If there is one event that defined a generation and left lasting change on the world, it is the events surrounding World War II. The war affected the entire globe with battles, disruption of trade and economies, millions of casualties, and a host of other problems like PTSD from Shell Shock and the Holocaust. It also led to the creation of the United Nations and other important international bodies, as well as the development of nuclear weapons.
Other notable world historical events include the French Revolution in 1789, which overthrew the monarchy and established a republic with principles of liberty, equality and fraternity that are still reflected in France’s national motto today; the American Civil War that ended when President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address; and the Industrial Revolution, which forever changed the way the world works by revolutionizing production and transportation.
Of course, there is also the Internet, which was conceived and brought to life in the late 1980s and has completely changed the world we live in, both in terms of what can be accomplished as well as how we communicate with each other. Other significant world events that have shaped the way we live, work and play include the rise of China as an economic powerhouse, the Arab Spring of 2010 (which is still ongoing), the invention and growth of smartphones, and the invention of cloning.
It is essential to know about current events because they could impact your health, your family, or your finances. For example, being aware of natural disasters, public-health alerts, travel disruptions and recalls can help you make better decisions for your safety and well-being. Keeping up with news is also useful for teaching students about important political and cultural events.