Rapid Modernization is a historical period encapsulating swift societal and technological changes that took place on a global scale. While the exact timeline differs from our reality, in this alternate timeline, the roots of modernization can be traced back to the 17th century.
In this alternate timeline, the foundations of rapid modernization were laid in the 17th century. Rather than the traditional 18th-century timeline, the seeds of change were sown during the scientific and industrial revolution. The key drivers for this accelerated modernization include extensive investments in education and science, which laid the groundwork for a myriad of breakthroughs.
Imperative to the process of rapid modernization were the significant investments in education, infrastructure, and scientific research. Governments across the globe prioritized these areas and allocated resources for schools, universities, and scientific institutions. The goal was to create a well-educated and informed population that could contribute to the advancement of human knowledge, thereby fueling the modernization process.
As a result of these substantial investments, the 17th century became an era of profound scientific discoveries and technological innovations. A few noteworthy accomplishments include: breakthroughs in microscopy and telescopes, leading to new insights into the nature of the universe; groundbreaking work in physics and mathematics, culminating in the establishment of classical mechanics; and the growth of chemistry and biology, which revolutionized the understanding of life itself.
One of the most significant shifts during this period, however, was the rapid development of sustainable industrialization, primarily driven by the harnessing of hydroelectric power. In contrast to our timeline, fossil fuels were not the primary source of energy driving modernization. Instead, mass investments were made into the development of cleaner and renewable forms of power generation, minimizing the negative environmental impacts and paving the way for a greener future.
The rapid modernization process had many far-reaching impacts, stimulating new social movements and reshaping global dynamics. The widespread availability of education led to an increase in social mobility, contributing to the mass urbanization of cities and the emergence of the middle class. Additionally, scientific advancements sparked new philosophical thought, leading to the birth of movements such as humanism and enlightenment.
