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The Power of States. Key Terms and a Historical Perspective. Unit Intro Questions. What is the most powerful state/nation in the world today? What are the reasons why they are so powerful? Have they always been this powerful? List some powerful states/nations/empires of the past.
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The Power of States Key Terms and a Historical Perspective
Unit Intro Questions • What is the most powerful state/nation in the world today? • What are the reasons why they are so powerful? • Have they always been this powerful? List some powerful states/nations/empires of the past. • Is it possible for a single nation to become too powerful? If so, what can be done to prevent it from getting too powerful?
Key Terms: • State: a collection of institutions which make up a country • Sovereignty: the degree of power or authority a state possesses • Isolationism: the policy of a nation to limit their relations with other nations • Bilateral Relations: agreements and discussions that occur between two nations • Multilateral Relations: agreements and discussions that occur between more than two nations. • International Organizations: an association of nations with specific aims and objectives. Ex: UN, OPEC, NATO
History of International Organizations • World War One (1914-1918) was a large scale conflict between the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy) and the Triple Entente (GB, France, and Russia) • After years of isolationist policies, the United States joined on the side of the Triple Entente in 1917. This marked a change in the tide of the war and the Triple Alliance was soon defeated.
History of International Organizations The world was effected by WWI in many ways: • More than 9 million soldiers died (civilian losses unknown) • ~ 15 million wounded • Three Empires crumble, 10 new European nations are created
History of International Organizations Regarding International Organizations and the Power of States, after WWI it is important to note the following: • The League of Nations is established • The United States emerges as the new political and economic power
History of International Organizations • US President Woodrow Wilson was the main architect of the League of Nations • He was horrified by the slaughter that took place in a “civilized” society • He desired to create an international body whose sole purpose was to maintain world peace and sort out international disputes when they occurred
YOUR TASK Set up your own International Organization