(a) Second World War
(b) Treaty of Berlin
(c) Fabianism
(a) Second World War
1. Overview
The Second World War (1939-1945) was a global conflict that involved most of the world’s nations, including the major powers of the Allies (led by the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom) and the Axis (led by Nazi Germany, Japan, and Italy). It was the deadliest conflict in human history, with tens of millions of casualties.
2. Causes
Key causes of the war included the rise of totalitarian regimes in Germany, Italy, and Japan, the failures of the Treaty of Versailles (1919), and aggressive expansionism by these powers. The war officially began when Germany invaded Poland in 1939.
3. Major Events
European Front: Germany’s invasion of Poland, the Battle of Britain, and the Eastern Front (Germany vs. Soviet Union) were significant events.
Pacific Front: Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 led the US to join the war. The Pacific saw fierce battles like Midway and Iwo Jima.
End of War: The war ended in Europe in May 1945 with the defeat of Nazi Germany, and in the Pacific in August 1945 after the US dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
4. Consequences
The war reshaped the global order. The United Nations was formed to prevent future conflicts, and the US and Soviet Union emerged as superpowers, leading to the Cold War. Europe and Japan faced massive reconstruction challenges.
(b) Treaty of Berlin (1878)
1. Background
The Treaty of Berlin was signed in 1878 following the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878). It was negotiated at the Congress of Berlin, chaired by German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, to address issues in the Balkans and prevent further conflict between European powers.
2. Main Provisions
Territorial Adjustments: The treaty reduced the gains made by Russia in the Treaty of San Stefano. Bulgaria was divided into three parts: a smaller, autonomous Bulgaria, Eastern Rumelia under Ottoman control, and Macedonia remaining fully under Ottoman rule.
Independence: Serbia, Montenegro, and Romania gained full independence from the Ottoman Empire.
Austrian Control: Austria-Hungary was given the right to occupy Bosnia and Herzegovina, though it remained formally under Ottoman sovereignty.
3. Consequences
The Treaty of Berlin temporarily stabilized the region but sowed the seeds for future conflicts in the Balkans. It limited Russian influence and satisfied Austria-Hungary and Britain, but it did not fully resolve ethnic tensions, leading to future crises in the lead-up to World War I.
(c) Fabianism
1. Definition and Origins
Fabianism is a socialist movement that emerged in Britain in the late 19th century. It was founded in 1884 by intellectuals like Sidney and Beatrice Webb, George Bernard Shaw, and others. The movement aimed to promote social reform gradually through democratic means rather than revolutionary change.
2. Key Principles
Gradualism: Fabians believed in a slow and peaceful transition to socialism, unlike more radical Marxists who called for revolution.
Reforms through Democracy: The Fabians aimed to achieve socialism by working within the political system. They influenced policies on education, health, and workers’ rights.
Intellectual Approach: Fabianism was focused on research, policy-making, and educating the public about socialism, rather than mass movements or strikes.
3. Impact
The Fabian Society played a key role in the formation of the Labour Party in Britain and influenced its early policies. Many of their ideas, including public ownership of services and social welfare, were implemented in Britain throughout the 20th century, especially after World War II.
