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

CASE STUDIES OF UN INTERVENTIONS

1. Korean War (1950–1953)

Causes:

  • Division by USA and USSR after Japan’s defeat (1945).

  • Cold War tensions led to the creation of rival governments in North (Communist) and South (Capitalist) Korea.

  • North Korea invaded the South in 1950.

UN Actions:

  • Sent peacekeeping forces from 14 countries (e.g., UK, Canada, Australia).

  • Initiated peace talks (1952–1953).

Results:

  • Demonstrated China’s power.

  • Worsened US–USSR tensions (Cold War).

  • Significant casualties and homelessness in Korea.

2. Suez Canal Crisis (1956)

Causes:

  • Nationalisation of the Suez Canal by Egypt’s President Nasser.

  • Retaliation by Britain, France, and Israel, fearing economic and strategic losses.

  • Israel invaded Egypt; UK and France followed.

UN Actions:

  • General Assembly overruled vetoes through the Uniting for Peace Resolution.

  • Forced withdrawal of invading forces.

  • Sent peacekeeping troops to maintain the ceasefire.

Results:

  • British and French humiliation.

  • Nasser became a national hero.

  • Encouraged Algerian independence.

  • UN successfully reopened the canal.

UN FAILURES IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION

  1. Arab-Israeli Wars (1948–1949, 1967, 1973):

    • Sparked by UN’s decision to partition Palestine.

    • Ongoing conflict, though UN facilitates peace negotiations.

  2. Hungarian Uprising (1956):

    • UN failed to stop Soviet intervention.

    • USSR ignored the General Assembly’s override of its veto.

  3. Kashmir Conflict:

    • Persistent territorial dispute between India and Pakistan.

    • UN plays a limited policing role, no permanent solution yet.
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