Introduction to Environmental History
As taught in: Spring 2011
Mercury Bay in New Zealand is one location Captain James Cook landed during his exploratory expeditions. (Photo courtesy of BullockCart on Flickr. CC-BY-NC-SA)
Instructors:
Prof. Harriet Ritvo
MIT Course Number:
21H.421
Level:
Undergraduate
Course Description
Focusing primarily on the period since 1500, explores the influence of climate, topography, plants, animals, and microorganisms on human history and the reciprocal influence of people on the environment. Topics include the European encounter with the Americas, the impact of modern technology, and the historical roots of the current environmental crisis.
