The period begins with the outbreak of World War I in 1914, a global conflict that lasted until 1918. This war had profound impacts on the political, social, and economic landscapes of the world. The war led to the fall of several empires, including the Russian, German, and Austro-Hungarian Empires, and resulted in the creation of new nations and borders.
The interwar period, which followed World War I, saw the rise of fascism in Europe, with the Italian Fascist Party and the Nazi Party gaining power in the 1920s and 1930s. The period also witnessed the Great Depression, a severe worldwide economic crisis that lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s.
The 1940s and 1950s were marked by World War II, which began in 1939 and ended in 1945. This war was even more devastating than the first, resulting in an estimated 70-85 million deaths worldwide. The war led to the establishment of the United Nations and the beginning of the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union.
The mid-20th century saw significant advancements in technology, including the development of the transistor, the first integrated circuit, and the first personal computer. The civil rights movement in the United States also gained momentum during this period, leading to significant legal and social changes.
The 1980s and 1990s were characterized by the end of the Cold War, the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, and the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. This period also saw the rise of the internet and the beginning of the digital age. The 1990s also witnessed the end of the Cold War and the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, marking a significant shift in global politics. The period also saw the rise of the internet and the beginning of the digital age. The 1994 World Cup, held in the United States, was a major sporting event during this time. The tournament was notable for the "Hand of God" goal, scored by Diego Maradona in the final match. The 1994 World Cup also saw the introduction of the "Golden Goal" rule, which allowed matches to be decided by a single goal scored in extra time. The period ended with the 1994 World Cup final, which was won by Brazil, defeating Italy 0-0 on penalties.