Throughout human history various events have changed the way people have lived.  These events can be political revolutions, social and religious changes, new technologies, or the exploration of unknown places.  These changes occur in two different fashions, evolution and revolution.

Evolution: is the gradual change or development of something.  An example of historical evolution would be the development of democracy in Great Britain. 

Revolution: is a sudden or abrupt change in something, usually political in nature.  An example of historical revolution is the French Revolution.  Over a few short years France's government changed from absolute monarchy, to constitution monarchy, to democratic republic,  to dictatorship, and back to monarchy. Whatever the process, history is about change.  This thematic review focuses on the major periods of that change, and the turning points of human history.

This site is designed to aid students in reviewing major periods of change and significant turning points in human history.  This site should be used in preparation for the New York State Regents Exam in Global History and Geography. In addition, students may test their knowledge of the material presented here by accessing multiple-choice questions from past Regents Exams.