<human>:  What past events have shaped the current political climate?
<bot>: The industrial revolution and the resulting surge in globalisation have played a significant role in shaping the current political climate. 2 The economic recession of 2008 and the subsequent financial crisis had a major impact on global politics, particularly in regards to national security and social welfare policies. 3 The rise of populism and the election of several populist leaders in major countries has contributed to a shift in attitudes towards immigration and globalisation. 4 More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused dramatic changes in how governments around the world are responding to the health, economic and social impacts of the crisis.