Step 4: Put It All Together

Now, take a step back and try to explain the big picture. Remember to use specific examples from the chapter in your answers.

Click here to download the exercise for Step 4 in MS Word.

NATIONALISM IN THE MIDDLE EAST

  • What role did Western powers play in the Middle East after World War I? How did the Western presence shape Middle Eastern nationalist movements?
  • What was the relationship between Islam and nationalism in the postwar Middle East?
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NATIONALISM IN INDIA

  • What was Gandhi’s contribution to the Indian nationalist movement? In what ways did he transform the movement?
  • Why did it prove so difficult for Hindus and Muslims to maintain a united front against the British?
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NATIONALISM IN EAST AND SOUTHEAST ASIA

  • Why did competing nationalist movements emerge in China? What common origins and beliefs did the movements share?
  • How did nationalism contribute to Japan’s rise to regional dominance? How did it undermine Japan’s domestic political stability?
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LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

  • How did Asian nationalism in the twentieth century differ from European nationalism in the nineteenth century? What explains the differences you note?
  • World War I played a crucial role in stimulating Asian nationalism. Looking ahead, what role might you anticipate World War II playing in shaping the ongoing development of Asian nationalist movements?
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