### Introduction This chapter covers the history of the world in the first half of the 20th century (1914-1945), focusing on: - Causes and consequences of the two World Wars. - Creation of the United Nations (UNO) to ensure world peace and development. ### The Twentieth Century Eric Hobsbawm, a historian, termed the 20th century as 'The Age of Extremes'. #### Key Developments: - **Political Ideologies:** - Rise of Fascism: Characterized by unquestioned power, hatred for others, often opposed to socialism. - Growth of Democracy: Increasing need for democratic governance. - **Social Progress:** - Increased Life Expectancy: Due to advancements in medicine. - Higher Literacy Rates: More people gained access to better education. - **Cultural & Scientific Advancements:** - New art forms like movies gained popularity. - Significant discoveries in science, including insights into life and atoms. - **Global Independence:** Over a hundred countries achieved independence worldwide. #### Contrasting Economic & Political Systems: - **USSR (Socialism):** - State-owned all land, factories, and banks. - Adopted planned development. - Aimed to ensure equality and fraternity for all. - **USA (Liberal Democracy / Capitalism):** - Ensured political liberty with multiparty democracy. - Promoted a capitalist system where means of production were privately owned. #### Global Division at the start of 20th Century: - **Developed Industrialized West:** Included countries like Britain, USA, Germany, France, and Italy. - **Colonized Nations:** Many countries in Asia and Africa were under the control of developed nations. ### Timeline of Events (1914-1945) | Year | Event | |------|-------| | 1914 | Beginning of First World War | | 1917 | Russian Revolution | | 1918 | End of First World War | | 1919 | Treaty of Versailles | | 1922 | Formation of USSR | | 1929 | Great Depression | | 1933 | Hitler becomes the Chancellor of Germany | | 1939 | Beginning of Second World War | | 1945 | End of Second World War | | 1945 | Formation of UNO |
