The 20th Century Introduction

Western Civilization 40S

The 20th century saw a massive reorganization of global powers, decided largely by
two epic conflicts now referred to as World War I and II. At the end of World War II in
1945 the United States emerged as a global superpower, replacing Western
Europes position of dominance. The end of World War II ushered in the new reality
of collective security championed by the newly minted United Nations organization,
which hoped to keep future global conflicts at bay. Technology also continued to
play a huge role in the 20th century in terms of the mass production of even more
consumer goods such as radios and of course TVs. Unfortunately this same
technology led to the development of the nuclear bomb and massive upgrades to
air and naval forces that have made the notion of world war a truly frightening
scenario. The 20th century was also the century where many of todays nations
gained independence and more ground was gained in the fight for securing civil
liberties for people of all genders and ethnic backgrounds.
Learning Outcomes
Student will identify reasons for the outbreak of World War I and the subsequent
political and economic impacts such as the League of Nations, Great Depression and
Communist and Fascist Movements
Students will describe some of the major reason for World War II and the major
battles that shaped the course of the war
Students will learn about the formation of the United Nations and its aims at
political stability for the future
Students will explain how ideological clashes between the United States and Soviet
Union led to the cold war era that spanned from 1945-1990