AP World History: Chapter 9.9 - Continuity and Change in a Globalized World

Introduction

• Instructor's Note: Final AP World reading of Chapter 9.9.
• Previous chapters (1-8) are available in video format.

Essential Question

• How did science, technology, politics, justice, transportation, communication, and the environment change and stay the same after 1900?

Key Quote

• Francis Fukuyama: "No country can ever truly cut itself off from the global media or external sources of information."

Overview of Change in the 20th and 21st Century

• Unprecedented change due to advancements in science and technology.
• Positive and negative outcomes from these advancements.

Advances in Science and Technology

Scientific Discoveries

• Origins of the Universe: Big Bang Theory improved understanding.
• Wave Science: Extended use of radio, light, sound, and microwaves.

Medical Advancements

• Discoveries in germs, viruses, leading to cures for diseases like Polio.
• Antibiotics and reliable birth control improved life quality and longevity.

Energy Technologies

• Advancements in oil extraction, nuclear power, renewable energies (wind, solar).
• Predicted renewable energy to be cheaper than fossil fuels by 2020.

Communication Technologies

• Development of radio, television, and internet revolutionized mass communications.
• Transition from wired communication to smartphones.

Transportation Technologies

• Airplanes: Jet technology reduced distances between regions.
• Shipping: Faster, larger ships improved global trade networks.

Agricultural Technologies

• Genetically modified crops increased yield but reduced biodiversity.
• Green revolution led to population growth, especially in developing countries.

Changes in a Globalized World

Social Changes

• Rapid population growth, especially in developing countries.
• Migration: Brain drain as educated individuals moved to developed countries.
• Women’s Rights: Increased socioeconomic status and political participation.

Economic Changes

• Intensified economic globalization, with exploitation of less developed areas.
• Rise of new economic powers in Asia challenging Western dominance.
  • Examples: Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, China, and India.

Economic Policy Initiatives

• Overview of major economic programs in the Soviet Union, China, the U.S., and the U.K.
• Results varied from economic growth to political and social challenges.

Political Changes

• Mass protest movements led to political and social changes worldwide.
• Civil rights, women's rights, and anti-apartheid movements gained momentum.
• Arab Spring: Example of political protests leading to change.

Cultural Changes

• Rapid spread of Western culture due to improved global communication.
• Two-way cultural exchanges became common, with global influences seen in lifestyle and consumption.

Environmental Changes

• Human activities led to pollution and debates on climate change.
• Travel and technology advancements increased energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Conclusion

• Reflection on the transformation of societies, economies, and cultures in the globalized world.
• Recognition of both achievements and challenges faced during this period.