Globalization c. 1900 to the present

During the twentieth century technological advances altered many aspects of life. New communications and transportation technologies and energy technologies increased economic production, sped mobility, and interconnected individuals and groups around the world. New medical and agricultural technologies increased life expectancies and populations. Rapid economic and population growth have altered environments and caused pollution.

With the end of the Cold War, most parts of the world became increasingly interconnected through economic liberalization and globalization, along with the growth of international organizations and multinational corporations. Globalization also led to the spread of consumer culture and Americanization. Human rights movements strive for equality of access to political and economic participation.