The Mercantilist System for AP World History

Jul 14

2 min read

The mercantilist system is an illustrative example in the Maritime Empires Maintained and Developed topic of Unit 4 of AP World History. Read more about the increased peasant and artisan labor below!

map of New World colonial powers — Colonial Powers in the New World 2481336085/Shutterstock

The Age of Colonization witnessed a profound transformation in global economic dynamics, particularly in the textile industry. This era saw an unprecedented surge in peasant and artisan labor across different continents. The expansion of global trade, colonization, and the establishment of lucrative trade routes fueled the growth of these industries, creating economic opportunities that significantly impacted the lives of the laboring classes.

Wool and Linen in Western Europe

The demand for woolen and linen textiles in Western Europe soared during the Age of Colonization. Peasants and artisans found themselves increasingly engaged in sheep farming, spinning, weaving, and dyeing processes. The flourishing textile industry, fueled by the colonization of the Americas, where raw materials like cotton and indigo were sourced, created a surge in demand for labor. Guilds played a crucial role in organizing and regulating these artisans, ensuring quality standards and fostering economic growth within burgeoning urban centers.

Cotton in India

In India, the cultivation and processing of cotton became a central focus of labor during the Age of Colonization. The fertile plains of regions like Gujarat and Bengal became major hubs for cotton production. Peasants toiled in the fields cultivating cotton, while artisans engaged in intricate processes of spinning, weaving, and dyeing. The introduction of European demand for Indian cotton textiles further accelerated these activities, driving the expansion of the cotton industry and providing employment opportunities for a growing labor force.

Silk in China

China, with its centuries-old tradition of silk production, experienced a surge in peasant and artisan labor during the Age of Colonization. The intricate process of sericulture, silk reeling, and weaving became a significant economic activity. Peasants were involved in cultivating mulberry trees and raising silkworms, while skilled artisans crafted exquisite silk fabrics. The expansion of trade networks, including the Silk Road, increased the demand for Chinese silk, further stimulating the production and creating employment opportunities for both rural and urban populations.

The Age of Colonization significantly impacted global textile production, leading to an increased demand for peasant and artisan labor across continents. Whether in the wool and linen industry of Western Europe, cotton cultivation in India, or silk production in China, the colonization era reshaped economic landscapes and contributed to the rise of a skilled labor force. The interplay of colonial expansion, trade, and textile production not only transformed the material culture of societies but also played a crucial role in shaping the socio-economic structures of the time.