1) The pressure put on the environment by having a majority of the population living in the countryside was significant. Deforestation, soil depletion, and pollution from agriculture and livestock all took their toll on the natural world.
2) The "Black Death" was a devastating pandemic that struck Europe in the 14th century, killing an estimated 25 million people, or about a third of the population. It was exceptional in its severity and impact, leading to major social and economic upheaval in the aftermath.
3) It did not seem like the world was necessarily barreling towards progress in the period discussed. Life was harsh and unpredictable, with natural disasters, disease, and famine all posing significant challenges to human society.
4) Capitalism is a system of economic organization based on private ownership of the means of production and the pursuit of profit. It can lead to innovation and economic growth, but also to inequality and exploitation. The explanation provided in the notes may have provided new insights or perspectives on capitalism for some readers.
When we think of the modern world, we associate it with cities and with industrialization. But for most of the period discussed, leading up the 18th century, 89-90% of the population lived in the countryside off the land. 1) What pressures did this put on the environment? 2) Life expectancies were short and disease and natural disasters were common. How exceptional was the "Black Death"? Why did it happen and what was its impact? 3) From the reading of the first textbook chapter, did it seem to you that the world was barreling toward progress? And finally, 5) having read the notes on capitalism, I am curious as to how you understand my explanaiton, and whether anything about it surprised you. Put numbers on your answers so I can be sure that you read the questions carefully.
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