The 17th Century

The 17th Century

This collection of 65 ready-to-teach articles traces the cultural history of the seventeenth century, exploring two contrasting European worlds that prospered side by side. On one hand, the Dutch Golden Age: decentralized provinces, a global trading empire anchored by the world's first stock market, and an unparalleled output of art. In contrast, the rise of absolute royal power — and the absolute cultural excellence that came with it. Ballet, haute cuisine, Gobelins tapestries, exquisite furniture, and majestic architecture still bear the undeniable stamp of that grand era. The seventeenth century also sparked a scientific revolution. As scholars developed the scientific method, they founded groundbreaking institutions to formalize their research. Driven by the Royal Society and the Académie des Sciences, this intellectual awakening gave Europe a lasting edge in science and global discovery.

Discover the 17th Century: The Big Picture!