World The World in 1500 Beginnings–1500 The World in 1500 Beginnings–1500 Section 1 Crossing to the Americas Section 2 Societies of North America Section 3 Societies of West Africa Section 4 Societies of Europe Section 5 Early European Explorers 1 24 476 Western Roman Empire ends. Over time, Europe splits into small kingdoms. 200s The Maya are using hieroglyphic writing. These Native Americans may well be seeing ships this size for the first time. Americas About 6 B.C. Jesus of Nazareth is born. His teachings become the basis for Christianity. 400 B.C.–200 B.C. Hopewell culture, which created this mica birdclaw, flourishes in the Midwest. 200 B.C. CHAPTER