Global Silver Trade Impact (16th-18th Century)
Global Silver Flow: 16th to 18th Centuries
The social and economic effects of the global flow of silver from the mid-sixteenth century all the way to the early eighteenth century had many diverse and significant effects worldwide. Silver was the economic backbone of China, and was the main source of commodity money used. With the rich black flint ore found at Potosi, according to Spanish royal records, 326 million silver coins were extracted.
Silver’s Role in China
Silver was the currency used in China
Read MoreKey Changes and Reigns: 15th-16th Century Europe and Spain
Changes in the 15th Century
Economic Changes
- Agricultural production increased: there was an increase in the amount of land under cultivation. The three-field system was maintained. The main crops were cereals. Agriculture and livestock continued to be the main economic activity.
- Intensified commercial activity: agricultural production resulted in surpluses, and these were sold at markets and fairs.
- Expansion of craftsmanship, controlled by guilds. Introduction of the domestic system: peasants made
Key Terms of the Franco Dictatorship in Spain
Key Definitions from Francoist Spain
- Generalísimo of the Armies
- Title received by Francisco Franco during his dictatorship, signifying his role as the supreme commander of the armed forces.
- Caudillo
- Title adopted by Franco during his dictatorship, meaning ‘leader’ or ‘chieftain’, signifying his supreme political authority, akin to a head of state.
- Dictatorship
- Political system under Franco where all power was concentrated in his hands, establishing a dictatorial regime.
- FET y de las JONS
- Falange Española
Spain’s 19th Century Political Transformation
Spain’s Transition: Moderate to Liberal Democracy
Reign of Elizabeth II: Moderate Liberalism (1833-1868)
Fernando VII died in 1833, and his daughter Elizabeth II inherited the crown as a minor. Due to her age, she had two regents: her mother, Maria Cristina, and later General Espartero.
Carlist Wars: Dynastic and Political Conflict
The succession of Ferdinand VII led to a dynastic dispute, confronting Don Carlos (the king’s brother, defending absolutism) against the supporters of Isabel II (representing
Read MoreTransformations in the Late 19th Century: Europe and Spain
The Second Half of the Nineteenth Century
During the second half of the nineteenth century, capitalism was consolidated in the more advanced countries, and states in the modern sense emerged, with a central government, unitary legislation, a common tax system, etc.
In social terms, the bourgeoisie and proletariat were very widespread, whose clashes were ongoing. In parallel, the old nobility continued to decline. Although the bourgeoisie and nobility continued fighting over power, the middle class
Read MorePost-Colonial Challenges & African Independence Paths
Colonial Legacy: Problems of New Countries
Newly decolonized countries faced serious problems, both economic and political. Some were inherited from the decolonization process itself, while others stemmed from difficulties integrating into the international system and achieving internal stability.
Key limitations included:
- Economic Impoverishment: Characterized by low per capita income levels, the prevalence of the primary sector, and very low economic growth.
- Lack of Infrastructure: A major problem