Question

Compare and contrast the economies of Spain and the Netherlands around 1600. Think about: source of wealth, existence of a middle class, trends such as inflation or high taxes, who controlled financial services.

Answer 1

During the 1600s, Spain's economy was largely based on silver and gold from the Americas, while the Netherlands relied on trade and commerce. The Netherlands had a thriving middle class, while Spain's wealth was concentrated in the hands of a few wealthy families. Both countries experienced inflation and high taxes, but financial services were controlled by different groups: in Spain, it was controlled by the crown and in the Netherlands it was controlled by private individuals and companies.

Step-by-step explanation: