The Birth of the Modern World (1870-1914): Political and Economic Transformations
1. The Birth of the Modern World (1870-1914)
In the period between 1870 and 1914, the foundations of today’s world were established.
- Europe experienced a period of tense international relations due to rivalries between European countries, particularly Germany and France.
- Spain became a second-class power after it lost its remaining colonies in 1898.
- The industrialized countries of Europe started producing manufactured goods in enormous quantities. At the same time, they began colonizing countries and
Latin American Independence & The Rise of the Class-Based Society
Latin American Independence
Causes of Independence
- **Enlightenment Ideas:** The Age of Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason and individual rights fueled the desire for self-governance.
- **Influence of Revolutions:** The American, French, and Spanish Wars of Independence served as inspiring examples for Latin American colonists.
- **British Financial Assistance:** Great Britain’s support for independence movements further weakened Spanish control.
Sequence of Events
The independence movements began during the
Read MoreA Century of Change: Key Events of the 20th Century
Residential Schools
Residential Schools were government-sponsored religious schools established to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture. Although the first residential facilities were established in New France, the term usually refers to the custodial schools established after 1880. Originally conceived by Christian churches and the Canadian government as an attempt to both educate and convert Indigenous youth and to integrate them into Canadian society, residential schools disrupted
Read MoreThe Rise and Rule of Nazi Germany: A Comprehensive Overview
Establishment of Single Party Dictatorship
Three Phases of Nazi Consolidation of Power
A) Control at the Center (Jan-March 1933)
The Reichstag fire in February (where the Parliament building was burnt down and Communists were blamed) led to Hindenburg declaring a state of emergency. Communists and trade union leaders were arrested, leading to the virtual destruction of the Communist Party (KPD). In March, Reichstag elections gave the Nazis 44% of the seats. The Enabling Act was passed, granting Hitler
Read MoreInfluential Figures & Political Concepts: A Concise Guide
Influential Figures in History and Politics
Philosophers and Political Thinkers
Thomas Hobbes
English philosopher who witnessed the English Civil War. He advocated for strong government and believed that humans are inherently selfish.
John Locke
Argued that all people, regardless of differences, share the same natural rights: life, liberty, and protection by the government. He supported government but believed people agree to support it in return for protection.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Born in Geneva, Switzerland,
Read MoreEnlightenment, Revolutions, and Art: A Historical Overview
Enlightenment
Criticisms and Proposals
They wanted to make substantial changes in society.
- Montesquieu: Argued for the separation of powers (legislative, executive, and judicial branches).
- Voltaire: Favored a strong monarchy and supported the existence of parliaments.
- Rousseau: Introduced the idea of popular sovereignty.
In economics, the Physiocrats argued that agriculture was the source of wealth and rejected mercantilism. In society, the thinkers criticized the social inequalities of the Estates System.
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