Must Know Dates ALL ERAS - AP World History

622

Founding of Islam

The event marks the establishment of Islam when the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations in Mecca, initiating the foundation of the Islamic community (umma). Its broader significance includes shaping the religious, political, and cultural contours of the Middle East and influencing various regions worldwide.

c. 730

Printing invented in China

This date reflects the invention of woodblock printing in China, which enabled the mass production of texts for the first time. This technological advancement significantly contributed to the spread of knowledge and literacy in East Asia.

732

Battle of Tours

The Battle of Tours halted the northward expansion of Islam from the Iberian Peninsula into Frankish lands, establishing a Christian bulwark in Western Europe. This event is considered a turning point that preserved Christianity as the dominant religion in Europe.

1054

Great Schism in Christian Church (Roman Catholic & Eastern Orthodox)

This schism was the formal division between the Western Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches, primarily over issues of religious doctrine and papal authority. The split had long-term religious, cultural, and political implications for Europe.

1071

Battle of Manzikert (Seljuk Turks over Byz)

The Battle of Manzikert was a significant defeat for the Byzantine Empire against the Seljuk Turks, leading to the loss of much of Anatolia. This event fundamentally weakened Byzantium and changed the political landscape of the Middle East.

1095

1st Crusade

The First Crusade was initiated by Pope Urban II to reclaim Jerusalem and other holy lands from Muslim control. The Crusades had profound impacts on Christian and Muslim relations and altered the political dynamics of the Middle East.

1206

Chinggis Khan begins Mongol conquests

This marks the start of Mongol expansions under Chinggis Khan, leading to the creation of one of the largest empires in history. The conquests significantly impacted global trade, cultural exchanges, and geopolitical borders.

1258

Mongols sack Baghdad end of Abbasid caliphate

The sacking of Baghdad by the Mongols ended the Abbasid Caliphate, a major center of Islamic learning and power. This event reshaped Islamic civilization and the historical trajectory of the Middle East.

1271-95

Marco Polo’s travels

Marco Polo's travels to China during the Yuan dynasty opened up knowledge about Asia to Europe, enhancing intercontinental trade and cultural exchanges. His accounts influenced European cartography and curiosity about the East.

1279-1368

Yuan (Mongol) Dynasty in China

The Yuan Dynasty had the rule of the Mongols over China, which integrated the country into a vast Eurasian empire, facilitating unprecedented cultural and economic exchanges across regions.

1324

Mansa Musa’s pilgrimage/hajj

Mansa Musa's pilgrimage to Mecca is famed for its display of wealth and generosity, significantly influencing the Islamic world's view of the wealth of the West African Mali Empire. His journey also fostered economic and cultural ties between West Africa and the Middle East.

1325-49

travels of Ibn Battuta

Ibn Battuta’s extensive travels across the Islamic world and beyond provided detailed accounts of the cultures, peoples, and governance of the 14th century, enriching the understanding of the interconnectedness of various regions.

1347-48

Bubonic plague in Europe

The bubonic plague, or Black Death, devastated Europe, killing an estimated one-third of its population. This catastrophic event profoundly affected European society, economy, and the course of European history.

1368-1644

Ming Dynasty

The Ming Dynasty marked an era of significant cultural, technological, and maritime advancement in China. It is known for its great naval expeditions, such as those led by Zheng He, and the construction of the Great Wall's iconic sections.

1405-33

Zheng He’s 7 voyages

Zheng He’s voyages throughout Asia and Africa under the Ming Dynasty represented the height of Chinese maritime power, enhancing trade networks and diplomatic relations across the Indian Ocean.

1438

Rise of Inca Empire

The rise of the Inca Empire consolidated a vast and sophisticated civilization in the Andes, known for its unique engineering, architecture, and road systems, which facilitated the integration and control of its massive territory.

1453

Ottomans capture Constantinople

The Ottoman capture of Constantinople marked the end of the Byzantine Empire and established Istanbul as a powerful cultural and commercial capital of the Ottoman Empire. This event significantly shifted the balance of power in Southeast Europe and the Mediterranean.

