Europe’s Historical Evolution: Absolutism, Revolution, and Industrialization
The Ancien Régime and Absolutism in Europe
The Ancien Régime was the political, social, and economic system prevalent in many parts of Europe up to the 18th century. This society was characterized by a system of estates and an agrarian economy, ruled by an absolute monarch.
Absolutism was the dominant system of government in much of 18th-century Europe. Under absolutism, monarchs held full legislative, executive, and judicial powers. They governed, introduced laws, and appointed judges. The monarch’
Read MoreRaw Materials, Energy, and Industrial Change
Raw Materials and Their Impact
Sources of Raw Materials
Raw materials are natural resources that are transforming industry. Organic raw materials originate from agriculture, livestock, forestry, and fishing exploitation. Mineral raw materials come from the Earth’s crust. Minerals can be metallic, non-metallic, and energy minerals.
Global Raw Material Dynamics
The production of raw materials on Earth is concentrated in countries such as those in Latin America. Consumption focuses on developed countries
Read MoreSocial Classes of the Industrial Age
Social Structure in the Industrial Era
In the industrial era, society saw the consolidation of the petty bourgeoisie and the emergence of a working class. However, the peasants remained the largest group.
The Spreading of the Middle Classes
In the late 19th century, the economic and social development of most industrialized countries led to the appearance of a large middle class or petite bourgeoisie. Their economic and educational levels were higher than those of the lower classes, but lower than
Read MoreUnderstanding Agrarian Activities and Their Impact
Agrarian Activities: These are activities that involve the production of animal or plant materials. They are classified into agriculture, livestock, and forestry.
Factors of Production: These are elements that facilitate the development of agricultural activities. There are two main groups:
- Physical Factors: Relief, ground, and climate.
- Human Factors: Technological and economic advances, population.
Production Systems: Agrarian activities use a range of crop, livestock, and forestry production systems.
Read MoreSpain’s Water and Energy Resources
Watersheds Defined
A watershed is a land area and its water aquifers that provide water to the same river course.
Watershed Perspectives
Different perspectives exist, such as Galician and Cantabrian, Atlantic, and Mediterranean.
Water Use: Agriculture & Livestock
Water increases productivity and improves the living standards of farmers. However, water can be contaminated by fertilizers, pesticides, and manure.
Water Use: Urban & Industrial
The provision of water for domestic use is a priority and
Read MoreBelgium’s Industrial Revolution: Key Factors
Belgium was the first continental European region to fully adopt the model of British industrialization. Despite frequent political changes, Belgium showed a remarkable degree of continuity in its economic development model.
Several factors contributed to this early industrialization:
- Firstly, the region had a long industrial tradition.
- Secondly, Belgium had natural resources similar to those of Britain. Its coal deposits were readily accessible, and even after 1850, its production was greater than