AP World History Unit VII Class Notes

Created in collaboration with CHatGPT and assuming that the unit was taught topic by topic, key concept by key concept

“Reds Against Blues”, Acrylic, 24"x30"

The Unit VII “class notes” appearing below were created in collaboration with CHatGPT and assume that the unit was taught topic by topic.

These class notes are followed by several short answer questions (SAQs).

Both the notes and SAQs should not only serve as a good review for the Unit VII test but also help students review for the annual exam in May.

That said, this work was produced in only the past three hours, therefore it has not yet been field tested. So if you see any glaring errors, please email me at ppaccone@smusd.us

TOPIC 7.1 Class Note: Shifting Power After 1900

The West dominated the global political order at the beginning of the 20th century, but both land-based and maritime empires gave way to new states by the century’s end.

I. Introduction

• The West dominated the global political order in the early 20th century, with a system of imperial powers ruling over colonies and territories around the world. However, changes occurred throughout the century that led to the emergence of new states, as both land-based and maritime empires gave way to new forms of governance.

II. Land-Based Empires

• At the start of the century, land-based empires like the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires were prominent.
• These empires had diverse populations with different languages, religions, and cultural identities, which made them difficult to govern and control.
• Nationalism and independence movements within these empires started to emerge, calling for greater autonomy and self-determination, and weakening the imperial powers.
• World War I played a significant role in the decline of these empires, as they were on the losing side of the conflict, and were forced to give up their territories.
• As a result, new nation-states emerged in Europe and the Middle East, such as Poland, Czechoslovakia, Turkey, and Iraq.

III. Maritime Empires

• Maritime empires like Great Britain and France were also dominant in the early 20th century, with colonies and territories across the world.
• These empires relied on their naval power to protect their interests and maintain their dominance.
• However, the two world wars weakened these empires, as they faced significant challenges in fighting on multiple fronts, and the cost of war damaged their economies and resources.
• Colonies and territories within these empires also started to demand greater autonomy and independence, which led to the eventual decline of the empires.
• India, for example, gained independence from Britain in 1947, while many African countries gained independence from France and other European powers in the 1950s and 1960s.

IV. Emergence of New States

• The weakening of traditional empires led to the emergence of new nation-states across the globe, as people demanded greater self-determination and sovereignty.
• These new states often struggled with issues like political instability, economic development, and social inequality.
• In many cases, the borders of these new states were drawn arbitrarily by colonial powers, leading to conflicts and tensions between different ethnic and religious groups.
• The Cold War also played a role in shaping the emergence of new states, as superpowers like the United States and the Soviet Union supported different political and economic systems in various parts of the world.

V. Conclusion

• The global political order shifted significantly during the 20th century, as traditional empires gave way to new forms of governance and statehood.
• The decline of land-based and maritime empires led to the emergence of new states, which continue to shape the world today. However, the legacy of colonialism and imperialism has left many challenges and problems for these new states, as they strive to build stable, prosperous, and democratic societies.

The older, land-based Ottoman, Russian, and Qing empires collapsed due to a combination of internal and external factors. These changes in Russia eventually led to communist revolution.

I. Introduction

• Land-based empires such as the Ottoman, Russian, and Qing Empires dominated the political order in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, these empires eventually collapsed due to a combination of internal and external factors.
• Internal factors: Economic decline: The empires faced economic challenges such as declining trade, increased debt, and currency instability. Political corruption: The empires were often plagued by corruption, bureaucratic inefficiency, and weak leadership. Social unrest: The empires faced social challenges such as ethnic and religious tensions, population growth, and urbanization.
• External factors: Imperialism: The empires faced external pressures from Western powers seeking to establish colonies and exploit their resources. Military defeats: The empires suffered military defeats in wars against Western powers or regional rivals, which weakened their power and prestige. Technological changes: The empires struggled to keep pace with technological advancements in transportation, communication, and weaponry, which made them vulnerable to external threats.
• In the case of Russia, the collapse of the imperial system eventually led to a communist revolution that transformed the country and had global implications.

II. Ottoman Empire

• The Ottoman Empire was a Muslim empire that spanned three continents, and ruled over diverse populations with different languages, religions, and cultural identities.
• The empire started to decline in the 19th century due to internal weaknesses such as corruption, financial crises, and social unrest.
• Nationalism and independence movements within the empire started to emerge, calling for greater autonomy and self-determination.
• The empire faced significant external pressure from European powers, which sought to control its territories and resources.
• The Ottoman Empire collapsed after World War I, as it was on the losing side of the conflict and had to give up many of its territories.

