The bar chart illustrates the proportions of global production across Asia, Europe, and the rest of the world over a 160-year period from 1840 to 2000.
Overall, Europe and Asia experienced contrasting trends, with Europe’s share peaking mid-period before declining, while Asia’s manufacturing presence hit a nadir in 1960 before staging a dramatic recovery by the end of the millennium. Meanwhile, the rest of the world witnessed steady expansion.
In 1840, Asia dominated global manufacturing, accounting for just over 50% of the total. However, its share plummeted continuously over the next century, hitting a low of approximately 22% in 1960. Conversely, Europe’s production grew substantially during this timeframe, climbing from 38% in 1840 to a peak of nearly 50% in 1960, establishing it as the world’s leading manufacturing hub.
The final four decades marked a significant reversal of fortunes. By 2000, Asia’s share rebounded sharply to 42%, while Europe’s figure dropped dramatically to 28%. Concurrently, the rest of the world showed a progressive upward trajectory, triples its baseline share from 10% in 1840 to a peak of 30% by 2000.