How to use this series; How to use this book; Getting started with Cambridge International AS Level History; Chapter 1: Imperialism and the emergence of world powers c.1870–1918; Introduction; 1.1 Why was imperialism a significant force in Africa from 1870?; 1.2 What was the impact of imperial expansion on international relations?; 1.3 Why did Japan emerge as a world power and what was the impact on international relations?; 1.4 Why did the USA emerge as a world power and what was the impact on international relations?; Chapter 2: International relations 1919–1929: conflict and cooperation; Introduction; 2.1 Why was there such extensive dissatisfaction with the peace settlements of 1919–20?; 2.2 Why was the League of Nations created and what challenges did it face in the 1920s?; 2.3 How and why did international tensions remain high after the Versailles settlement?; 2.4 How and why did international relations improve from 1924 to 1929?; Chapter 3: International History 1929–39: the rise of extremism and the road to war; Introduction; 3.1 How did the rise of extremism affect international relations?; 3.2 Why did the League of Nations fail to keep the peace in the 1930s?; 3.3 Why, and with what effects, did Britain and France pursue a policy of appeasement?; 3.4 Why did war break out in 1939?; Chapter 4: Preparing for assessment; Introduction; 4.1 Overview of assessment and assessment objectives; 4.2 Understanding what a question is asking you to do; 4.3 Revision techniques; 4.4 Assessment preparation; 4.5 A final note; Glossary; Acknowledgements