A Brief History of Modern International Relations

A Brief History of Modern International Relations

The history of modern international relations can be traced back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when the modern system of states emerged and the first international organizations were established (Waltz, 1979). During this period, the Westphalian system of states emerged, which recognized the sovereignty of individual states and established the principle of non-interference in the domestic affairs of other states (Waltz, 1979). The Westphalian system was a significant departure from the medieval system of international relations, which had been characterized by a feudal hierarchy and the dominance of the Catholic Church (Waltz, 1979). The Westphalian system marked the beginning of the modern system of states, in which individual states were recognized as the primary actors on the global stage (Waltz, 1979). The 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of imperialism and colonialism, as European powers sought to extend their influence and control over other parts of the world (Sai…