Century - 1700s

In the early 1700s, people came to New York for various reasons, including economic opportunities, religious freedom, and the promise of land. The city was a bustling trade hub, attracting merchants and laborers seeking better livelihoods. Additionally, many immigrants fled persecution or hardship in their home countries, hoping to build a new life in a more tolerant environment. The diverse population contributed to New York's growth as a cultural and economic center.

Americans justified their quest for more land through the belief in Manifest Destiny, the idea that it was their divine right and duty to expand across the continent. They argued that expansion would spread democracy and civilization, often viewing indigenous populations as obstacles to progress. Economic motivations, such as the search for resources and opportunities for farming and settlement, also played a significant role in their justification. This mindset led to the displacement of Native American tribes and conflicts with other nations.

Joseph II was the Holy Roman Emperor from 1765 to 1790 and is known for his extensive reforms aimed at modernizing the Habsburg monarchy. He sought to centralize and strengthen the government by implementing policies that promoted religious tolerance, abolished serfdom, and reformed the legal system. His efforts to reduce the power of the nobility and the influence of the Catholic Church often met with resistance, leading to a legacy of both progressive change and significant backlash. Ultimately, Joseph II's reign marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of enlightened absolutism in Europe.

In colonial Georgia, children's clothing was often made from simple, durable fabrics like cotton or wool. Boys typically wore knee-length breeches, shirts, and waistcoats, while girls donned long dresses with petticoats and aprons. Clothing was often handmade, and styles were influenced by European fashions of the time, reflecting both practicality and modesty. Footwear usually consisted of leather shoes or sandals, and children often went barefoot in warmer months.

The highway women were female criminals in 18th-century England known for their involvement in highway robbery, often targeting wealthy travelers. They gained notoriety for their audacious acts, sometimes dressing in men's clothing and using charm or intimidation to commit their crimes. Figures like Mary Frith, also known as "Mother Needham," became famous for their exploits, challenging contemporary gender norms. Their stories have since been romanticized in literature and folklore, highlighting both their rebellious spirit and the social context of their actions.

The Enlightenment, which flourished in the 1700s, significantly shaped the cultural values of British society by promoting reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. This intellectual movement encouraged advancements in science, philosophy, and political thought, leading to ideas about democracy and human rights that would later influence the American and French revolutions. Additionally, the Industrial Revolution began in this period, transforming economic structures and societal norms, fostering values of progress and innovation. Together, these events fostered a culture that valued rational thought, personal liberty, and social progress.

Mexicans were reluctant to settle in Texas in the 1700s primarily due to the region's harsh and isolated environment, which posed challenges for agriculture and infrastructure. Additionally, the threat of conflict with Indigenous tribes and the distant governance from Mexico City made Texas appear less appealing. Many potential settlers were also apprehensive about the lack of established communities and resources in the area.

In the late 1700s, English factories were primarily powered by water and steam. Water power was harnessed through rivers and streams to drive water wheels, while the advent of the steam engine, particularly after James Watt's improvements, allowed for more flexible and efficient power sources. This shift to steam power facilitated the growth of factories, enabling them to operate away from water sources and increasing production capacity.

The year in the 18th century that is a perfect square is 1764, as it is the square of 42 (42 x 42 = 1764). Perfect squares are integers that can be expressed as the product of an integer with itself, and 1764 fits this definition. Other years in the 18th century, such as 1700 or 1800, do not meet this criterion.

George Phenny introduced the concept of a modern banking system to the Bahamas, significantly contributing to the country's financial services sector. His efforts helped establish the Bahamas as an offshore banking destination, attracting international clients and investments. This development played a crucial role in the economic growth and diversification of the Bahamian economy.

In the 1700s, the Creek Indians had a rich cultural life characterized by communal living, complex social structures, and traditional practices. They engaged in agriculture, primarily cultivating corn, beans, and squash, which were central to their diet and economy. Socially, they held councils to make decisions and resolved conflicts through consensus, and their spiritual beliefs were intertwined with nature and seasonal cycles. Additionally, trade with European settlers introduced new goods, altering some of their customs while maintaining their core traditions.

In the 1700s, the United States was primarily a collection of British colonies with a largely agrarian economy and a population that relied heavily on slavery for labor. Socially and politically, it was characterized by a lack of rights for women, Native Americans, and enslaved people, with governance dominated by wealthy white men. In contrast, today’s U.S. is a diverse democracy that emphasizes civil rights, equality, and a complex, globalized economy. Technological advancements and cultural shifts have dramatically transformed daily life and societal structures.

