After studying the Middle East, I’ve realized how much history, politics, and outside influence have shaped the region’s current challenges. In countries like Iran, I saw how changes in leadership from the Shah’s authoritarian rule to the strict religious government after the Islamic Revolution led to restrictions on personal freedoms that continue today. It was eye-opening to learn how deeply people’s daily lives can be affected by who’s in power and what kind of laws are enforced.

Another thing that stood out to me was the role of foreign interference, especially from the U.S. Whether it was the 1951 coup in Iran or later sanctions and conflicts, it became clear that outside countries have often tried to control or influence what happens in the Middle East. Events like 9/11 and the Arab Spring also showed how people are constantly pushing back, protesting for more rights, change, and a better future, even when it's dangerous.

Overall, this unit helped me understand that the Middle East is not just about conflict; it's about people trying to live through complex histories, power struggles, and constant change. It made me more aware of how freedom, government, and global politics are deeply connected.

After studying Africa, I realized how the region faces both tremendous challenges and growth potential. Central Africa, for example, has limited access to electricity, with millions, like in Ethiopia, still without power. Despite this, many countries in Africa are seeing impressive GDP growth projections, with some regions expected to grow by 6-10% or more. However, Africa's history of colonization has left a lasting impact, as seen in the way colonizers often ruled through local leaders, manipulating systems to their advantage. The story from Things Fall Apart highlights the tragic impact of colonialism and of how the arrival of foreign powers and their religion divided communities, made people turn against their own customs, and weakened traditional societies. This has led to feelings of inferiority and loss of identity, much like the effects of apartheid in South Africa. Studying Africa made me reflect on the long-lasting effects of colonialism, the resilience of its people, and the struggle to reclaim cultural identity while striving for progress. 

After learning about Asia, I’ve come to understand how incredibly diverse and important the region is, both historically and today. Countries like India, China, Japan, and Korea each have unique paths but are also connected by common themes like population growth, economic development, and political struggles. India’s young and growing population could be a big advantage for its future, but problems like poverty and a complicated economy are holding it back. China has made massive economic progress, yet the benefits aren’t evenly shared, and government control is still very strict. Japan is highly developed, with strong industries and high income, but it now faces challenges with an aging population and the lasting impact of its imperial history.

Korea’s story was especially powerful to me. It was divided after WWII, and while South Korea has become a strong democracy and major global economy, North Korea remains under strict authoritarian rule. The contrast between the two shows how differently countries can develop depending on their leadership and international support.

Overall, studying Asia helped me see how history, politics, and demographics all play a role in shaping the future. Even though many Asian countries are growing and modernizing, there are still deep inequalities and challenges to overcome. It made me think more about what real progress looks like, not just money or power, but freedom, opportunity, and equality for all people.

After learning about Latin America, I’ve come to understand how complex and connected its issues are. High poverty rates in countries like Honduras, Guatemala, and even Mexico help explain why so many people feel the need to migrate in search of better opportunities. I also realized that poverty isn’t just an economic issue as it’s tied to politics, instability, and even safety. I was surprised to see how many Latin American countries have shifted toward left-leaning governments, often as a response to inequality and past dictatorships.

Studying past events like military rule in Brazil and Argentina, or U.S. interventions during the Cold War, helped me see how outside influence and internal struggles have shaped these countries. Economically, I found it interesting that efforts like nationalizing industries and pushing for industrial growth were ways to take more control, but they didn’t always work as planned. The U.S. has played a big role, both positive and negative from making trade deals to interfering in politics.

Overall, this unit helped me realize that Latin America is still dealing with the effects of its history, and that understanding those patterns helps make sense of what’s happening today.