Updated October, 2006 Exam type:
CLEP: 120 multiple choice questions in 90 minutes.
Typical credits: 3 units

The material covered in the CLEP exam in Western Civilization II (which is reflected in the lecture notes and study guide which follow) is generally considered equivalent to a one semester lower division college course.

The CLEP Exam

NOTE: There is at least one on-line course and many readings that appear to relate directly to the CLEP Exam. I have drawn from several of these as well as some guest lectures. (I didn't promise you a rose garden. See disclaimer.)

The topics in bold face are those The College Board indicates will be found on the exams. Percentages given after the main topic headings are only approximate. Always contact The College Board for latest information.

Getting Started

Here is one way that you can begin. (If you haven't read a general step-by-step guide, this might be a good time. See also How to Budget Your Time)

This is one course where a good encyclopedia can be your best friend. (See the online version of the Columbia Encyclopedia) To help orient yourself to the subject start by reading quickly through the topics in the study guide below. Then read the history section of Europe in the encyclopedia though events from 1648. Note cross references as you will want to read these just before you read the lectures at each study session.

In addition to cross references, you will also find a history section under each country (England, France, Germany, Italy, etc.) And you will want to incorporate these as part of your study sessions. You will also want to read the biographies of the major historical figures as they appear.

Using the Savannah Free College Study Guide

We are fortunate to have an excellent series of lectures from Prof. Gerhard Rempel (Rempel) of Western New England College which form the core of this study guide. For purposes of the examination the subject matter is divided into 12 major sections of unequal length. You can probable best pace yourself by devoting the equivalent of two 1-1/2 hour study sessions per lecture.

Professor Paul Brians (Brians) of Washington State University, has a extensive number of lectures and annotated readings as part of a course in World Civilizations. While many of these readings might be considered more in the area of humanities, and cover broader geographic areas, they provide excellent enrichment for this Western Civilization course

Plan of Action

The Study Guide is divided into 12 major topic areas and presented as six units.

Absolutism and Constitutionalism, 1648-1715

Competition for empire and economic expansion

The scientific view of the world

Enlightenment and Enlightened despotism

The French Revolution and Napoleonic Europe

The Industrial Revolution

Political developments, 1815-1848

Politics & diplomacy in the Age of Nationalism, 1850-1914

Economy, culture, and imperialism, 1850-1914

The First World War, the Russian Revolution, and postwar Europe, 1914-1924

Europe between the wars

The Second World War and contemporary Europe

Relevant lectures, grouped by professor, follow each topic Depending upon your own method of study you can either read one group of lectures in sequence, or alternate among the groups reading lectures by subtopic.

For each lecture:
A) Read the lecture. In order to stay focused, only follow those links within the lectures that seem to be directly related to the subject matter at hand. Take your own notes. If you print out the material, highlight key definitions and concepts for review. Add your own marginal notes.

B) Read corresponding material in a textbook of your choice. Look up key words in an encyclopedia.

C) Follow additional links covering the same time period.

D) Take any on-line quizzes and/or write a draft response to suggested essay questions

Periodically take time to review; do suggested exercises; take a practice CLEP exam and review areas of weakness.

Remember to keep your journal up to date.

Each Unit has its own Web page:

Good Luck!

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