World Geography and Cultures © 2008

Chapter 12: Cultural Geography of Europe

Student Web Activities


"Religion in Europe"

Introduction
Religion has played a dominant role in shaping the cultural heritage of Europe. The many different cultural groups of Europe practice a number of different religions including Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism, and Islam. Though most nations have a dominant religion, the idea of religious freedom is valued across the continent.

Objective
Through this activity you will examine the development and importance of religion in European society.

Directions
Research credible websites and complete the questions and activity that follows:

Where to begin
www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/
philtar.ucsm.ac.uk/encyclopedia/europe/
www.localfestivities.com/

Take notes as well as record the websites you visit and answer the following questions:

1
Examine a number of key dates relating to the growth of religion in Europe. What dates and events would you include?
2
Define the doctrine associated with the early Germanic religions of Europe.
3
What is considered to be the fastest growing religion in Europe? What has largely contributed to this growth?
4
Choose a religious festival in a European country. What is the origin of the festival? How is the festival connected to a particular religion?
5
In your opinion, why is religion often the source of great controversy? What are some wars in European history that can be traced to religious differences?

Interpreting Information
Develop pie or bar graphs depicting the leading religions of Europe by country; try to include as many countries as possible. In your opinion, what is the dominant religion of Europe? What historically would verify your conclusion?

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