1. What was the main cause of the American Civil War (1861-1865) and what were its consequences for the nation? - The main cause of the American Civil War was the conflict over slavery, especially its expansion into the western territories. The consequences of the war were the abolition of slavery, the preservation of the Union, the death of more than 600,000 soldiers, and the reconstruction of the South. 2. How did the Industrial Revolution (1760-1840) transform the economy, society, and culture of Europe and America? - The Industrial Revolution was a period of rapid technological innovation that led to the development of factories, railways, steam engines, and other machines that increased production and trade. The Industrial Revolution also transformed society and culture by creating new social classes, urbanization, mass migration, consumerism, and cultural movements. 3. What were the main causes and effects of World War I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939- 1945)? - The main causes of World War I were nationalism, imperialism, militarism, and alliances among European powers. The main effects of World War I were the collapse of empires, the rise of communism and fascism, the creation of new states, and the emergence of the League of Nations. The main causes of World War II were the aggression of Nazi Germany, Italy, and Japan, the appeasement policy of Britain and France, and the failure of the League of Nations. The main effects of World War II were the defeat of fascism, the division of Germany and Europe, the development of nuclear weapons, and the establishment of the United Nations. 4. What were the main features and goals of the Cold War (1947-1991) between the United States and the Soviet Union? - The Cold War was a state of political and military tension between the United States and the Soviet Union that was marked by ideological rivalry, propaganda, espionage, proxy wars, nuclear arms race, and space race. The main goals of the Cold War were to contain or spread communism, to secure global influence and allies, and to prevent a nuclear war. 5. How did decolonization (1945-1975) affect the political and economic situation of Africa and Asia?