What economic factors influenced the “west” to become a powerful nation?
The ‘west’ isn’t a nation, but I get your meaning. The 1400s was around the time the Renaissance began. The Renaissance was a time when the west rediscovered the legacy of Greco-Roman thinking in terms of science, philosophy, citizenship, and so much more. Italian city-states in particular lead the way in this revival, but it spread quickly accross Europe. That in turn lead to the Enlightenment which further expanded science and economic innovation, as well as adding innovations with regards to equality under the law and modern democratic rule. Once those sorts of things are in place they lead to a society that harnesses the full capability of its citizens towards productive ends. Far more so than the Feudal arrangements that preceded it. Why did this happen in the west rather than the Muslim or asian regions which, prior to the 1400s were wealthier, more advanced and stronger? That’s a question I am pondering myself. I’ve heard a few theories, none of which is particularly compelling.
