1770-1820: Revolutions in North America and France cause changes in systems of government.

Today: Breakup of the former Soviet Union in 1991 continues to cause widespread shifts and changes in government structures in Europe.

1770-1820: The French Revolution produces the Reign of Terror, a period of great violence, bloodshed, and uncertainty.

Today: Terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon on September 11, 2001, cause great loss of life, destruction, and uncertainty.

1770-1820: Growing interest in the supernatural, the irrational, and the terrifying is evidenced by novels such as The Castle of Otranto, The Monk, and Frankenstein.

Today: Growing interest in the supernatural, the irrational, and the terrifying is evidenced by the popularity of writers such as Stephen King, television programs such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and X-Files and suspense films such as The Sixth Sense.

1770-1820: Romantic writers and philosophers privilege feelings and emotions...