Our World in Data, Share of Population Living in Urbanized Areas 300-1700 CE

Afroeurasia experienced a general trend of economic growth leading up to and during the age of exploration, and this growth in production and commerce stimulated urbanization in both Afroeaurasia and the Americas. By 1500, more humans lived in cities than ever before, and these numbers would continue to increase. Comparing levels of urbanization in the societies that increasingly interacted after 1500--including recognition that, despite the growth of cities, the vast majority of people still lived outside of them--provides insight into similarities and differences that helped shape their interactions. By visiting the Our World in Data site, students can also engage with an interactive graph that allows them to change years and/or countries and regions displayed, as well as view an animated graph of change over time.