European Economy and Society in the 18th Century

Reforms from Peter the Great

1700

Peter set up new schools, and industries in Russia all throughout the 18th Century. The new industries helped the Russian economy catch up to the rest of Europe, and the new schools helped the Russian people gain a higher education. This was a significant change in both the Russian economy, and society.

Invention of the Seed Drill

1701

Jethro Tull invents the horse-drawn seed drill. This helps farmers plant seeds faster. This is a significant change because it contributes to the Agricultural Revolution. Agriculture is very important to the economy.

Invention of the Steam Engine

1710

Thomas Newcomen invented the first piston steam engine. This was a major invention in the Industrial Revolution. The invention of the steam engine (and later steam boats) allowed faster travel which changed society in a good way. The faster travel also helped with Urbanization.

Invention of Crop Rotation

1730

Charles Townshend invented crop rotation. Crop Rotation was a very important technique and was a part of the Agricultural Revolution. Crop rotation allowed fields to last longer and grow crops better wich helped sustain Europe's growing population. This change was important for the farming industry.

Invention of the Spinning Jenny

1764

The invention of the Spinning Jenny resulted in the creation of the textile industry and kickstarted the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution greatly changed the economy, and led to more people moving to cities for jobs. Urbanization due to the Industrial Revolution caused a change in society as well. People who lived in cities had less children.

The Enclosure Act

1773

An act passed in the British Parliament which enabled farmers to enclose, and own, their own land. A result of the enclosure movement this act changed society and the farming industry. People no longer farmed communally which meant that they could make more money off of it, and support larger families. This was a major part of the Agricultural Revolution.

Serfdom Abolished in Austria

1781

The abolishing of serfdom was a major change in society. Serfdom was when peasants worked the land of vassals. This system prevented any kind change in your societal standing. This change also affected the economy because many former serfs moved to cities for jobs in various industries.

Famine in Iceland

1783

This event is a continuity throughout the 18th century. Despite the many advances made during the Agricultural Revolution famine was a commonality during this age. The growth in population at the beginning of the century meant that not everyone could be supported.

Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen

1789

This declaration was adopted by the French Goverment after the French Revolution. The adoption led to a major change in french society. This document was a symbol of democracy, and ensured the protection of human/civil rights by the French Government. The declaration was inspired by core Enlightenment values.

Invention of the Smallpox Vaccine

1796

Edward Jenner invented the first ever smallpox vaccine. The widespread use of this vaccine greatly benefited society. In current times smallpox has been completely eradicated from Earth. Less smallpox meant that people lived longer.