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Expansion of Rural Industry in Europe
Before the 18th century, most manufacturing took place in urban centers, where large factories were able to take advantage of the concentration of workers and resources. However, with the development of new technologies, such as the steam engine and the spinning jenny, it became possible to produce goods more efficiently and at a lower cost. This led to the growth of small-scale manufacturing in rural areas, where land and labor were less expensive. -
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Height of Atlantic Slave Trade
The Atlantic slave trade was a system of trading enslaved Africans to the Americas and Europe, which took place from the 15th to the 19th century. It was a major source of labor for the economies of the Americas, particularly in the production of sugar, tobacco, and cotton. -
Franco-British Mercantlist Wars
The Franco-British mercantilist wars were a series of conflicts that took place between France and Great Britain in the 18th century. These wars were fought over economic issues, as both countries sought to protect their own interests and promote their own trade and industry. -
Elementary Schooling Mandate in Prussia
In 18th century Prussia, elementary schooling was available to all children, regardless of their social class or background. However, education was not compulsory, and many children did not attend school, especially those from poorer families. -
Final Plague Outbreak
Overall, the final French plague outbreak in 1720 was a major public health crisis that caused widespread death and suffering. The epidemic was eventually brought under control, but it left a lasting impact on the people and society of France. -
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European Population Growth
The European population grew significantly during the 18th century, as a result of a number of factors, including improved agricultural practices and medical advances. This population growth had important consequences for European society and the global economy. -
Parliamentary Enclosure in Britain
Parliamentary enclosure was a process that took place in England during the 18th and 19th centuries, in which common land was divided and enclosed by private landowners. This process was driven by a number of factors, including the growth of the population and the rise of private property. -
Louis XV orders Jesuits out of France
Louis XV ordered the Jesuits out of France in 1764 as part of a broader effort to limit the power and influence of the Catholic Church in France. The Jesuits, who were a religious order founded in the 16th century, were known for their education and missionary work, but were also seen as a threat to the authority of the French state. -
Thomas Paine publishes "Common Sense"
Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" was a political pamphlet that was published in 1776, during the early days of the American Revolution. The pamphlet, which was written in clear, concise language, argued for American independence from Great Britain and outlined the principles of a democratic republic. -
Adam Smith publishes "An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations"
The "Inquiry into the Wealth of Nations," which was written by Adam Smith and published in 1776, was a groundbreaking work of economics that had a profound impact on society and the global economy. The book, which is considered to be one of the foundations of modern economic thought, argued for the importance of free markets and the role of the state in promoting economic growth.