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Navigation Acts
The British Navigation Acts were trade laws ensuring that colonial goods, like sugar and tobacco, were shipped only to England on English ships. These policies strengthened mercantilism, enriching Britain while restricting colonial economies. -
Treaty of Utrecht
The treaty ended the War of the Spanish Succession, redistributing colonies among European powers, including transferring Gibraltar and parts of Canada to Britain.
This reshaped trade routes, particularly in the Atlantic, strengthening Britain’s dominance in global commerce. -
The Molasses Act
Enacted by Britain, this law taxed molasses imports to American colonies not sourced from British territories. It aimed to control colonial trade and bolster British sugar plantations in the Caribbean. -
Agricultural Enclosure Movement Accelerates
In Britain, the enclosure of common lands replaced communal farming with private ownership, increasing agricultural productivity.
This created economic growth but displaced many rural workers, pushing them toward cities and fueling industrial labor markets. -
Seven Years’ War
This global conflict involved major European powers and their colonies, leading to shifts in economic dominance, particularly with Britain gaining control over key territories in India and North America. -
Stamp Act
Britain imposed a direct tax on American colonists for printed materials, aiming to recover war debts from the Seven Years’ War.
This was the first direct tax levied on the colonies, sparking widespread protests and contributing to revolutionary movements. -
The Wealth of Nations
Adam Smith’s seminal work argued against mercantilism, promoting free markets and competition as drivers of wealth.
It challenged traditional economic policies, influencing the Industrial Revolution and modern capitalism. -
Industrial Innovations (Spinning Jenny, Steam Engine)
Technological advancements like James Watt’s improved steam engine and the spinning jenny revolutionized textile production, creating the foundation of the Industrial Revolution.
These inventions increased productivity but also led to urbanization and harsh factory conditions for workers. -
French Revolution
The French Revolution began with the collapse of the monarchy and a push for equality, liberty, and fraternity, reshaping French society.
It abolished feudal privileges, redistributed land, and created policies to equalize taxation. -
Haitian Revolution
Enslaved people in Saint-Domingue rose against French colonial rule, establishing Haiti as the first independent Black republic.
This challenged global systems of slavery and inspired other movements for liberty.