Handbook of World Exchange Rates, 1590-1914

As a world economy emerged from the 16th-17th centuries onwards, a global cashless payment system arose. This had its base in Europe, first in Italy, then in the rising regions of the north-west, with Amsterdam and then London as the central financial market. The mutual quotation of exchange rates, which provide the data tabulated and analysed here, mark the integration into a global network of all areas with significant economic potential. The primary aim of this book is to provide a compact account of the exchange rates in all these financial markets, from the late 16th century up to the First World War. This makes possible an instant conversion between the major world currencies at nearly any date within that period, while the important introduction provides the explanation and context of developments. The present handbook therefore serves as an invaluable resource for those concerned with all aspects of commercial and financial history.

Contents: Introduction; Sources and bibliography. Europe: England/Great Britain (1590-1914); Netherlands (1593-1914); Italy (1590-1914); Germany (1657-1914); Hapsburg monarchy (1754-1914); France (1760-1914); Spain (1820-1914); Switzerland (1842-1914); Denmark (1696-1914); Sweden (1700-1914); Russian Empire (1695-1914); Poland (1696-1812); Ottoman Empire (1760-1914). America: The British colonies in North America and the United States of America (1660-1914); Canada (1757-1914); Jamaica (1675-1914); Brazil (1808-1914); Argentina (1824-1914); Chile (1827-1914); Uruguay (1871-1914); Mexico (1886-1914). Asia: British India (1819-1914); China (1764-1914); Japan (1861-1914); Straits Settlements (1834-1914); Netherlands India (1818-1914); Mauritius (1825-1914); Indochinese Union (1888-1914); Persia (1809-1914). Australia/Oceania: Australia (1822-1914); New Zealand (1841-1914). Africa: Egypt (1869-1914); Cape Colony/South African Union (1811-1914); Index.