This book explores the long-term economic growth of three key regions: China, Central Eurasia, and Western Europe. It discusses why some areas experienced faster, and more sustained growth than others by focusing on how new ideas are created (innovation), how different countries use these ideas (adoption), and how these factors influence long-term economic differences and similarities (divergence/convergence). These key drivers are examined across time and throughout different regions, considering factors like state involvement, urbanization, the development of specific resources (e.g., fertile land), labor relations, and prices and wages.

The book presents new research, connects chapters with recurring themes, and offers combined explanations. Without getting stuck in purely theoretical or historical discussions, it thus goes beyond the various theories to study how the nations caught up, fell behind, and forged ahead in GDP and immaterial well-being. Finally, the book highlights that, while there is value in understanding various existing theories, it is important to acknowledge the complexities in each region's specific historical and regional context.

Autorentext

Bas van Leeuwen is an economic historian who graduated in Dutch Law, European and International Law, Economic History, and Russian History at Utrecht University, The Netherlands. He holds a PhD in economics from the International Institute of Social History/Utrecht University. His research focuses on human capital, historical national accounting, market performance, and socioeconomic inequality, from ancient times to the present, in Europe, China, and the former Soviet Union area.

Dmitry Didenko is an economist with a strong interest in multi-disciplinary studies relating to social aspects of human development. His research focuses on human capital formation and efficiency, specifically Russia's role in global development. He is the author and co-author of numerous academic papers and four books highlighting various issues of knowledge-intensive economy.

Matteo Calabrese is an economic historian who pursued studies in Economics and History at Utrecht and Leiden Universities. He holds a PhD in financial history from the University of Luxembourg, focusing on the history of investment funds. His research interests encompass financial history and long-run economic history, exploring topics like labor history and the determinants of economic growth. His publications include contributions to journals, such as Contemporary European History, Italian Economic Journal, and Historical Methods.

Meimei Wang is an economic historian who holds a PhD in Chinese economic history from Utrecht University and Marxist economics from Renmin University, China. Her research focuses on Chinese rural development, mining history, and the social and economic changes related to the Grand Canal.