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The Act of Union is passed
Officially merges the Scottish and English parliaments. This act creates the Kingdom of Great Britain. This act represents change during the time period as consolidation as a means of protection and insurance began to become more common. This union allots the kingdom as a whole significantly more power and control. -
Statute of Anne
This legislation was passed by Britain. It was a basic allotment of copyright policy, the first of its kind, designed to protect major authors and writers. This represents change as concerns such as copyright legislation had previously been un-explored. This legislation was a direct result of an increasing consumerist culture, spurred by the invention and diffusion of the printing press. -
The First Great Awakening
The first Great Awakening occured both in Great Britain and North America. This was a spiritual revival focused on reforming the lives of sinners through scare tactics. These scare tactics included the writings of George Whitefield. This period of time represented both continuity and change as spiritual influence was oftentimes an object of control during this time period and took precedence over other influencing factors. -
Famine In Ireland
This famine resulted from an infestation of the country's primary crop, potatoes. This famine reduced Ireland's population by twenty percent. Not only did this infestation result in widespread starvation and hunger, but it also acted as one of the motivating factors for many families to travel across the ocean in search of a new and better life. The desire for change represents continuity and the option to flee to the America's represents change. -
Marvel's Mill
The world's first water-powered cotton mill begins operation in England. This occurence signifies the early beginning's of the industrial revolution in respect to inventions. This invention represents change as many labor based tasks are beginning to be handled or assisted by machines, such as the cotton mill. The cotton mills convenience soon made its way across the ocean and throughout the world. -
Peak of the Little Ice Age
This was a time period during which Europe and North America experienced much harsher winters than those had during the 20th century. This influenced many factors of life including harvest, economic and societal decisions and ability to survive. The Little Ice Age is thought to have began during the 1300's and continued on until the 1870's. Meaning that this occurence was consistent in itself but different in intensity since this is referred to as the peak of the event. -
King's College
King's College is founded by way of royal charter by George II of Great Britain. The founding of this university signifies a renewed interest in educational pursuits. It especially shows the degree ot which the wealthy began to place emphasis on recieving a "sufficient" education. Following this founding numerous other institutions of learning were founded -
The Wealth of Nations
Adam Smith publishes his break out novel, "The Wealth of Nations", which provided a clear narrative on the changing world and the economics tied to it. This book was referenced often by many who supported imperialistic or capitalistic policies. This was largely a new take on mercantilism. This book shows the degree to which ideology experienced alteration during this time period, and as a result the degree to which the world changed. -
French Revolution
The French people revolted against their aristocratic government. This occurence was a direct result of inspired activists who looked to the American revolution and other similiar movements for inspiration. This is most definetly signifying of change as before most individuals dared not to even attempt to defy the government. Overall, this revolution and revolutions similiar to it greatly reflect the awakening of the individual and a different perspective on rights. -
first Smallpox Vaccination
An early smallpox vaccine results from the experiments of Edward Jenner. This is greatly significant as small pox killed 400,000 people, including 5 monarchs, during this time period. This development is a direct result of the innovation of the scientific revolution. It is reflective of change from full reliance on religious practice to inquiry into science based practices.
