Defoe

Defoe describes England’s success solely on the trade system.” it is very well known that, besides the benefit which we reap by being a trading nation, which is our principal glory, trade is a very different thing in England than it is in many other countries and is carried on by persons who, both in their education and descent, are far from being the dregs of the people” He believes that trade is the most noble profession in England and that being a tradesman is more noble than that of a family with an estate and lineage.

Many aspect of his argument I tend to agree with. I agree with Defoe when he states that it is the trade business, not the victories of war, that make his nation great. “These things prove abundantly that the greatness of the British nation is not owing to war and conquests, to enlarging its dominions by the sword, or subjecting the people of other countries to our power; but it is allowing to trade, to the increase of our commerce at home, and the extending it abroad.” I believe that Defoe has every right to be proud of England in this aspect. It does in fact make England much different than other nations during that time period. England was the first country to reach high amounts of successes in Imperialism. I agree with Defoe hen he states that trading with other nations and colonizing is a much greater accomplishment that controlling and taking over another nation.

I also agree with Defoe when he discusses how England’s trade has not only helped the wealthy, but has benefited the poor.” What is it but trade, the increase of business at home, and the employment of the poor in the business and manufactures of this kingdom, by which the poor get so good wages, and live so well.” The poor now have jobs as well as the rich and everyman has the opportunity to become a wealthy tradesman, no matter what their class is or what family they were born into.