How Did European Societies Change During The 16th And 18th Century

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Following the Black Death, the populations in European societies greatly increased, leading to rapid developmental growth. During the 16th and 18th centuries, ideas of power and influence were becoming increasingly common. Empires began to focus efforts on expansion in order to gain power and control over territories. Similarly, ideas of religion also affected societies in this period, and led to reform and changes in the way many nations were governed. Ultimately, these ideas were able to spread rapidly throughout the world due to trade and advancements in technology, specifically in navigation. Despite increased levels of interconnectedness, societies during this period were distinctive and held specific cultural values that guided their governments and lifestyles. Developing …show more content…

Because of imperialism and greater trade between societies, individuals were able to access ancient texts and other writings from around the world, allowing not only materials but ideas to be spread as well. Main ideas of the scientific revolution included analyzing evidence and using critical thinking skills to develop ideas. These methods would eventually lead to the Enlightenment, which similarly focused on developing ways of thinking apart from the church, and using empirical evidence to support ideas. These developments in the ways in which individuals began to see the world led many societies to reform and reorient their customs to fit these new expectations. However, societies during this period still managed to remain unique in their cultural and political perspectives. Societies during the 16th and 18th centuries were distinctive and effectively held specific cultural values that guided their governments and lifestyles. Maintaining distinctive identities was key for each society to develop as a separate nation and gain power and