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Trade label of the South Sea Company, 18th century (1894)
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Trade label of the South Sea Company, 18th century (1894)
Trade label of the South Sea Company, 18th century (1894). The South Sea Company was founded in 1711 in order to trade with Spanish America on the assumption that the War of the Spanish Succession would end soon with a favourable treaty allowing trading. The Treaty of Utrecht in 1713 was not as favourable as hoped, although confidence was boosted when George I became governor of the company. However by September 1720, in what became known as the South Sea Bubble, speculators caused the companys share price to become vastly inflated. The market then collapsed and many investors were ruined. Found in the collection of the Guildhall Museum. An illustration from A Short History of the English People, by John Richard Green, illustrated edition, Volume IV, Macmillan and Co, London, New York, 1894
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Media ID 14926198
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Coat Of Arms Commerce Heraldry John Richard John Richard Green Label South Sea Bubble South Sea Company Speculation Stock Market Trade Card
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the trade label of the South Sea Company, an influential entity that emerged in the 18th century. Established in 1711 with the aim of engaging in commerce with Spanish America, their hopes were pinned on a favorable resolution to the War of the Spanish Succession. However, when the Treaty of Utrecht was signed in 1713, it did not meet their expectations. Despite this setback, confidence surged within the company when George I assumed leadership. Tragically, by September 1720, a catastrophic event known as the South Sea Bubble unfolded. Speculators artificially inflated the company's share price to astronomical levels before causing its abrupt collapse. This financial disaster left countless investors devastated and ruined. Preserved within Guildhall Museum's collection and featured in John Richard Green's illustrated edition of "A Short History of English People" this engraving offers us a glimpse into this tumultuous period. The image depicts a majestic sailing ship adorned with heraldry and coat-of-arms symbols associated with British identity. The trade label serves as a poignant reminder of both England's ambitious ventures during that era and also its susceptibility to speculative frenzy. As we reflect upon this historical artifact, we are reminded of how economic aspirations can sometimes lead to unforeseen consequences—a lesson still relevant today.
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