HistoryBook · 2000
The Great Divergence
Kenneth Pomeranz
Pomeranz argues that the most developed parts of Europe and Asia were at comparable levels and running into the same land and resource limits into the early nineteenth century, and that Britain pulled ahead after 1800 because of accessible coal and colonial possessions rather than any deeper advantage. Published by Princeton University Press.
Why you should read this
The book credited with reframing the debate over why industrialization happened first in Europe rather than China, arguing the two economies looked broadly similar until coal and colonial resources gave Europe a decisive edge. It suits readers already interested in economic history rather than those wanting a narrative introduction.
- Field
- History
- Form
- Non-fiction
- Published
- 2000
- Themes
- Global HistoryHistoryContemporary
