19th Annual Student Research Conference
Social Science
Medicine and Mathematics: Gunpowder’s Effect on Scientific and Technological Development in Early Modern European Society
Christopher P. Peterson
Dr. Kathryn Brammall, Faculty Mentor
Gunpowder represents one of the most destructive tools in the history of Europe, but its contribution in catalyzing scientific and technological growth is often overlooked. The introduction of gunpowder into European society in the 13th century forever redefined the approach to warfare. War became a much more vicious affair, with increased casualties and a dramatic demographic shift from the days of chivalric combat. However, many more subtle and equally important changes were brought about because of gunpowder’s widespread use. One of most affected areas, which was impacted heavily by war and which contributed vastly to the advancement of society, was scientific and technological development. Aside from weapons and tactical development, which are constant by-products of any war, numerous other advancements and understandings which contribute greatly to the progress of society were directly impacted by conflict. To what extent did gunpowder’s presence affect this development?
Keywords: early modern period, technology, science, gunpowder, medicine, ambroise pare
Topic(s):History
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 57-2
Location: VH 1232
Time: 3:00