconstructing and interpreting the past through the investigation of a variety of sources. It is a discipline that gives people an understanding of themselves and others in relation to the world, both past and present.
Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.
History is an account, mostly false, of events, mostly unimportant, which are brought about by rulers, mostly knaves, and soldiers, mostly fools.
A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history.
Course Content
Whichever route is selected the course provides both structure and flexibility, fostering an understanding of major historical events in a global context. It requires students to make comparisons between similar and dissimilar solutions to common human situations, whether they be political, economic or social. It invites comparisons between, but not judgments of, different cultures, political systems and national traditions.
Route 1
Route 1 explores the main developments in the history of Europe and the Islamic world (from 500 to 1570).
History of Europe and the Islamic world — Prescribed Subjects
The Origins and Rise of Islam c500–661
The Kingdom of Sicily 1130–1302
History of Europe and the Islamic World — Topics
Dynasties and Rulers
Society and Economy
Wars and Warfare
Intellectual, Cultural, and Artistic Developments
Religion and the State
Higher Level Options (3 of the following)
Christianity c500-1300
The Fatimids 909-1171
Monarchies in England and France 1066-1223
The Crusades 1095-1291
The Mongols 1200-1405
Muslim, Christian and Jewish Interactions in Spain, 711-1492
Emperors and Kings 1150-1300
Late Medieval Political Crises 1300-1485
14th Century Famine, Pestilence and Social Change
The Ottomans 1281-1566
Renaissance Government and Society in Italy 1300-1500
New Horizons: Exploration 1400-1550
Route 2
Route 2 encompasses the main developments in the 20th century world history.
20th Century World History — Prescribed Subjects
Peacemaking, Peacekeeping—International Relations 1918–36
The Arab–Israeli Conflict 1945–79
Communism in Crisis 1976–89
20th Century World History — Topics
Causes, Practices, and Effects of Wars
Democratic states—Challenges and Responses
Origins and Development of Authoritarian and Single-Party States
Nationalist and Independence Movements in Africa and Asia, and post-1945 Central and Eastern European states
Higher Level Options (1 of the following)
Aspects of History of Africa
Aspects of History of the Americas
Aspects of History of Asia and Oceania
Aspects of History of Europe and the Middle East
Assessment
- Paper 1
- Paper 2
- Paper 3
- Internal Assessment
Useful Links
- History Guide (First Examinations 2010)
- IB History of the Americas (Not part of this book)
- IB European History (Not part of this book)
Contributing
For those interested in contributing towards this book, Route 1 is very much unexplored and it is recommended. Sections under Route 2 are planned.
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