1450s

Printing Press in Europe (Gutenberg)

The introduction of Gutenberg's printing press in Europe revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge, enabling the rapid spread of literature and ideas. This innovation was pivotal in fostering the Renaissance and later the Protestant Reformation.

c. 1480s

Height of Aztec Empire

The Aztec Empire reached its zenith in the late 15th century, known for its complex social structures, impressive architectural feats, and significant contributions to Mesoamerican culture. The empire's wealth and power attracted European explorers, leading to its downfall.

1488

Dias rounds Cape of Good Hope

Bartolomeu Dias’ voyage around the Cape of Good Hope marked the first European navigation to the southern tip of Africa, paving the way for a sea route to Asia. This discovery was crucial for the future of global trade and European colonialism.

1492

Columbus/Reconquista of Spain

Christopher Columbus' voyage led to the discovery of the New World, which had profound implications on global trade and the colonization of the Americas. Simultaneously, the completion of the Reconquista solidified Spain as a unified Christian kingdom, enhancing its maritime and imperial ambitions.

1502

1st African Slaves to Americas

The beginning of the African slave trade to the Americas marked a grievous period of human history, characterized by the forced migration and exploitation of millions of Africans. This trade was foundational in the economic development of the Americas and had a lasting impact on the racial and social structures.

1517

Martin Luther/Protestant Reformation

Martin Luther's 95 Theses sparked the Protestant Reformation, challenging the practices and authority of the Roman Catholic Church and leading to widespread religious reform and conflict across Europe. The Reformation profoundly influenced the religious, cultural, and political landscape of the Western world.

1519-21

Cortez conquered the Aztecs

Hernán Cortés’ conquest of the Aztec Empire dramatically altered the history of the Americas, leading to Spanish domination over vast territories. This event marked the beginning of large-scale European colonization in the New World.

1521-23

Magellan circumnavigates the Earth

Ferdinand Magellan's expedition achieved the first circumnavigation of the globe, proving the Earth's roundness and the vastness of the Pacific Ocean. This monumental voyage opened new pathways for global navigation and trade.

1529

1st unsuccessful Ottoman siege of Vienna (Suleiman the Magnificent)

The first siege of Vienna by the Ottoman Empire under Suleiman the Magnificent marked the peak of Ottoman territorial expansion into Europe. Although unsuccessful, it underscored the enduring conflict between Christian Europe and the Muslim Ottoman Empire.

1533

Pizarro topples the Inca

Francisco Pizarro’s overthrow of the Inca Empire led to the establishment of Spanish colonial rule in Peru, exploiting its vast resources and altering the cultural and demographic landscape of South America.

1545

Discovery of silver at Potosí

The discovery of massive silver deposits in Potosí (modern-day Bolivia) became a major source of wealth for the Spanish Empire and fueled global trade, particularly with Asia through the Manila galleons.

1571

Battle of Lepanto (Ottoman naval defeat)

The Battle of Lepanto was a significant naval conflict in which a Christian coalition decisively defeated the Ottoman fleet. This victory curbed Ottoman naval dominance in the Mediterranean.

1571

1st Manila Galleon (global trade of silver)

The inauguration of the Manila Galleon trade route facilitated the first sustained trade links between Asia and the Americas, using Mexican silver as the primary commodity. This route played a crucial role in the early globalization of trade.

1588

Spanish Armada

The defeat of the Spanish Armada by England marked a significant shift in naval power, favoring England. This event paved the way for English maritime supremacy and its future imperial ventures.

1600

Battle of Sekigahara (beg of Tokugawa Shogunate)

The Battle of Sekigahara was pivotal in consolidating Tokugawa Ieyasu’s power in Japan, leading to the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This era of relative peace and isolation influenced Japanese society and governance until the mid-19th century.

1607

foundation of Jamestown

The establishment of Jamestown in Virginia marked the beginning of the British colonial presence in North America. It set the stage for the development of English-speaking colonies and their eventual rise to power in the region.

1618-48

Thirty Years War

The Thirty Years' War, primarily fought in Central Europe, involved multiple European powers and was driven by both political and religious disputes. Its conclusion with the Peace of Westphalia significantly altered the political map of Europe and established the concept of state sovereignty.

