AP World History Modern: Unit 7 Review

The video begins with an introduction to AP World History Modern, focusing on Unit 7 which covers global conflict. The instructor, Seth Gergis, sets the stage for the unit by discussing the anticipation students feel for learning about World War I and II, but also warns of the darker aspects of humanity explored in this unit, such as mass atrocities and genocides. The historical context is established by discussing the end of the previous unit in 1900, the Berlin Conference, and the scramble for Africa. The industrial revolution's impact on European states and their imperialistic desires are also highlighted, as well as the expansion of other nations like Russia and Japan.

This paragraph delves into the shifting powers and the events leading up to World War I. It discusses the impact of European imperialism on various nations, including Russia's expansion into Asia, the Russo-Japanese War, and the struggles of China and Mexico. The creation of the Chinese Republic in 1911 and the challenges faced by the Ottoman Empire and other nations are also covered. The paragraph concludes with an overview of the acronym MAIN, representing Militarism, Alliance System, Imperialism, and Nationalism, which are the main causes of World War I.

The paragraph focuses on the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the chain reaction it set off leading to World War I. Austria-Hungary's ultimatum to Serbia and the subsequent declaration of war are detailed, as well as the role of the alliance system in escalating the conflict. The video explains how the war began with military buildup and new weapons from the industrial revolution, and the major conflict that ensued. The paragraph also touches on the strategies and battles of the war, though it emphasizes the College Board's focus on understanding the causes and effects of the war.

This paragraph discusses the horrific aspects of World War I, including the use of machine guns, trenches, and poison gas. It explains how the war was a total war effort, involving not just soldiers but also civilians, with women working in factories and governments implementing rationing programs. The paragraph also mentions the propaganda used during the war and the global nature of the conflict, spreading beyond Europe to include fighting in the Pacific, Africa, and Asia. The United States' entry into the war and the impact of the Treaty of Versailles are also covered.

The paragraph examines the economic struggles following World War I, including Germany's inability to pay war reparations, the hyperinflation, and the Great Depression. It discusses John Maynard Keynes' critique of laissez-faire economics and his advocacy for deficit spending to stimulate the economy. The rise of fascism is explored, with Italy's turn to Benito Mussolini and the National Socialist German Workers Party in Germany, led by Adolf Hitler. The paragraph also touches on the impact of the interwar period on other nations, such as Japan, Russia, and Mexico.

The paragraph discusses the dissatisfaction among colonized people with the hypocrisy of Europeans supporting self-determination for white regions but not for their colonies. It highlights the nationalist movements in India, led by Gandhi, and the push for self-rule and decolonization. The paragraph also mentions the Balfour Declaration and the tensions it created between Jews and Muslims, particularly in Palestine. The rise of independence movements in Africa and Southeast Asia, as well as the challenges faced by the mandate system, are also discussed.

This paragraph focuses on the causes of World War II, including the failure of the League of Nations, the appeasement policy, and the Treaty of Versailles. It discusses Hitler's rise to power, his militaristic actions, and the policy of appeasement by European leaders. The paragraph also covers the invasion of Poland by Germany, which marked the official start of World War II. Additionally, it touches on Japan's imperialistic actions in Asia, including the invasion of Manchuria and the Nanking Massacre.

The paragraph examines the changes and continuities between World War I and II. It highlights the shift from trench warfare to the faster-paced blitzkrieg strategy, the introduction of aerial combat, and the use of atomic bombs. Continuities include the total war effort, significant propaganda use, and the global nature of the conflict. The paragraph also discusses the Soviet Union's switch in allegiance during the war and the importance of understanding the broader historical context.

This paragraph focuses on the mass atrocities and genocides that occurred during the era of World War I and II. It discusses the Armenian Genocide, the Holocaust, and the Nanjing Massacre, as well as the role of extremist groups in power. The paragraph emphasizes the importance of recognizing the warning signs of ethnic violence and genocide and the need for collective action to prevent such tragedies. It also mentions the creation of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights following World War II.

The video concludes with a brief recap of the content covered in Unit 7 and an encouragement for students preparing for the AP exam. The instructor promotes the use of various resources such as movies, quizlets, and notes provided in the video description. The paragraph ends with a teaser for the upcoming Unit 8 review, signaling a continuation of the educational journey.