History 1 (Introduction to Western Civilization)
Teaches historically the major elements in the Western heritage from the earliest Mesopotamian
civilizations through the religious reformations of the sixteenth century. Introduces students to the ideas
and institutions central to western civilization, and acquaints them, through reading and critical
discussion, with representative contemporary documents and writings of enduring interest.
Section:
0395
Time and Days: 9:35 a.m. – 11:00 – M & W
Location:
VLGE 8344
Required Text: Civilization in the West Vol. I by Kishlansky, Geary & O’Brien
Instructor: Professor Brian Patrick Walsh Email: walshbp@piercecollege.edu Telephone: (818) 710-2894
Office Hours: - M & W 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
T & Th 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. (or by appt.)
Rm. 3001
EXAMS & QUIZZES:
Schedule
Feb. 10th Introduction
12th Civilization & Empires
19th Ancient Greece
24th Hellenic Mind
26th Hellenistic World
March 3rd Quiz One (15%)
5th Roman Republic
10th Roman Empire
12th Fall
of Rome
17th
Byzantium& Monotheism
19th
Rise of Islam
24th
26th
Review
Mid-Term Exam (20%)
April 2nd Research
14th Carolingians
16th Feudalism
21st Dual Revolution
All tests consist of four essay questions in which you are required to answer at least
two. Blue/Green books are mandatory for taking all tests. Allowable items include
scrap paper, translators and/or dictionaries. Use of text books and note books are not
allowed during tests. Students will not be allowed to take any test if they are more than
ten minutes late in arriving to class that day. Any student caught using their cell phone,
including text messaging or allowing the phone to ring will receive a grade of zero and
be excused for the day of the test. Any student caught cheating will also receive a grade
of zero and be reported to the Dean of Students.
ATTENDANCE:
There are no valid excuses to miss class on a day of testing. For days of lecture or
testing, students will not be permitted entrance if they arrive more than ten minutes
later than the starting time of the class. Students are responsible for all the material in
the course, even the sessions that they do not attend.
CONDUCT:
Social conversation is not permitted during lectures or tests. Cell phones and all
electronic devices (including laptops) must be turned off for the duration of the class
time. The first violation will result in dismissal for the day. A second violation will
result in dismissal for the next two classes. Bathroom breaks should be reserved for
prior to or following class.
23rd High Middle Ages
Goals for the Course
28th Late Middle Ages
30th Review
May 5th Quiz Two (15%)

Students will be able to evaluate the significance of geography
and identify important persons as they relate to the major trends
in the history of early western civilization.

Students will be able to assess the impact of the major
intellectual, religious and cultural events of early western
civilization.

Students will be able to develop critical thinking skills by learning
how to analyze, evaluate and interpret the historical evidence of
primary sources
7th Europe in the World
12th Renaissance
14th Humanism
19thProtestant Reformation
21st Religious Conflict
28th The European Empires
June 2nd (Paper Due – 20%)
June 4th 9-11 a.m.
Final Exam (20%)
Grade Key:
A
100-92
B
C
D
F
91-83
82-74
73-65
64-0
Class Participation:
Students are required to participate in the online component of the course: Go to the website http://moodle.piercecollege.edu/ and look for the class in which you are enrolled. Students are
responsible for all technical requirements of moodle. I will not provide any technical assistance to
students. Participate in at least ten different forums for ten percent (10%) of your semester grade.
Occasionally, extra credit assignments will be offered through this platform.
Moodle forum participation must be completed by 11:55 p.m. on May 30th.
Written Assignment:
A written assignment of 5-10 pages is required of all students. Students will choose a primary source
(which will serve as your topic) and inform me on moodle. The paper topic submission will be listed
on Moodle as an assignment. (Do not email me your topic). The deadline for topic approval is March
20th at 11:55 p.m. I must approve of your topic prior to this time. To submit something shortly before
the deadline before I can approve it does not satisfy this requirement. Students who do not get a topic
approved by the deadline will not receive credit for this assignment.
Upon approval, students will write a paper that analyzes the origins of this primary source along with
its historical significance. Papers must be turned in by 11:55 p.m. on June 2nd. Submit your final paper
electronically on moodle by uploading your file through Turn It In.
Academic Integrity:
Cheating will not be tolerated. Any student caught cheating will receive a zero grade for the assignment
and certain intervention from the college administration. Students must agree to an Academic Honesty
Pledge by May 30th, 11:55 p.m. The pledge will be on your Moodle page.
Failure to submit your agreement by the deadline will disqualify you from participation and
will result in a grade of zero for the written assignment.
College Services
The Center for Academic Success (CAS) - The CAS is dedicated to empowering students to achieve academic success. We
believe educational programs and services should cater to multiple learning styles, and all people deserve access to an
atmosphere of respect, openness and trust. We are committed to helping students in need of academic support to meet their
individual goals, regardless of age, gender, race, or physical ability.
Library/Crossroads Building
For questions/comments: lcsuccess@piercecollege.edu or (818) 719-6414
Special Services - Special Services is the program on campus providing services to students with disabilities. This program
has been serving students since 1974. Each semester over 900 students with disabilities receive a wide range of support
services that are not provided by other departments on campus and many services that are. This "One- Stop" approach creates a
more user-friendly atmosphere for all our students.
Phone
(818) 719-6430
Email
special_services@piercecollege.edu
Library - The Pierce College Library contains a collection of over 103,000 volumes, including books and materials required
for supplementary study, and a representative collection of recreational reading material. The library subscribes to over 150
periodicals and newspapers, has an extensive microfilm and microfiche collection, and many electronic resources. The online
book catalog, and current print and online periodical indices help locate information in books, newspapers, and journals.
Professional librarians are always available to assist library patrons.
Circulation Desk (818) 719-6409 - Reference Desk (818) 710-2833 - Periodicals Desk (818) 719-6410