In the early 1800s, the majority of the world's largest cities were located in Asia, with Beijing being notably larger than London. This highlights the prominence of Asian urban centers at that time, reflecting the historical economic and cultural significance of the region.

However, by 1900, the impact of the Industrial Revolution had dramatically shifted this landscape. Only one of the largest cities remained in Asia, while European and American cities dominated the list. This shift marked a significant transformation in global demographics and power dynamics, illustrating the rise of the West during this period.