1700

Definition

The year 1700 marks a significant moment in European history, representing a turning point in economic practices and developments following the Peace of Westphalia in 1648. This period is characterized by the rise of mercantilism, advancements in trade networks, and the beginnings of industrialization, which set the stage for significant changes in European economies leading up to 1815. The shifting economic landscape during this time laid important groundwork for future transformations in agricultural practices, trade, and industry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 1700, Europe's economies began transitioning from feudalism towards more modern capitalist structures, with an emphasis on trade and market expansion.
2. The establishment of colonial empires during this time allowed European nations to exploit new resources and expand their markets.
3. Technological advancements in shipping and navigation improved trade routes and increased the volume of goods transported across Europe and beyond.
4. The late 17th century saw the formation of joint-stock companies, which played a crucial role in financing overseas trade ventures and spreading risk among investors.
5. By 1700, early signs of industrialization were emerging in Britain and parts of Western Europe, setting the stage for more profound economic changes in the 18th century.

Review Questions

• How did the economic practices around 1700 reflect a shift from feudalism to early capitalism in Europe?
  • Around 1700, Europe was moving away from feudalism as economies began to embrace mercantilist principles that prioritized trade and market expansion. The establishment of colonial empires provided access to new resources, while technological innovations in navigation transformed trade routes. This shift laid the foundation for early capitalism by encouraging investment in joint-stock companies and promoting a more interconnected European economy.
• What role did mercantilism play in shaping European economies at the turn of the 18th century?
  • Mercantilism significantly influenced European economies around 1700 by advocating for state intervention in economic affairs to maximize national wealth. Governments sought to enhance their power through trade regulations, tariffs, and colonial expansion. This led to intense competition among European nations for control of trade routes and colonies, which ultimately shaped the economic landscape of Europe during this period.
• Evaluate how the developments around 1700 set the stage for the Industrial Revolution and global trade patterns in the 19th century.
  • The developments around 1700 played a critical role in paving the way for the Industrial Revolution by establishing key economic practices such as mercantilism and enhancing trade networks through technological advancements. These changes fostered an environment ripe for industrial growth as nations became increasingly reliant on international markets for resources. The Triangle Trade exemplified this emerging global interconnectedness by linking Europe, Africa, and the Americas, shaping patterns of exchange that would profoundly influence global economies well into the 19th century.

Related terms

Mercantilism: An economic theory that emphasizes the role of the state in managing the economy to increase national wealth through trade and accumulation of precious metals.

Agricultural Revolution: A period of significant agricultural development that saw increased productivity through innovations such as crop rotation and selective breeding, changing rural economies.

Triangle Trade: A transatlantic trading system that connected Europe, Africa, and the Americas, facilitating the exchange of goods, slaves, and raw materials.