III. Russian Empire

• The Russian Empire was a vast and diverse empire that spanned two continents, and ruled over many different ethnic and religious groups.
• The empire faced significant internal and external pressures in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Internally, the empire was characterized by political repression, social inequality, and economic backwardness.
• Externally, the empire faced challenges from other European powers, especially Germany, which was emerging as a powerful and assertive player in the region.
• World War I proved to be a turning point for the empire, as it faced significant military defeats and suffered from food shortages and social unrest.
• These factors eventually led to the collapse of the imperial system in Russia, and the emergence of a revolutionary movement that sought to transform the country.

IV. Communist Revolution in Russia

• The communist revolution in Russia was a political and social upheaval that took place in 1917.
• The revolution was led by the Bolsheviks, a radical Marxist group that sought to overthrow the existing government and establish a socialist state.
• The revolution was successful, and the Bolsheviks established the Soviet Union, which became a global superpower in the 20th century.
• The Soviet Union was characterized by a command economy, a single-party political system, and a totalitarian ideology.
• The Soviet Union played a significant role in shaping world history in the 20th century, especially during the Cold War.

V. Conclusion

• The collapse of land-based empires such as the Ottoman, Russian, and Qing Empires had significant implications for global politics and society.
• In the case of Russia, the collapse of the imperial system eventually led to a communist revolution that transformed the country and had global implications.
• The legacy of these empires and revolutions continues to shape the world today, as many countries grapple with issues of political stability, economic development, and social inequality.

States around the world challenged the existing political and social order, including the Mexican Revolution that arose as a result of political crisis.

I. Introduction

• In the early 20th century, many states around the world challenged the existing political and social order, often as a result of political crises and social unrest. One example of such a challenge was the Mexican Revolution, which had significant implications for the country and the region.

II. Background to the Mexican Revolution

• Mexico was ruled by a dictatorship under Porfirio Díaz, who held power from 1876 to 1911.
• Díaz’s regime was characterized by political repression, economic inequality, and social unrest.
• Many Mexicans were dissatisfied with the regime and called for greater democracy, social justice, and national sovereignty.
• The United States also played a significant role in Mexican politics, especially in terms of economic and territorial interests.

III. Causes of the Mexican Revolution

• The Mexican Revolution was sparked by a combination of political, economic, and social factors.
• One of the key causes was the political crisis that emerged in 1910, when Díaz’s regime faced significant challenges from opposition forces.
• Another cause was the economic crisis that Mexico faced, especially in terms of land ownership, labor conditions, and foreign investment.
• Social factors also played a role, including the unequal distribution of wealth and the mistreatment of indigenous populations.

IV. Course of the Mexican Revolution

• The Mexican Revolution was characterized by a series of armed conflicts and political upheavals.
• The revolution was led by a diverse group of revolutionary leaders, including Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa.
• The revolutionaries called for land reform, workers’ rights, and national sovereignty.
• The revolution led to the overthrow of Díaz’s regime, but also to a period of political instability and violence.
• The revolution eventually led to the establishment of a new constitution in 1917, which enshrined many of the revolution’s principles.

V. Implications of the Mexican Revolution

• The Mexican Revolution had significant implications for Mexico and the region.
• The revolution led to the establishment of a new political order, based on democratic principles and social justice.
• The revolution also had implications for the United States, which was forced to reassess its relationship with Mexico and the region.
• The legacy of the Mexican Revolution continues to shape Mexico and the region today, as many countries continue to grapple with issues of political stability, economic development, and social justice.

Topic 7.1 SAQs:

1. Briefly describe ONE similarity between the land-based Ottoman, Russian, and Qing empires in their decline at the beginning of the 20th century
2. Briefly describe ONE difference between the ways land-based and maritime empires gave way to new states by the end of the 20th century.
3. Briefly describe ONE situation in which internal factors contributed to the collapse of one of the older, land-based empires (Ottoman, Russian, or Qing) in the early 20th century.
4. Briefly describe ONE outcome of the collapse of these older empires on the global political order of the 20th century.
5. Briefly describe ONE way in which the changes in Russia led to the communist revolution after the collapse of its empire.
6. Briefly describe ONE key factor that led to the Mexican Revolution as a challenge to the existing political and social order.
7. Briefly describe ONE significant outcome of the Mexican Revolution on the political or social landscape of Mexico.

