International Relations 16th-19th Centuries

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Questions and Answers

What was a significant consequence of the Franco-Prussian War for Germany?

The war resulted in the creation of a unified German Empire. (correct)

The war led to a long-term decline in German economic and military power.

The war caused a major political upheaval within Germany, leading to the rise of a socialist government.

The war brought Germany into a close alliance with France, leading to a period of cooperation.

What was one of the central aims of Bismarck's foreign policy after the unification of Germany?

To establish Germany as the dominant power in the Balkans, seeking control over the region.

To promote a policy of non-intervention in European affairs, focusing on domestic development.

To create a system of alliances that would isolate and weaken France. (correct)

To weaken Germany's military and economic power in order to prevent European conflict.

What was one of the major challenges facing Bismarck's foreign policy following the unification of Germany?

The emergence of a strong anti-German sentiment in Russia, leading to a series of border conflicts.

The increasing nationalism in multiethnic empires, creating potential for conflict and destabilizing the European balance of power. (correct)

The growing economic competition from Britain, leading to trade wars and undermining Germany's industrial growth.

The rise of a powerful socialist movement within Germany, which threatened the stability of the new empire.

What was the main reason for Russia's intervention in the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878)?

To establish itself as the leading power in Eastern Europe, promoting Pan-Slavism. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Great Eastern Crisis of 1875-1878 contribute to the outbreak of World War I?

The crisis exacerbated tensions between the Great Powers, contributing to the atmosphere of rivalry and mistrust that ultimately led to the war. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of Bismarckian diplomacy that contributed to the relative peace in Europe during his tenure?

The "honest broker" approach that Germany adopted to maintain a balance of power and prevent conflict. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was a major factor in the rise of European imperialism in the late 19th Century?

An increasing demand for raw materials and new markets for industrialized goods. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did World War I contribute to the outbreak of World War II?

The war led to the rise of fascism and authoritarianism in Germany and Italy, which set the stage for the outbreak of a new conflict. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following countries did NOT participate in the Scramble for Africa?

Austria (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was Bismarck's role in the Scramble for Africa?

He encouraged French colonial ambitions to divert attention from central Europe. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was a key strategic reason for the British occupation of Egypt?

To control the Suez Canal, a vital route to India. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Berlin Conference (1884-1885)?

It established rules and guidelines for the colonization of Africa. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a lasting impact of arbitrary borders created by imperialist powers in Africa?

The borders have created tensions and conflicts between different ethnic groups. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a consequence of the Scramble for Africa?

The establishment of a unified African government. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following territories was NOT a German colony in Africa?

Kenya (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary motivation for the Boer War (1899-1902)?

Control of the gold and diamond mines in South Africa. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What prompted Italy to join the Dual Alliance in 1882?

French seizure of Tunisia (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the key characteristics of the "New Imperialism" that emerged after 1869?

Rapid, intense exploitation of resources with increased public support. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which European power had the largest empire by the end of the "Scramble for Africa"?

Britain (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following events MOST directly contributed to the outbreak of World War I?

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was the main goal of the Mediterranean Agreements of 1887?

To prevent Russian expansion in the Mediterranean region (B) Signup and view all the answers

What event marked the end of the "Scramble for Africa"?

The outbreak of World War I in 1914 (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Cold War influence modernization processes globally?

The Cold War promoted modernization as a way to combat communism. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key characteristic of colonialism?

The establishment of self-governance by the colonized people. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Exam Structure

Exams will assess understanding, not just rote memorization.
Answers should be clear and demonstrate comprehension of the material.
Focus on 16th-19th centuries, particularly Westphalia.

International Relations Starting Point

Roughly the 16th century.
Focusing on 18th and 19th centuries.
Study of European expansion and consolidation.
Decline of Ottoman Empire and China's unification, and periods of destabilization.

State System

Preceded by empires, states emerged around 1500.
Westphalian system.
Source of authority is the people.
Notion of a state has roots in Europe.
Territorial control.
Sovereignty.
Fragile/failing states (lack of management despite international recognition) often mix nation and ethnicity.
Nationalism's connection to mixed political ideas or identities.
Instability of states.
Examples include (but are not limited to) Ottoman, and the Ottoman and Russian empires
Failure factors: difficulty incorporating the European system into Southern Europe and Africa, difficulties with incorporation efforts.

Lecture Notes

Colonization motivation linked to demography and economic situations.
GDP, economic power shifts were analyzed.
Europe dominated world economics during 19th century.

Contemporary International Order

Includes elements like state systems, international security, and global governance.
Identifies features like international security and polarity, along with stability of international financial and trading systems.

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Description

This quiz explores the evolution of the state system from the 16th to 19th century, with a particular focus on the Westphalian system and the dynamics of European expansion, including the decline of empires like the Ottoman and Russian. Understand key concepts like sovereignty, nationalism, and the factors that lead to state instability during this period.