1644-1911

Qing Dynasty

The Qing Dynasty was the last imperial dynasty of China, known for its expansion, prosperity, and cultural achievements. However, it also faced numerous internal rebellions and external pressures that eventually led to its fall and the establishment of the Republic of China.

1653

Cape Town colony founded (Dutch)

The founding of the Cape Town colony by the Dutch East India Company established a crucial resupply point for ships traveling between Europe and Asia. This settlement played a significant role in the development of trade routes and the colonial expansion of European powers in southern Africa.

1683

2nd unsuccessful Ottoman siege of Vienna (Mehmet IV)

The second siege of Vienna marked a critical turning point in the Ottoman Empire's fortunes in Europe, resulting in a significant defeat that halted their territorial expansion into Central Europe. This event shifted the balance of power and began the gradual decline of Ottoman influence in the region.

1689

Glorious Revolution/English Bill of Rights

The Glorious Revolution in England led to the deposition of James II and the ascension of William III and Mary II to the throne, cementing parliamentary supremacy over the monarchy. The English Bill of Rights laid the foundations for a constitutional monarchy and influenced the development of democratic principles globally.

1756-63

Seven Years War (French and Indian War)

The Seven Years' War was a global conflict that pitted Britain against France and their respective allies, affecting Europe, North America, South America, Africa, and Asia. It ended with significant territorial changes and established Britain as a dominant global naval power.

1767

Invention of the Spinning Jenny (using machines to manufacture)

The invention of the Spinning Jenny by James Hargreaves revolutionized the textile industry, greatly increasing the speed of cloth production. This innovation was a key development in the Industrial Revolution, which transformed economic systems and societies worldwide.

1776

Declaration of Independence (American Revolution)

The Declaration of Independence marked the formal assertion by the Thirteen Colonies in America to be free and independent states, rejecting British rule. This pivotal moment led to the establishment of the United States and inspired numerous other independence movements.

1776

Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations (capitalism)

The publication of "The Wealth of Nations" by Adam Smith laid the foundational principles of modern economics and capitalism. His ideas on free markets, division of labor, and the role of government influenced economic policies and industrial development across the world.

1789

French Revolution begins

The French Revolution radically transformed France by overthrowing the monarchy, establishing a republic, and fundamentally challenging the traditional structures of power and privilege. Its ideas and tumultuous events influenced revolutionary movements worldwide.

1796

Jenner’s smallpox vaccine

Edward Jenner's development of the smallpox vaccine was a monumental achievement in medical history, providing a means to control one of the most deadly diseases known to humanity. This breakthrough laid the groundwork for the field of immunology and public health initiatives.

1804

Haitian independence

Haiti's declaration of independence marked the successful conclusion of the only slave uprising that led to the founding of a state free from slavery and ruled by non-whites and former captives. It had profound effects on the institution of slavery and colonial systems in the Americas.

1807

British abolish Trans-Atlantic slave trade

The British Parliament's abolition of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade initiated a significant change in international trade practices related to human bondage. This legislative action marked the beginning of a widespread movement towards the abolition of slavery itself.

1807-08

Janissary Revolt

The Janissary Revolt was a significant event in the Ottoman Empire, where the elite Janissary troops revolted in response to modernization efforts. This rebellion highlighted the challenges faced by the empire in modernizing and maintaining stability within its military ranks.

1815

Congress of Vienna

The Congress of Vienna was a pivotal moment in European history, where major powers negotiated and re-drew the boundaries of Europe after the Napoleonic Wars. It aimed to restore balance of power and prevent future large-scale conflicts, setting the stage for almost a century of peace in Europe.

1820s

Independence in Latin America

The time marked a decade of successful revolutionary movements across Latin America, leading to independence from Spanish and Portuguese colonial rule. Nations such as Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil emerged, fundamentally altering the political landscape of the Western Hemisphere.

1825

Erie Canal opens

The opening of the Erie Canal was a significant development in the transportation history of the United States, connecting the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean. This canal significantly lowered transportation costs, boosted trade and migration, and was instrumental in the economic development of the northeastern United States.

1839

First Opium War in China

The First Opium War between Britain and China was triggered by Chinese restrictions on the opium trade. The war resulted in the Treaty of Nanking, which opened several Chinese ports to foreign merchants and ceded Hong Kong to Britain, marking the start of the era of unequal treaties and significant Western influence in China.

