Discussion Overview
Welcome to our discussion. opportunity of one of the most transformative and tumultuous periods in modern history. This module delves into the era of Imperialism and World War I, when the world witnessed dramatic shifts in political powers, social structures, and global relations. Our journey will take us through the late 19th century’s aggressive expansion of empires into the heart-wrenching battlefields of the First World War.
We began with Imperialism, a period marked by the rapid expansion of European powersand later the United States and Japanacross the globe. You’ll explore the motivations behind this expansion, whether for economic gain, national prestige, or a sense of cultural superiority. In our work, we examined the impact of this expansion on both the colonizers and the colonized, investigating how it reshaped economies, societies, and political structures.
Our focus shifted to the early 20th century, where the seeds of discontent sown by imperialism, burgeoning nationalism, entangling alliances, and military escalations culminated in World War I. This war, often termed the “Great War,” reshaped the map of Europe and set the stage for the modern era. We delved into the causes of the war, the experiences of soldiers and civilians, the home front, and the war’s far-reaching consequences.
Now, we will discuss these issues. Participating in discussions about imperialism and World War I is crucial in a Modern World History class for several reasons:
Understanding Contemporary Global Dynamics: The era of imperialism and World War I significantly shaped the modern world. Imperialism led to the expansion and consolidation of empires, profoundly influencing political, economic, and social structures globally. Understanding these historical developments helps students grasp the roots of current international relations, economic disparities, and cultural exchanges.
Critical Thinking and Historical Analysis: Discussing these topics develops critical thinking skills. Students learn to analyze complex historical events, understand different perspectives, and evaluate the interplay of various factors like politics, economics, and social attitudes. This analytical ability is vital not only for historical studies but also for understanding contemporary issues.
Connecting Past and Present: Discussions about imperialism and WWI allow students to draw connections between the past and present. They can explore how historical events have long-lasting impacts, shaping national boundaries, creating socio-political tensions, and influencing collective memories and identities.
Moral and Ethical Reflection: These discussions often involve moral and ethical considerations. For example, examining the impacts of imperialism on colonized societies fosters a deeper understanding of issues related to justice, human rights, and the ethical implications of power and dominance.
Empathy and Global Awareness: By studying the human experiences of those times, students develop empathy and a more profound awareness of different cultures and societies. Understanding the struggles, hopes, and aspirations of people from the past helps in nurturing a more inclusive and compassionate worldview.
Skill Development: Such discussions enhance academic skills, including research, writing, and oral communication. Students learn to articulate their thoughts clearly, back their arguments with evidence, and engage in intellectual debates, essential skills in academia and beyond.
Discussions about imperialism and World War I are not just about understanding historical events but about building a framework through which we can interpret the world today, develop critical thinking skills, and become more informed, empathetic, and engaged global citizens.
Looking forward to an enlightening and engaging journey together.
If for some reason you cannot meet our deadline, please message me through the Canvas inbox. I want you to succeed and want to help everyone complete the class.
Pick one of the following:
OPTION A
After reading the chapter on World War one and the info at the WWI websites that include videos, pictures, and articles about WWI, answer the following questions. What factors led to the outbreak of WWI? Why was it longer, more costly, and more deadly than anticipated? What were the long-term consequences of WWI? You are not required to use all of the embedded links I have provided, but they will help broaden and deepen your understanding. If you would like to include more information, you can use outside online sources that end in .edu or .org. Please remember to respond to one other person, as usual.
OPTION B
After reading our e-text, consider Africa and how it was divided between rival imperial powers in the 19th century. Please answer the following questions using our text and web links (as many as you need to help you develop a deep understanding) for this assignment. How did European attitudes about Africans lead to European colonization of AfricaLinks to an external site.? Give specific examples of people such as Cecil RhodesLinks to an external site.. European imperialism had several effects on Africa. Identify and analyze several of those effects. Be sure to include specific examples such as the Berlin ConferenceLinks to an external site., apartheidLinks to an external site., Belgian CongoLinks to an external site….If you would like to include more information, you can use outside online sources that end in .edu or .org. Wikipedia or AI sources are not allowed. Please remember to respond to one other person’s post.
The following optional video is a great way to learn more about the Scramble for Africa. It is an optional way to learn more.
OPTION C
As with Africa and India, some areas also experienced the long arm of European imperialism. After reading our e-text and using any of the embedded link material on the Opium WarsLinks to an external site. you find helpful, discuss the wars. What were they, when did they happen, and why? What were the consequences of the Opium Wars for China? If you would like to include more information, you can use outside online sources that end in .edu or .org. Wikipedia or AI sources are not allowed. Please remember to respond to another person.
