On 9 March 1776, Adam Smith published The Wealth of Nations, a groundbreaking treatise that laid the foundation for modern economic thought.
Challenging mercantilist doctrines, Smith championed free markets, division of labour, and the invisible hand's role in economic prosperity.
His work argued that individual self-interest, when guided by competition, fosters collective wealth, making it a cornerstone of classical economics.
The Wealth of Nations not only influenced policymakers of its time but continues to shape economic discourse and global trade principles to this day.