Chapter 15. The Contemporary World

Globalization. Trade, finance, travel, migration and the internet have connected the world more tightly. The European Union deepened integration (the Maastricht Treaty took effect in 1993), and China became a leading economy after market reforms that began in 1978 [24].

Technology. Computers, mobile phones and the internet have transformed communication, work and education. Advances in medicine, agriculture and energy have increased life expectancy and food supply in many regions.

Conflicts and security. The terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 led to wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Civil wars, refugee crises and regional conflicts have caused great suffering in various parts of the world.

Economic and health crises. The global financial crisis of 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020 revealed the interdependence of economies and health systems.

Global challenges. Climate change, inequality, migration, nuclear weapons, cyber security and the governance of new technologies require cooperation among states and institutions.

Human rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) set out a common standard, and movements for women’s rights, racial equality, Indigenous rights and disability rights continue [25].

Studying recent history. Historians have less distance from recent events, and interpretations change as new sources and perspectives emerge. Check up-to-date, reliable sources for current events.

Review: Name two events or trends that have increased global interconnection since 1990. (Answer: for example, the spread of the internet and expanded international trade.)