APWH 1750-1900

Scientific Revolution

A period in the 16th century marked by advancements in astronomy and cosmology, challenging the geocentric view and leading to the development of the scientific method.

Enlightenment

An intellectual movement in the 17th century inspired by the Scientific Revolution, focusing on human observations, critiquing divine right of kings, and proposing the concept of the Social Contract.

Social Contract

A theory by thinkers like Thomas Hobbes and John Locke, suggesting that power is derived from the consent of the governed, not from divine right, and emphasizing the protection of inalienable rights.

French Revolution

A political revolution starting in 1789, driven by nationalism, leading to the execution of the king, and later the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte who spread French nationalism across Europe.

Industrial Revolution

Originating in Britain in the mid-18th century, characterized by technological advancements like the steam engine and the spread of industrialization to other regions like Central Europe, the US, and Japan.

Meiji Restoration

A period in Japan following the forced opening by the US in 1853, leading to industrialization, modernization, and the overthrow of the Tokugawa Shogunate, ultimately transforming Japan into a major industrial power.

Abolitionism

A movement inspired by the French Revolution and Enlightenment ideals, advocating for the abolition of slavery, leading to legislative changes like the Slave Trade Act and the eventual abolition of slavery in various countries.

Feminism Movement

Emerged from the Enlightenment, advocating for women's rights and equality, with key events like the Seneca Falls Convention and the fight for female suffrage in different countries.

New Imperialism

A wave of imperialism driven by industrialization, nationalism, social Darwinism, and the white man's burden, leading to the colonization of territories for raw materials, markets, and the spread of Christianity.

British East India Company (BEIC)

A trading company that played a significant role in India, trading with the Mughal fragments and eventually establishing its own private army.

British East India Company (BEIC)

A trading company that gradually took control of India for its own profit, employing native Indians in its army and regulating trade, leading to the Sepoy Rebellion of 1857-1858.

Sepoy Rebellion

A revolt against BEIC rule triggered by the introduction of a new rifle cartridge smeared with animal fat, which offended Hindus and Muslims, resulting in the end of BEIC rule and the establishment of the British Raj.

British Raj

The period of British rule in India following the Sepoy Rebellion, characterized by modernization efforts such as the Indian Civil Service, public service education, and the construction of a railway system.

Treaty of Nanjing

An agreement that ended the First Opium War, granting the British significant economic advantages over China, including extraterritoriality and control over trade, leading to the Taiping Rebellion.

Taiping Rebellion

A massive uprising against the Qing Dynasty led by Hong Xiquan, inspired by Christianity, which resulted in significant loss of life and further economic exploitation of China by European powers.

Suez Canal

A key infrastructure project initiated by Ishmael in Egypt, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea and significantly reducing travel time between Europe and India, but leading to economic challenges for Egypt.

Scramble for Africa

The rapid colonization of Africa by European powers following the takeover of Egypt, facilitated by the Berlin Conference and the use of advanced weaponry, leading to exploitation and resource extraction.

Belgian Congo

A region exploited by King Leopold II for its rubber resources, resulting in severe abuse and loss of life, until the Belgian government took over and initiated infrastructure development.

European Modernization of Africa

Efforts by European powers to build infrastructure, establish education systems, and exploit resources in Africa, leading to the emergence of African nationalist aspirations and exposure to Western ideals.

Religious Division of Africa

The split between Christianity and Islam in Africa, with North Africa predominantly Muslim and Sub-Saharan Africa experiencing syncretic Christianity, shaping the religious landscape of the continent.