Introduction Since 1500, the economies of Europe and Asia were expanding their reach overseas. With the establishment of the Atlantic trading system, these economies exercised their mercantilist desires, America became a cultural mixing bowl, and the diffusion of knowledge and technology amplified. As a result of this ever-increasing global interaction, between 1750 and 1870, considerable changes occurred across the world in agriculture, politics, economics, and technology. Considered one of the greatest eras in technology, the Industrial Revolution took place during this period. By 1825, most colonial regimes had been repulsed or abandoned, and the eastern empires were deteriorating. A series of “revolutions,” political challenges and people-led reforms, have been undertaken by various Western groups and states. The United States fought the Revolutionary War, emerged victorious, and declared independence from Great Britain. The French protest also turned into a revolution; the people demonstrated their frustration with monarchical and ecclesiastical rule and aristocratic abuses, seeking reforms and more aggressive forms of change. Slaves in Santo Domingo sought independence, uniting with free black men and whites frustrated with imperial rule to overthrow the French and create the state of Haiti. The British created an empire in the East, larger and arguably more durable than the 13 American colonies. The African continent saw the rise of the Zulus, the expansion and modernization of the Egyptian empire under Khedive Muhammad Ali, and increased trade with Europeans, both positive and negative. As you will see, the interactions and dramatic changes were direct results of the maritime globalization of the previous era. This inexperienced country has evolved since then, and only time will tell if it retains its respect as a world power.Works CitedDee, D. (Artist). (2003). Anarchy. [Web Design]. Retrieved from http://www.toothpastefordinner.com/010203/anarchy.gif, October 24, 2011. NativeForeigner. (Downloader). (2010). Lgwashing machine. [Internet photo]. Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:LGwashingmachine.jpg, October 24, 2011. Hutchins, C. (photographer). (2006). Barvarian food. [Internet photo]. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/27283274@N00/131829998/, October 24, 2011. Bulliet et al. The Earth and its peoples: a global history. 3rd. II. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Company, 2005. 685.Keefe, M. (Artist). (2009). Chinese American flag. [Print drawing]. Retrieved from http://media.caglecartoons.com/media/cartoons/56/2009/03/25/62686_600.jpg, October 24 2011.