TOPIC 7.2 Class Notes: Causes of World War I

The causes of World War I included imperialist expansion and competition for resources. In addition, territorial and regional conflicts combined with a flawed alliance system and intense nationalism to escalate the tensions into global conflict.

I. Introduction

• World War I was one of the deadliest conflicts in human history, resulting in millions of deaths and widespread destruction.
• The causes of World War I were complex, involving a range of factors that contributed to the escalation of tensions and conflict.

II. Imperialist Expansion and Competition for Resources

• Imperialist expansion and competition for resources were key factors that contributed to the outbreak of World War I.
• European powers competed for territories and resources in Africa and Asia, and the Balkans were a key region of competition between Austria-Hungary and Russia.

III. Territorial and Regional Conflicts

• Territorial and regional conflicts also contributed to the outbreak of World War I.
• The Balkans were a particularly volatile region, with multiple ethnic and nationalist groups vying for control and independence.
• The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo in 1914 was a catalyst for the outbreak of war.

IV. Flawed Alliance System

• The alliance system in Europe was flawed and contributed to the escalation of tensions and conflict.
• European powers formed alliances for protection and security, but this also meant that conflicts between two nations could quickly escalate into a larger, global conflict.

V. Intense Nationalism

• Intense nationalism was a key factor that contributed to the escalation of tensions and conflict.
• Nationalist sentiment was particularly strong in the Balkans, where ethnic and nationalist groups sought independence and self-rule.

VI. Conclusion

• The causes of World War I were complex, involving a range of factors such as imperialist expansion and competition for resources, territorial and regional conflicts, a flawed alliance system, and intense nationalism.
• The legacy of World War I continues to shape global politics and society today, as nations grapple with the challenges of maintaining peace and stability in a rapidly changing world.

Topic 7.2 SAQs:

1. Briefly describe ONE key factor that contributed to imperialist expansion leading up to World War I.
2. Briefly describe ONE perspective on the impact of nationalism on the outbreak of World War I.
3. Briefly describe ONE way in which the alliance system increased the likelihood of war.
4. Briefly describe ONE situation in which the arms race between nations escalated tensions.
5. Briefly describe ONE outcome of World War I on the future of international relations.

TOPIC 7.3 Class Notes: Conducting World War I

World War I was the first total war. Governments used a variety of strategies, including political propaganda, art, media, and intensified forms of nationalism, to mobilize populations (both in the home countries and the colonies) for the purpose of waging war.

I. Introduction

• World War I was the first total war in history.
• Governments used a variety of strategies to mobilize their populations for war, including propaganda, art, media, and nationalism.

II. Mobilization Strategies

• Propaganda: Governments used posters, films, and other forms of media to promote their war efforts and demonize their enemies.
• Art: Artists created patriotic works that celebrated the nation and its soldiers, while also depicting the enemy as evil and savage.
• Media: Newspapers and other publications were used to shape public opinion and rally support for the war.
• Nationalism: Intensified forms of nationalism were used to justify the war and generate a sense of unity among the population.

III. Impact on Populations

• The mobilization strategies used during World War I had a significant impact on populations, both in the home countries and the colonies.
• Many people were convinced to support the war effort, either out of a sense of duty, patriotism, or fear of the enemy.
• The war also had significant economic and social consequences, as resources and manpower were diverted to the war effort, and many people were displaced or killed.

IV. Total War

• World War I was a total war in the sense that it involved the entire population and economy of the belligerent nations.
• The war had a significant impact on civilian populations, who were subjected to bombings, blockades, and other forms of violence.
• The war also had a significant impact on the environment, as new weapons and technologies caused unprecedented levels of destruction.

V. Conclusion

• World War I was the first total war in history, and governments used a variety of strategies to mobilize their populations for the war effort.
• The impact of these strategies was significant, both in terms of the psychological and social consequences for the population, and the physical destruction caused by the war.
• The legacy of World War I continues to shape global politics and society today, as nations continue to grapple with the consequences of total war and the challenges of maintaining peace and stability in a rapidly changing world.

New military technology led to increased levels of wartime casualties.

