Continuity and Change in a Globalized World

Continuity and Change in a Globalized World: AP World History Study Guide

Hey there, history enthusiasts! Get ready to dive into the thrilling whirlpool of globalization from 1900 to the present. This period is like the ultimate mash-up of everything from groundbreaking technology and social revolutions to climate challenges and the rise of the meme. 🌍✨

As the world transformed in countless ways, many elements of society remained consistent, holding onto the past like a cat stubbornly refusing to get off your keyboard. Let’s explore some key continuities:

Religion: Despite the arrival of new ideologies and technologies, major world religions like Judaism, Islam, and Christianity didn’t just pack up their bags. They remained integral, shaping cultures and societies. It's like your grandma’s secret cookie recipe—no matter how many new desserts pop up, the classics endure.

Cultural Practices: In many societies, traditional practices remained. Jewish communities continue to honor the Sabbath, abstaining from work and travel on Saturdays, even though transportation could have them zipping around like futuristic hoverboards. Similarly, indigenous cultures hold onto hunting, fishing, and traditional medicine rituals, reinforcing identity and continuity amid the modern hustle and bustle.

Festivals and Celebrations: Cultural festivals, with their long histories, are like the biggest nostalgia parties ever thrown. They’ve been handed down from generation to generation, ensuring that despite all the Snapchat filters and TikTok dances, certain aspects of heritage remain unchanged.

In Western societies, social structures showed a strong sense of déjà vu. The middle class, mostly composed of educated professionals, enjoyed a stable living standard, just like cozying up with a hot chocolate on a cold night. But let’s zoom out a bit:

Russia, Brazil, China, India: Modernization and economic growth caused significant social shifts. While countries like China rapidly expanded their middle class, poverty still lingered like an unwanted guest at a party. The caste system in India held on tight, with Brahmins and Kshatriyas still at the top, and the untouchables facing discrimination, proving some traditions are harder to shake than glitter after New Year’s Eve.

The 20th century was like the world collectively saying, "Hold my drink," and proceeding to redefine everything. From technology to politics, here’s how the winds of change blew:

Economics: Advances in energy resources like petroleum and nuclear power supercharged productivity, making economies race like they were on a caffeine high. The U.S. faced competition from economically soaring nations such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, who didn’t just join the global economy—they moonwalked in and took the stage.

Environment: Environmental changes sped up with pollution, political activity, and transportation advancements. Air travel shortened journeys from weeks to hours—like going from reading a book to binge-watching a Netflix series. But this also led to increased fossil fuel demands, contributing to climate change and making our planet feel the heat.

Politics: Activism lit up the world stage like fireworks on the Fourth of July. Gandhi’s peaceful protests led India to independence, while the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. and protests in South Africa helped dismantle apartheid. Even though social media wasn’t around to share live streams, these movements proved that sometimes, the pen (and peaceful protest) is mightier than the sword.

Technology raced ahead in the 20th century. Here’s a snapshot of the main advancements:

Medicine: Vaccines, antibiotics, and advanced medical technologies saved lives faster than you can say “polio-free.” Birth control advancements empowered reproductive choices, changing societal structures.

Energy: The shift to nuclear and renewable energy sources like wind and solar was like the world upgrading from a flip phone to the latest smartphone—better, more efficient, and with less environmental impact.

Communication: Digital phones, computers, and social media changed the way people communicated, turning the world into one big global village where information spread quicker than a cat video going viral.

Transportation: Cars, planes, and boats became more efficient, making commerce and connectivity a breeze. Online shopping giants like Amazon and Alibaba emerged, reshaping the global trade network like origami.

Agriculture: Genetically modified crops boosted agricultural productivity, ushering in the Green Revolution and helping to feed a burgeoning global population. This was like giving everyone a superpower against pests and drought!

The political and social upheavals influenced the arts, leading to new styles that reflected the zeitgeist. Conceptual art and minimalism ditched traditional forms to focus on ideas—a bit like swapping a blockbuster movie for an indie film that makes you think.

Feminist and multicultural movements in the arts challenged the status quo, creating a richer, more diverse cultural tapestry. With the rise of television, film, and digital media, the way art was experienced expanded like never before.

Globalization intertwined cultural elements, leading to art styles that were a delightful mix of various influences—a creative fusion dish for the soul. Artists began addressing universal themes like war, poverty, and environmental degradation, making their work resonate across boundaries.

Key Terms to Know

• Secularism: Keeping religion out of governmental affairs, like not bringing your dragon to a unicorn party.
• Green Revolution: The agricultural boom powered by genetic crop improvement—a farming game-changer.
• Civil Rights Act: U.S. legislation that was like the ultimate "No Tolerance" rule against discrimination in public spaces.
• Conceptual Art: Art where the idea is the star, making you go, “Hmm, interesting…” rather than just “Pretty picture!”

Guess what? The pace of technological changes in the 20th century was faster than you can say "WiFi!" From horse-drawn carriages to spaceships, humanity truly rode the wave of innovation.

There you have it—a whirlwind tour of continuity and change in a globalized world. The 20th and early 21st centuries were a mash-up of tradition and progress, where societies adapted like chameleons while holding onto what truly mattered. Here’s to conquering your AP World History exam, armed with this knowledge, and maybe even a chuckle or two along the way! 🚀🌏📚