The Evolution of Entrepreneurship
Early Examples and Industrial Revolution
Merchants and Craftsmen (Medieval Period to 17th Century): These early entrepreneurs created and marketed products, often traveling long distances to trade
Industrial Revolution (18th to 19th Century): Innovators like James Watt (steam engine) and Henry Ford (assembly line) revolutionised industries, highlighting the entrepreneur's role in technological innovation and business creation.
Key Theories and Modern Entrepreneurship
Schumpeter's Theory of Creative Destruction (20th Century): Joseph Schumpeter introduced the idea that innovation by entrepreneurs leads to old industries being destroyed and new ones created.
Digital Entrepreneurship (Late 20th to 21st Century): The internet era gave rise to entrepreneurs who leverage online platforms for business, exemplified by figures like Jeff Bezos (Amazon) and Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook).