18601938

1860–1938 denotes a broad historical span that covers the late 19th century and the interwar years preceding World War II. The period is characterized by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and globalization, alongside imperial competition, social reform, and political upheaval.

Globally, nations reorganized economies and power. Europe saw the unifications of Germany (1871) and Italy (1861–1870); the Meiji Restoration in Japan (1868) modernized state structures; in other regions, empire expansion and colonial administration extended reach. Technological advances—electric power, internal combustion engines, rail and telecommunication networks, aviation, and medical innovations—transformed work and daily life.

Significant political events include the American Civil War (1861–1865) in the United States, abolitionist and reform movements, and shifts toward mass politics in many countries. The early 20th century brought World War I (1914–1918) and the Russian Revolution (1917), which redrew borders and governance and contributed to the emergence of new states and ideologies.

Economically, the period experienced innovation and prosperity at times, followed by instability and the Great Depression after 1929. The 1930s saw the rise of authoritarian movements and rising militarism in some regions, alongside ongoing cultural modernization in literature, film, and the arts.

The period ends in 1938, just before World War II, with escalating international tensions, rearmament, and territorial annexations that would help shape the subsequent global conflict.