1688: The First Modern Revolution (The Lewis Walpole Series in Eighteenth-C)

In "1688: The First Modern Revolution," Steve Pincus challenges the traditional narrative that the Glorious Revolution of 1688 was a conservative and bloodless coup, aiming to restore ancient rights and privileges. Instead, Pincus argues that it was a profound and violent revolution—Britain's first modern revolution—that was not only transformative for England but also laid the groundwork for modern democracy and the modern nation-state.

This book delves into the events leading up to the Revolution, the inspiring philosophies that influenced its leaders, and its far-reaching consequences. Pincus draws on a wealth of primary sources to illustrate how the Glorious Revolution was as revolutionary as those that shaped America and France in subsequent centuries. By focusing on the international dimensions of the revolution and the economic, social, and political changes it instigated, he recasts the Glorious Revolution as a contest between two rival visions of the English state's future.

• The Revolution Was Not Bloodless: Contrary to popular belief, Pincus details the widespread and violent confrontations that characterized the period.
• Impact on International Policy: The events of 1688 influenced and were influenced by foreign powers, emphasizing the interconnectedness of European states during this era.
• Foundation of Modern Governance: The Glorious Revolution introduced concepts of citizenship, economic expansion, and state-building that echoed into future democratic developments.
• A Shift in Economic Policy: A significant outcome was the shift towards a more modern and capitalist economy.

• "The Revolution of 1688 was the first modern revolution, characterized by widespread participation and a new kind of ideological inclusivity."
• "It was a movement not just to remove a king, but to alter the nature of governance and to redefine the relationship between monarch and subjects."
• "The events of 1688-89 were both the result of, and a catalyst for, the emergence of new political and economic norms that have come to define modernity."

Steve Pincus's "1688: The First Modern Revolution" matters because it offers a reassessment of a key historical event with implications that resonate today. By examining the Glorious Revolution through a modern lens, Pincus provides insights into the origins of modern political ideologies and structures that continue to guide the governance and political philosophies of the present day. The book is an essential contribution to historical scholarship, offering a comprehensive and gripping narrative that invites readers to re-evaluate preconceived notions about the nature of revolutions and their legacy.

This work stands out due to its interdisciplinary approach, blending history with political science and economics, thereby enriching our understanding of how transformational events can shape and influence the trajectory of societies across the globe.