"The Rise of Great Powers" is a story about the history, culture and economy of major countries around the world, telling how they rose and became world powers. The following is a brief overview of some of the country names mentioned in the book, when they became great powers, and why they were powerful:
1. Portugal: Started the Age of Discovery in the 15th century and established the country through state funding The fleet opened up new trade routes and plundered a large amount of wealth, thus rising to become a great power.
2. Spain: In the 16th century, Spain became a great power by competing with Portugal for trade monopoly and discovering rich gold and silver resources in the Americas.
3. Netherlands: In the 17th century, the Netherlands developed the power of capital by forming commercial companies and conducting international trade, thus rising to become a great power.
4. Britain: At the end of the 17th century, Britain established maritime hegemony through national unification and the defeat of the Spanish Armada, and rapidly developed its economy during the Industrial Revolution, making it a great power.
5. France: In the 18th century, France became a great power through the Enlightenment and the vigorous reforms of Louis XIV, as well as its victory in military hegemony in Europe.
6. Germany: At the end of the 19th century, Germany achieved national reunification, which provided a strong impetus for its economic development and made it a great country.
7. Japan: At the end of the 19th century, Japan carried out the Meiji Restoration, learned advanced Western technology and management systems, realized modernization, and emerged as a great country.
8. United States: In the 20th century, the United States established its global leadership position through two world wars and the Cold War and became a superpower.
The reasons why these countries have been able to rise and maintain their status as great powers include but are not limited to the following points:
First of all, these countries have achieved a high degree of political unity and stability; Provides a good environment for economic development. Secondly, these countries have actively promoted the development of science and technology and education, providing strong support for sustained economic growth. In addition, these countries all occupy an important position in the global trade and financial system and control a large amount of resources and wealth. Finally, these countries attach great importance to the development of military power, winning their voice and influence in international affairs.
Of course, the specific circumstances of each country are different, and the reasons for its rise are also different. But generally speaking, these factors are necessary for a successful big country.