Access to History for the IB Diploma: Political and economic transitions: The Meiji Restoration (1853-1894) and the Russian Federation (1985-1999) (NYP Due May 2026)

Access to History for the IB Diploma: Political and Economic Transitions – The Meiji Restoration (1853–1894) and the Russian Federation (1985–1999)

Updated for first assessment in 2028

This newly revised volume in the Access to History for the IB Diploma series provides authoritative, engaging coverage of two major case studies from the Political and Economic Transitions focused study: the Meiji Restoration in Japan (1853–1894) and the transformation of the Russian Federation from 1985–1999. Expertly written by subject specialists and IB educators, this edition supports the demands of the updated IB History course, first teaching 2026.

Through clear narrative, diverse historical perspectives, and inquiry-driven activities, students explore how societies undergo profound political and economic restructuring—examining the forces that drive change, the experiences of those who live through it, and the consequences that shape national and global history.

What This Book Offers

Comprehensive, in-depth narrative

Students gain a clear, nuanced understanding of how Japan transitioned from Tokugawa rule to a modernizing imperial power, and how the Soviet Union collapsed to give rise to the Russian Federation. The narrative provides essential context, key developments, and well-supported explanations that help students grasp complex processes of transformation.

Global and comparative perspectives

In line with the IB’s emphasis on diverse viewpoints, the book highlights a wide range of perspectives—policymakers, reformers, opposition groups, and ordinary citizens. Students investigate how economic pressures, political ideologies, international influences, and leadership decisions shape transitions differently across time and place.

Integrated Theory of Knowledge support

TOK prompts encourage students to reflect on the nature of change, the reliability of historical evidence, and how interpretations of political and economic transitions evolve over time.

Approaches to Learning (ATL) activities

Structured ATL tasks help students develop core skills in research, communication, and critical thinking. Activities guide learners in analyzing causes and consequences, interpreting sources, and evaluating contrasting arguments.

Key Concepts feature

A new feature supports mastery of the IB’s required historical concepts:

• Cause and consequence

• Continuity and change

• Perspectives

• Significance

These concepts underpin both of the transition case studies and prepare students for the analytical expectations of the revised IB assessments.

Enhanced skills-based tasks

Students strengthen essential historical skills through activities that develop:

• Source analysis and contextual understanding

• Comparative reasoning between case studies

• Evaluating arguments and interpretations

• Asking strong historical inquiry questions

• Synthesizing evidence across different periods and regions

Targeted assessment preparation for 2028

The book includes:

• Exam-style practice questions

• Model answers

• Revision summaries

• Study skills guidance aligned with the updated IB assessment model for Papers 1, 2, 3, and the Internal Assessment

Fully Aligned with the Updated DP History Curriculum

This title supports the new curriculum model by integrating historical contexts, key concepts, skills development, and inquiry-based learning. It is specifically designed to meet the requirements of the Political and Economic Transitions focused study, providing teachers and students with:

• Clear, structured coverage of the two required case studies

• Conceptual and skills integration throughout

• Inquiry-driven activities supporting historical thinking

• Tools to prepare students for success across all assessment components

An Essential Resource for Teaching and Learning IB History

Access to History for the IB Diploma: Political and Economic Transitions – The Meiji Restoration (1853–1894) and the Russian Federation (1985–1999) offers the authoritative content, analytical guidance, and student-friendly support that have made the series a trusted companion in IB classrooms worldwide. It is ideal for both classroom instruction and independent study, providing the depth and clarity needed to engage with two transformative periods of global history.