Capitalism

Definition

Capitalism is an economic system characterized by private ownership of the means of production, where individuals or businesses operate for profit in a competitive marketplace. This system encourages innovation and investment, driving economic growth and the creation of wealth while also contributing to social inequalities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Capitalism began to emerge in Europe during the late Middle Ages, gaining momentum with the expansion of trade routes and the rise of merchant classes.
2. The plantation economy relied heavily on capitalist principles, with large-scale agricultural operations focused on producing cash crops for profit, often using enslaved labor.
3. The mechanization of production during the Industrial Revolution marked a shift towards capitalism by increasing efficiency and allowing for mass production.
4. Joint-stock companies were crucial in developing capitalism, allowing multiple investors to pool resources for exploration and trade ventures while sharing risks and profits.
5. As capitalism evolved, early labor organizations formed as a response to exploitative working conditions, advocating for workers' rights and better wages.

Review Questions

• How did capitalism influence the plantation economy in America, particularly regarding labor practices?
  • Capitalism had a significant impact on the plantation economy by promoting large-scale agricultural production aimed at maximizing profits. This led to the reliance on enslaved labor, as plantation owners sought to minimize costs while maximizing output of cash crops like tobacco and cotton. The pursuit of profit drove planters to invest in more land and enslaved people, entrenching a system that prioritized economic gain over human rights.
• Analyze how the factory system contributed to the growth of capitalism during the Industrial Revolution.
  • The factory system revolutionized production methods by bringing together workers and machinery under one roof, significantly increasing efficiency and output. This shift to mass production aligned with capitalist principles by creating competitive advantages for businesses that could produce goods faster and cheaper. As factories became central to the economy, they also led to urbanization, changing workforce dynamics, and the emergence of a consumer culture that fueled further capitalist expansion.
• Evaluate the role of early American entrepreneurs in shaping capitalism and its impact on society.
  • Early American entrepreneurs played a crucial role in shaping capitalism by introducing innovative business practices and driving economic development. Figures like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller transformed industries through competition and consolidation, which spurred technological advancements and job creation. However, their practices also led to significant social disparities and sparked debates over monopolies and wealth distribution, prompting early labor movements that sought fairer treatment for workers in an increasingly capitalist society.

Related terms

Free Market: An economic system where prices are determined by unrestricted competition between privately owned businesses.

Supply and Demand:

The relationship between the quantity of a commodity available and the desire for that commodity, which influences prices in a capitalist economy.

Entrepreneurship: The process of starting and running a new business, typically involving risk and innovation to capitalize on market opportunities.