SAT Subject Test in World History

An in-depth exploration of significant events, themes, and figures in world history, preparing students for the SAT Subject Test.

Advanced Topics

Revolutions and Transformations

When the World Turned Upside Down

Revolutions are dramatic periods of change, when societies reinvent themselves. These can be political, economic, or cultural.

Political Revolutions

The American and French Revolutions broke the mold of monarchy and introduced new ideas about government and rights. The Russian Revolution replaced the czar with a communist state.

Industrial and Technological Transformations

The Industrial Revolution began in Britain and changed how people lived and worked. Factories, steam engines, and urbanization were revolutionary!

Social Movements

Changes like the abolition of slavery and the fight for women’s rights redefined societies.

Why It Matters

Recognizing the causes and consequences of revolutions helps explain the modern world.

SAT Pro Tip

Be ready to trace how one revolution inspired others, and how these events still influence us today.

Examples

  • The Haitian Revolution was the only successful slave revolt leading to an independent nation.

  • The Meiji Restoration in Japan rapidly modernized the country.

In a Nutshell

Revolutions create dramatic shifts in society, politics, and economies.

Key Terms

Revolution
A sudden and significant change in society or government.
Industrialization
The development of industries and factories on a wide scale.