1839-78

Tanzimat Reforms

The Tanzimat period was a series of reforms in the Ottoman Empire aimed at modernizing the state in line with Western technological and legal advancements. These reforms were significant in shaping the administrative, social, and economic institutions of the empire, attempting to curtail the decline and stabilize the state structure.

1848

Marx & Engels’ The Communist Manifesto

The publication of "The Communist Manifesto" by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels provided a new political and economic theory that advocated for the revolutionary overthrow of capitalist societies and the creation of a classless society. This document became the foundation for the socialist and communist movements that shaped global politics in the 20th century.

1848-49

European revolutions

The series of revolutions across Europe, known as the Springtime of Nations, was characterized by widespread political upheaval and demands for democratic reforms. Although most of these revolutions were suppressed, they significantly affected the political development of numerous European nations.

1853

Commodore Perry “opens” Japan

Commodore Matthew Perry's expedition to Japan forcibly ended Japan's period of national seclusion by demanding the opening of ports to American trade. This event led to the Treaty of Kanagawa and subsequent treaties with other Western nations, which significantly influenced Japan's modernization in the Meiji Restoration.

1857

Sepoy Mutiny

The Sepoy Mutiny, or Indian Rebellion, was a major, but ultimately unsuccessful, uprising in India against the British East India Company's rule. This revolt was significant as it led to the reorganization of the British administration in India and marked the beginning of a nationalistic movement against British imperialism.

1861

Russia “frees” serfs / ends serfdom

The emancipation of the serfs in Russia by Tsar Alexander II was a major reform aiming to modernize the Russian economy and mitigate growing social tensions. The end of serfdom was crucial in transforming Russian society, though it led to significant economic and social challenges.

1861-65

U.S. Civil War

The American Civil War was primarily over the issues of slavery and states' rights. The war preserved the Union, led to the abolition of slavery, and fundamentally transformed the social and political landscape of the United States.

1861-70

Italian unification

The Italian unification (Risorgimento) was a complex process that concluded with the incorporation of Rome into the Kingdom of Italy. This unification ended centuries of regional division and foreign domination and marked the establishment of Italy as a national state.

1863

U.S. Emancipation Proclamation

The Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln declared the freedom of all enslaved persons in Confederate territory not under Union control. This pivotal act altered the nature of the Civil War and laid the groundwork for the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States.

1869

Suez Canal Opens

The opening of the Suez Canal was a significant event in global trade, allowing ships to travel between Europe and Asia without navigating around Africa. This canal significantly shortened trade routes and increased the strategic importance of the region.

1871

German unification

The unification of Germany under the leadership of Otto von Bismarck transformed the political landscape of Europe, establishing Germany as a major continental power. This event shifted the balance of power and set the stage for future conflicts in Europe.

1885

Berlin Conference (“Scramble for Africa”)

The Berlin Conference of regulated European colonization and trade in Africa during the New Imperialism period. The conference triggered the Scramble for Africa, where the major powers partitioned the continent without regard for indigenous cultures, leading to extensive exploitation and colonial dominance.

1888

Brazil ends slavery (last in Americas)

Brazil's abolition of slavery was the final act in the Americas to end this practice. This marked a significant moment in the global movement against slavery and had profound social and economic implications within Brazil.

1893

New Zealand grants women suffrage

New Zealand became the first country to grant women the right to vote . This landmark decision had a profound impact on the women's suffrage movement worldwide, encouraging similar reforms in other countries.

1896

Battle of Adwa (Ethiopians defeat Italians)

The Battle of Adwa was a significant victory for Ethiopia against Italy, securing Ethiopian sovereignty and making it one of the few African nations to successfully resist European colonization. This victory had a lasting impact on African pride and anti-colonial sentiments.

1898

Spanish-American War (US acquires Philippines, Cuba, Guam, & Puerto Rico)

The Spanish-American War resulted in the United States acquiring territories from Spain, including the Philippines, Cuba, Guam, and Puerto Rico. This conflict marked the emergence of the U.S. as a global power and had significant implications for its imperial ambitions.

