WICL - Presentation: Hanni Scholar Presentation: "The Feudalism to Capitalism: the Development of Capitalism in Spain 4-14-26

"Spain led the way across the Atlantic into an age of European colonial plunder. However, in the study of the emergence of capitalism, most historians argue that England was the first capitalist country, so there is much debate around other countries’ transitions from feudalism to capitalism. Historians divide these transitions into two broad categories based on where the new capital-owning class emerged from and whether the old feudal elites pushed for capitalism or not. Spain led the way across the Atlantic into an age of European colonial plunder. However, in the study of the emergence of capitalism, most historians argue that England was the first capitalist country. We will look at both sides of the argument. Major: History I am deeply passionate about politics and figuring out how to make a better world. I became a history major because I realized how, in my PPLE classes, I was frustrated by the lack of historical depth in our discussions. I believe that you can’t fully understand anything without understanding its history. In the chaotic, disheartening world we live in right now, the only way to move forward is to learn from the past. I gravitated towards Professor Smaldone because his specialty is the history of capitalism and socialism. Because of my interest in politics, I have focused on political history. Having fallen deeply in love with the study of the past, I am now considering pursuing graduate studies in history, perhaps becoming a professor and researcher. I will always be a political activist, regardless of where I go after I graduate. Faculty sponsor: William Smaldone"