Economic, social, cultural and political life in Britain in the 18th century was greatly influenced by what happened in the period which had preceded it. Political parties enjoyed increased power as a result of the Civil War and the deposition of James II in the 17th century. Enclosure, which had started long before 1700, stimulated migration to the cities and more effective farming techniques in the 18th century. The developments in the 18th century are discussed in this paper as pertaining to different spheres of life: society, economy, politics, culture and technology. Finally, the most representative novelists of the period are presented.