Search -
Britain and Europe in the Seventeenth Century
Britain and Europe in the Seventeenth Century Author:J. R.Jones Apart from its involvement in overseas trade, Britain made little impact on European affairs at the beginning of the seventeenth century. By the close of the century the picture had changed; Britain had become a major influence that would figure prominently in the destinies of the European powers. "The end of isolation was a very gradual proce... more »ss," writes Professor Jones. But he sees the Revolution of 1688 as the decisive turning point that entirely transformed Britain's relationship with Europe. In brief compass this volume offers a clear account of British reactions to the commercial ascendancy of the United Provinces in the first half of the seventeenth century and to the rise of the absolutist system of Louis XIV. It also provides a more detailed and diversified treatment of the Anglo-Dutch and Anglo-French wars than is to be found in more general works. Not the least valuable aspect of this essay is its scholarly evaluation of Dutch and French influence upon the British cultural tradition and material civilization.« less