1. Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment:
- Rapid acceleration of scientific knowledge fueled the growth of science, leading to new technologies and methods.
- The Enlightenment ideas challenged established political structures, advocated reason and progress, and led to societal reforms across Western Europe.
2. Commercial Revolution and Capitalism:
- Advancements in industries, trade, and commerce transformed economies. Capitalism expanded beyond local spheres.
- The establishment of joint-stock companies and the accumulation of wealth influenced global markets.
3. Colonial Expansion and Mercantilism:
- European powers, such as Britain, France, Spain, and Portugal, expanded colonies for resources and to establish mercantile trading systems.
- The demand for goods and raw materials from colonies increased global trade and competition for global dominance.
4. Navigation and Exploration:
- Improved navigation techniques allowed for precise long-distance travel, resulting in increased exploration.
- Discoveries of new lands and routes connected different parts of the world and facilitated colonization and trade.
5. Maritime Powers:
- Nations invested in building strong navies, gaining advantages in trade routes and exploration.
- British naval supremacy played a significant role in their global power and influence.
6. Cultural and Intellectual Exchange:
- As trade routes connected distant regions, cultural exchange flourished, leading to new artistic, philosophical, and scientific influences.
- Western ideas began to impact Asian societies, while Asian artistic styles influenced European fashion and arts.
7. Diplomatic Relations and Treaties:
- States and empires engaged in diplomacy to manage their global interests and maintain balance of power.
- Treaties, such as the Treaty of Paris (1763), had far-reaching effects and reshaped global territories.
8. Impact of Revolutions:
- The American Revolution (1775-1783) and the French Revolution (1789-1799) brought new political ideologies and social changes that would go on to influence global power dynamics.
The mid-1700s marked a critical turning point in global prominence, as scientific, economic, cultural, and political developments set the stage for the rise of new global powers and the eventual transition to the modern world.