Question

Explain the condition that helped them in bringing change in social and economic order in Europe.

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Answer 1

Expansion of trade and commerce

• Between 1450 to approximately 1800 there was a shift from the largely subsistence and stagnant economy of Medie­val Europe to a more dynamic and worldwide system. It involved tremendous expansion of trade and commerce that took place from the 15th century onwards. With the overseas discoveries[1] & conquests, Europe’s trade with the Oriental or Eastern countries like India and China was earlier trans­acted by land routes. Subsequently, a shift from land routes to sea-routes[2] began... Remember, this was the era of expansion of trade and the beginnings of colonialism. The new business organisation and expansion of financial system[3] aided the process.

Rise of middle class

• One of the most distinctive characteristics of this period was the rise of the middle class to economic power. By the end of the 17th century, the middle class had become an influential group in nearly every western European country. It included merchants, bankers, and ship owners, investors. Their power, at this stage, was mainly economic.

The growth of science and scientific thought:

• Medieval society was characterised by the feudal system. The Church was the epicentre of power authority and learning. Nothing could challenge the ‘dogmas’ or rigid beliefs of the Church. The ‘Renaissance’ period saw the beginning of the ‘Scientific Revolution’. It marked an area of description and criticism in the field of science. It was a clear break from the past, a challenge to old authority.

Transition from feudalism to industrialism

• The expansion of trade, rise of middle class and scientific revolution led to more widespread changes which came to known as industrial revolution. The Industrial Revolution began in late 17th century in England. It brought about great changes in the social and economic life of the people first in England, then in other countries of Europe and later in other continents

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