World History, Volume II: Since 1500

"Opposing Viewpoints" present two or more primary source documents representing differing perspectives on the same or related topics, providing students an opportunity for hands-on analysis. Accompanying critical-thinking questions can be assigned for individual or collaborative study. Topics include “Women and Islam in Africa: Two Views” (Chapter 8); "Two Views of Trade and Merchants" (Ch. 12); "Practical Learning or Confucian Essence: A Debate Over Reform" (Ch. 22); Soviet Repression in Eastern Europe: Hungary, 1956" (Ch. 26) and “Students Appeal for Democracy” (Ch. 27).

The text provides a solid narrative that students can easily read and understand. The authors artfully combine regional and global discussions and provide a thematic framework to help students make comparisons and connections across cultures and time periods.

Seven central themes make the narrative more cohesive, while helping students make connections and comparisons across chapters. These themes are: Science and Technology, Art and Ideas, Family and Society, Politics and Government, Earth and the Environment, Religion and Philosophy and Interaction and Exchange. Each of the book's Comparative Essays, Comparative Illustrations, Opposing Viewpoints, and Primary Source features are keyed to one of these themes.

The book contains over 150 four-color maps and 400 pieces of artwork. "Spot maps" also appear in each chapter, highlighting critical details on smaller areas. Map captions and accompanying questions encourage readers to think beyond the mere appearance of each map and to make connections across chapters, regions and time periods.