Examples of New Military Technology

• Machine guns: These weapons allowed soldiers to fire hundreds of rounds per minute, causing mass casualties in short periods of time.
• Tanks: These armored vehicles could plow through enemy lines and withstand artillery fire, making them a formidable weapon on the battlefield.
• Chemical weapons: Poisonous gases such as chlorine and mustard gas were used to devastating effect, causing respiratory problems, blindness, and death.
• Airplanes: These machines allowed for strategic bombing and reconnaissance, changing the nature of warfare and causing significant damage to civilian populations.

III. Impact on Wartime Casualties

• The use of new military technology in both World War I and II resulted in millions of deaths and injuries.
• The increased lethality of these weapons led to higher casualty rates for soldiers and civilians alike.
• The psychological impact of these weapons was also significant, leading to fear and trauma among soldiers and civilians.

TOPIC 7.3 SAQs: Conducting World War I

1. Briefly describe ONE similarity between the strategies used by different governments during World War I to mobilize their populations for war.
2. Briefly describe ONE difference between the ways in which home countries and colonies were mobilized for the purpose of waging war during World War I.
3. Briefly describe ONE situation in which a government utilized political propaganda, art, or media to support their war efforts during World War I.
4. Briefly describe ONE outcome of the new military technology employed during World War I in relation to increased levels of wartime casualties.
5. Briefly describe ONE way in which intensified forms of nationalism played a role in mobilizing populations during World War I.

TOPIC 7.4 Class Notes: Economy in the Interwar Period

Following World War I and the onset of the Great Depression, governments began to take a more active role in economic life.

I. Introduction

• Following World War I and the onset of the Great Depression, governments began to take a more active role in economic life.
• This marked a significant departure from the laissez-faire policies of the 19th century.

II. Government Intervention

• In response to the economic crises of the interwar period, many governments implemented policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and protecting workers.
• These policies included increased regulation of financial markets, public works programs to create jobs, and social welfare programs to support those in need.
• In some cases, governments also pursued protectionist policies to shield their economies from international competition.

III. New Economic Theories

• The interwar period also saw the emergence of new economic theories, such as Keynesianism, which emphasized the role of government intervention in managing the economy.
• Keynesianism held that during times of economic crisis, governments should increase spending and lower taxes in order to stimulate economic growth.

IV. Impact of Government Intervention

• The impact of government intervention in the interwar period was significant.
• In many cases, these policies helped to stabilize the economy and mitigate the effects of the Great Depression.
• However, they also had unintended consequences, such as inflation and debt.

V. Conclusion

• The interwar period marked a significant shift in economic policy, as governments began to take a more active role in economic life.
• The impact of government intervention was mixed, with some policies helping to stabilize the economy and others leading to unintended consequences.
• The legacy of the interwar period continues to shape global economic policies today, as nations grapple with the challenges of managing the economy in a rapidly changing world.

In the Soviet Union, the government controlled the national economy through the Five Year Plans, often implementing repressive policies, with negative repercussions for the population.

Introduction

• In the interwar period, the Soviet Union sought to modernize and industrialize its economy.
• The government implemented a series of Five Year Plans aimed at increasing industrial output and promoting economic growth.

II. Five Year Plans

• The Five Year Plans were a series of state-directed programs that aimed to modernize and industrialize the Soviet economy.
• The plans set ambitious targets for industrial output, with a focus on heavy industry such as steel and coal.
• The plans also aimed to increase agricultural productivity through collectivization and mechanization.

III. Repressive Policies

• The implementation of the Five Year Plans was often accompanied by repressive policies, such as the forced collectivization of agriculture and the use of slave labor in the construction of factories and infrastructure.
• The policies led to significant hardship and suffering for many Soviet citizens, particularly in rural areas.
• The policies were also accompanied by political repression, with the Stalinist regime carrying out purges and show trials against perceived enemies of the state.

IV. Impact on the Population

• The impact of the Five Year Plans and repressive policies on the Soviet population was significant.
• The policies led to significant economic growth and modernization, but also resulted in significant human suffering and loss of life.
• The policies also had long-term consequences for Soviet society, including a legacy of distrust and suspicion towards government policies and officials.

V. Conclusion

• The Soviet Union’s economy in the interwar period was characterized by state-directed programs aimed at modernizing and industrializing the economy.
• The implementation of the Five Year Plans was accompanied by repressive policies, resulting in significant human suffering and loss of life.
• The legacy of these policies continues to shape Russian politics and society today, as the country grapples with the challenges of economic development and political stability.

