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Most of the alternative visions to the emerging nineteenth century order presented in this chapter had little influence on and limited if any awareness of each other's struggles. However, Karl Marx, the philosopher behind one of these many alternative scenarios, served as a reporter in New York City during the 1850's. From this major metropolis, he had access to information about the rebellions occurring in China and India. Thus, his reflections, offer us a unique frame of analysis. How did one radical visionary in the nineteenth century perceive his contemporaries in other parts of the world? Was he sympathetic or not to their cause? How did he interpret their rebellions in light of his own ideological framework?
Documents
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To review Marx's radical vision, review pages 256-257 in your textbook and/or read Document 1. How did Marx define the emerging nineteenth century order in Europe? What was Marx's prophecy? |
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Document 2 is an article written by Marx in 1858 that analyses the impact of the growth of Great Britain's industry on the country's economic relationship with the rest of the world. Why, did he argue, that foreign markets were essential to the nation's prosperity? Why did greater trade in goods lead to great British foreign investment? How stable does he find this emerging trade regime? How did Britain benefit from this emerging commercial order? Which areas did not? |
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To analyze Marx's view of the rebellions in China and India against this emerging British commercial and military dominance, read Document 3 and Document 4. How does Marx portray these events? Does he see them as alternative visions as described in your text? Is he sympathetic with Chinese and Indian rebels? Do you believe Marx saw their rebellions as confirming or denying his prophecy? |
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