This self-paced/asynchronous contemporary world history course offers a deep dive into the complex global landscape that emerged after World War II, covering approximately the late 1940s to the early 21st century. This course meticulously unravels the Cold War era, exploring the tense standoff between superpowers that reshaped global alliances and redefined international conflict. Beginning with the Yalta Conference and the subsequent division of Europe, students will examine how the ideological battle between capitalism and communism played out in key events such as the Berlin Blockade and the construction of the Berlin Wall.
The course moves eastward to explore the rise of Communism in China, highlighting the significant social and cultural transformations under Mao Zedong’s leadership. Learners will also navigate the decolonization process in Africa and the Indian Subcontinent, analyzing the independence movements and the impact of partition on India.
Further exploration includes the Cold War's hot spots in Korea and Vietnam, where students will dissect the global ramifications of these regional conflicts. The narrative then shifts to the Cuban Revolution and the Cuban Missile Crisis, offering a dual perspective on Cuba's internal changes and the superpower standoff that nearly led to nuclear war. The Space Race is also covered, symbolizing the ideological and technological competition between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.
As the Cold War winds down, the course examines the global impact of détente, Gorbachev’s reforms, and Reagan's diplomacy in ending the Soviet Union, leading to a new world order. The course concludes with an exploration of Middle Eastern nationalism and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, examining the ongoing challenges in this region.
This course not only provides historical knowledge but also encourages critical thinking about how past events continue to influence the modern geopolitical landscape.
Analyze the social, political, and economic structures that emerged after World War II and their impact on the Cold War.
Explore the rise of Communism in China and the decolonization process in Africa and Asia.
Investigate the global impact of the Korean and Vietnam Wars and their roles in the broader Cold War narrative.
Examine the significance of the Space Race, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and other Cold War flashpoints.
Assess the long-term global impact of the Cold War’s end and the challenges of the post-Cold War world.
Complete creative projects that demonstrate a deep engagement with contemporary world history.
Course Type: Self-Paced | 120-Day Access
Structure: 10 flexible modules
Work through 10 engaging modules at your own pace within a 4-month window. Each one is packed with rich historical content, simulation-based lessons, and creative activities designed to bring the past to life.
What You’ll Get:
⭐ Short, high-interest video lessons
🎮 Simulation-based learning experiences
📄 Printable handouts and visual guides
🎨 Creative, project-based assignments
📬 Personalized feedback (optional)
📌 Note: This version includes all core content in printable and video formats. For access to interactive digital tools (like Google-based versions), check out our Membership Plans.
Support & Feedback:
Have a question or want feedback on your work? You can message me directly through your course page at any time. I review submissions and provide personalized feedback twice a week—on Mondays and Fridays.
Learners can also request:
📊 Letter grades
📝 Progress reports
📚 Custom assessments
Cold War Conspiracy Theory Project: Learners will explore Cold War-era conspiracy theories, developing research and analytical skills as they investigate and present their findings.
PEEPS Diorama Project: As an alternative, learners can create a diorama depicting a significant event from the Cold War era on a PEEP scale, using creativity to bring historical moments to life.
Frequency: 3-5 per lesson
Details: Upon enrolling, you will gain access to all course materials and assignments, with most being digital-friendly and a select few requiring printing. Assignments and activities will typically take 15-60 minutes each. Larger projects will have extended notice, and all tasks will be manageable within the time given.
Type: Assessment (available upon request)
Details: Upon request and prior to the start of the course, assessments can be conducted to evaluate learner progress and understanding. These assessments may include quizzes, tests, projects, or feedback. A detailed rubric will be provided for projects to ensure clarity and fairness in evaluation.
Supplies: Construction paper, markers, and access to digital materials or printer.
Digital Tools: Google Classroom (for assignments and communications), Google Drive, Google Slides, Kahoot, Gif School, Google Docs.
Required Texts: None; optional readings and resources will be provided.
The study of world history in this course will encompass topics that may include sensitive subjects such as war, slavery, racism, religion, and genocide. All content will be approached with the utmost respect and sensitivity, ensuring that discussions are age-appropriate and considerate of diverse perspectives.
Religion: Religion will be discussed in a historical context, focusing on its impact on societies and events throughout history. The goal is to provide an understanding of how religion shaped various civilizations without promoting any specific religious beliefs.
Balanced Perspectives: Multiple perspectives will be introduced through peer-reviewed and scholarly sources, encouraging critical and reflective thinking. Viewpoints from marginalized groups will also be explored to provide a broader understanding of history from different social, cultural, and ethnic perspectives.If you like, you can add text here. Type or paste directly into the text box, and use the / key to pull up a menu with more formatting options.