The Post-Cold War World
The decade of American unipolarity — democratic optimism, ethnic conflicts, and the seeds of 21st-century crises.
Dissolution of Yugoslavia Begins
Yugoslavia fragments into ethnic wars that kill over 140,000 people, exposing the limits of post-Cold War optimism.
European Union Established
The Maastricht Treaty creates the European Union, deepening integration with plans for a common currency and foreign policy.
Oslo Accords
Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization sign a historic agreement, raising hopes for a two-state solution.
Rwandan Genocide
Hutu extremists kill approximately 800,000 Tutsi and moderate Hutu in 100 days while the international community fails to intervene.
South Africa's First Democratic Elections
Nelson Mandela is elected South Africa's first Black president in the country's first fully democratic elections, ending apartheid.
World Trade Organization Established
The WTO replaces GATT, providing the institutional framework for the acceleration of global free trade.
Asian Financial Crisis
A currency crisis sweeps Southeast Asia, demonstrating the fragility of globalized finance and devastating regional economies.
Good Friday Agreement
Northern Ireland's peace agreement largely ends three decades of sectarian conflict known as the Troubles.
Euro Currency Launched
Eleven EU nations adopt the euro as their common currency, the most ambitious monetary integration project in history.
China Joins the WTO
China's entry into the World Trade Organization accelerates its integration into the global economy, transforming world manufacturing.