The Age of Capital: 1848-1875 by Eric Hobsbawm

Description

“The Age of Capital: 1848-1875” is a historical work by Eric Hobsbawm, first published in 1975. It is the second book in Hobsbawm’s trilogy on the long 19th century, which also includes “The Age of Revolution: Europe 1789–1848” and “The Age of Empire: 1875–1914.”

In “The Age of Capital,” Hobsbawm examines the economic, social, and political developments of the mid-19th century, a period marked by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and globalization. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the rise of capitalism, the expansion of international trade and finance, the growth of industrial cities, and the emergence of new social classes and ideologies.

Hobsbawm explores the interconnectedness of these developments and their impact on societies around the world. He analyzes the profound changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution, such as the transformation of traditional economies, the spread of wage labor, and the rise of mass production and consumption.

Moreover, Hobsbawm examines the political and ideological responses to these changes, including the rise of liberalism, socialism, and nationalism. He also discusses the consequences of industrialization for workers, women, and marginalized groups, as well as the tensions and conflicts that arose between different social classes and nations.