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  1. AP European History
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20th-Century Cultural, Intellectual, and Artistic Developments

Samuel Baker

Samuel Baker

7 min read

Next Topic - Continuity and Changes in the Age of Global Conflict

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#19th & 20th Century Europe: Science, War, and Society 🚀

Hey there, future AP Euro master! Let's get you prepped for exam success. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource for acing the test. We'll break down the key concepts, make connections, and get you feeling confident. Let's dive in!

#The Dawn of Modernity: Science and Progress

  • 19th-Century Optimism: The century began with a strong belief in scientific progress and the power of objective knowledge. Think of it as a time when Europeans felt like they were unlocking the secrets of the universe! 💡

  • Scientific Advancements: Great discoveries in physics, chemistry, and biology fueled this optimism. People believed that science and industry could solve all their problems.

  • Seeds of Doubt: However, some scientific and psychological theories started to challenge traditional views of the world. This created a tension between the old and the new.


#Revolution in Physics

  • From Optimism to Anxiety: The study of physics, while initially promising, led to the development of nuclear weapons. This created a new kind of threat and shattered the previous sense of security. ☢️

  • Key Figures:

    • Albert Einstein: Developed the theory of relativity, which revolutionized our understanding of gravity and spacetime. His work was crucial for the development of atomic energy. Albert Einstein
    • Werner Heisenberg: A pioneer in quantum mechanics and involved in the development of the first nuclear reactor. He also worked on the German nuclear weapons project during WWII. Werner Heisenberg
  • The Manhattan Project: The US project to develop the first atomic bomb, culmin...

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Question 1 of 11

🚀 What was the prevailing sentiment in 19th-century Europe regarding science?

Skepticism and doubt

Strong belief in scientific progress

Fear of technological advancements

Indifference towards scientific discoveries