ABSTRACT
England built up a vast colonial empire and an integrated and diversified national economy, with a growing urban population and the economic and institutional prerequisites enabling the country to become the first industrial nation. One useful starting point to illustrate the original features of English divergence regards the comparative advantages provided by the country’s geography and its natural resources. England was aware of its inferiority, and made various attempts to achieve the same level of skills as other continental countries, but the policy of regulating work and trade sometimes had restrictive effects rather than favouring expansion. One of the most important aspects of English industry under the Tudors and Stuarts was the introduction of continental expertise provided by foreign immigrants. One of the most important aspects of English industry under the Tudors and Stuarts was the introduction of continental expertise provided by foreign immigrants. Foreign trade, the empire and economic policy created the conditions essential for England’s success.
