Book excerpt: In the age of overseas colonization and rise of intercontinental trade, Western Europe's intercontinental trade with East-Central Europe did not diminish either, but considerably increased in both quantity and significance. Commercial relations within Europe also became a substantial factor in the emerging system of world economy. The 'Western challenge' had a profound impact on this region, and the 15th-17th centuries proved to be a crucial period for the 'economic destiny' of the countries of East-Central Europe, among them Hungary. The papers are now provided with supplementary comments, giving information on research and debates since the articles were first published.