Examine the factors that were responsible for the rise of mercantilism
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Answer:
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Explanation:
Factors Shaping Mercantilism:
Some economic, political, religious and cultural factors were responsible for the emergence of mercantilism.
1. Economic Factors:
Towards the end of the 15th century changes were taking place in the economic life of the people. Domestic economy was giving way to an exchange economy. Agriculture was giving place to industry. Trade became very important and it changed the foundation of socio-economic set-up of the middle ages.
.Trade necessitated the use of money which was available in the form of gold and silver. Along with the expansion of commerce there were improvements in transport, agriculture, population, etc., so the Mercantilist thought was the outcome of these developments.
2. Political Factors:
Towards the end of the middle ages nationalism became the strong force. Europe changed greatly due to Renaissance. As a result, there was a fundamental political change. It resulted in the emergence of strong nations like England, France, Spain, etc., Feudalism came to an end and the King became more powerful. Each nation wanted to preserve its independence and considered other nations as enemies. In order to create a strong and powerful state the Mercantilists tried to regulate the political and economic activities of the people.
3. Religious Factors:
The Reformation Movement was revolt against Roman Catholic Church. It challenged the authority of Pope. Initially the Roman Catholic Church controlled the political and economic activities of the nation. But after the Reformation the authority of the Pope was challenged.
4. Cultural Factors:
Culturally also Europe was undergoing a sharp change. Renaissance gave a new light of learning to the people. People were made to realise that this worldly life was more important than the heavenly life. As a result, money came to occupy an important place in human activities.
5. Scientific Factors:
In the field of science and technology great improvements and inventions were made. The discoveries of compass and printing press were of great importance, with the help of compass navigation became easier and it led to the discovery of new countries. Thus new countries opened the gates to a variety of raw materials and markets. The invention of printing press helped the spread of new ideas and knowledge.