This comprehensive study guide covers the key themes, events, and concepts within AP World History Unit 6, focusing on the period from 1750 to 1900. This era witnessed a wave of revolutions and significant societal shifts, shaping the modern world. We'll delve into the causes, consequences, and global impact of these transformative events.
I. The Atlantic Revolutions (1750-1850)
This section explores the interconnectedness of revolutionary movements across the Atlantic world, highlighting their shared ideals and unique contexts.
A. The American Revolution (1775-1783)
- Causes: Enlightenment ideals, taxation without representation, mercantilist policies, growing colonial identity.
- Key Figures: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin.
- Consequences: Establishment of a republic based on Enlightenment principles, inspiration for other revolutionary movements. Impact on Native American populations and the institution of slavery.
B. The French Revolution (1789-1799)
- Causes: Social inequalities (Three Estates), economic crisis, Enlightenment ideas, weak monarchy.
- Key Figures: Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, Maximilien Robespierre, Napoleon Bonaparte.
- Consequences: Overthrow of the monarchy, Reign of Terror, rise of Napoleon, spread of revolutionary ideals throughout Europe. The Napoleonic Wars and their impact on global power dynamics.
C. Haitian Revolution (1791-1804)
- Causes: Brutal slavery, Enlightenment ideals, social unrest among enslaved people.
- Key Figures: Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines.
- Consequences: Abolition of slavery in Haiti, establishment of an independent nation, inspiration for other enslaved populations. Impact on French colonial power and global slave trade.
D. Latin American Revolutions (1800s)
- Causes: Napoleonic Wars weakening Spanish and Portuguese control, Enlightenment ideals, Creole discontent.
- Key Figures: Simón Bolívar, José de San Martín, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.
- Consequences: Independence of numerous Latin American nations, but often with continued social inequalities and economic dependence. The impact of newly independent nations on global trade and politics.
II. Industrial Revolution and its Global Impact (1750-1900)
This section examines the transformative effects of the Industrial Revolution on societies worldwide.
A. Technological Innovations
- Key inventions: Steam engine, power loom, cotton gin, Bessemer process.
- Impact: Increased production, urbanization, new social classes, environmental consequences.
B. Social and Economic Transformations
- Rise of factories and industrial cities: Changes in labor, living conditions, and social structures. The emergence of a working class and its struggles.
- Capitalism and its challenges: The development of laissez-faire economics, the rise of industrial capitalism, and responses like socialism and communism.
C. Global Impact of Industrialization
- Imperialism and colonialism: Industrialized nations sought resources and markets in other parts of the world, leading to increased global inequality.
- Migration: Large-scale migrations from rural areas to cities and across continents.
III. Political and Social Transformations
This section analyzes changing political systems and societal structures during this period.
A. Rise of Nationalism
- Definition and causes: Shared culture, language, history, and desire for self-determination.
- Examples: Unification of Germany and Italy, rise of nationalism in other parts of the world.
B. Imperialism and Colonialism
- Causes: Economic motives (resources, markets), political motives (power, prestige), social Darwinism.
- Impact on colonized regions: Economic exploitation, political subjugation, cultural disruption, resistance movements.
C. Social and Political Reform Movements
- Abolitionist movements: Efforts to end slavery globally.
- Women's rights movements: Struggles for suffrage, education, and equal rights.
- Other reform movements: Labor movements, public health initiatives.
IV. Cultural Transformations
This section explores the evolving cultural landscape during this period.
A. The Spread of Ideas
- Enlightenment and its legacy: Influence on revolutions and reform movements.
- Rise of new ideologies: Liberalism, conservatism, socialism, communism.
V. Conclusion: Setting the Stage for the 20th Century
This unit lays the groundwork for understanding the major challenges and conflicts of the 20th century, including World War I, the rise of new ideologies, and ongoing debates about global inequality. Remember to review primary and secondary sources to develop a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in world history. Good luck with your studies!
