Books in Signature Lives: Modern World series

From 1900 to the present day, humanity and the world have undergone major changes. Drastic shifts in theories and practice tested the standards of personal freedoms and religious conventions as well as science, technology, and industry. The new mind-set of the modern world includes a focus on humanitarianism and the belief that a global economy has made the world a more connected place. Starting as a fascist newspaper editor in the early 1900s, Benito Mussolini rallied enough support to become prime minister of Italy in 1922. He would go on to lead Italy into World War II and befriend Adolf Hitler, the Nazi leader of Germany. Even with the help of his powerful ally, Mussolini’s war efforts would not succeed. Mussolini resigned from power and was executed by his own countrymen

As a young boy, Thomas Alva Edison was fascinated with technology and chemical experiments. Later, his attempt to improve the telegraph led to his first creation, the phonograph, that set the stage for his life of discovery and invention. His incandescent light bulb made him a popular hero, and many dubbed him the Wizard of Menlo Park. Driven by his curiosity and desire to make life easier for everyone, Edison ended up changing the world.

Madame Chiang Kai-shek was a powerful figure in Chinese politics. As wife of the Nationalist leader, she helped modernize China through the New Life Movement of the 1930s. She was educated in the United States and developed a unique understanding of American culture. She used this background to win U.S. support for the Nationalists in their struggles against Japan and the communists. Her diplomatic skills won her many admirers, but others criticized her obvious wealth at a time when most Chinese suffered from great poverty.

From 1900 to the present day, humanity and the world have undergone major changes. Drastic shifts in theories and practice tested the standards of personal freedoms and religious conventions as well as science, technology, and industry. The new mind-set of the modern world includes a focus on humanitarianism and the belief that a global economy has made the world a more connected place. Leadership and power were Indira Gandhi’s birthright. She was raised in a world of politics amid the struggle for independence. It was her destiny to lead India, but it would not be easy. She would sacrifice her personal life for her nation. She believed that all people could live together. But religious and cultural battles in her own region put her beliefs to the test. She loved her country, and she loved its people. She was Mother India.