Early Modern

Early Modern period refers to the epoch that followed the Middle Ages and preceded the Industrial Revolution, roughly from the late 15th century to the late 18th century. This period is characterized by significant changes in many areas such as culture, economy, politics, and technology.

Overview

The Early Modern period is often associated with the onset of the Age of Discovery, which marked the rise of Western Europe as a global power. This era saw the expansion of European influence and control over various parts of the world, leading to the establishment of European colonial empires.

Culture

In terms of culture, the Early Modern period witnessed the Renaissance, a period of great cultural change and achievement that began in Italy during the 14th century and lasted until the 17th century. This period also saw the Reformation, a major schism within Christianity initiated by Martin Luther and John Calvin in the 16th century.

Economy

The economic landscape of the Early Modern period was marked by the emergence of capitalism, a system of economic production characterized by private ownership of the means of production and the creation of goods or services for profit. This period also saw the development of mercantilism, an economic theory that advocated the use of the state's military power to ensure local markets and supply sources were protected.

Politics

Politically, the Early Modern period saw the rise of the nation-state, a state that self-identifies as deriving its political legitimacy from serving as a sovereign entity for a nation as a sovereign territorial unit. This period also witnessed the development of absolutism, a political doctrine and practice of unlimited centralized authority and absolute sovereignty, as vested especially in a monarch or dictator.

Technology

Technologically, the Early Modern period was marked by significant advancements in various fields. The printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century, revolutionized the way information was disseminated, leading to the spread of literacy and the democratization of knowledge.