Post-1900s

Definition

Post-1900s refers to the period following the turn of the 20th century, marked by significant advancements in technology and global exchanges that transformed societies and economies worldwide. This era witnessed rapid industrialization, the rise of new technologies, and a shift towards greater global interconnectedness, leading to profound changes in communication, transportation, and trade.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The post-1900s period saw significant developments in transportation, including the expansion of railroads, the advent of commercial aviation, and the creation of container shipping, which made global trade more efficient.
2. Advancements in communication technologies like the telephone, radio, and eventually the internet have greatly increased the speed at which information is disseminated across the globe.
3. The rise of multinational corporations in the post-1900s facilitated economic interdependence among countries, influencing labor markets and trade policies worldwide.
4. World events such as the two World Wars significantly impacted technological development, leading to innovations in military technology that later found civilian applications.
5. The post-1900s era also saw a surge in consumer culture due to mass production techniques and marketing strategies that emerged from technological advancements.

Review Questions

• How did technological advancements after 1900 reshape global trade and communication?
  • Technological advancements after 1900 reshaped global trade and communication by introducing faster and more efficient methods for moving goods and information. The development of commercial aviation and container shipping revolutionized transportation, making it easier to trade internationally. At the same time, innovations in communication technology like the telephone and radio enabled instant connectivity across vast distances, fostering a more integrated global economy.
• In what ways did the Industrial Revolution lay the groundwork for changes seen in the post-1900s era?
  • The Industrial Revolution laid the groundwork for changes in the post-1900s era by establishing foundational technologies and production methods that continued to evolve. The introduction of machinery allowed for mass production, which not only increased output but also lowered costs. This shift created consumer markets that expanded significantly in the 20th century, as well as paved the way for further technological advancements that would drive globalization.
• Evaluate the impact of globalization on local economies in the post-1900s period.
  • Globalization had a profound impact on local economies in the post-1900s period by creating interconnected markets that allowed for increased trade but also posed challenges. While globalization facilitated access to new markets and resources, it often led to job displacement as local industries struggled to compete with larger multinational corporations. This dynamic resulted in economic growth in some areas while contributing to economic inequality and social tensions in others, forcing local economies to adapt or innovate in order to survive.

Related terms

Globalization:

The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or operate on an international scale, leading to increased economic and cultural exchanges.

Industrial Revolution:

A period of major industrialization that took place during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, continuing to influence post-1900 advancements in technology and production.

Digital Revolution: The shift from mechanical and analog technology to digital technology, which began in the late 20th century and has transformed how information is processed and shared.