Final answer:
The modern history of hospitality began in the late 18th century during the Industrial Revolution which introduced improvements in transportation and leisure time, facilitating travel. This was further supported by global exploration and trade that started with the Renaissance in the late 15th century.
Step-by-step explanation:
The modern history of hospitality and tourism is widely considered to have begun during the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th century, hence the correct answer to your question is B. 18th century. This period marked a transformation in many sectors including transportation, which became faster, and led to the development of leisure time. Such changes facilitated more widespread travel and gave birth to the early foundations of the modern hospitality industry.
Additionally, the era of European colonialism that started with the end of the Dark Ages in Europe and continued with the Renaissance in the late 15th century catalyzed global exploration and trade, further setting the stage for what would become a globally connected hospitality and tourism industry. By the 19th century, these developments had matured into significant levels of industrialization and modernity which directly influenced the hospitality sector.