Course Content
Background Information on 1870s European Powers
Before 1900, Europe was dominated by powerful empires such as the British, French, Austro-Hungarian, Russian, and Ottoman Empires. The period was marked by industrialization, imperial expansion, nationalism, and frequent political rivalries that set the stage for major conflicts.
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Causes and Results of the First World War
World War I (1914–1918) was a global conflict triggered by political tensions and alliances among European powers. It caused massive loss of life and led to significant political and territorial changes worldwide.
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League of Nations
The League of Nations was an international organization formed after World War I to maintain peace and prevent future conflicts. It aimed to resolve disputes through dialogue and promote cooperation among nations.
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Interwar Period
The interwar period refers to the years between World War I and World War II (1918–1939). It was marked by political instability, economic difficulties such as the Great Depression, and the rise of totalitarian regimes in countries like Germany and Italy. This period also saw efforts at peace through the League of Nations, but ultimately tensions grew, leading to the outbreak of World War II.
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WWII
World War II (1939–1945) was a global conflict involving major powers divided into the Allies and Axis. It resulted in widespread destruction, the defeat of fascism, and significant geopolitical changes worldwide.
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Cold War Period
The Cold War was a prolonged period of political and military tension between the USA and the Soviet Union after World War II. It was characterized by rivalry, arms race, and competition for global influence without direct large-scale fighting between the two superpowers.
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Decolonisation of India and Kenya
Decolonisation of India and Kenya involved struggles for independence from British colonial rule, achieved through political movements and resistance. India gained independence in 1947, while Kenya achieved it in 1963 after a prolonged fight against colonial oppression.
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Postcolonial Crisis
The postcolonial crisis refers to the challenges African countries faced after gaining independence, including political instability, ethnic conflicts, economic difficulties, and weak governance. These issues often hindered development and nation-building efforts in the newly independent states.
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History Form 4

5. Post-War Political and Economic Alliances (Summary)

Political Alliances:

  • NATO (1949): Formed by Western countries for mutual military defense against Soviet aggression.

  • Warsaw Pact (1955): Soviet-led military alliance as a counter to NATO, including Eastern Bloc countries.

Economic Alliances:

  • Marshall Plan: U.S. financial aid to rebuild Western Europe and stop communism.

  • Molotov Plan: Soviet response offering aid to Eastern Bloc countries.

  • COMECON: Promoted economic cooperation among communist nations.

  • COMINFORM: Coordinated communist ideology and policy among member states.


6. Background to Post-War Alliances:

  • The rise of communism in Eastern Europe worried Western democracies.

  • Churchill’s Iron Curtain speech warned of deepening East-West divisions.

  • The Marshall Plan united Western allies through economic support.

  • The Molotov Plan aligned Eastern countries under Soviet economic influence.

  • NATO and Warsaw Pact formed to ensure military security and ideological unity.


7. Impact of Post-War Alliances:

  • The world divided into Eastern (communist) and Western (capitalist) blocs.

  • Tensions rose due to arms race and ideological rivalry.

  • Proxy wars occurred globally, e.g., in Korea and Vietnam.

  • Nations aligned politically based on ideology (USA or USSR).

  • Economic aid became a tool for political influence.

  • Military alliances led to the presence of foreign bases in many countries.

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