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Triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, WWI involved most major world powers. Global Impact: Redrew borders, led to the fall of empires, set the stage for WWII, and led to the formation of the League of Nations.
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A severe worldwide economic depression beginning with the U.S. stock market crash. Global Impact: Massive unemployment and poverty worldwide; led to political instability and the rise of extremism.
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Germany invaded Poland, prompting Britain and France to declare war. Global Impact: Deadliest conflict in history; Holocaust; led to the United Nations' creation and U.S./Soviet superpower rivalry.
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Formed after WWII to promote peace and cooperation among nations. Global Impact: Became a key international body for diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and global policy.
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Apollo 11 mission successfully landed humans on the moon. Global Impact: Marked a milestone in space exploration and U.S. dominance in the Space Race.
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East Germany opened the border, leading to the wall's fall. Global Impact: Symbolized the end of the Cold War and led to German reunification.
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Al-Qaeda terrorists attacked the U.S., destroying the Twin Towers. Global Impact: Triggered the War on Terror, reshaped global security policies, and led to wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
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Collapse of major financial institutions due to housing bubble and risky lending. Global Impact: Global recession, widespread job losses, and policy shifts toward financial regulation.
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Series of anti-government uprisings across the Middle East and North Africa. Global Impact: Toppled several regimes, led to civil wars, and reshaped regional geopolitics.
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Coronavirus outbreak that spread globally, causing widespread illness and death. Global Impact: Shut down economies, strained healthcare systems, accelerated digital transformation.
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Full-scale invasion by Russia into Ukraine, breaking international law. Global Impact: Triggered a humanitarian crisis, energy crisis, and redefined global alliances.