1870—1880: In 1870, Germany invades France after France declares war on Germany, which starts the Franco—Prussian War and signals a rise in German military power and imperialism.

Today: Following many decades of war and upheaval, Germany and France have made amends and have united under peace as two of the strongest and most prosperous European nations.

1870—1880: In 1877, Queen Victoria was named the empress of India, illustrating a rise in European and, most notably, British imperialism.

Today: India is a free country and, although overpopulated and struggling, it has become a powerful nation through its contributions to progressive politics and technology.

1870—1880: In 1876, Alexander Graham Bell invents the telephone, sparking a new dawn in communication.

Today: A large percentage of the developed nations' populations carry a cellular telephone with them at all times. Communication has been established via satellite, cable, digital, and wireless...