Identify five (5) most important changes and/or trends in per capita GDP (Table #1) and/or in the regions share in world GDP (Table #6).

Primary Source Analysis #1

Instructions:

For Primary Source Analysis #1, your task is to read and analyze the data. This will help you understand the significance of data in history and how they could be used to endorse or challenge an argument or a perspective. Using this template, answer the question (in 2-3 double-spaced pages) and submit it in the designated dropbox folder in iCollege (Primary Source Analysis 1)

Carefully and critically read the GDP data in Tables #1 and #6 of Angus Maddisons article. Focus on the data for the period between 1500 and 2030. Identify specific changes or trends, which you think are significant. Simply stating that Europes per capita GDP or Indias or Chinas share in the world GDP changed between two periods is not sufficient. You should identify the most significant and consequential changes in the GDP growth and/or in per capita GDP in the world during 1500-2030 CE. The changes are relative and almost always comparative. You may look at it in comparison with another time period or region or as a proportion of the whole world. Remember that the GDP data in tables #1 & #6 are your sources and you are interpreting the data to identify and understand the most consequential changes in the world economy during this period.

Example: We notice in Table 1 that between 1820 and 1950, the West had the highest rate of per capita GDP growth than any other region during that period. This was mainly because Western Europe and the US rapidly industrialized and mass-produced finished goods for the world market. Through colonial conquests and imperialism and with the help of new technologies, such as railways and steamships, the West was able to obtain raw materials from the colonies and sell finished products to their colonial subjects.

Question:

Identify five (5) most important changes and/or trends in per capita GDP (Table #1) and/or in the regions share in world GDP (Table #6). For each change/trend you identify, briefly explain (in 2-3 sentences) the significance or implications for the world economy.

Last Completed Projects