Historian Croce once said, "All history is contemporary history." Although this class is about premodern world history (prior to 1500), I still hope my students are sensitive to transformations and changes in this contemporary time, which may help us better understand history and of course, better understand ourselves and the time of our lives.
So please follow TV news or newspapers to choose one "big" event happening currently that impresses you the most, and write a passage to discuss the event's significance to the world. Yes, you can choose anything you like, but please provide the source info at the end of your writing--from where you learn about this event (ie. TV news channel and date; Newspaper source; web link, etc.)
Length: at least 300 words
One of the most impactful current events that has caught my attention is the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan. In recent weeks, the Taliban, a militant group, has rapidly taken control of the country, capturing major cities and ultimately seizing the capital city of Kabul. This development has sparked a mass exodus of civilians trying to flee the country, fearing for their safety under the Taliban's rule.
The significance of this event cannot be overstated, as it has far-reaching implications for the world. The fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban represents a failure of international efforts to stabilize the country after years of conflict and intervention. The withdrawal of American troops, which began earlier this year, has paved the way for the Taliban's resurgence, leading to the swift collapse of the Afghan government.
The situation in Afghanistan also raises concerns about the rights and safety of Afghan citizens, especially women and minorities, who may face increased oppression under Taliban rule. The international community is now faced with the challenge of how to respond to this crisis and protect vulnerable populations in Afghanistan.
Moreover, the events in Afghanistan have implications for global security, as the country has historically been a haven for extremist groups like Al-Qaeda. The Taliban's return to power could embolden other terrorist organizations and pose a threat to regional stability.
In conclusion, the crisis in Afghanistan serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges of the modern world. It underscores the fragility of political systems and the importance of international cooperation in addressing conflicts and promoting peace. As we study premodern world history in this class, we must also be attuned to the contemporary events unfolding around us, as they shape the world we live in today.
Source: CNN, August 2021.