TOPIC 7.4 SAQs: Economy in the Interwar Period

1. Briefly describe ONE similarity between the economic policies adopted by various governments during the interwar period.
2. Briefly describe ONE difference between the government’s role in economic life in the Soviet Union and that in a capitalist country during the interwar period.
3. Briefly describe ONE situation in which a government took a more active role in economic life following World War I and the onset of the Great Depression.
4. Briefly describe ONE outcome of the Soviet Union’s implementation of the Five Year Plans on its national economy.
5. Briefly describe ONE way in which repressive policies within the Soviet Union’s economic plans had negative repercussions for the population during the interwar period.

TOPIC 7.5 Class Notes: Unresolved Tensions After World War I

Japanese imperial states predominantly maintained control over colonial holdings; in some cases, they gained additional territories through conquest or treaty settlement and in other cases faced anti-imperial resistance.

I. Introduction

• After World War I, Japan emerged as a major imperial power in Asia, with control over a number of colonial holdings.
• Japanese imperialism had a significant impact on the political and social dynamics of the region.

II. Japanese Imperialism

• Japanese imperial expansion was driven by a desire for resources, markets, and power in the region.
• Japan established colonial holdings in Korea, Taiwan, and parts of China, as well as other territories in Southeast Asia.
• In some cases, Japan gained these territories through conquest or treaty settlement, while in other cases it faced anti-imperial resistance.

III. Impact on Colonized Peoples

• The impact of Japanese imperialism on colonized peoples was significant.
• In some cases, Japanese rule brought modernization and economic development to the colonies.
• However, in many cases, Japanese imperialism was marked by repression, exploitation, and violence, including the use of forced labor, torture, and massacres.

IV. Resistance to Japanese Imperialism

• Resistance to Japanese imperialism took many forms, including armed uprisings, protests, and guerrilla warfare.
• Resistance movements often emerged from the local population, including peasants, workers, and intellectuals.
• Some resistance movements were successful in challenging Japanese rule, while others were suppressed through violence and repression.

V. Conclusion

• Japanese imperialism had a significant impact on the political and social dynamics of Asia in the interwar period.
• The impact of Japanese rule on colonized peoples was mixed, with some experiencing economic development and others facing repression and violence.
• The legacy of Japanese imperialism continues to shape global politics and society today, as nations grapple with the consequences of imperialism and the challenges of maintaining peace and stability in a rapidly changing world.

TOPIC 7.5 SAQs: Unresolved Tensions After World War I

1. Briefly describe ONE similarity between Japanese imperial states’ control over colonial holdings and other colonial powers during the same period.
2. Briefly describe ONE difference between Japanese imperial states gaining additional territories through conquest or treaty settlement and other colonial powers’ methods.
3. Briefly describe ONE situation in which Japanese imperial states faced anti-imperial resistance after World War I.
4. Briefly describe ONE outcome of Japanese imperial states maintaining control over colonial holdings in the interwar period.
5. Briefly describe ONE way in which unresolved tensions after World War I influenced the actions of Japanese imperial states in relation to their colonial holdings.

TOPIC 7.6 Class Notes: Causes of World War II

The causes of World War II included the unsustainable peace settlement after World War I, the global economic crisis engendered by the Great Depression, continued imperialist aspirations, and especially the rise to power of fascist and totalitarian regimes that resulted in the aggressive militarism of Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler.

I. Introduction

• The Second World War was one of the deadliest conflicts in human history, resulting in millions of deaths and widespread destruction.
• The causes of World War II were numerous and complex.

II. Unsustainable Peace Settlement

• The peace settlement after World War I, particularly the Treaty of Versailles, created significant tensions and resentment among the defeated nations.
• The treaty imposed harsh reparations and territorial losses on Germany, leading to economic hardship and political instability.

III. Great Depression

• The global economic crisis engendered by the Great Depression had a significant impact on the political and social dynamics of Europe.
• The economic downturn led to rising unemployment and poverty, fueling political extremism and nationalist sentiments.

IV. Imperialist Aspirations

• Imperialist aspirations continued to shape global politics in the interwar period, with nations seeking to expand their territories and spheres of influence.
• This led to tensions and conflicts between nations, particularly in regions such as Asia and Africa.

