ABSTRACT
The most dramatic story during the Early Modern period is the development of trade links among all continents. This chapter discusses developments in gunpowder technology during the Early Modern period. It addresses diverse themes as it proceeds and draws comparisons across societies. The chapter also discusses how different religions interacted in this period, and how gunpowder technology and artistic styles spread globally. The Early Modern period is characterized globally by the codification of systems of law. Reform movements emerged across the world's major religions during the Early Modern period. Wars were endemic through much of the world in the Early Modern period. The magnitude of trans-Saharan trade and the range of goods carried expanded in the Early Modern period. Population growth would accelerate in the Early Modern period: Population was 550 million in 1600, 650 million in 1700, and 950 million by 1800.
