Late-19th century

Definition

The Late-19th century refers to the period from the 1870s to the turn of the 20th century, marked by significant political, social, economic, and cultural transformations in Europe. This era was characterized by rapid industrialization, the rise of new political ideologies, and profound changes in societal structures, all of which set the stage for the dramatic events of the early 20th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Late-19th century saw a surge in urbanization as people moved to cities for jobs in factories, leading to significant demographic shifts.
2. This period experienced a rise in socialist movements advocating for workers' rights and social reforms in response to industrial exploitation.
3. Imperial expansion was prominent during the Late-19th century, as European powers competed for colonies and resources in Africa and Asia.
4. Scientific advancements flourished in this era, with significant contributions to medicine, physics, and biology that changed societal perspectives.
5. Cultural developments were marked by new artistic movements such as Impressionism and Realism, reflecting changing views on society and individual experience.

Review Questions

• How did industrialization during the Late-19th century impact urbanization and societal structures?
  • Industrialization led to massive urbanization as people flocked to cities seeking work in factories. This shift drastically changed societal structures, resulting in the growth of a working class while also creating challenges such as overcrowding, poor living conditions, and social strife. The demand for labor influenced not just economic conditions but also social dynamics, as workers began organizing for better rights and living standards.
• In what ways did nationalism shape political developments during the Late-19th century?
  • Nationalism played a crucial role in shaping political developments during the Late-19th century by fostering unity among people sharing common cultural identities while also sparking tensions among diverse ethnic groups within multi-national empires. Nationalist movements gained momentum, leading to calls for independence and self-determination that contributed to conflicts such as the Balkan Wars. These developments set the stage for future political upheaval and realignments in Europe.
• Evaluate how scientific advancements in the Late-19th century influenced cultural perceptions and societal norms.
  • Scientific advancements during the Late-19th century had a profound influence on cultural perceptions and societal norms by challenging traditional views on issues like race, gender roles, and human behavior. Theories like Social Darwinism justified inequalities under a guise of natural order while breakthroughs in fields such as medicine transformed public health approaches. These shifts prompted debates over morality, ethics, and social responsibility that resonated throughout the culture of this era.

Related terms

Industrial Revolution:

A period of major industrialization that took place during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, leading to changes in manufacturing processes and societal structures.

Social Darwinism:

A theory that applied Darwin's ideas about natural selection to human society, often used to justify imperialism and social inequality during the late 19th century.

Nationalism:

A political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation or ethnic group, becoming increasingly influential in Europe during the late 19th century.