Colonization, Commerce and Global History: Adam Smith and Raynal’s Histoire des Deux Indes

In this chapter, Benoît Walraevens investigates the possible “dialogue” between two eighteenth-century masterpieces on international politics and trade: Wealth of Nations (Smith 1776) and Histoire des Deux Indes (Raynal 1770). Although many differences appear in their treatment of colonies, properties, and occupation, they share a similar defense of “doux commerce” and free trade.