This course focuses on the origins, battles, and results of World War I and World War II. Students will study the rise of totalitarian states and the political environment in which they emerged. In addition, this course includes an in-depth study of the modern global situation, and the independence many former colonies now enjoy. Finally, students will examine the economical state of countries throughout the world and discuss why some have thrived and others have suffered. This is the second course in a two-part World History series (HIST 061 and 063); however, either course may be taken independently of the other.