I have a very small understanding of world history, especially within the last hundred or so years. I really want to understand world events, especially with regard to the countries and regions affected by U.S. foreign policy, but also just understanding the status of the world that I live in. Obviously I'm not looking for political opinions, but rather resources on where I can learn and do my own research. I wouldn't even really be able to make a list of the countries I'm talking about. I need pointers on where to start. I'm interested in how countries formed, who the different people groups are, the roots of conflicts around the world, etc.
Basically, if I were running for president, I want to know enough that I could sound like I know what I'm talking about on foreign policy. (Not necessarily enough to be elected, just a general idea. haha.)
I used to teach a course on the world since 1945 which was pretty hubristic! I recommended David Reynolds, One World Divisible or Peter Calvocoressi World Politics since 1945 as textbooks. They will only give you an outline but you can follow up in detail. If you're interested in foreign policy history, a basic textbook on international relations will help with the core concepts. For Europe in particular, two names to conjure with are Mark Manzower and Norman Davies.
I'm following The Modern World, Part One: Global History from 1760 to 1910 from Coursera and liking it.