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The global population in 1700 was much smaller compared to today, estimated to be around 600 million people. The dominant powers in the world were primarily concentrated in Europe.
The dominant powers in Europe were England, France, Spain, and the Dutch Republic. The continent was characterized by absolute monarchies and the remnants of feudal systems. The Scientific Revolution, which began in the late 16th century, was still shaping the way people understood the world.
The Scientific Revolution was in progress, with notable figures like Isaac Newton making groundbreaking discoveries in physics and mathematics. However, scientific knowledge was still limited compared to later centuries.
Religion still played a central role in people’s lives, and the influence of the Catholic Church in Europe was significant. Other religions, such as Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism, held sway in their respective regions.
In North America, many indigenous civilizations had been devastated by European colonization. The Spanish and Portuguese had already established significant colonies in Central and South America. European powers were competing for control over territories and resources in the New World.
Africa was a diverse continent with numerous kingdoms, empires, and tribal societies. The Transatlantic slave trade was well underway, with millions of Africans forcibly taken to the Americas to work as slaves.
The Ottoman Empire was at its height, controlling much of the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Europe. The Safavid Empire ruled Persia, and the Mughal Empire dominated the Indian subcontinent.
China was under the Qing Dynasty, which was experiencing stability and prosperity. The Mughal Empire was a powerful force in the Indian subcontinent, while the Safavid Dynasty ruled over Persia. Japan was isolated during the Edo period, focusing on internal growth and stability.
Trade routes connected different regions, including the famous Silk Road, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between East and West.
European explorers had begun to make contact with indigenous populations in Australia and the Pacific Islands, leading to increased trade and cultural exchange.
For more about the early modern period, have a look at the following books:
