Europe and China Compared
nWhy did the Chinese, unlike Europeans, withdraw from overseas expansion?
qThe small nation-states of Europe, aggressively
competing with their neighbors,
made more efficient use of their resources.
qEuropean technological innovations gave them an advantage in animal and machine power that helped overcome overall Chinese superiority.
qOne answer to the differing approaches can be seen in
the attitudes of the groups
in each society favoring expansion.
qThere was wide support in general European society for increasing national and individual wealth through successful expansion.
qChristian leaders sought new converts.