V. Rise of Fascist and Totalitarian Regimes

• The rise of fascist and totalitarian regimes, particularly Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler, had a significant impact on the outbreak of World War II.
• These regimes were characterized by aggressive militarism, expansionist policies, and the suppression of political dissent.

VI. Conclusion

• The causes of World War II were numerous and complex, resulting from a combination of factors such as the unsustainable peace settlement after World War I, the Great Depression, imperialist aspirations, and the rise of fascist and totalitarian regimes.
• The legacy of World War II continues to shape global politics and society today, as nations grapple with the challenges of maintaining peace and stability in a rapidly changing world.

TOPIC 7.6 SAQs: Causes of World War II

1. Briefly describe ONE similarity between the causes of World War I and World War II.
2. Briefly describe ONE difference between the impacts of the Great Depression and the imperialist aspirations on the causes of World War II.
3. Briefly describe ONE situation in which the unsustainable peace settlement after World War I contributed to the causes of World War II.
4. Briefly describe ONE outcome of the rise to power of fascist and totalitarian regimes in relation to the causes of World War II.
5. Briefly describe ONE way in which the aggressive militarism of Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler played a role in causing World War II.

TOPIC 7.7 Class Notes: Conducting World War II

World War II was a total war. Governments used a variety of strategies, including political propaganda, art, media, and intensified forms of nationalism, to mobilize populations (both in the home countries and the colonies or former colonies) for the purpose of waging war. Governments used ideologies, including fascism and communism to mobilize all of their state’s resources for war and, in the case of totalitarian states, to repress basic freedoms and dominate many aspects of daily life during the course of the conflicts and beyond.

New military technology and new tactics, including the atomic bomb, fire-bombing, and the waging of “total war” led to increased levels of wartime casualties.

I. Introduction

• World War II was a total war that involved various strategies, ideologies, and new military technologies, resulting in a profound impact on societies and a significant increase in wartime casualties.

II. Mobilization of Populations

• Governments employed a variety of strategies to mobilize their populations for war.
• Political propaganda was used to shape public opinion and rally support for the war effort.
• Art and media were utilized to promote nationalism and convey government messages. 3
• Intensified forms of nationalism were encouraged to strengthen unity and commitment to the war.

III. Ideologies and Repression

• Fascism and communism played major roles in the mobilization of resources and state control.
• Totalitarian states repressed basic freedoms and dominated many aspects of daily life during the conflicts and beyond.

IV. New Military Technologies and Tactics

• Advances in military technology and tactics led to increased wartime casualties. 1
• The atomic bomb, fire-bombing, and the waging of “total war” were among the new developments that intensified the conflict and its impact on civilians and soldiers alike.

TOPIC 7.7 SAQs: Conducting World War II

1. Briefly describe ONE similarity between the strategies used by different governments during World War II to mobilize their populations for war.
2. Briefly describe ONE difference between the ideologies of fascism and communism in terms of how they were used to mobilize resources for war.
3. Briefly describe ONE situation in which a government utilized political propaganda, art, or media to support their war efforts during World War II.
4. Briefly describe ONE outcome of the new military technology and tactics employed during World War II, such as the atomic bomb or fire-bombing.
5. Briefly describe ONE way in which totalitarian states repressed basic freedoms and dominated aspects of daily life during the course of the conflicts and beyond.

TOPIC 7.8 Class Notes: Mass Atrocities After 1900

The rise of extremist groups in power led to the attempted destruction of specific populations, notably the Nazi killing of the Jews in the Holocaust during World War II, and to other atrocities, acts of genocide, or ethnic violence.

I. Introduction

• World War II was a total war, characterized by the mobilization of entire populations and economies for the purpose of waging war.
• Governments used a variety of strategies to mobilize their populations, including propaganda, art, media, and nationalism.

II. Ideologies and Totalitarianism

• Governments used ideologies such as fascism and communism to mobilize their populations and justify the war effort.
• Totalitarian states such as Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union used repression and control to dominate many aspects of daily life during the course of the conflicts and beyond.

III. Mobilization Strategies

• Propaganda: Governments used propaganda to promote their war efforts and demonize their enemies.
• Art: Artists created patriotic works that celebrated the nation and its soldiers, while also depicting the enemy as evil and savage.
• Media: Newspapers and other publications were used to shape public opinion and rally support for the war.
• Nationalism: Governments used intensified forms of nationalism to generate a sense of unity among the population.

