Unit 5: Perspectives on the Present

Students will understand how global political systems, economic development, and ideological conflict shaped the modern world during the second half of the twentieth century. They will analyze how the Cold War created competing political and economic systems across the globe. Students will examine how decolonization reshaped political boundaries and national identities. They will also evaluate how globalization, economic development, human rights movements, and global security concerns continue to influence the modern world.

Students will analyze political speeches, historical documents, maps, economic data, and media sources to evaluate global political and economic change. They will compare political systems and examine how ideological conflict influenced international relationships. Students will discuss and debate global issues related to governance, economic development, and security. They will write analytical responses explaining how global systems shape political and economic outcomes.

Students will complete a modern global issues analysis project. Students will investigate a global issue such as political conflict, economic development, human rights, or international security. They will analyze historical causes of the issue and present an argument explaining how historical developments continue to influence the modern world.