Application and Reflection Questions
1
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What were the causes of the Protestant Reformation? What did the Council of Trent do to address those problems?
2
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In what ways did Martin Luther’s beliefs differ from those of the Roman Catholic Church? What challenges to Catholic doctrine were introduced by other reformers?
3
.
In your opinion, did the religious zeal of Spain and Portugal help them accomplish their goals or interfere with their accomplishment? Explain your answer.
4
.
Imagine a world in which the Columbian Exchange did not occur. What would that world look like today? Why?
5
.
Consider the ways in which mercantilism benefited and harmed people in the nations that adopted it. Was mercantilism an ethical policy, or did it encourage exploitation? Why?
6
.
What did Jean-Baptiste Colbert do to enrich France? In what ways were his actions guided by mercantilist theory?
7
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How did mercantilism influence the relationship between European nations and their colonies?
8
.
What were some of the ways in which slavery benefited Europeans?
9
.
What were some ways enslaved persons maintained their dignity and humanity amid their hardship?
10
.
How is the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade still affecting Africa today?