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The 19th century, often referred to as the 1800s, was a period of significant transformation in global history, spanning from January 1, 1801, to December 31, 1900. It was an era marked by industrialization, political revolutions, and vast territorial expansion.

In Europe, the century began with the Napoleonic Wars, which reshaped the continent's political landscape. Following Napoleon's defeat, a period of relative peace and the rise of nationalism emerged, leading to the unification of countries like Germany and Italy. The Industrial Revolution, which had its roots in the late 18th century, continued to accelerate, bringing about profound changes in manufacturing, transportation, and urban life. New technologies such as the steam engine, railways, and the telegraph revolutionized communication and trade.

Across the Atlantic, the United States experienced significant growth, including westward expansion, the Civil War, and the abolition of slavery. Latin America saw many of its nations gain independence from colonial rule. In Asia, colonial powers like Great Britain and France expanded their influence, while Japan underwent rapid modernization during the Meiji Restoration.

Socially, the 19th century witnessed the rise of new ideologies, including liberalism, socialism, and communism, as well as movements for social reform, such as the abolition of slavery and the fight for women's suffrage. Scientific advancements continued, with breakthroughs in fields like physics, chemistry, and biology, laying the groundwork for future discoveries. The century concluded with a burgeoning sense of interconnectedness due to advancements in transportation and communication, yet also with growing international tensions that would foreshadow the conflicts of the 20th century.