HIST 1093 Lecture 12: L12 Renaissance Intellectual Culture
Document Summary
Mediterranean trade and the economic and social context of the italian renaissance: Italy was in city-state structure at the time. Italian merchants controlled trade in the mediterranean sea. Tried to turn a profit every time they sold something, and charged money for carrying cargo. Wool in exchange for gold was particularly profitable. Charging interest was technically forbidden to christians, but they did it anyway. Banks helped facilitate trade and bankroll the fancy lifestyles and wars of european rulers. Gradually came to have huge political influence in florence and became important patrons of the arts. Italian city-states also added value through manufacturing - especially textiles. Began buying raw wool and spinning and weaving it themselves. After the black death italian silk became hugely popular and desired. Wealth was important in order for the renaissance culture to flourish. Trade shaped an educated and politically oriented society that valued education and the arts. Merchants had complicated financial records with required.
