The American writer, historian, and philosopher William Durant once noted, “Civilization exists by geological consent, subject to change without notice.” This idea is supported by many recent studies indicating that since the last glacial maxima, cataclysmic volcanic eruptions may have played a significant climatic role in drastically altering the path of human history. For example, pairs of massive tropical volcanic eruptions in the 13th and again in the 15th Centuries may have ushered in and sustained the major climate event known as the Little Ice Age.

Massive volcanoes affect climate by injecting large quantities of ash and sulfur dioxide gas into the stratosphere where the gas reacts with water vapor to form sulfate droplets. These are excellent reflectors of incoming solar radiation resulting in surface cooling.

This class will examine rapid climate change examples associated with massive volcanic eruptions as well as how eruption type, magnitude, geographic location, season, and zonal winds amplify or diminish volcanic climatic effects. We will explore some of the major climate forcing functions and how scientists are able to determine past climatic conditions.

The course is intended for any individuals who are fascinated by the confluence of history, environment and geology.

A technical background is helpful, but the course, although somewhat technical, is designed for the non-scientist.