In this seminal work of history, William Edward Hartpole Lecky provides a comprehensive analysis of the social, economic, and political developments that shaped England in the eighteenth century. From the rise of the British Empire to the struggle for religious tolerance, Lecky offers a gripping and persuasive account of a pivotal period in British history. Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, this book is an essential resource for anyone interested in the complexities and contradictions of the eighteenth century. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.