AP World History

AP World History explores global historical themes and events from ancient times to the present, emphasizing critical thinking and analysis.

Advanced Topics

Revolutions and Social Change

What Is a Revolution?

Revolutions are moments when people radically change their government, economy, or society. They can be violent, like wars, or peaceful, like political reforms.

Famous Revolutions

  • The French Revolution overthrew the monarchy and inspired global movements for democracy.
  • The Industrial Revolution introduced machines that changed work, cities, and daily life.
  • Decolonization in the 20th century ended European rule in Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Impact on Society

Revolutions often bring new rights, ideas, and technologies, but can also cause conflict and hardship.

Real-World Lessons

Studying revolutions helps us understand how people respond to injustice and seek change, a lesson that applies to social movements today.

Examples

  • The American Revolution created a new nation based on Enlightenment ideas.

  • The Haitian Revolution was the first successful slave revolt leading to independence.

In a Nutshell

Revolutions drive major change and shape new societies.