Meaning: The quote by Simon Newcomb reflects his perspective on the significant societal and economic changes that occurred during the American Revolution. Simon Newcomb, a prominent Canadian-American astronomer and mathematician, lived from 1835 to 1909, and his career spanned a period of remarkable technological and societal transformation. In this quote, Newcomb suggests that the economic condition, mode of living, and thinking during his lifetime mirrored the era of the American Revolution, which took place from 1765 to 1783. To fully understand the depth of Newcomb's statement, it is essential to explore the economic, social, and ideological aspects of both the American Revolution and Newcomb's lifetime.

During the American Revolution, the thirteen American colonies sought independence from British rule, leading to profound changes in economic structures, social dynamics, and political ideologies. The revolution marked a turning point in American history, as it set the stage for the establishment of the United States as an independent nation. Economically, the revolution brought about disruptions in trade, taxation, and commerce, as the colonies sought to assert their autonomy and economic self-sufficiency. This period also witnessed the rise of influential thinkers such as Thomas Paine, whose writings, including "Common Sense," articulated revolutionary ideas about governance and individual rights. The revolution sparked a shift in societal norms and values, as colonists challenged traditional hierarchies and embraced new notions of liberty and self-governance.

In contrast, Simon Newcomb's lifetime coincided with the aftermath of the American Civil War and the onset of the Second Industrial Revolution. The mid-19th to early 20th centuries witnessed rapid industrialization, technological advancement, and urbanization, leading to profound changes in the economic and social fabric of society. Newcomb's assertion that he lived in a time comparable to the American Revolution alludes to the sweeping transformations that characterized his era. The Second Industrial Revolution brought about significant advancements in transportation, communication, and manufacturing, leading to the rise of industrial capitalism and the consolidation of wealth among industrialists.

In terms of economic conditions, Newcomb's lifetime saw the expansion of markets, the emergence of corporate conglomerates, and the integration of the global economy through trade and finance. The shift from agrarian to industrial economies reshaped the mode of living for many people, as urbanization drew masses of individuals from rural areas to cities in search of employment and new opportunities. This transition led to profound social and cultural changes, including shifts in family dynamics, gender roles, and the nature of work.

Furthermore, the period in which Newcomb lived witnessed significant changes in thinking and ideology. The advancements in science, particularly in the fields of physics, astronomy, and mathematics, challenged traditional religious and philosophical beliefs, leading to a reevaluation of humanity's place in the universe. The publication of Charles Darwin's "On the Origin of Species" and the subsequent debates about evolution and natural selection exemplify the intellectual shifts that characterized Newcomb's time. Additionally, the period was marked by social and political movements advocating for labor rights, women's suffrage, and other forms of social justice, reflecting a growing awareness of inequality and the need for societal change.

In conclusion, Simon Newcomb's quote encapsulates his recognition of the profound economic, social, and ideological changes that occurred during his lifetime, likening them to the transformative era of the American Revolution. By drawing parallels between his own time and the revolutionary period in American history, Newcomb highlights the magnitude of the shifts in economic conditions, modes of living, and thinking that shaped both eras. His perspective serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of historical revolutions and the ongoing evolution of societies in response to technological, economic, and ideological transformations.