Question

what was one major difference between the commercial revolution and the industrial revolution?
a. the commercial revolution influenced many european social classes, while the industrial revolution affected only the very wealthy.
b. the commercial revolution increased the importance of the european middle class, while the industrial revolution reduced the middle classs wealth and power.
c. the commercial revolution shifted european workers away from farms, while the industrial revolution caused a majority of europeans to return to farms.
d. the commercial revolution led to the adoption of mercantilism in europe, while the industrial revolution contributed to the end of mercantilism.

Explanation:

• The Commercial Revolution (16th - 18th centuries) was characterized by increased trade, exploration, and the growth of merchant - based economies. Mercantilism, which emphasized state - controlled trade, colonies for resources, and a favorable balance of trade, was a dominant economic theory during this time.
• The Industrial Revolution (late 18th - 19th centuries) brought about mechanized production, factory systems, and a shift towards free - market capitalism. As industrialization progressed, the limitations of mercantilism (such as strict trade regulations and focus on colonial resources) became more apparent, and it gradually declined.

• Option A: The Industrial Revolution affected many social classes, including the working class (who became factory workers), not just the wealthy. So this option is incorrect.
• Option B: The Industrial Revolution actually increased the size and power of the middle class (e.g., factory owners, managers). So this option is incorrect.
• Option C: The Industrial Revolution shifted workers from farms to factories, not the other way around. So this option is incorrect.

Answer:

D. The Commercial Revolution led to the adoption of mercantilism in Europe, while the Industrial Revolution contributed to the end of mercantilism.