The shifting of state power after 1900 7.1

Global Power Dynamics (1900-Present)

• Introduction to the Time Period

  • Focus on the shifts of state power from 1900 to the end of the century.

  • Notable events include world wars, economic depressions, and decolonization movements.

Decline of Empires

• The Ottoman Empire

  • Known as the "sick man of Europe" before 1900.

  • Attempted modernization via Tanzimat reforms but failed to revitalize state power.

  • Young Ottomans:

  • Educated in Western ideas; called for democratic changes.

  • Established parliament and constitution but reverted to authoritarian rule during conflicts.

  • Young Turks:

  • Gained power in 1908 by overthrowing the Sultan.

  • Introduced secular schools, political elections, and established Turkish as the official language.

  • Negative impact: Alienation of ethnic minorities (e.g., Arabs) led to further nationalism and discontent.

  • Result of World War I: The empire dissolved completely.

• The Russian Empire

  • Progressed in industrialization under Czar Nicholas II, but discontent grew among the middle and working classes due to authoritarian rule.

  • 1905 Revolution:

  • Fuelled by industrial grievances; met with harsh repression from the Czar.

  • Led to the introduction of a constitution and legalization of labor unions.

  • 1917 Russian Revolution:

  • Led by Vladimir Lenin and the Bolsheviks; successfully overthrew the Czar and established a communist state – the Soviet Union.

• Qing China

  • Faced internal turmoil (Taiping rebellion) and defeats against Western powers (Opium wars, Sino-Japanese War).

  • Boxer Rebellion (1900): Averted by foreign powers, resulting in further impositions on China.

  • Sun Yat-sen:

  • Led a revolutionary movement that ended the imperial rule after the abdication of the Qing Emperor.

  • Established a provisional government, which was short-lived, leading to civil war and eventual rise of Mao Zedong's communist state.

• Mexican Revolution

  • Porfirio Díaz ruled as a dictator until 1910.

  • Francisco Madero elected but assassinated in 1912; initiated a decade of civil conflict.

  • Charismatic leaders like Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata emerged but struggled for lasting power.

  • Post-revolution (1917):

  • Mexico established a republic with a new constitution, enacting reforms such as:

    • Universal male suffrage

    • Minimum wage laws

    • Separation of church and state.

  • Unlike the Russian and Chinese revolutions, Mexico's revolution did not result in significant international ramifications.