The Modern World, Part One: Global History from 1760 to 1910

University of Virginia via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/modern-world

Introduction

### Course Review: The Modern World, Part One: Global History from 1760 to 1910 In an increasingly interconnected world, understanding the historical threads that have shaped our modern society is more important than ever. "The Modern World, Part One: Global History from 1760 to 1910," offered through Coursera, is an immersive exploration of the pivotal transformations that defined human civilization during this dynamic period. Designed for history enthusiasts and novice students alike, this course takes a comprehensive look at the political, social, and economic revolutions that paved the way for the modern age. #### Overview This course offers an insightful survey of modern history, beginning in the late 1700s. It tracks the monumental changes that swept across the world throughout the 1800s. The narrative is centered on understanding how revolutions and their ripple effects impacted societies globally. Particularly engaging is the course’s focus on why these revolutions unfolded the way they did, often casting a light on human choices amid larger historical currents. #### Course Syllabus The course is segmented into several key modules: 1. **From the Traditional to the Modern - Commercial and Military Revolutions (1760-1800)**: This introductory module sets the stage for understanding the backdrop of traditional societies and the intense changes driven by commerce and military advancements. 2. **Democratic Revolutions of the Atlantic World (1760-1800)**: Delving into the American and French revolutions, this section examines the shifts towards democratic ideals and their implications across the Atlantic world. 3. **Revolutionary Wars (1800-1830)**: A critical look at the wars that defined early 19th-century conflicts, exploring the intricate relationships between national pride, colonialism, and revolutionary fervor. 4. **The World Transformed (1830-1870)**: This module navigates the social and cultural shifts stemming from industrialization and urbanization, highlighting how these changes altered everyday life. 5. **The Rise of National Industrial States (1830-1871)**: A study into how nation-states began to solidify their identities and economic bases amid the burgeoning industrial age. 6. **The Rise of National Industrial Empires (1871-1900)**: This section focuses on imperialism and the competition among nations for resources and prestige, examining the darker sides of industrial expansion. 7. **The Great Acceleration (1890-1910)**: Culminating the course, this module discusses the rapid transformations leading up to World War I and explores the profound global changes that raised challenges for older institutions. #### Course Highlights - **Global Perspective**: The course encourages students to approach history from a worldwide viewpoint, promoting an understanding that transcends national narratives. - **Engaging Content**: The lectures are rich with illustrations, primary sources, and sometimes even personal anecdotes that will draw students into the complexities of historical events. - **Critical Thinking**: Each module poses significant questions that stimulate discussion and reflection, helping learners connect historical events to contemporary issues. #### Recommendation I would highly recommend "The Modern World, Part One: Global History from 1760 to 1910" to anyone interested in understanding the forces that shaped the modern world. Whether you are a history buff, a student looking for supplementary material, or simply someone eager to engage with content that challenges and informs, this course is an invaluable resource. The thoughtful presentation of global historical events through the lens of human choices encourages personal reflection on how individuals and groups influence the course of history. This course does not just teach you about the past; it inspires you to think critically about our present and future. Embrace this opportunity to explore the intricate tapestry of global history and uncover the narratives that continue to impact our lives today. Enroll now on Coursera and embark on a journey through the remarkable transformations of the modern world.

Syllabus

From the Traditional to the Modern - Commercial and Military Revolutions (1760-1800)

Democratic Revolutions of the Atlantic World (1760-1800)

Revolutionary Wars (1800-1830)

The World Transformed (1830-1870)

The Rise of National Industrial States (1830-1871)

The Rise of National Industrial Empires (1871-1900)

The Great Acceleration (1890-1910)

Overview

This is a survey of modern history from a global perspective. Part One begins with the political and economic revolutions of the late 1700s and tracks the transformation of the world during the 1800s. Part One concludes as these bewildering changes seem to be running beyond the capacity of older institutions to handle them. Throughout the course we try to grasp what is happening and ask: Why? And the answers often turn on very human choices.

Skills

Reviews

An excellent overview of world history focusing on the "why" events happened. Really helped in understanding how history unfolded during the period. The lecturer makes it very easy to follow.

The explanation of the various historical events which shaped the world is beautifully explained and the transition from one era to another is very smooth, making it a wonderful experience.

This course shows an excellent view of the main historical facts. I recommend this program who is interested to understand the current global movement.\n\nThanks professor Zelikow.

The best Modern World History course. I wish professor had a book on the course written by himself, he explains every event from a number of perspectives, which is absolutely great.

The course was very informative. Teacher focused on ideas and ideologies rather than just facts.\n\nThe course helped me to know what shaped the world in the 18th and 19th century.