Technological, Financial, and Military Advancements and the Decline of Asia** 1. Europe’s Key Advancements (16th–18th Centuries) A. Military and Naval Innovations Gunpowder Revolution (16th century): Adoption of muskets, cannons, and standardized artillery gave European armies a decisive edge over traditional forces. Shipbuilding Breakthroughs (Late 16th–17th century): Carracks & Galleons (Spain/Portugal): Enabled long-distance voyages but were slow and cumbersome. Dutch Fluyt (1595): Cheap, efficient merchant ships maximized cargo capacity. British & French Frigates (18th century): Faster, more maneuverable warships dominated naval warfare. Naval Tactics & Discipline: Line-of-battle formations (British Royal Navy) ensured superior firepower coordination. B. Financial & Economic Innovations Joint-Stock Companies (1600s): Dutch East India Company (1602) and British East India Company (1600) pooled capital for colonial ventures. Central...