High School History

Ancient History surveys the development of human civilization from early domestication to the 3rd century AD. The course focuses primarily on the Mediterranean civilizations—Greece, Rome, and Israel—that form the bedrock of Western culture and the backdrop for the Incarnation. Students investigate the rise of cities, political systems, warfare, art, and religion, striving to understand the world into which Christ was born.

This interdisciplinary course brings the Middle Ages to life, covering the period from the fall of Rome to the Renaissance. Students explore the rise of Christendom, the development of Gothic architecture, and the intellectual vibrancy of the medieval period. Through primary texts and historical analysis, students witness the collapse of the Empire, the conversion of barbarian tribes, and the complex interplay of faith, culture, and politics that defined the era.

This college preparatory course surveys European history from the 1300s to the 1970s. Students analyze pivotal events including the Reformation, the Enlightenment, the French Revolution, the World Wars, and the Cold War. The course emphasizes how these historical turning points have shaped the modern world, while also exploring the art and culture of each era. Tie-ins with literature and Theology provide a holistic understanding of history.

This course presents a comprehensive history of North America from 1492 to the late 20th century, with a unique focus on the contributions of the Catholic Church and individual Catholics to the American story. The curriculum also includes an extensive study of American government, requiring students to demonstrate mastery of Civics, the U.S. Constitution, and the Missouri Constitution.