224 HISTORY OF ECONOMIC INSTITUTIONS 







the struggles to resist invasion by developing the hero idea gave 

 rise to the modern notions of character. But the law is neither 

 an historical nor a social law; it is merely the pressure of geologic 

 changes on the civilization of a given region. Outside of the great 

 central basin the law fails of verification because the climatic con- 

 ditions are altered. 



In marked contrast with these climatic conditions are those of 

 the great northern plain of Europe. A rank vegetation keeps up the 

 fertility and usually replaces what is lost. Each generation sees 

 North Europe more productive and capable of supporting a larger 

 population. Growth and stability will thus be a characteristic of 

 the northern nations so long as the Gulf Stream flows. They have 

 a perpetually improving economy, giving a firm basis for enduring 

 social institutions. 



No nation of North Europe goes down as the southern nations 

 went down one after the other. A reconstruction of national bound- 

 aries often takes place; but with each reconstruction comes a period 

 of renewed growth and prosperity. France has been the only appar- 

 ent exception. Instability in government followed its great social 

 revolution and gave to traditional views a new life. But order and 

 stability have again been restored and the steady progress of France 

 compares favorably with other nations. 



If this be true the traditional view of the course of history needs 

 correction and the mass of southern traditions imposed on northern 

 nations by the new civilization that Christianity brought must each 

 be tested by means of a comparison between the conditions under 

 which it arose with the conditions that now prevail. The narrowness 

 and defects of southern traditions will then be exposed and the 

 ground cleared for a new view of history based on the conditions 

 and experience of North Europe. 



The realization of this great break in economic conditions, due 

 to the transference of civilization from the south to the north of 

 Europe, and the consciousness that many of our cherished traditions 

 are abnormal, help us to a fruitful study of present conditions. A 

 new break of similar magnitude has been made by the transference 

 of civilization to America. 



The civilizations of North Europe are enduring because their 

 basis in climatic conditions is secure; but while enduring, they are 

 narrow and cramped because their food resources are so limited. 

 A wet, cold climate is good for grass and the cereals, and therefore 

 bread and meat become the standard of life. The pressure of popu- 

 lation has raised their price and kept the common people poor and 

 dependent. Under these conditions a civilization could continue, 

 but not without great abnormalities due to high prices. All these 

 restraints were escaped in America, and for the first time a natural 



