history final

Following WWII, socialist reforms made it difficult to fire employees in Germany. This hindered economic growth, leading to attempts by new governments to change the laws.

West Germany experienced rapid economic growth after WWII, known as the "Economic Miracle." This was characterized by increased wages, rebuilding infrastructure and industrialization.

To support its booming economy, West Germany imported workers from Southern Europe and Turkey, known as 'guest workers.' This addressed the labor shortage fueled by the 'Economic Miracle.'

A policy of rapprochement initiated by West German Chancellor Willy Brandt, aiming to improve relations with East Germany.

In 1972, East and West Germany signed an agreement establishing "good neighborly" relations, a significant step towards reconciliation.

In 1990, East and West Germany were reunited after years of division, marking a historic political and social event.

Reunification of Germany led to significant economic costs, as the West had to invest heavily in developing the East, which was less economically developed.

German labor unions fiercely resisted changes to labor laws, hindering attempts to facilitate economic development by making it easier to hire and fire employees.

After the reunification of Germany in 1990, there was a significant economic cost associated with integrating East Germany into the Western system. This cost was a source of discontent among Western Germans.

During the 1990s and beyond, Germany witnessed the emergence and growth of neo-Nazi groups. These groups targeted immigrants and asylum seekers, often targeting the large number of such individuals present due to Germany's initially liberal immigration policies.

Angela Merkel, elected Chancellor of Germany in 2005, championed a strengthened role for Germany within the European Union. She has been a prominent and influential figure in international politics.

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is a right-wing populist party that has gained significant influence in recent years. They have successfully formed governments at various levels, both regional and national, advocating for policies seen as nationalist and anti-immigration.

The Green Party is a left-wing political party in Germany focusing on environmentalism. They have been involved in coalition governments, contributing to policy decisions.

After World War II, the Labour Party, led by Clement Atlee, won the 1945 general election. This victory was fueled by promises of social welfare after the war's devastation.

The Labour government in post-war Britain implemented nationalization programs, bringing key industries like transportation and energy under government control. This was a response to the wartime experience and aimed to promote economic stability.

In the aftermath of WWII, the British Empire faced numerous challenges, including economic strain from the war, decolonization movements demanding independence, and slower economic recovery compared to other Western European nations.

The political and economic policies implemented by Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister of the UK from 1979 to 1990, characterized by deregulation, privatization, and a focus on individual responsibility.

Government policies aimed at reducing public spending and deficits, often involving cuts to social welfare programs, public services, and government salaries, to balance the budget.

One of the two major political parties in the UK, generally advocating for lower taxes, limited government intervention in the economy, and a strong national defense.

Organizations that represent workers in a particular industry or profession, advocating for improved working conditions, wages, and benefits for their members.

An international organization formed in 1951 by six European countries (France, West Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg) to pool resources in the production of coal and steel, promoting economic cooperation and preventing future wars.

An economic and political organization established in 1957 by six European countries with the aim of creating a common market and promoting economic integration among its members.

An international organization formed alongside the EEC in 1957, aiming to promote research and development in nuclear energy, coordinate nuclear policies, and ensure safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology.

An expanded version of the EEC, formed in 1973, which included the original six members, as well as Denmark, Ireland, and the UK. It focused on further economic integration and cooperation.

A treaty signed in 1993, establishing the European Union (EU), bringing together member states for closer political and economic cooperation, including the creation of a single currency (the Euro).

A political and economic union of 27 European countries, established in 1993, aiming to promote peace, economic integration, and cooperation among its members.

After World War II, Japan was placed under the control of Allied forces, primarily the United States. This administration aimed to reshape Japan's political, economic, and social structures.

General MacArthur was the key figure overseeing the Allied occupation of Japan, implementing significant political changes.

Japan officially gained independence on September 8, 1951, though the US occupation continued until 1952. This marked a transition to a new era in Japan's history.

Following independence, a key agreement was established between Japan and the US. This alliance allowed the US to station troops in Japan, contributing to the Cold War strategy and regional security.

The Meiji era introduced policies that aimed to modernize and strengthen Japan. However, these policies were seen as contributing to Japan's aggressive actions in World War II.

The US occupation of Japan aimed to fundamentally reshape the country, moving away from the Meiji era's policies and promoting democratic ideals.

The 1947 constitution established a new political order in Japan, based on Western liberal democratic principles. This aimed to prevent Japan from becoming militaristic again.

The constitution emphasized a division of power between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, creating a system of checks and balances.

The constitution established a bicameral legislature, meaning it consists of two houses: a lower house and an upper house. This reflects a system common in democracies.

The new constitution granted voting rights to both men and women, expanding democratic participation in Japan.

The constitution restricted Japan's military to self-defense forces, primarily to prevent the nation from engaging in offensive warfare.

The US occupation aimed to reduce the influence of militarism in Japanese society, changing how the military functioned and shifting public attitudes.

The constitution redefined the Emperor's role, making him a symbol of the state and deriving his authority from the will of the people.

This key article renounces war as a sovereign right of the nation and prohibits the maintenance of land, sea, and air forces. It highlights Japan's commitment to pacifism.

A commission established in South Africa after apartheid to investigate human rights abuses committed under the white minority government, promote reconciliation, and prevent future civil war.

Despite the end of apartheid, Black South Africans faced ongoing economic challenges and accusations of corruption among ANC leaders.

Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, is home to over 300 ethnic groups, including the Hausa-Fulani, Igbo, and Yoruba.

A civil war in Nigeria (1967-70) sparked by the Igbo people's desire for self-determination and secession from the Nigerian government.

Nigeria experienced long periods of military rule, notably from 1966-79 and 1983-99, often marked by instability and human rights violations.

Newly independent African nations faced numerous challenges in achieving sustainable development, including limited resources, dependence on Western countries, cold war influences, and internal conflicts.

African nations often relied on Western countries for technology, goods, and development aid, creating a form of economic dependence that hindered their independent development.

Both the US and USSR sought to influence newly independent African nations for their own geopolitical interests, often interfering in domestic politics and contributing to instability.

Newly drawn borders by colonial powers often led to conflicts between African nations, based on historical grievances or resource competition.

Internal conflicts arose from ethnic, cultural, or political differences within African nations, leading to separatist movements seeking independence.

The large proportion of young people in many African nations can be a potential economic advantage, but it requires opportunities for education, employment, and good governance.

Rapid population growth and migration to urban areas created challenges for infrastructure development, housing, and urban planning, potentially leading to social problems.

Some African leaders adopted Western capitalist economic models, emphasizing private enterprise and free markets.

Other African leaders promoted socialist principles, emphasizing state ownership of resources, social welfare, and national liberation.

A system of racial discrimination and segregation in South Africa, enforced by the white minority government, severely restricting the rights and freedoms of the Black African population.

A political organization formed in 1912 to fight against racial discrimination and segregation in South Africa, eventually leading the struggle against apartheid.

The ANC and other anti-apartheid groups employed various methods, including non-violent protests, civil disobedience, and armed struggle, to challenge the system.

A combination of international pressure, domestic dissent, and internal reforms led to the dismantling of apartheid in the 1990s, culminating in the first multi-racial elections in 1994.

Established after the end of apartheid, the TRC aimed to address the injustices of the past through hearings, public apologies, and amnesty for perpetrators, facilitating healing and reconciliation.