1899-1902

Boer War (British in control of South Africa)

The Second Boer War between the British Empire and the two Boer states in South Africa resulted in British victory and the eventual control over South Africa. This war had significant consequences for the region, leading to the formation of the Union of South Africa and setting the stage for future conflicts over racial segregation and apartheid.

1904-05

Russo-Japanese War

The Russo-Japanese War was a significant conflict between Russia and Japan over territorial ambitions in Korea and Manchuria. Japan's victory marked the first time an Asian power defeated a European one in modern history, shifting power dynamics in East Asia and signaling Japan's emergence as a major imperialist force.

1910-20

Mexican Revolution (Diaz overthrown ‘10)

The Mexican Revolution began with the overthrow of long-time dictator Porfirio Díaz and continued with a decade of civil war and social reform. This revolution significantly transformed Mexican society and government, emphasizing agrarian reforms and national sovereignty.

1911

Chinese Revolution (end of Qing)

The Chinese Revolution resulted in the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China, marking the end of over two thousand years of imperial rule. This revolution initiated a period of significant political fragmentation and civil unrest in China.

1914

Panama Canal (Opened)

The opening of the Panama Canal revolutionized maritime trade by connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, significantly reducing the travel distance for ships. This engineering marvel had a profound impact on global shipping routes and the economic development of Panama and surrounding regions.

1914-18

World War I

World War I, a global conflict from, involved many of the world's great powers and was marked by unprecedented levels of carnage and destruction due to new military technologies and trench warfare. The war led to major political changes, including revolutions in many of the involved nations and the redrawing of borders in Europe.

1917 Feb/Mar

Russian Revolution (Czar Abdicates)

The Russian Revolution resulted in the abdication of Czar Nicholas II and the end of the Russian Empire. This revolution led to the establishment of a provisional government and paved the way for the Bolshevik Revolution later that year.

1917 Oct/Nov

Russian Revolution (Communist/Bolshevik)

The Bolshevik Revolution led by Lenin resulted in the overthrow of Russia's provisional government and the establishment of a Communist government. This event was pivotal in the creation of the Soviet Union and influenced numerous other communist movements globally.

1917 Nov

Balfour Declaration

The Balfour Declaration was a statement by the British government expressing support for a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine. This declaration significantly influenced the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and the foundation of the state of Israel.

1918 Nov

Armistice (end of WWI fighting)

The November Armistice marked the end of fighting in World War I, leading to the Treaty of Versailles the following year. This ceasefire ended four years of intense and destructive conflict and set the stage for peace negotiations that would reshape international boundaries and global politics.

1919

Treaty of Versailles

The Treaty of Versailles formally ended World War I and imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany. The terms of the treaty are often cited as factors that led to economic hardships and the rise of extremism in Germany, contributing to the onset of World War II.

1921-22

Washington Naval Conference

The Washington Naval Conference was a military conference called by the United States involving major naval powers. It resulted in significant agreements on limiting naval capacities and maintaining power balance in the Pacific, aiming to prevent an arms race and promote peace following World War I.

1928

Kellogg-Briand Pact (outlawing war)

The Kellogg-Briand Pact, signed by multiple nations including major powers, was an international treaty that attempted to outlaw war as a means of national policy. While it was largely ineffective in preventing future conflicts, it represented a notable effort towards international peace and diplomacy.

1929

New York Stock Market Crash

The stock market crash in New York marked the beginning of the Great Depression, a global economic downturn that led to widespread poverty, unemployment, and significant political changes in many countries, influencing the rise of fascism in Europe and the New Deal in the United States.

1930

Salt March (Gandhi’s)

Gandhi's Salt March was a nonviolent protest against the British salt monopoly in colonial India. This march was a crucial part of the Indian independence movement, significantly advancing the cause and demonstrating the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance.

1931

Japanese invasion of Manchuria

Japan invaded Manchuria following the Mukden Incident; this aggressive expansion marked the beginning of Japanese imperial conquests in East Asia and led to the establishment of the puppet state of Manchukuo. This event contributed significantly to the tensions that culminated in World War II in the Pacific.

