19101920

1910–1920 refers to the decade spanning 1910 through 1920 inclusive. It was a period of rapid political, social, and technological change, defined by imperial competition, global conflict, and profound reconstruction after war.

World War I dominated the middle of the decade. The conflict involved most of the world’s great powers and was fought across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond from 1914 to 1918. The war ended with the defeat of the Central Powers and the dissolution of several empires—the Russian, Austro-Hungarian, German, and Ottoman realms—leading to extensive border redrawings and the creation or reestablishment of states in Europe and the Middle East.

Revolution and political realignment also marked the era. The Russian Revolution of 1917 produced a Bolshevik government and led to the emergence of a Soviet state, whose influence would shape international politics for much of the 20th century. National self-determination movements produced new states in Central and Eastern Europe, while the dissolution of empires contributed to ongoing territorial and governance changes. The period also saw social upheavals, including persistent labor movements and evolving roles for women.

Public health and international diplomacy received renewed attention. The 1918–1919 influenza pandemic caused widespread mortality. In the aftermath of World War I, the Paris Peace Conference produced the Treaty of Versailles (1919) and other settlements, and the League of Nations was established in 1920 as an early attempt at structured international cooperation.

The decade's upheavals redefined borders, governance, and international norms, shaping the political landscape of the interwar period and influencing events for decades to come.