IV. New Military Technology and Tactics

• New military technology and tactics, including the atomic bomb, fire-bombing, and the waging of “total war,” had a significant impact on the conduct of World War II.
• These new technologies and tactics led to unprecedented levels of destruction and casualties, with civilians often bearing the brunt of the violence.

V. Impact on Populations

• The impact of the mobilization strategies and new military technology and tactics on populations was significant.
• Many people were convinced to support the war effort, either out of a sense of duty, patriotism, or fear of the enemy.
• The war also had significant economic and social consequences, as resources and manpower were diverted to the war effort, and many people were displaced or killed.

VI. Conclusion

• World War II was a total war characterized by the mobilization of entire populations and economies for the purpose of waging war.
• The impact of government mobilization strategies and new military technology and tactics was significant, with civilians often bearing the brunt of the violence.
• The legacy of World War II continues to shape global politics and society today, as nations grapple with the consequences of total war and the challenges of maintaining peace and stability in a rapidly changing world.

TOPIC 7.8 SAQs: Mass Atrocities After 1900

1. Briefly describe ONE similarity between the Holocaust and another instance of mass atrocity after 1900.
2. Briefly describe ONE difference between the Holocaust and another act of genocide or ethnic violence in the 20th century.
3. Briefly describe ONE situation in which the rise of an extremist group in power led to the attempted destruction of a specific population after 1900.
4. Briefly describe ONE outcome of mass atrocities that occurred in the 20th century in relation to global politics or human rights.
5. Briefly describe ONE event that had a significant impact on the rise of extremist groups leading to mass atrocities after 1900.

TOPIC 7.9 Class Notes: Causation in Global Conflict

Rapid advances in science and technology altered the understanding of the universe and the natural world and led to advances in communication, transportation, industry, agriculture, and medicine.

Peoples and states around the world challenged the existing political and social order in varying ways, leading to unprecedented worldwide conflicts. K

The West dominated the global political order at the beginning of the 20th century, but both land-based and maritime empires gave way to new states by the century’s end.

The older, land-based Ottoman, Russian, and Qing empires collapsed due to a combination of internal and external factors. These changes in Russia eventually led to communist revolution.

States around the world challenged the existing political and social order, including the Mexican Revolution that arose as a result of political crisis.

I. Introduction

• Global conflicts have been shaped by a range of factors, including rapid advances in science and technology and challenges to the existing political and social order.
• These factors have had a significant impact on the causes and conduct of global conflict in the 20th century.

II. Advances in Science and Technology

• Rapid advances in science and technology have transformed the way people understand the universe and the natural world.
• These advances have also led to significant improvements in communication, transportation, industry, agriculture, and medicine, shaping the economic and social landscape of the world.

III. Challenges to Political and Social Order

• Peoples and states around the world have challenged the existing political and social order in varying ways.
• These challenges have led to unprecedented worldwide conflicts, including the World Wars and the Cold War.
• The collapse of older empires such as the Ottoman, Russian, and Qing empires and the rise of new states have contributed to the changing global political order.

IV. Impact on Global Conflict

• The impact of these factors on global conflict has been significant, shaping the causes and conduct of conflicts in the 20th century.
• The Russian Revolution, for example, led to the establishment of the Soviet Union and the spread of communism around the world.
• Other conflicts, such as the Mexican Revolution, were driven by political crisis and social upheaval.

V. Conclusion

• Global conflict in the 20th century was shaped by a range of factors, including rapid advances in science and technology and challenges to the existing political and social order.
• The impact of these factors on global conflict has been significant, shaping the causes and conduct of conflicts in the 20th century.
• The legacy of these conflicts continues to shape global politics and society today, as nations grapple with the challenges of maintaining peace and stability in a rapidly changing world.

TOPIC 7.9 SAQs: Causation in Global Conflict

1. Briefly describe ONE similarity between the collapse of land-based empires and the rise of new states in the 20th century.
2. Briefly describe ONE difference in the ways various states challenged the existing political and social order during this time period.
3. Briefly describe ONE situation in which a state challenged the existing political and social order, leading to global conflict.
4. Briefly describe ONE outcome of the rapid advances in science and technology during this era in relation to global conflicts.
5. Briefly describe ONE event that had a significant impact on the causation of global conflicts in the 20th century.