This text brings purpose to the course and understanding to the student's real world. The Introduction gives an overview of where we are now and poses questions about how we got here.

The content follows 500 years of history up to the present, showing how we got to where we are now.

The last chapter revisits where we are and looks to the future. Two well-known Canadian historians will discuss how skills in understanding things historically, and looking at current events (such as September 11th) with an historian's eye, help us understand what is happening now and how the future could unfold.

Every unit presents a history skill designed to help the student complete the culminating activity.

Focus on Genius: This full page feature focuses on individuals who have made key or pivotal contributions in any field or in connection with an important event or discovery like Mozart. The focus is more on the event, discovery or contribution, than on biographical details. Activities are included.

Primary Sources a 2-page feature highlights controversial documents, those that generated considerable debate, such as The Communist Manifesto. Activities are included.The Fourth Estate: The Press, in all its manifestations: newspapers, broadsides, magazines, television etc. is examined in this 2-page feature which demonstrates the importance of public opinion and how the press changed or affected public opinion. Examples include TIME magazine. Activities are included.

Historiography is a 1-page feature about historians of the past and how history can change with its writer. Included are examples of historical methodology and different approaches to history and the use of sources such as William Shirer's The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich. Each includes an excerpt and activities.

Music as History highlight specific musical compositions or performances that can directly be linked to world events. How the event is reflected in the music is explored, along with any interesting or important elements of style, composition or performance. Examples include The 1812 Overture, The Rite of Spring and popular music concerts such as BandAid used as charitable events to raise money for causes, including AIDS and support for families affected by the September 11th attacks. Activities are included.

Wit and Wisdom : "Quotable Quotes" open each chapter that sum up the age or are appropriate or thought provoking in the context of the chapter.