Exceptionalism and Industrialisation: Britain and its European Rivals, 1688-1815 - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521189691 ISBN 13: 9780521189699

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2004

Synopsis

This 2004 book explores the question of British exceptionalism in the period from the Glorious Revolution to the Congress of Vienna. Leading historians examine why Great Britain emerged from years of sustained competition with its European rivals in a discernible position of hegemony in the domains of naval power, empire, global commerce, agricultural efficiency, industrial production, fiscal capacity and advanced technology. They deal with Britain's unique path to industrial revolution and distinguish four themes on the interactions between its emergence as a great power and as the first industrial nation. First, they highlight growth and industrial change, the interconnections between agriculture, foreign trade and industrialisation. Second, they examine technological change and, especially, Britain's unusual inventiveness. Third, they study her institutions and their role in facilitating economic growth. Fourth and finally, they explore British military and naval supremacy, showing how this was achieved and how it contributed to Britain's economic supremacy.

About this title

Review

Review of the hardback: '... splendidly informative and thought provoking tribute to a great economic historian.' Times Literary Supplement

Review of the hardback: 'We are brought to the very brink of a new phase of research by this highly significant and suggestive volume.' Business History

Review of the hardback: '... consistently interesting and focused. This book is an important collection.' History

Book Description

This 2004 book discusses British exceptionalism in the period from 1688 to 1815. Leading historians examine why Britain was able to establish hegemony over other European powers and her unique path to industrialisation. Their findings shed light on Britain's emergence as a great power and as the first industrial nation.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2004
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521189691
• ISBN 13: 9780521189699
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 352
• Editor: De La Escosura Leandro Prados