This book presents a new theory of statebuilding in medieval and early modern Europe. Ertman argues that two factors - the organization of local government at the time of state formation and the timing of sustained geomilitary competition - can explain most of the variation in political regimes and in state infrastructures found across the continent during the second half of the 18th century.

Drawing on theoretical insights developed in the fields of historical sociology, comparative politics, and economic history, and on the most recent historical research, this book makes a compelling case for the value of interdisciplinary approaches to the study of political development.