There have been more changes during the 20th century than any other century in history. It is a century that has seen revolutions in every aspect of life-political, social, cultural, economic and technological. When The Century Was Young chronicles the events and transitions that occurred at the dawn of the 20th century. Using a global perspective, When The Century Was Young provides an excellent examination of the early years of the century that has seen the world evolve into a global village. The sophisticated historical, political, and cultural analysis provided by When The Century Was Young makes it an excellent tool for the more mature student. It is appropriate for high school and college. It would be useful for classes on World History, Political Science, Cultural History, Ethnic History, Women's History, Geography, and the History of Science and Technology.

A Golden Time

A Golden Time explores the turmoil of the new century. Focusing on the political transitions that led to World War I, A Golden Time examines the rise of nationalism and socialism. It reveals the class tensions of a world undergoing a transformation from the Victorian era to modernity. It also investigates the causes of World War I, and the terrible new face of warfare-mechanized mass destruction.

Vocabulary

• epoch
• aspiring
• conscription
• chivalry
• impetus
• fervor
• propriety
• cortege
• proprietors
• exploitation
• arbiter
• caste
• lucrative
• nationalism
• stratum
• solidarity

Discussion Questions

1. Class divisions in turn-of-the century Europe were rigid and strictly enforced. How did class influence European lifestyles and determine one's position in a society?
2. European nations experienced a rise in the fervor of nationalism in the early 20th century. How did the rise of nationalism and ethnocentrism contribute to the demise of the empire system?
3. Immigration to the United States peaked in the year 1907. Why was the United States so attractive to immigrants?
4. Monarchs believed that it was their "divine right" to rule. What is meant by "divine right?" How does this concept conflict with democratic ideals?
5. Industrialization provided the basis for the expansion of the middle classes.How did the proliferation of the middle class erode the power of the aristocracy?
6. How did urban infrastructure change in the early 20th century?
7. Women in the Victorian era adhered to strict gender roles. How did these roles change in the early 20th century?
8. Playing soldier was a popular pastime for male children in European society. How did these games reflect the atmosphere and attitudes of the early 20th century Europe?
9. Industrialization pervaded every aspect of life in the early 20th century, including the methods of warfare. How did industrialization and mechanization determine the methods of warfare employed in World War I?
10. World War I was a war of attrition. What is meant by this term?

Extended Activities

1. Research the causes of World War I and write an essay describing how nationalism, empires, and industrialization contributed to a global conflict.
2. Create a timeline that spans the first two decades of the 20th century and illustrate the most important discoveries and inventions of the era. How did these discoveries and inventions shape the direction of the new century?

[an error occurred while processing this directive]