The Dawes Severalty Act of 1887 aimed to assimilate Native Americans into American society by allotting individual plots of land to tribal members, effectively breaking up communal landholdings. Each Native American family was granted a specific parcel of land, with the intention of promoting farming and self-sufficiency. The act also sought to reduce the influence of tribal governments and encourage adherence to U.S. laws and customs. Ultimately, it led to significant loss of tribal land and culture, as surplus lands were often sold to white settlers.

Great Britain's economic success in the 1700s was largely driven by its abundant natural resources, particularly coal and iron, which fueled industrialization. A well-developed system of transportation, including canals and roads, facilitated trade and the movement of goods. Additionally, a stable political environment and a robust banking system provided the necessary capital for investment and innovation. Lastly, a growing population provided both labor for factories and a market for manufactured goods, further spurring economic growth.

The economic theory of the late 18th century was largely characterized by mercantilism and the emergence of classical economics. Mercantilism emphasized the accumulation of wealth through trade surplus and government intervention in the economy, focusing on national power. In contrast, classical economics, championed by thinkers like Adam Smith, promoted ideas of free markets, competition, and the "invisible hand," advocating for minimal government interference and the belief that individuals pursuing their own interests would ultimately benefit society. This shift laid the groundwork for modern economic thought.

Georgia was governed by a trustee system for its first 20 years after its founding in 1732. The Trustees for Establishing the Colony of Georgia, led by James Oglethorpe, managed the colony with the intent of providing a place for debtors and the poor. This governance lasted until 1752, when the colony transitioned to a royal colony under the control of the British crown.

The tribe that arrived in the 1700s from Oklahoma is the Osage Nation. Originally from the Ohio Valley, they migrated westward, eventually settling in the area that is now present-day Oklahoma. The Osage became prominent in trade and established a significant presence in the region during this period. Their rich cultural heritage and historical significance continue to be recognized today.

In the 1700s, a silversmith typically sourced their tools from specialized craftsmen or local blacksmiths who forged metal tools and equipment. Some tools could also be imported from other countries known for metalworking, such as England or France. Additionally, silversmiths often created their own tools, shaping them to suit their specific needs for working with silver. Local markets and trade fairs also provided opportunities to acquire necessary tools and materials.

Benedict Arnold defected to the British side primarily due to disillusionment with the American cause and feelings of underappreciation by the Continental Congress. Despite his significant contributions to the American Revolution, he faced criticism and lack of recognition, which fueled his resentment. Financial difficulties and promises of a commission and monetary rewards from the British also influenced his decision, leading him to seek a more favorable position with the enemy. Ultimately, his betrayal was motivated by a combination of personal grievances and opportunism.

Britain's rise to global prominence in the mid-1700s was driven by a combination of industrial innovation, colonial expansion, and military prowess. The Industrial Revolution began to take shape, enhancing production capabilities and economic growth. Additionally, Britain's extensive colonial empire provided access to valuable resources and markets, while naval supremacy allowed for the protection and expansion of trade routes. Key military victories, such as those in the Seven Years' War, further solidified Britain’s status as a dominant global power.

In the 18th century, a cooper could earn around 1 to 3 shillings per day, depending on their skill level and the region. This wage was comparable to other trades, but it varied based on demand for barrels and local economic conditions. Experienced coopers who produced high-quality work or specialized items might earn more. Overall, their income was modest, reflecting the economic realities of the time.

A significant conflict for equality and liberty in France was the French Revolution, which began in 1789. This uprising challenged the absolute monarchy and sought to establish a republic based on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. The Revolution led to the abolition of feudal privileges and the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, asserting individual rights and equal treatment under the law. However, the struggle for true equality and liberty continued through subsequent political upheavals and social movements in France.

John Locke's philosophy significantly influenced American political ideas in the 1700s, particularly through his concepts of natural rights, government by consent, and the right to revolt against tyranny. His assertion that individuals possess inherent rights to life, liberty, and property laid the groundwork for the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Locke's ideas encouraged colonists to challenge British authority and advocate for self-governance, ultimately shaping the democratic ideals that underpin American political thought. His emphasis on reason and individual rights helped frame the Enlightenment ideals that characterized the American Revolution.

In the 1700s, parents primarily used cloth for baby diapers, often made from linen, cotton, or wool. These fabrics were cut into squares or rectangles and folded to fit the baby. The cloth would be secured with pins or ties and washed regularly to maintain hygiene. Additionally, some families might have used soft materials like moss or feathers as absorbent layers within the cloth.

In the 1800s, jobs were largely divided between agriculture, industrial work, and trade. Many people worked as farmers, tending to crops and livestock, especially in rural areas. The rise of the Industrial Revolution saw a shift towards factory jobs, where workers operated machinery and produced goods. Additionally, trades such as blacksmithing, carpentry, and weaving were common, alongside roles in emerging urban centers like clerks and shopkeepers.