Population by Country in 1700

In 1700, the world was on the cusp of multiple major world events, as well as all contributing factors related to them. These include (but aren’t necessarily limited to) the Boston Massacre, the War of the Spanish Succession, and the advent of the world-changing Industrial Revolution.

In other words, 1700 marked the start of a century filled with sweeping changes. The world population from country to country was changing, as well, in response to multiple factors. Here’s a closer look at which countries had the highest populations in 1700, as well as some possible reasons why.

Countries with the Highest Populations in 1700

The following are some of the countries with the highest relative populations going into the 18th century.

China

China has consistently been one of the most populous countries in the world across multiple centuries, and this was definitely the case in 1700. At the time, China’s population was estimated to fall between 138 million and 150 million people.

China’s robust agricultural efforts and vast size helped it support a large population and encourage it to grow even further.

India

India is another of the world’s most consistently populous countries. Its population is also estimated to have been similar to China’s in 1700 – between 138 million and 150 million people. Also like China, India relied on rich agricultural traditions and ample crop yields to support a large and growing population.

Ottoman Empire

In 1700, the vast and diverse Ottoman Empire was growing in more ways than one. In addition to its ample conquests, its population would go on to grow from around 26 million to 28 million people starting in 1700 and finishing in 1820.

Other countries with large, stable populations in 1700 include Japan, as well as multiple nations throughout Europe and Africa. In the Americas, European colonies were thriving. However, indigenous populations were in decline due to factors like disease.

Factors Affecting Population by Country in 1700

Various factors that may have influenced population distribution and growth from country to country in 1700 include the following:

• Political Factors: Political and social factors were huge influences on national populations in and near 1700, as they frequently drove related occurrences like migration.
• Agriculture: In 1700, a country’s level of agricultural development was key when it came to supporting a large population and encouraging its further growth.
• Cultural Factors: Cultural norms and ideals about concepts like family further influenced birth rates and community growth.