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

The Russian Revolution

1. The Russian Empire by 1900

  • Geography and Population: Russia spanned Eastern Europe and Asia, with 130 million people by 1900. It was ruled as an autocracy, where the leader had absolute power.

  • Ruling Family: The Romanov dynasty ruled Russia with Tsar Nicholas II as the last emperor (1894-1917).

  • Class System: Russian society had a rigid class structure:

    • Aristocrats: Wealthy landowners and rulers of Russia.

    • Bourgeoisie: Middle class professionals and industrialists.

    • Proletariat: Industrial workers who faced exploitation.

    • Serfs: Poor peasants who worked on the land without rights.

2. Russia’s Problems (By 1900)

  • Agrarian Economy: Russia was mainly agricultural and economically backward, with few industries.

  • Weak Leadership: Tsar Nicholas II failed to resolve the country’s political and economic issues.

Oppression: Critics of the government were punished by the secret police, and the Orthodox Church supported the Tsar’s absolute rule.

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