1. Questions of Periodization
The 20th Century World
(1900-Present)

2. I. Introduction Problems in describing the 20th century:
Objectivity
End
Not a new problem
Two Impulses Affect Study of 20th Century
Emphasize Continuities
Ex: Nationalism

3. Partner Discussion Question
Where did you see the continuity of Nationalism occur during this time period? What were some other major continuities from the previous eras that you still witnessed during the period from 1900 to the present? Give examples of each.

4. I. Introduction Nationalism forms Italy and Germany in Previous Era
Nationalism Breaks Apart Yugoslavia in This Era

5. I. Introduction Emphasize Changes 3rd Revolution
Unprecedented Environmental Changes

6. Partner Discussion Question
Give some specific examples of major technological and environmental changes that took place during this new period from 1900 to the present.

7. I. Introduction
Technological Innovations

8. I. Introduction

9. I. Introduction Key Question
Did the 20th century begin a new era or did it only modify the basic patterns of the previous era?
New eras have met 3 criteria:
Geographic rebalancing
Increase in contact
Parallel patterns in civilizations
20th century met all three of these criteria

10. Group Discussion
During the previous era, the Western nations became dominant over other regions of the world. Has the West continued that same degree of dominance? If so, how? If not, why not? What areas of the world weakened Western dominance?

11. II. Repositioning of the West
The West Declines… WHY???

14. II. Repositioning of the West
Western population percentage decreases rapidly… HOW???
Birth Control Practices
Rapid population growth
Immigration

15. II. Repositioning of the West
Decline of Western Empires
Colonial Territory
No longer the ONLY world power

17. Colonies in 1945

20. Partner Discussion
What are possible causes of the West’s decline? Come up with at least TWO reasons why you think the West’s status in the world decreased.

21. II. Repositioning of the West
Why do they lose their dominance?
Lose technological and weaponry monopoly
Guerilla warfare tactics
No longer unchallenged manufacturing leader
World economic structure remains similar – exploitation of raw materials
New competition WHERE???
Independence Movements and New Countries
New Leaders

22. Group Discussion
It is often said that “the world has grown smaller.” What do you think is the basis for this common belief? What evidence can you provide to support this assertion?

23. III. International Contacts
Multinational Corporations

24. III. International Contacts
Researchers and scientists shared knowledge

25. III. International Contacts
Diplomatic and cultural contacts

26. III. International Contacts
International Relations
International Agencies
Actually began in last era (Ex. Olympics, Red Cross)

27. Partner Discussion
Compare the era in world history in which you currently live to the era between 1750 and What political changes have occurred? What social changes have also occurred? Has anything stayed the same in politics or society from to today?

28. IV. International Challenges in Politics and Culture
Most governments change
Monarchies replaced
New government roles
Changes in belief systems
1850 – Major belief systems
1950 – Replaced
Secular (non-religious) belief systems

29. IV. International Challenges in Politics and Culture
Displacement of rigid social inequalities
Began in last period (when???) and was continued
Ideas of inequality attacked
Communism in Russia and China
Nationalism in Asia and Africa
Caste systems and aristocracies end
Inequality

30. V. The 20th Century as a New Period in World History
Period split into 3 phases
Two World Wars and International Depression
Political upheaval ’s
Decolonization
New social mobility and gender relations
Military buildups
Cold War
***WHY is it called the “Cold War?”

32. V. The 20th Century as a New Period in World History
Regional conflicts
Pressure for global changes
Information technology
Worldwide manufacturing
21st century
2001 – start of a new era???