#AP World History: Modern - Internal and External Challenges to State Power ⚔️

Hey there, future AP World History master! 👋 Feeling a little overwhelmed? Don't worry, we've all been there. This guide is designed to be your ultimate last-minute resource, breaking down the key rebellions and revolts from 1450-1750 in a way that's easy to understand and remember. Let's get you feeling confident and ready to ace that exam!

This topic is HUGE! It’s all about how states faced resistance as they tried to expand their power. Expect to see this pop up in multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and free-response questions. Understanding the causes and effects of these challenges is crucial.

#🧭 Navigating the Challenges: 1450-1750

States weren't just expanding; they were constantly facing pushback. People, when pushed to the brink, will always challenge authority. Let's dive into some key examples:

#👑 Queen Nzinga vs. Portuguese Colonizers

#Who Was Queen Nzinga?

Queen Nzinga, a 17th-century badass from Ndongo and Matamba (modern-day Angola), was a master strategist, diplomat, and warrior. She's the epitome of #girlpower! 💪 She fought tooth and nail against Portuguese colonization, striving to unite African tribes and preserve their independence.

#What Was Her Interaction With the Portuguese?

Initially, Nzinga allied with the Portuguese to secure guns for her people. But, as the Portuguese got greedier, she switched sides, teaming up with the Dutch. They even kicked the Portuguese's butts in 1647! 💥 Although the Dutch bailed a year later, Nzinga kept fighting into her 60s, personally leading troops. Even though the Portuguese eventually took over after her death, her resistance is legendary.

Image Credit: wikipedia

#🇷🇺 Serfs vs. Russian Central Government

While West Africa was dealing with external threats, Russia was battling internal unrest. Russian serfs, oppressed since the Mongol era, faced increasing hardship. As serfdom declined in Europe, it only got worse in Russia. 😥

Escaped serfs formed communities called Cossacks, who were like the rebels of the steppes. They, under Yemelyan Pugachev, revolted against Catherine the Great. 👑

#Who Was Catherine the Great?

Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia from 1762-1796, was a total powerhouse! She was smart, politically savvy, and modernized Russia, turning it into a major European player. She expanded Russia's territory and supported the arts and sciences. She's considered one of Russia's greatest rulers, but even she couldn't stop the serf rebellion. 🤷‍♀️

Although the Cossacks had initial success, the government crushed ...