I. Introduction The Early Modern period is an important stage in human history, covering a period from about the end of the 15th century to the end of the 18th century. During this period, many important events had a profound impact on global history. This article will explore the major events of the early modern period and their impact on the world. 2. Geographical discoveries At the end of the 15th century, European navigators such as Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama made a voyage across the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, an event known as the Great Discovery. This event led to the start of a struggle for colonies by the European powers, accelerating the rise of Europe and the transformation of the rest of the world. At the same time, the great geographical discoveries also brought about an increase in wealth and resources in Europe, and promoted the process of globalization. 3. The Renaissance The Renaissance was an important event of the early modern period, originating in Italy and spreading throughout Europe. The Renaissance gave impetus to the revival of classical art and culture, and to the development of science, literature, and art. The artists of this period, who pursued individual expression and naturalistic style, broke the religious shackles of the Middle Ages and laid the foundation for the later Enlightenment. 4. The Reformation The Reformation was another important event in the early modern period. With the rise of the Renaissance, people's beliefs and ideas about religion began to change. Religious reformers such as Martin Luther proposed many new religious ideas that challenged the authority of the Holy See. This event led to the schism of Christianity, giving rise to two major religious systems, Protestantism and Old Christianity. This event had a profound impact on the political, cultural, and social fabric of Europe. 5. The Enlightenment The Enlightenment was another important event in the early modern period. Enlightenment thinkers promoted ideas such as rationalism, natural law, and human rights, challenging the shackles of feudalism and religious authority. This movement gave impetus to the development of the scientific and industrial revolution and accelerated the modernization of society. The ideas of the Enlightenment influenced many countries across the globe and became the forerunner of many social changes. 6. The Industrial Revolution The Industrial Revolution was the last big event of the early modern period. The industrial revolution has brought about changes in mechanized production and industrial production methods, which have greatly improved the level of productivity and the scale of social productivity. The Industrial Revolution also triggered phenomena such as urbanization and population migration, which led to changes in the structure of society. At the same time, the Industrial Revolution also gave birth to new social systems and social problems, which had an important impact on global history and the process of modernization. VII. Conclusions A series of events in the early modern period had a profound impact on global history. These events gave impetus to the process of globalization, the development of modernization, and the change in the structure of society and the perceptions of people. These events have also had an important impact on the development of human civilization and provide important reference and enlightenment for the future development of human society.