-
Early Colonialism
The colonists influenced many by spreading their form of Christianity. They also influenced economic wealth and political power. -
Later Colonialism
The Spanish and the Portuguese empires declined, but other European countries launched a second wave of colonization. -
Berlin Conference
The Berlin Conference used claims to form state boundaries in Africa. -
The Cold War
It started at the end of WWII, as it continued through the collapse of the Berlin Wall. This ended up with the breakup of the Soviet Union. -
Civil Wars in the Developing World
32 colonial territories in Africa gained independence, however, the boundaries imposed by Europe remained in the newly independent states. Cultural and political boundaries did not match. -
Collapse of Communism
The leadership of the Soviet Union relaxed itself. In November 1989, citizens of both Germanys brought down the wall that divided the city of Berlin since 1961. -
Newly Independent States
Political boundaries were once again altered. The collapse of the Soviet Union created an enormous power vacuum in the world. -
Changes in Balance of Power
The collapse of Communism and the Soviet Union drastically changed the balance of power throughout Europe. The Russians were frightened by this shift, they reacted by intervening militarily to support pro-Russian groups in the Republic of Georgia.