1750 vs. 1950

Attribute	1750	1950
Population	Approximately 700 million	Approximately 2.5 billion
Technological advancements	Primarily agrarian society with limited industrialization	Significant advancements in technology, including the development of computers and nuclear power
Globalization	Limited global trade and communication	Increased global trade and communication due to advancements in transportation and communication technology
Political systems	Monarchies and empires were common	Increased prevalence of democracies and totalitarian regimes
Social structures	Feudal system with rigid social hierarchies	Shift towards more egalitarian social structures and civil rights movements

Technology

In 1750, technology was relatively primitive compared to 1950. The Industrial Revolution had not yet fully taken hold, so most tasks were done by hand or with simple tools. Transportation was limited to horse-drawn carriages and ships powered by wind or oars. Communication was slow and relied on written letters delivered by horse or ship. In contrast, by 1950, technology had advanced significantly. Cars, trains, and airplanes made travel faster and more convenient. Telephones and radios allowed for instant communication over long distances. The invention of the television brought entertainment into people's homes like never before.

Social Structure

In 1750, society was largely feudal, with a rigid class structure and limited social mobility. The majority of people were peasants or laborers, working for landowners or in small workshops. The upper class consisted of nobility and wealthy merchants who held most of the power and wealth. By 1950, society had become more egalitarian. The rise of industrialization and urbanization created a middle class of professionals and skilled workers. Women also gained more rights and opportunities, such as the right to vote and work outside the home. The social structure had shifted to be more inclusive and diverse.

Economy

In 1750, the economy was primarily agrarian, with most people working in agriculture to produce food and goods. Trade was limited to local markets and bartering. The concept of a global economy was virtually nonexistent. By 1950, the economy had become industrialized and interconnected on a global scale. Factories mass-produced goods, leading to increased efficiency and lower prices. International trade flourished, with goods being shipped around the world on a regular basis. The economy had shifted from a local and self-sufficient model to a global and interdependent one.

Health and Medicine

In 1750, healthcare was rudimentary and often ineffective. Most illnesses were treated with herbal remedies or simple surgeries, which had a high mortality rate. Infectious diseases like smallpox and cholera were common and deadly. By 1950, advances in medicine had revolutionized healthcare. Antibiotics were discovered, which helped to treat bacterial infections and save countless lives. Vaccines were developed to prevent diseases like polio and measles. Hospitals became more advanced and specialized, with better equipment and trained medical professionals. Overall, the quality and availability of healthcare had vastly improved by 1950.

Education

In 1750, education was limited to the elite classes, with most children receiving little to no formal schooling. Education was often reserved for boys and focused on classical subjects like Latin and Greek. By 1950, education had become more widespread and accessible. Public schools were established to provide free education to all children, regardless of social class. The curriculum had expanded to include a wider range of subjects, such as science, history, and literature. More people had the opportunity to pursue higher education and professional careers, leading to a more educated and skilled workforce.

Politics

In 1750, political power was concentrated in the hands of monarchs and aristocrats, with limited representation for the common people. Democracy was rare, and most governments were autocratic or oligarchic. By 1950, democracy had become more prevalent, with many countries adopting representative forms of government. The concept of human rights and equality had gained traction, leading to movements for civil rights and social justice. The United Nations was established to promote international cooperation and prevent future conflicts. Politics had shifted towards a more inclusive and participatory model by 1950.