Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for History

In the play “Journey’s End”, in addition to depict the First World War, the author’s main purpose is to let the audience reflect on how important are moral values in life. In particular, R. C. Sherriff highlights the value of friendship, which is portrayed through the relationship between Stanhope and Osborne. The friendship between the two of them is presented by the author through a series of key scenes, which play an extraordinary role. 

To begin with, since the start, the audience surely understands how strong the relationship between Osborne and Stanhope is. Stanhope is the infantry’s captain: despite his young age, he shows himself to be a fine leader of men, who is able to command his own company and to hold a very responsible... Continue reading "What happened to a good man with his son" »

The Rise of Fascism in Italy

Post-WWI Economic and Social Context in Italy

Following World War I, Italy faced a complex and challenging situation:

• Despite benefiting from the war economically, its agriculture and industry were devastated.
• High unemployment and rising prices plagued the nation.
• The burden of war loans added to the economic strain.

The Impact of the Great Depression on Italy

The global economic crisis further exacerbated Italy's woes:

• Consumption plummeted, leading to factory closures and widespread poverty.

The Rise of Benito Mussolini and the Fascist Party

In this climate of instability, Benito Mussolini and his Fascist Party rose to power, capitalizing on popular discontent and promising order and stability.

Characteristics of Fascist

Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC)

6. Know what AFDC is and how it applies to people. Aid to Families with Dependent Children

Key Political Concepts

• Neo-institutional: The way they interact and how they affect society.
• Interest Group: Organization of people who work together to protect and promote the government. Two categories: economic and noneconomic.
• Entrepreneurial: A person who organizes and operates a business/es, takes risk.
• Client: Government Owned Enterprise (GOE), prior to marketing or sales activities.
• Majoritarian: Democracy rule of society’s citizens.

Introducing a Bill in Congress

8. How can a bill be introduced in Congress? Members of Congress are the only ones who can introduce the bill at any time the House of Senate

The Restoration Era After Napoleon (1815)

Following Napoleon's defeat in 1815, the Ancien Régime was restored. This meant a return to the political system imposed by Austria, Prussia, Russia, and Great Britain. These European powers met at the Congress of Vienna (1814-1815) and implemented several measures:

• Absolute monarchs were reinstated.
• Europe’s borders were redrawn.
• The European powers agreed to support any monarch facing revolution.

During the Restoration, two alliances formed:

• The Holy Alliance: Russia, Prussia, and Austria.
• The Quadruple Alliance: Russia, Prussia, Austria, and Great Britain.

Key Ideologies of the 19th Century

Three main ideologies shaped the era:

• Liberalism: Advocated for individual liberties such as the right to life, freedom

The Korean War

Background

Korea had been under Japanese control since 1910. After Japan's defeat in 1945, the US and USSR agreed to temporarily divide the country into two zones along the 38th parallel to organize Japan's surrender and withdrawal. The UN wanted free elections for the whole country, which the US supported, believing that capitalism would prevail in the South, where two-thirds of the population resided. However, no agreement was reached with the USSR. Elections were held in the South, and the Independent Republic of Korea was established. Russia, in turn, created the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in the North. In 1949, both USSR and US forces withdrew, leaving a dangerous situation. Most Koreans resented the division, yet... Continue reading "The Korean War: A Summary and Analysis" »

November 30, 2023

World War II Begins

Causes of World War II

1. The Treaty of Versailles
2. Rise of Totalitarianism
3. Adolf Hitler's Actions
4. Failure of the League of Nations

1938: The Munich Conference

• Adolf Hitler hosted Italy, France, and Britain.
• He demanded the rest of Czechoslovakia.
• British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain appeased Hitler.

The Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact

• Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin signed a 10-year non-aggression agreement between Germany and the Soviet Union.

The Spark of World War II

• On September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland.
• On September 3, 1939, Britain and France declared war.

Canada's Decision to Enter the War

• William Lyon Mackenzie King waited one week, declaring war on September 10th.
• This demonstrated Canada's growing autonomy

Causes of the French Revolution

1. Taxation System: The complex system of administration and taxation prevented the government from raising necessary funds and limited the influence of the Third Estate.
2. American War: France's involvement in the American War of Independence, while resulting in victory against Britain, led to a financial crisis due to the high cost of fighting overseas. This economic strain contributed to the French Revolution.
3. Price Increases: Crop failures and harsh winters resulted in food shortages and price increases, impacting peasants and the urban poor. The rising cost of living, coupled with a financial crisis, led to increased unemployment and social unrest.

The Beginning of the Revolution (1789)

The privileged classes resisted... Continue reading "The French Revolution: Causes, Phases, and Key Events" »

Rome was located in the center of Europe and the Mediterranean Sea (good for expansion) and protected by mountains in the north. It was founded by twin brothers: Romulus and Remus in 753 BCE. It was a fusion between Etruscan and native Roman elements. The Roman Republic was a system of government ruled by elected representatives. The Roman Empire conquered the Mediterranean, after fighting three wars: Punic Wars. The decline and fall of the Roman Empire took place between 133-31 BCE. During the Age of Augustus (31-14 BCE) there were provincial reforms, uniform imperial policy was established, and the frontiers were stabilized. There were five good emperors who followed the Pax Romana. The crisis in the third century was caused by military anarchy,... Continue reading "Ancient Rome and Greece: History, Culture, and Legacy" »

Yehoshua and the Gibeonites

All the kings in Israel, all of what Hashem did for Bnei Yisrael.

Seven Nations: Hitti, Emori, Canaani, Perizi, and Gergashi. The Gergashi moved to North Africa.

The nations had a choice. Yehoshua sent a letter stating that they could either leave, stay and fight, or make peace. The Gergashi left; everyone else fought.

All nations united to fight against Bnei Yisrael.

The Hivi (Gibeonites) heard all of what Yehoshua did to Yericho and Ai. They were scared.

Be'arma (with trickery), the Gibeonites dressed up as foreigners. Their shoes were torn and ripped, their bread was dry and moldy, and their clothing was patchy. Vayashu Gam Hema.

The Gibeonite people came to Yehoshua, dressed up, and Yehoshua asked them to make a treaty... Continue reading "Yehoshua and the Gibeonites: A Pact Forged" »

Six Notable Figures: A Glimpse into Their Lives

This document highlights the lives and achievements of six renowned individuals.

Michelle Pfeiffer: Acclaimed Actress and Singer

Michelle Pfeiffer is an American actress and singer. She made her film debut in 1980 in The Hollywood Knights. She has been nominated three times for an Academy Award for her performances. During her career, Pfeiffer has won numerous awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress.

Nelson Mandela: Anti-Apartheid Leader and President

Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, and philanthropist who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He died at the age of 95 on 5 December 2013. He was imprisoned for being against... Continue reading "Profiles of Six Influential Global Figures" »