In Europe, during the 18th century, the classic non-national states were the multiethnic empires, the Austrian Empire, Kingdom of France, Kingdom of Hungary, the Russian Empire, the Ottoman Empire, the British Empire and smaller nations at what would now be called sub-state level.
In the theory known as mercantilism, nations measure their wealth by the amount of gold. Importing more goods than one nation exports results that wealth, mainly gold and silver, is exiting the country. Overseas colonies are nations access to wealth and raw materials. Instead of importing raw materials from other nations, having raw materials available made it possible for countries to create their own goods, which they could export and accumulate wealth. Also, by not relying on other nations, they become self sufficient which is the ultimate goal of mercantilism. During a large period of history, colonial forces of Europe were faughting wars for colonies.
The scientific revolution transformed the way people in Europe looked at the world.
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Generally speaking, entertainment and education were two of the beneficiaries of the "<span>America Revolution", since this Revolution instilled a democratic and "free" system in which these two subjects could flourish. </span>