1935

Italian invasion of Ethiopia

The Italian invasion of Ethiopia, part of Mussolini’s imperial ambitions, resulted in the brief occupation of the country and was a clear breach of international law. This aggression was a prelude to the broader conflicts of World War II and highlighted the ineffectiveness of the League of Nations.

1937

Japan invades (rest of) China (rape of Nanking)

Japan's full-scale invasion of China, including the horrific atrocities of the Nanking Massacre, marked the escalation of the Second Sino-Japanese War. This conflict merged with World War II and had devastating impacts on China, significantly shaping East Asian history.

1939

German blitzkrieg into Poland (beg of WWII in Eur)

Germany's blitzkrieg invasion of Poland triggered the start of World War II in Europe as Britain and France declared war on Germany. This aggressive military strategy led to the rapid occupation of Poland and set the stage for the global conflict that followed.

1941

Pearl Harbor (US entry into WWII)

The attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan led to the United States entering World War II. This event significantly altered the course of the war, leading to the eventual defeat of the Axis powers by the Allied forces.

1942-43

Battle of Stalingrad (turning point of war)

The Battle of Stalingrad was one of the deadliest and most pivotal battles of World War II, marking the turning point of the war in favor of the Allied forces against Germany. The Soviet victory at Stalingrad was crucial in the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany.

1944

Bretton Woods Conference (Post-war Econ Planning)

The Bretton Woods Conference established the frameworks for the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, aiming to stabilize the post-war global economy, promote international economic cooperation, and prevent future economic crises.

1945 Feb

Yalta Conference (beg of Cold War?)

The Yalta Conference, involving leaders from the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union, discussed the reorganization of post-war Europe and set the stage for the Cold War tensions between the superpowers.

1945 Jul

A-Bomb tested (Manhattan Project)

The successful testing of the atomic bomb under the Manhattan Project ushered in the atomic age, transforming the nature of future warfare and global politics, highlighting the destructive power of nuclear weapons.

1945 Aug

Hiroshima/Nagasaki

The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki led to Japan's surrender and the end of World War II. These bombings had immense humanitarian impacts and raised ethical and strategic debates about nuclear warfare, and raised mistrust between the USA and USSR, heightening the soon-to-come tensions during the Cold War.

1945 Sep

end of WWII (Japan surrenders)

The formal surrender of Japan marked the official end of World War II, concluding the most destructive global conflict in history. This event reshaped international relations, led to the establishment of the United Nations, and initiated a new era of superpower dominance by the United States and the Soviet Union.

1947 June

Truman Doctrine (“official” decl of Cold War)

The Truman Doctrine articulated the U.S. policy of Soviet containment and support for free peoples resisting subjugation by armed minorities or outside pressures, officially marking the start of the Cold War era.

1947 Aug

independence & partition of India

The independence and subsequent partition of India ended British colonial rule but resulted in the creation of two separate states, India and Pakistan. This partition led to significant migration and sectarian violence, shaping the political and social landscape of South Asia.

1948

birth of Israel

The declaration of the establishment of Israel and the subsequent Arab-Israeli conflict dramatically altered the geopolitics of the Middle East, leading to ongoing conflict and negotiations over land and national identity.

1948-49

Berlin Blockade/Airlift

The Berlin Blockade and the subsequent airlift were pivotal events during the early Cold War, in which Western allies supplied West Berlin by air after the Soviet Union blocked land access to the city. This event was a significant Cold War victory for the West and solidified the division of Germany and Berlin.

1949 Apr

NATO founded

The founding of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) by the United States, Canada, and several Western European nations was a critical development in the Cold War, aimed at mutual defense against potential Soviet aggression, significantly shaping NATO's role in global military and political affairs.

1949 Oct

Chinese Communist Revolution

The victory of the Communist Party in China led by Mao Zedong ended the long-standing civil war against the Nationalists. This revolution established the People's Republic of China, fundamentally transforming its society, government, and economy, and realigning global political forces during the Cold War.

1950-53

Korean War

The Korean War, a conflict between North Korea (supported by China and the Soviet Union) and South Korea (supported by the United States and other United Nations members), resulted in a stalemate and an armistice that left the Korean Peninsula divided. This war significantly influenced Cold War dynamics and continues to impact the geopolitics of East Asia.