The following optional video is a great learning opportunity to expand upon our book coverage. It is optional.
OPTION D
After reading our e-text, discuss no man’s land in WWI. Why was it called no man’s land? What technologies, inventions, and circumstances made the trenches so deadly? What ethical issues are raised by chemical warfare? What consequences did WWI have in areas of warfare, but also for the people who served in the war? If you would like to include more information, you can use outside online sources that end in .edu or .org. Wikipedia or AI sources are not allowed. Please remember to respond to another person.
Option E
After completing our readings, discuss the factors that led to WWII. Please consider issues of appeasement, the Versailles Treaty, nationalism, economics, and political ideologies. Key events and significant people are essential parts of a complete answer. If you would like to include more information, you can use outside online sources that end in .edu or .org. Wikipedia or AI sources are not allowed, please. Please remember to respond to another person.
Outcomes and Objectives
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Students will be assessed on the following learning outcomes using our weekly discussion and peer response and an optional short quiz:
Analyze primary and secondary sources and explain how they support a thesis statement.
Explain relationships between the causes of historical events and their effects.
Describe a relevant individual involved in an historical event and explain his/her significance in this event.
OBJECTIVES
1. Understanding the Foundations of Imperialism:
Analyze the political, economic, and ideological motivations behind European imperialism.
Examine the technological and military advancements that facilitated imperial expansion.
2. Understanding the Complexities of World War I:
Explore the multi-faceted causes of World War I, including nationalism, imperialism, militarism, and the alliance system.
Analyze the major battles and strategies, and understand the war’s transformation from a traditional to a total war.
Examine the social, economic, and political impact of World War I on various countries.
3. Examining the Interwar Period:
Study the political and economic aftermath of World War I, mainly focusing on the Treaty of Versailles and its repercussions.
Investigate the rise of totalitarian regimes in Germany, Italy, and Japan and understand their motives and actions leading to World War II.
Explore the cultural and intellectual shifts of the 1920s and 1930s, including the Great Depression and its global effects.
4. Delving into World War II:
Assess the causes of World War II, considering the failings of the Treaty of Versailles, appeasement policies, and the ambitions of Axis powers.
Understand the significant military campaigns, the development and use of advanced weaponry, and the concept of total war.
Analyze the role of ideology in World War II, with a focus on fascism, Nazism, and imperialism.
5. Post-War Reconstruction and the New World Order:
Examine the immediate aftermath of World War II, including the Nuremberg Trials and the establishment of the United Nations.
Understand the geopolitical shifts, the beginning of the Cold War, and the division of Europe.
Discuss the process of decolonization and its impacts on the global landscape.
6. Reflecting on the Lessons of History:
Encourage a critical understanding of how these historical events have shaped contemporary global politics and society.
Foster an appreciation of the importance of international cooperation and conflict resolution.
Reflect on the moral and ethical lessons learned from these conflicts and their relevance today.
Instructions
INITIAL POST:
Please remember I am looking for a minimum of 350 words for your main post, in which you show your understanding of our Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs), which are part of the concepts and themes explored in the course, and how your readings relate to them. I’ll be looking for you to quote or paraphrase material from the readings to support your answer. When you quote or paraphrase material, which you should do to support your work :-), be sure to cite. I will be looking to see quotes (cited) or paraphrased and referenced material. Use any citation style – MLA, APA, and Chicago styles are all fine. MLA is the easiest, but I know them all. A simple in-text citation is also perfect for me (Feres, Lecture). Even when paraphrasing, please reference the material at the end of your post.
REPLY POSTS(S):
You will also respond to another student with the same due date during the same period. The response should be a minimum of 150 words. Your response should be substantive. I do not want you to agree or disagree but rather comment on why you agree or disagree, raise more points, indicate commonalities or differences, discuss the issue as it relates to our readings, and raise new questions about which we can all think. The response can be a well-developed paragraph of 150 words at maximum. A sentence will not get you credit. I dont want you to respond with Great job. Keep it up. That is an F response. Failure to respond to 1 other student will result in 15 points being deducted from your grade. This counts for every week.
Netiquette
As you read and respond to others’ posts, keep in mind some basic netiquette rules:
Be kind and respectful to others
Use full sentences
Don’t use too much jargon
Treat others online as you wish to be treated
Use language that supports others
Grading & Feedback
The anticipated turn-around time for grading is 3-5 days
The criteria is outlined in the rubric. Click the “options” (3-dots) menu at the top of the page to see the rubric for this discussion.
I will respond to every tenth post in the discussions with general replies. I will respond in Grades using either a written or oral comment when I give grades to help you improve future points or praise excellence.
Please use my or our TAs feedback to improve future discussions
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