This Workshop will focus on the geographical shaping of the early modern Atlantic world. Specialists will discuss the region's physical and environmental contours and their effects on human movements and endeavors—economic, political, and social—in Europe, Africa, and the Americas; oceanic and climatological systems; and the significant disruptions and transformations that overtook this physical world and affected its cultural landscape. Particular effort will be made to explore the possibilities of using computer techniques—Geographic Information Systems, computer mapping programs, spatial data sets—for analysis of Atlantic history in the early modern period.

Speakers will address these broad topics and also consider leading questions and possibilities in the field. Participants are invited to join in the discussions. Sessions will run from 9:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m.; lunch will be provided, and a reception will follow the afternoon session.

Attendance at the Workshop and participation in the discussion are open to the academic community. Historians at the beginning of their careers are especially encouraged to attend. Travel and accommodation expenses will be the responsibility of attendees, though the Workshop can provide local lodging information. Pre-registration by November 2 is required.