Century - 1700s

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.

When George III became king of Great Britain in 1760, he aimed to assert greater control over the colonies and strengthen the monarchy's power. He initiated policies that sought to increase revenue through taxation, which ultimately led to tensions with the American colonies. His reign was marked by significant events, including the American Revolution, as colonial resistance to British rule grew. George III's commitment to his vision of monarchy played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of the time.

"Common Sense," written by Thomas Paine in 1776, had a profound impact on American colonists by articulating the case for independence from British rule. It challenged the legitimacy of monarchy and encouraged the idea of self-governance, resonating with the growing discontent among colonists. The pamphlet helped galvanize public opinion in favor of independence, making the revolutionary ideas accessible to a broader audience. Its persuasive arguments played a crucial role in uniting colonists and fostering a sense of American identity.

In the 1700s, news primarily spread through printed materials such as newspapers, pamphlets, and broadsides, which were distributed in urban centers. Word of mouth also played a crucial role, as people shared information in social gatherings, markets, and public meetings. Additionally, letters and messengers facilitated communication between distant locations. This combination of print media and personal interactions allowed news to circulate, albeit slowly compared to today's standards.

In the 18th century, the concept of reason of state significantly influenced international relations by prioritizing state interests over moral or ethical considerations. This pragmatic approach often justified wars, alliances, and diplomatic maneuvers aimed at enhancing national power and security. Political leaders, particularly in Europe, employed reason of state to navigate the complexities of balance-of-power dynamics, leading to a more calculated and strategic form of diplomacy. Ultimately, this shift contributed to the emergence of modern statecraft, where realpolitik became a guiding principle in international affairs.

In the 18th century, "enthusiasm" referred to a fervent and passionate zeal, often linked to religious or spiritual fervor. It was seen both positively, as a source of inspiration and motivation, and negatively, as a potential for fanaticism or irrationality. Enlightenment thinkers critiqued excessive enthusiasm, advocating for reason and moderation instead. Thus, the term carried a dual connotation, reflecting both admiration for passionate conviction and caution against uncontrolled fervor.

The "i word" that Samuel Adams was advised not to mention was "independence." During the early stages of the American Revolution, discussing independence from Britain was considered too radical and could alienate potential allies. Adams and other leaders were cautious about using the term, focusing instead on issues like taxation and representation.

The concept of race emerged in the 18th century as a means to categorize and differentiate human populations based on physical characteristics, particularly in the context of European colonial expansion and the transatlantic slave trade. Enlightenment thinkers sought to classify humanity scientifically, leading to hierarchical classifications that often justified colonialism, exploitation, and systemic inequalities. This period also coincided with the rise of nationalism and the need to define cultural identities, further solidifying race as a social construct with profound implications for power dynamics and social relations.

During the 16th to 18th centuries, the hospitality industry began to evolve significantly, particularly in Europe. Inns and taverns became popular as travel increased due to trade and exploration, providing necessary accommodations for merchants and travelers. In this period, the rise of the bourgeoisie and the establishment of more formal dining establishments led to the emergence of restaurants in places like France. The era also saw the development of hospitality as a profession, with a growing emphasis on service quality and guest experience.

The triangular trade in the 17th and 18th centuries succeeded due to the systematic exchange of goods, enslaved people, and raw materials among Europe, Africa, and the Americas. European traders supplied manufactured goods to Africa, where they exchanged them for enslaved individuals. These enslaved people were transported to the Americas to work on plantations producing cash crops like sugar and tobacco, which were then sent back to Europe. This lucrative cycle was driven by high demand for labor and commodities, leading to significant economic gains for traders and colonial powers.

Colonists felt pressured to expand westward in the mid-1700s due to a combination of factors, including the desire for land and the promise of economic opportunity. The growing population in the eastern colonies led to increased competition for resources, pushing settlers to seek new territory. Additionally, the allure of fertile land and the potential for wealth through agriculture and trade motivated many to move westward. This expansionist sentiment was further fueled by the belief in Manifest Destiny, which held that it was their right to spread across the continent.

A constitutional convention was called in 1776 primarily to address the need for a new governing framework for the American colonies seeking independence from British rule. The existing Articles of Confederation proved inadequate in effectively managing the newly formed nation, leading to issues such as economic instability and lack of centralized authority. Delegates aimed to create a stronger, more cohesive government that would protect individual rights and promote unity among the states. This resulted in the drafting of the United States Constitution, which established a federal system of governance.

In the 1700s to 1900s, both Germany and Italy were fragmented into numerous independent states, which hindered the formation of a unified empire. Germany was divided into many principalities and kingdoms within the Holy Roman Empire, while Italy was split into various kingdoms and city-states. Nationalism and unification movements only gained momentum in the 19th century, leading to the eventual unifications of Germany (1871) and Italy (1861). Prior to these unifications, the lack of political cohesion and centralized power prevented the establishment of empires akin to those of Britain, France, or Spain.

Isaac Newton inspired the philosophes of the Enlightenment by demonstrating the power of reason and empirical observation in understanding the natural world. His work, particularly in physics and mathematics, established a framework for scientific inquiry that emphasized rationality and skepticism of traditional beliefs. The success of Newtonian principles encouraged thinkers like Voltaire and Diderot to apply similar methods to human affairs, advocating for reason, progress, and the questioning of authority in religion and politics. This shift laid the groundwork for modern scientific and philosophical thought.