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French Revolution
The French Revolution began with the overthrow of the monarchy and the promotion of ideals like liberty, equality, and fraternity. These revolutionary ideas influenced many regions, where enslaved people and free blacks sought freedom and equality. -
Haitian Revolution
The Haitian Revolution was a slave-led revolt against French colonial rule in Saint-Domingue. Under leaders like Toussaint Louverture, enslaved people gained their freedom and declared independence, making Haiti the first black-led republic. -
Monroe Doctrine
The Monroe Doctrine declared that the Americas were off-limits to European colonization. While intended to protect Latin American nations from imperial powers, it also marked the United States' growing influence in the region. -
First Opium War
The First Opium War broke out between Britain and China after the Qing government tried to suppress the illegal opium trade. Britain’s victory led to the Treaty of Nanjing, which ceded Hong Kong to Britain and opened several Chinese ports to trade. -
Treaty Of Nanjing
The treaty that ended the First Opium War was the first of the unequal treaties between China and foreign powers. Under this treaty, China had to pay Britain money, give up control of Hong Kong, and allow foreign trade with lowered tariffs. It showed how much control imperial powers had over China. -
Revolutions in Latin America
Revolutionary movements surged across Latin America, with figures like Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín leading independence efforts earlier in the century. By 1848, many nations had thrown off Spanish rule, but the period also saw internal struggles. -
Commodore Perry Opens Japan
Commodore Matthew Perry of the United States forced Japan to open its ports to American trade with the Convention of Kanagawa. This event ended over two centuries of Japanese isolation under the Tokugawa Shogunate. -
Indian Rebellion Against British Rule
Often called the Sepoy Mutiny, was a widespread uprising against British colonial rule. It was sparked by cultural disrespect and economic exploitation under the British East India Company. Although ultimately unsuccessful, it led to the British government taking direct control of India. -
Meiji Restoration
The Meiji Restoration ended Japan’s feudal system and restored the emperor’s power. This period saw rapid industrialization and the adoption of Western technologies, transforming Japan into a powerful, modern state. -
Berlin Conference Divides Africa
European powers convened at the Berlin Conference to formalize territorial claims in Africa during the Scramble for Africa. Ignoring African sovereignty, the conference set rules for colonization, leading to widespread exploitation and resistance. -
Formation of the Indian National Congress
Leaders formed the Indian National Congress to demand greater representation and rights under British rule. Initially moderate, the Congress would later lead India’s independence movement. -
Leopold II Claims the Congo Free State
King Leopold II of Belgium declared the Congo Free State as his personal property, exploiting its people and resources, especially rubber, he would chop off their hands if they didn't meet expectations. The brutal conditions drew global criticism, but significant reforms came only years later. -
Japan Revises Unequal Treaties
Japan renegotiated treaties with Western powers, removing unequal clauses that had been imposed during its earlier interactions. This showcased Japan’s growing power and respect on the global stage. -
First Sino-Japanese War
The war between Japan and China over control of Korea marked Japan’s rise as an imperial power. Japan’s victory exposed China’s weakening Qing Dynasty and solidified Japan’s influence in East Asia. -
Ethiopia Defeats Italy
At the Battle of Adwa, Ethiopian forces decisively defeated Italian invaders, securing their sovereignty. This was one of the few times an African nation successfully resisted European colonization during the Scramble for Africa. -
Spanish-American War
The United States fought Spain over Cuba’s independence, resulting in the U.S. gaining control of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This marked the U.S.’s emergence as a global imperial power. -
Boer War
The Boer War began as British forces sought control over the resource-rich Boer Republics in South Africa. The conflict highlighted the harsh realities of imperial conquest, including the use of concentration camps. -
Boxer Rebellion
The Boxer Rebellion was an anti-foreigner uprising driven by frustration with foreign control and economic exploitation. It was suppressed by an international coalition, further eroding China’s independence. -
Hawaii Annexed
The United States officially annexed Hawaii, previously an independent kingdom. This expanded U.S. territory in the Pacific and solidified its strategic presence in the region. -
Russo-Japanese Rivalry Intensifies
Tensions between Russia and Japan over control of Korea and Manchuria escalated, leading to the Russo-Japanese War. This marked a critical moment as Japan prepared to challenge a major European power.