Explore major events, developments and societies in world history, with a particular focus on the modern world.
World History
World history brings together major international events and developments beyond Britain. Explore the links below for detailed histories of individual countries, conflicts and major themes.
Twentieth-Century History
First World War
The First World War transformed Europe and had consequences across the world. Explore the causes, course and consequences of the conflict, including global warfare, the Western Front, new weapons and the experience of soldiers.
Second World War
Explore the causes, major events and consequences of the Second World War, including the development of the war in Europe and the wider global conflict.
Russia and the Soviet Union
Explore Russia from the final years of the Russian Empire through revolution, civil war and the development of the Soviet Union.
United States History
Explore key developments in United States history, including the country’s emergence as a major world power and the political and social changes of the twentieth century.
China
Explore modern Chinese history and the political and social changes that transformed China during the twentieth century.
Vietnam
Explore the history of Vietnam, including the conflict that developed during the Cold War and the involvement of the United States.