Historical Shifts: Empires, WWI, Nazism, and the UN
Rise of Japanese and U.S. Empires
Japan
Previously a feudal country under the dominion of shogunates, Japan underwent a significant evolution at the turn of the century, becoming a power comparable to European nations. This transformation occurred during the Meiji Restoration, where the old feudal structure was abandoned. Key changes included:
- Establishment of compulsory education
- Creation of a modern police service
- Implementation of a new legal system
Furthermore, military conscription was introduced,
Read MoreKey Figures & Periods in Early American Literature
Early American Literature Timeline
Before 1600: Native American Oral Traditions
Legends and myths of the American Natives, such as The Coyote Legends.
17th Century: Colonial Writings (c. 1600s)
- Journey Chronicles
- Exploration Diaries
- Key Figures:
- John Smith
- John White
- Walter Raleigh
- Religious Literature: Arrival of the Pilgrims in America (1620). Key figures include William Bradford and John Winthrop.
18th Century: Revolution and Early Republic (c. 1700s)
- Thomas Paine (1737-1809): Author of Common Sense.
- Benjamin
Pilgrims, Revolution, and Civil War: US History Milestones
The Pilgrims’ Journey to America
A Pilgrim is a person who undertakes a long journey, often for religious or moral reasons, typically to a foreign land.
Origins and Beliefs
England was a Roman Catholic nation until 1534, when King Henry VIII established the Church of England. This new church differed from Roman Catholicism in several ways. Some groups, like the Puritans, sought to “purify” the Church of England, believing it should return to the simpler worship practices of early Christians. More radical
Read MorePolitical Dynamics and Aftermath of the Spanish Civil War
Political Evolution During the Spanish Civil War
Political Dimension: Republican Side
Initially, José Giral of the Republican Left was named president. His government decided to provide arms to the civilian population, causing militants to take effective control of the streets. For a time, a revolution was underway on the Republican side. Two basic models clashed:
- The CNT, FAI, and POUM favored collectivization of land and factories.
- The PSOE and the PCE tried to restore order and centralize decision-
French Revolution, Napoleonic Era, and Vienna Congress
Principles of Liberalism
Key tenets included:
- Separation of powers
- National sovereignty (vested in citizens)
- Suffrage (voting rights)
- Separation of church and state
- Freedom of expression
- Existence of a constitution
The French Revolution (1789-1791)
Causes of the Revolution
- Economic Reasons: A significant financial crisis lasting seven years, coupled with subsistence crises.
- Socio-political Reasons: Widespread social unrest, particularly among the bourgeoisie who desired greater political influence. The church
Global Imperialism: Asian Colonization, US Expansion & WWI Origins
European Imperialism in 19th Century Asia
The nineteenth century also saw European penetration into Asia, involving not only established powers but also emerging ones like Russia, the United States, and Japan. British colonization focused on India. Following the Sepoy Mutiny, the British government assumed direct control, establishing a Viceroyalty. Queen Victoria was proclaimed Empress of India.
French expansion centered on Indochina, leading to conflicts in Southeast Asia. France established the
Read More