Global Conflicts (1900-Present)

Newly independent nations largely remained neutral, avoiding any influence from either superpower during their state-building processes.

The Cold War provided economic stability worldwide which facilitated smooth transitions to self-rule for new states without external influence.

Cold War dynamics had little impact since most state-building was internal and not subject to global geopolitical trends.

Superpower rivalry often resulted in political and military support for diverse regimes aligning with either the US or USSR ideological blocs.

The Self-Strengthening Movement

The Tanzimat Reforms

The Russian Revolution

The Meiji Restoration

Global reliance on mercantilist policies increased significantly.

Newly independent states sought to diversify their economies and trading partners.

Trade networks shrank due to the disappearance of colonial markets.

International trade became exclusively centered around European interests.

The decline of the Russian Orthodox Church, which eroded the traditional sources of authority and legitimacy for the Tsarist regime.

The rise of industrial capitalism in Russia, which led to greater economic inequality and social unrest.

The military defeats and economic hardships experienced by Russia during World War I, which led to widespread discontent and protests among the Russian population.

The spread of democratic ideas from Western Europe, which inspired Russian intellectuals and activists to demand political reform.

South American countries might have formed an alliance against European powers.

The Central Powers may have won, altering the balance of global power.

Absolute monarchies could have been restored in Europe.

Japan would have become a colonial superpower in Asia.

The expansion of European colonies post-war

The formation of the League of Nations

An increase in European military technology

The devastation of European economies and infrastructure during the war

Japan joined the League of Nations underscoring its engagement with Western-led internationalism rather than opposition.

Japanese educational reforms during this time were greatly influenced by Western pedagogical models rather than creating distinct alternatives.

Japan's establishment of a Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere sought to position itself as liberator from Western colonialism rather than simply mirroring it.

Japan adopted Western technology and organization in building up its military-industrial complex similar to Western powers.

Maintaining a strict policy of neutrality in international conflicts.

Aligning closely with Soviet Russia for military support.

Embracing Ottoman imperial traditions and Islamic law.

Secularizing Turkish society and instituting political reforms.

The personal computer

Satellite communication

Container shipping

Mobile phone technology

Bolsheviks

The Black Hand

The Janissary Corps

Young Turks