Emphasizing Europe's role in the growth of Western institutions and ideals, this guide stresses the development of skills necessary for active participation in democratic processes. An introductory unit on the Renaissance and the Reformation is followed by units on (1) the political events fostering the growth of the modern national state and the economic, cultural, and social forces creating the Age of Enlightenment; (2) the nationalism, imperialism, and political, industrial, social, and cultural revolutions of the late 18th and 19th centuries; (3) the global consequences of the interests and problems of 20th-century Europe; and (4) the impact of modern scientific and technical achievements on people's lives, especially in the creative arts. The units' learning activities are grouped under eight headings: geographical factors, moral and spiritual values, democracy and totalitarianism, political and human freedom, contributions of European nations, great leaders, sources, and deductive and inductive reasoning. Evaluation methods are suggested for each activity. (JM)